Agricultural Refrigerated 

Truck Quarterly

a quarterly publication of the Agricultural Marketing Service

Contents

National Summary.......................... 2

Quarterly Overview .......................... 2

U.S. Truck Rates ................................ 3

Truck Rates for Selected Routes........ 4

U.S. Diesel Fuel Prices ...................... 5

Relationship Between Diesel Fuel and 

Truck Rates........................................ 6

Quarterly Truck Availability............... 8

Reported U.S. Shipments................ 11

Reported Shipments by Selected 

Commodities................................... 12

Regional Markets...........................13

California......................................... 13

U.S. Mexico Border ......................... 16

PNW................................................ 20

Southeast........................................ 23

Great Lakes ..................................... 26

Additional Information..................29

Terms and References..................... 29

Contact Us....................................... 30

Quarter 3, July-September 2023

Published March 2024

www.ams.usda.gov/services/transportation-analysis/agrtq/

https://agtransport.usda.gov/
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2023

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Fruit and Vegetable Shipments

USDA reported third quarter 2023 U.S. truck shipments of fresh produce were 9.33 million tons—17 percent lower 

than the previous quarter, but 3 percent higher than third quarter 2022. 

Also, in third quarter 2023, shipments from California were 3.07 million tons, which was higher than from any other 

reported origin. Shipments from California accounted for 33 percent of the total reported shipments of fresh fruit and 

vegetables. Shipments from the next five top regions by volume were as follows: Mexico, 2.19 million tons (23 percent 

of the total); Pacific Northwest (PNW), 1.48 million tons (16 percent of the total); Canada, 552,000 tons (6 percent 

of the total); Southeast, 395,000 tons (4 percent of the total); and finally, Great Lakes, 343,000 tons (4 percent of the 

total). 

These top five commodities accounted for 40 percent of reported truck movements in third quarter 2023: 

► Seedless Watermelons (12 percent)

► Potatoes (11 percent)

► Apples (7 percent)

► Dry Onions (6 percent)

► Grapes (4 percent)

National Summary

Truck Rates

The table below provides a snapshot of quarterly truck rates for U.S. produce shipments over four mileage categories

—1-500; 501-1,500; 1,501-2,500; and 2,501+ miles. Please note, the U.S. average truck rates provided below were 

calculated using weighted regional rates and volumes.

Diesel Fuel

During third quarter 2023, the U.S. diesel fuel price averaged $4.27 per gallon—up 8 percent from the previous 

quarter, but down 17 percent from the same quarter in 2022.

Average U.S. Truck Rates for Selected Routes Between 501 and 1,500 Miles ($/Mile)

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data. 

Note: Table values may not conform exactly due to rounding.

Note: The rates for 8 long-haul fruit and vegetable truck corridors are included in the national rate, weighted by commodity and origin volume.

0-500 miles 501-1,500 miles 1,501-2,500 miles 2,501+ miles

Q3 2022 8.40 3.23 2.86 1.50

Q4 2022 6.82 3.03 2.81 1.39

Q1 2023 5.93 2.63 2.28 1.41

Q2 2023 6.32 2.82 2.33 1.47

Q3 2023 6.84 2.66 2.50 1.35

Q3 Change from 

Previous Quarter 8% -6% 7% -8%

Q3 Change from Same 

Quarter Last Year -19% -18% -13% -10%

Quarterly Overview 
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

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U.S. Truck Rates

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Note: The rates for 8 long-haul fruit and vegetable truck corridors are included in the national rates, weighted by commodity and origin volume.

Table 1: Average U.S. Truck Rates for Selected Routes Between 501 and 1,500 Miles ($/Mile)

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data. 

Note: The rates for 8 long-haul fruit and vegetable truck corridors are included in the national rate, weighted 

by commodity and origin volume.

Note: Table values may not conform exactly due to rounding.

Figure 1: Average Truck Rates for Selected Routes ($/Mile) 

Year 1st Quarter 2nd Quarter 3rd Quarter 4th Quarter

2023 2.63 2.82 2.66

2022 3.25 3.65 3.23 3.03

2021 2.90 3.70 3.21 3.48

2020 2.56 2.51 2.56 2.92

2019 2.59 2.60 2.47 2.52

2018 2.82 2.99 2.74 2.84

2017 1.86 2.41 2.33 2.56

2016 2.22 2.37 2.49 2.06

2015 2.47 2.63 2.59 2.36

2014 2.32 2.67 2.64 2.49

2013 2.24 2.60 2.62 2.27

2012 2.10 2.54 2.45 2.29

2011 2.02 2.60 2.77 2.26
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

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Truck Rates for Selected Routes

Table 2: Quarterly Rates for Key Origins by Month; 501-1,500 miles ($/Mile)

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Note: “n/a” indicates rates not available.

Table 3: Origin-Destination Truck Rates for Selected Routes, 3rd Quarter 2023 ($/Mile)

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Note: “n/a” indicates rates not available.

3rd Quarter, 2023 2nd Quarter, 2023

U.S. Origin July August September April May June

California 3.38 3.30 3.19 2.95 3.31 3.68

Florida n/a n/a n/a 2.53 2.89 2.28

Great Lakes 4.30 4.21 4.11 4.20 4.16 4.30

MexicoArizona 3.03 2.53 2.33 2.61 2.91 3.23

MexicoTexas 2.79 2.80 2.83 2.97 2.84 2.92

New York 3.44 3.44 3.18 3.44 3.44 3.44

Other 2.96 2.96 2.99 2.99 2.97 2.96

PNW 2.50 2.53 2.63 2.63 2.40 2.44

Southeast 3.49 5.28 11.55 4.26 3.52 3.71

Texas n/a n/a n/a 2.98 3.02 n/a

U.S. Origin Atlanta Baltimore Boston Chicago Dallas Los 

Angeles Miami New York Philadelphia Seattle

California 3.02 2.80 2.67 2.80 3.22 12.23 2.99 2.88 2.84 3.25

Great 

Lakes 4.43 4.38 4.31 5.80 3.54 n/a 3.76 4.60 n/a n/a

MexicoArizona 2.61 2.22 n/a 1.98 3.08 2.42 2.42 2.91 2.69 n/a

MexicoTexas 3.21 2.66 2.58 2.38 3.62 2.05 3.04 2.78 2.77 n/a

MidAtlantic 2.90 8.60 4.76 2.13 n/a n/a n/a 6.83 7.43 n/a

New York 3.85 5.00 14.12 n/a n/a n/a 3.03 17.50 7.61 n/a

Other 3.17 3.26 2.83 3.30 3.18 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a

PNW 2.55 2.69 2.58 2.42 2.46 2.52 2.50 2.81 2.58 8.65

Southeast 6.21 3.93 5.03 2.83 2.68 0.62 3.96 3.82 3.58 n/a
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U.S. Diesel Fuel Prices 

The diesel fuel price provides a proxy for trends in U.S. truck rates. Diesel fuel is a significant component 

underlying truck rates.

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of Energy Information Administration/U.S. Department of Energy data.

Table 4: Origin-Destination Truck Rates for Selected Routes, 3rd Quarter 2023 ($/Truck)

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Note: “n/a” indicates rates not available.

Figure 2: U.S. Average On-Highway Diesel Fuel Prices

U.S. Origin Atlanta Baltimore Boston Chicago Dallas Los 

Angeles Miami New York Philadelphia Seattle

California 6,731 7,605 8,121 5,875 4,711 1,367 8,311 8,174 8,005 3,687

Great 

Lakes 4,274 4,113 4,738 1,450 3,854 n/a 6,149 4,816 n/a n/a

MexicoArizona 4,700 5,217 n/a 3,556 3,017 1,356 5,511 7,272 6,450 n/a

MexicoTexas 3,689 4,767 5,667 3,406 1,811 3,278 4,644 5,567 5,267 n/a

MidAtlantic 2,030 860 2,140 1,700 n/a n/a n/a 1,570 1,040 n/a

New York 3,850 1,650 2,400 n/a n/a n/a 4,400 2,625 1,750 n/a

Other 2,651 5,244 4,897 1,976 2,325 n/a n/a 3,425 2,925 n/a

PNW 5,984 6,666 7,137 4,386 4,571 2,633 7,530 7,201 6,543 1,211

Southeast 1,165 2,535 4,545 2,406 2,545 1,600 1,980 3,223 2,609 n/a
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Quarter 3, 2023

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The diesel fuel price provides a proxy for trends in U.S. truck rates. Diesel fuel is a significant expense for fruit 

and vegetable movements.

Relationship Between Diesel Fuel and Truck Rates

Table 5: Average Diesel Fuel Prices (All Types)

Sources: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data and Energy Information Administration/

U.S. Department of Energy data.

Note: The rates for 8 long-haul fruit and vegetable truck corridors are included in the national rates, weighted by origin volume.

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of Energy Information Administration/U.S. Department of Energy data.

Note: Table values may not conform exactly due to rounding.

Figure 3: U.S. Average On-Highway Diesel Fuel Prices and Truck Rates

Region 3rd Quarter 2023 Price 

$/Gallon

Change From Last 

Quarter Change From Last Year

East Coast 4.28 7% -17%

California 5.49 13% -13%

New England 4.33 < 1% -19%

Central Atlantic 4.45 4% -18%

Lower Atlantic 4.21 9% -16%

Gulf Coast 3.97 8% -18%

Midwest 4.18 9% -19%

Rocky Mountain 4.41 8% -15%

West Coast Except California 4.71 9% -13%

U.S. 4.27 8% -17%
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2023

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Table 6: Average Diesel Fuel Prices and Truck Rates

Sources: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data and Energy Information 

Administration/U.S. Department of Energy data.

Note: Table values may not conform exactly due to rounding.

Year Quarter Diesel Fuel 

($/gallon)

Truck Rates ($/mile) 

501-1500 miles

% Change From

Last Quarter Last Year

Diesel Truck Diesel Truck

2020 Q3 2.43 2.56 > -1% 2% -20% 4%

Q4 2.47 2.92 2% 14% -19% 16%

2021 Q1 2.89 2.90 17% -1% > -1% 14%

Q2 3.21 3.70 11% 27% 32% 47%

Q3 3.36 3.21 5% -13% 38% 25%

Q4 3.66 3.48 9% 8% 48% 19%

2022 Q1 4.29 3.25 17% -7% 48% 12%

Q2 5.48 3.65 28% 12% 71% -1%

Q3 5.16 3.23 -6% -12% 54% 1%

Q4 5.06 3.03 -2% -6% 38% -13%

2023 Q1 4.40 2.63 -13% -13% 3% -19%

Q2 3.94 2.82 -10% 7% -28% -23%

Q3 4.27 2.66 8% -6% -17% -18%
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Truck availability legend

1=Surplus 2=Slight surplus 3=Adequate 4=Slight shortage 5=Shortage

Quarterly Truck Availability

Table 7: U.S. Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Truck Availability

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Note: Empty cells were not reported. District and availabilities data come from the weekly Specialty Crops Truck Rate reports: 

https://mymarketnews.ams.usda.gov/filerepo/reports?field_slug_id_value=2375.

California, Central, And 

Western Arizona Commodities 7/4 7/11 7/18 7/25 8/1 8/8 8/15 8/22 8/29 9/5 9/12 9/19 9/26

Imperial, Coachella Valleys 

Ca, Central And Western Az, 

Mexico Crossings Through 

Calexico And San Luis

Artichokes, Beets, Brussels Sprouts, Fresh Cut Cabbage, Green 

Onions, Green Peas, Radishes 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 3 2 2 2 3

Kern District California Carrots, Grapes 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 3 2 2 2 3

Northern California 

Including San Joaquin Valley Pears 3 3 3 3 3 3

Oxnard District California Artichokes, Brussels Sprouts, Fresh Cut Cabbage, Celery, Cilantro, 

Kale Greens, Parsley, Radishes, Spinach 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 3 2 2 2 3

Salinas-Watsonville 

California

Anise, Artichokes, Beets, Bok Choy, Broccoli, Cabbage, Cauliflower, 

Celery, Chinese Cabbage, Cilantro, Escarole, Leeks, Boston Lettuce, 

Green Leaf Lettuce, Iceberg Lettuce, Red Leaf Lettuce, Romaine 

Lettuce, Parsley, Green Peas, Radishes, Spinach

3 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 3 2 2 2 3

San Joaquin Valley 

California Grapes, Nectarines, Peaches, Plums 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 3 3

Santa Maria California

Anise, Beets, Bok Choy, Broccoli, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Celery, 

Chinese Cabbage, Cilantro, Endive, Escarole, Kale Greens, Boston 

Lettuce, Green Leaf Lettuce, Iceberg Lettuce, Red Leaf Lettuce, 

Romaine Lettuce, Parsley, Green Peas, Radishes, Spinach

3 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 3 2 2 2 3

South And Central District 

California Grapefruit, Lemons, Oranges 3 3 3 3

South District California Grapefruit, Lemons, Oranges 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Florida Commodities 7/4 7/11 7/18 7/25 8/1 8/8 8/15 8/22 8/29 9/5 9/12 9/19 9/26

Florida West And South 

Carolina District Cantaloupe, Tomatoes, Grape Tomatoes, Watermelons 4 4
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Truck availability legend

1=Surplus 2=Slight surplus 3=Adequate 4=Slight shortage 5=Shortage

Table 7, continued: U.S. Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Truck Availability

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Note: Empty cells were not reported. District and availabilities data come from the weekly Specialty Crops Truck Rate reports: 

https://mymarketnews.ams.usda.gov/filerepo/reports?field_slug_id_value=2375.

Pacific Northwest (ID, OR, &, 

WA) Commodities 7/4 7/11 7/18 7/25 8/1 8/8 8/15 8/22 8/29 9/5 9/12 9/19 9/26

Columbia Basin Washington Dry Onions, Potatoes 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Idaho And Malheur County, 

Oregon Dry Onions 3 3

Upper Valley, Twin FallsBurley District Idaho Potatoes 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Yakima Valley And 

Wenatchee District, 

Washington

Apples, Blueberries, Peaches, Pears, Prunes, Rhubarb, Cherries, 

Apricots 3 3 3 3 3 3 1 2 2 3 3 2 2

U.S.-Mexico border Commodities 7/4 7/11 7/18 7/25 8/1 8/8 8/15 8/22 8/29 9/5 9/12 9/19 9/26

Imperial, Coachella Valleys 

Ca, Central And Western Az, 

Mexico Crossings Through 

Calexico And San Luis

Artichokes, Beets, Brussels Sprouts, Fresh Cut Cabbage, Green 

Onions, Green Peas, Radishes 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 3 2 2 2 3

Nogales, Arizona

Mangos, Grape Tomatoes, Plum Tomatoes, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, 

Honeydews, Acorn Squash, Butternut Squash, Grey Squash, 

Kabocha Squash, Spaghetti Squash, Yellow Squash Straightneck, 

Zucchini Squash, Watermelons

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

South Texas

Asparagus, Broccoli, Carrots, Chayote, Cilantro, Cucumbers, 

Grapefruit, Limes, Mangos, Oranges, Papaya, Anaheim Peppers, 

Bell Peppers, Habanero Peppers, Jalapeno Peppers, Poblano 

Peppers, Serrano Peppers, Pineapples, Tomatillos, Tomatoes, 

Grape Tomatoes, Plum Tomatoes, Watermelons

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

Great Lakes (MI & WI) Commodities 7/4 7/11 7/18 7/25 8/1 8/8 8/15 8/22 8/29 9/5 9/12 9/19 9/26

Central Wisconsin Potatoes 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3
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Truck availability legend

1=Surplus 2=Slight surplus 3=Adequate 4=Slight shortage 5=Shortage

Table 7, continued: U.S. Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Truck Availability

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Note: Empty cells were not reported. District and availabilities data come from the weekly Specialty Crops Truck Rate reports: 

https://mymarketnews.ams.usda.gov/filerepo/reports?field_slug_id_value=2375.

Southeast (GA, SC, & NC) Commodities 7/4 7/11 7/18 7/25 8/1 8/8 8/15 8/22 8/29 9/5 9/12 9/19 9/26

Florida West And South 

Carolina District Cantaloupe, Tomatoes, Grape Tomatoes, Watermelons 4 4

South Carolina Watermelons 3 3 3

South Georgia Sweet Corn, Eggplant, Greens, Round Green Beans, Cantaloupe, 

Cucumbers, Bell Peppers, Other Peppers, Watermelons 3 3

Vidalia District Georgia Dry Onions 3 3 3 3 3
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

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Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Reported U.S. Shipments

Table 8: Reported U.S. Fruit and Vegetable Shipments (1,000 Tons)

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Note: Table values may not conform exactly due to rounding.

Figure 4: Reported U.S. Fruit and Vegetable Shipments (1,000 Tons)

Year 1st Quarter 2nd Quarter 3rd Quarter 4th Quarter Annual

2023 9,685 11,265 9,332 30,282

2022 9,010 10,636 9,032 8,922 37,600

2021 10,051 11,520 9,498 9,034 40,103

2020 10,081 10,750 9,058 9,007 38,895

2019 9,381 10,246 8,687 8,714 37,028

2018 9,421 10,795 8,789 8,503 37,508

2017 8,072 9,642 8,479 8,267 34,459

2016 8,094 9,761 8,541 8,188 34,583

2015 8,118 9,630 8,324 7,771 33,842

2014 7,733 9,139 8,080 7,725 32,677

2013 7,451 8,972 7,762 7,527 31,712

2012 7,577 9,008 7,774 7,532 31,890

2011 7,007 8,981 7,887 7,988 31,863

2010 7,065 8,881 7,985 7,522 31,454

2009 7,158 8,728 7,990 7,270 31,147

2008 7,059 8,666 7,426 6,904 30,057

2007 6,959 8,585 7,475 7,099 30,118
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

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Table 9: Reported Top 10 Commodity Shipments (1,000 Tons)

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Note: Table values may not conform exactly due to rounding.

Reported Shipments by Selected Commodities

Table 10: Reported Top 10 Regions (1,000 Tons)

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Note: Table values may not conform exactly due to rounding.

Note: Due to a lack of rate and availability data, Canada is excluded from the Regional Markets section of this report.

Commodity 3rd Quarter 

2023

Previous 

Quarter

Same Quarter 

Last Year

Current Quarter as % change from:

Previous Qtr Same Qtr Last Year

Watermelons, 

Seedless 1,124 1,599 991 -30% 13%

Potatoes 1,048 1,128 1,020 -7% 3%

Apples 674 674 590 > -1% 14%

Onions Dry 548 748 543 -27% 1%

Grapes 370 393 408 -6% -9%

Tomatoes 367 596 488 -38% -25%

Strawberries 334 579 311 -42% 7%

Cucumbers 320 642 444 -50% -28%

Lettuce, Iceberg 286 326 318 -12% -10%

Avocados 267 703 467 -62% -43%

Origin 3rd Quarter 2023 Volume % Change from Last Quarter % Change From Same Quarter 

Last Year

California 3,074 2% 3%

Mexico 2,187 -43% -1%

PNW 1,479 18% 7%

Canada 552 43% -9%

Southeast 395 -23% -1%

Great Lakes 343 109% 9%

Indiana 224 n/a 27%

Mid-Atlantic 191 1,037% 3%

Colorado 151 -30% 14%

Texas 129 -51% -7%
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

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Regional Markets

Table 11: Reported Top Five Commodities Shipped from California (1,000 tons)

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any "-" in the table indicates no reported shipments during the quarter or a percentage change with an at- or near-zero denominator.

Note: Table values may not conform exactly due to rounding.

California

Commodity 3rd Quarter 

2023

Share of 

California 

Total

Previous 

Quarter

Same 

Quarter 

Last Year

Current Quarter as % change 

from:

Previous Qtr Same Qtr Last Year

Grapes 345 11% 14 384 2,457% -10%

Strawberries 327 11% 367 302 -11% 8%

Watermelons, 

Seedless 263 9% 20 207 1,206% 27%

Lettuce, Iceberg 259 8% 225 271 15% -5%

Lettuce, Romaine 243 8% 236 259 3% -6%

Top 5 Total 1,438 47% 861 1,424 67% 1%

California Total 3,074 100% 3,015 2,977 2% 3%

Volume

Total reported shipments of fruit and vegetables from California in third quarter 2023 were 3.07 million 

tons—3 percent higher than third quarter 2022 (year to year). The summed volume of the top five 

commodities shipped from California increased 1 percent year to year. Two of the top five commodities 

saw year-to-year volume increases in the third quarter, including seedless watermelons (up 27 percent) 

and strawberries (up 8 percent). Shipments of grapes decreased 10 percent; shipments of romaine lettuce 

decreased 6 percent; and shipments of iceberg lettuce decreased 5 percent. 

Rates 

The quarterly average truck rate for shipments between 501 miles and 1,500 miles was $3.33 per mile—flat 

from second quarter 2023 to third quarter 2023 (quarter to quarter), and down 27 percent year to year. 

Truck Overview 

Diesel fuel prices averaged $5.49 per gallon—up 13 percent quarter to quarter, but down 13 percent year to 

year. The Kern, Oxnard, Salinas-Watsonville, and Santa Maria districts reported adequate truck availability in 

July and August, and a slight surplus of trucks in September. The Northern California and San Joaquin Valley 

districts did not report in July, and reported adequate truck availability in August and September. The South 

and Central district did not report in July or August, and reported adequate truck availability in September. 

The South district reported adequate truck availability in July and August, and did not report in September.
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2023

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Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any gaps in the chart lines are the result of quarters with no reported data for the region.

Figure 5: California Truck Rates ($/Mile by Distance Traveled)

Table 12: California Truck Overview (Availability Rating: 1=Surplus to 5=Shortage)

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any "-" in the table indicates no reported shipments during the quarter.

Note: Table values may not conform exactly due to rounding.

Note: AMS Specialty Crops Program defines regions by commodity, which may overlap in truck availability reporting.

Region/Reporting District July August September 3rd Quarter

Kern District California 3 2.6 2.25 2.62

Northern California Including San Joaquin 

Valley - 3 3 3

Oxnard District California 3 2.6 2.25 2.62

Salinas-Watsonville California 3 2.6 2.24 2.61

San Joaquin Valley California - 2.8 2.5 2.65

Santa Maria California 3 2.6 2.25 2.62

South And Central District California - - 3 3

South District California 3 3 - 3

Regional Average Availability 3 2.74 2.50 2.75

Diesel Fuel Price ($/gallon) 4.91 5.52 6.04 5.49
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

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Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any gaps in the chart lines are the result of quarters with no reported data for the region.

Figure 6: Refrigerated Truck Availability Monthly Ratings for California
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U.S. Mexico Border

Volume

In third quarter 2023, USDA reported total shipments of fruit and vegetables from Mexico were 2.19 million 

tons—down 1 percent from third quarter 2022. The summed volume of the top five commodities shipped 

from the U.S. Mexico border also decreased 1 percent year to year. Three of the top five commodities saw 

year-to-year volume decreases, including plum tomatoes (down 9 percent); avocados (down 2 percent); and 

limes (down 1 percent). Shipments of cucumbers increased 9 percent, and shipments of mangoes increased 

1 percent. 

Rates 

In third quarter 2023, truck rates for shipments between 501 miles and 1,500 miles from Arizona-Mexico 

border crossings averaged $2.75 per mile—down 6 percent quarter to quarter and down 4 percent year to 

year. Rates for shipments between 501 miles and 1,500 miles from Texas-Mexico border crossings averaged 

$2.79 per mile—down 4 percent quarter to quarter and down 7 percent year to year.

Truck Overview 

Diesel fuel prices for border crossings from Arizona averaged $4.71 per gallon—up 9 percent quarter to 

quarter, but down 13 percent year to year. Diesel fuel prices for border crossings from Texas averaged 

$3.97—up 8 percent quarter to quarter, but down 18 percent year to year. Mexico crossings through 

Calexico and San Luis reported adequate truck availability in July and August, and a slight surplus of trucks 

in September. Mexico crossings through Nogales, AZ, reported adequate truck availability throughout the 

quarter. Mexico crossings through South Texas reported a surplus of trucks throughout the quarter.

Table 13: Reported Top Five Commodities Shipped from Mexico (1,000 tons)

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any "-" in the table indicates no reported shipments during the quarter or a percentage change with an at- or near-zero denominator.

Note: Table values may not conform exactly due to rounding.

Commodity 3rd Quarter 

2023

Share of 

MexicoTotal

Previous 

Quarter

Same 

Quarter 

Last Year

Current Quarter as % change 

from:

Previous Qtr Same Qtr Last Year

Avocados 211 10% 324 216 -35% -2%

Tomatoes, Plum Type 208 10% 264 230 -21% -9%

Limes 195 9% 186 197 5% -1%

Mangoes 185 8% 193 184 -4% 1%

Cucumbers 167 8% 266 153 -37% 9%

Top 5 Total 966 44% 1,233 979 -22% -1%

Mexico Total 2,187 100% 3,842 2,207 -43% -1%
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2023

www.ams.usda.gov/services/transportation-analysis/agrtq 17

Texas California Arizona New Mexico

Commodity

3rd 

Quarter 

2023

Commodity

3rd 

Quarter 

2023

Commodity

3rd 

Quarter 

2023

Commodity

3rd 

Quarter 

2023

Avocados 205 Tomatoes, Plum 

Type 83 Mangoes 66 Peppers, Other 35 

Limes 171 Cucumbers 71 Tomatoes 27 Onions Dry 2 

Mangoes 117 Misc Tropical 41 Grapes 24 Misc Tropical < 1

Tomatoes, 

Plum Type 117 Onions Green 39 Cucumbers 20 Tomatoes, Plum Type < 1

Tomatoes 95 Peppers, Other 34 Peppers, Bell 

Type 12 Garlic < 1

Mexico through 

TX Total 1,416 Mexico through CA Total 492 Mexico through AZ Total 242 Mexico through NM Total 37 

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any "-" in the table indicates no reported shipments during the quarter.

Note: Table values may not conform exactly due to rounding.

Table 14: Top 5 Commodities Shipped to U.S. from Mexico by State of Entry (1,000 tons)

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any gaps in the chart lines are the result of quarters with no reported data for the region.

Figure 7: Truck Rates from U.S.-Mexico Border ($/Mile by Distance Traveled)
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2023

www.ams.usda.gov/services/transportation-analysis/agrtq 18

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any gaps in the chart lines are the result of quarters with no reported data for the region.

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any gaps in the chart lines are the result of quarters with no reported data for the region.

Figure 8: Texas Truck Rates from U.S.-Mexico Border ($/Mile by Distance Traveled)

Figure 9: Arizona Truck Rates from U.S.-Mexico Border ($/Mile by Distance Traveled)
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2023

www.ams.usda.gov/services/transportation-analysis/agrtq 19

Table 15: Truck Overview from the U.S.-Mexico Border 

(Availability Rating: 1=Surplus to 5=Shortage)

Region/Reporting District July August September 3rd Quarter

Imperial, Coachella Valleys Ca, Central And 

Western Az, Mexico Crossings Through Calexico 

And San Luis

3 2.6 2.25 2.62

Mexico Crossings Through Nogales, Arizona 3 3 3 3

Mexico Crossings Through South Texas 1 1 1 1

Regional Average Availability 2.33 2.2 2.08 2.21

Diesel Fuel Price ($/gallon), through Texas 3.59 4.08 4.25 3.97

Diesel Fuel Price ($/gallon), through Arizona 4.20 4.75 5.17 4.71

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any "-" in the table indicates no reported shipments during the quarter.

Note: Table values may not conform exactly due to rounding.

Note: AMS Specialty Crops Program defines regions by commodity, which may overlap in truck availability reporting.

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any gaps in the chart lines are the result of quarters with no reported data for the region.

Figure 10: Refrigerated Truck Availability Monthly Ratings from the U.S-Mexico Border
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2023

www.ams.usda.gov/services/transportation-analysis/agrtq 20

PNW

Table 16: Reported Top Five Commodities Shipped from PNW (1,000 tons)

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any "-" in the table indicates no reported shipments during the quarter or a percentage change with an at- or near-zero denominator.

Note: Table values may not conform exactly due to rounding.

Commodity 3rd Quarter 

2023

Share of 

PNW Total

Previous 

Quarter

Same 

Quarter 

Last Year

Current Quarter as % change 

from:

Previous Qtr Same Qtr Last Year

Apples 581 39% 571 540 2% 8%

Potatoes 452 31% 413 430 9% 5%

Onions Dry 252 17% 150 222 69% 14%

Cherries 104 7% 49 101 113% 3%

Pears 49 3% 69 34 -29% 44%

Top 5 Total 1,438 97% 1,252 1,327 15% 8%

PNW Total 1,479 100% 1,255 1,377 18% 7%

Volume 

In third quarter 2023, total reported shipments of fruit and vegetables from PNW were 1.48 million tons, 

up 7 percent year to year. The summed volume of the top five commodities shipped from PNW increased 8 

percent year to year. All of the top five commodities saw year-to-year volume increases, including pears (up 

44 percent); dry onions (up 14 percent); apples (up 8 percent); potatoes (up 5 percent); and cherries (up 3 

percent). 

Rates 

The quarterly average truck rate for shipments between 501 miles and 1,500 miles was $2.52 per mile—up 1 

percent quarter to quarter, but down 4 percent year to year.

Truck Overview 

Diesel fuel prices averaged $4.71 per gallon—up 9 percent quarter to quarter, but down 13 percent year to 

year. The Columbia Basin and Twin Falls-Burley districts reported adequate truck availability throughout the 

quarter. The Idaho and Malheur County district did not report in July or August, and reported adequate truck 

availability in September. The Yakima Valley and Wenatchee district reported adequate availability in July and 

September, and a slight surplus of trucks in August. 
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2023

www.ams.usda.gov/services/transportation-analysis/agrtq 21

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any gaps in the chart lines are the result of quarters with no reported data for the region.

Figure 11: PNW Truck Rates ($/Mile by Distance Traveled)

Table 17: PNW Truck Overview (Availability Rating: 1=Surplus to 5=Shortage)

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any "-" in the table indicates no reported shipments during the quarter.

Note: Table values may not conform exactly due to rounding.

Note: AMS Specialty Crops Program defines regions by commodity, which may overlap in truck availability reporting.

Region/Reporting District July August September 3rd Quarter

Columbia Basin Washington 3 3 3 3

Idaho And Malheur County, Oregon - - 3 3

Upper Valley, Twin Falls-Burley District Idaho 3 3 3 3

Yakima Valley And Wenatchee District, 

Washington 3 2.2 2.5 2.57

Regional Average Availability 3 2.73 2.88 2.87

Diesel Fuel Price ($/gallon) 4.20 4.75 5.17 4.71
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2023

www.ams.usda.gov/services/transportation-analysis/agrtq 22

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any gaps in the chart lines are the result of quarters with no reported data for the region.

Figure 12: Refrigerated Truck Availability Monthly Ratings for PNW
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2023

www.ams.usda.gov/services/transportation-analysis/agrtq 23

Southeast

Table 18: Reported Top Five Commodities Shipped from Southeast (1,000 tons)

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any "-" in the table indicates no reported shipments during the quarter or a percentage change with an at- or near-zero denominator.

Note: Table values may not conform exactly due to rounding.

Commodity 3rd Quarter 

2023

Share of 

Southeast 

Total

Previous 

Quarter

Same 

Quarter 

Last Year

Current Quarter as % change 

from:

Previous Qtr Same Qtr Last Year

Watermelons, 

Seedless 257 65% 203 219 26% 17%

Sweet Potatoes 30 8% 28 53 7% -43%

Onions Dry 25 6% 70 44 -64% -43%

Watermelons, Seeded 12 3% 18 9 -32% 32%

Peppers, Bell Type 9 2% 15 13 -41% -33%

Top 5 Total 334 85% 335 339 > -1% -1%

Southeast Total 395 100% 510 401 -23% -1%

Volume

During third quarter 2023, total reported shipments of fruit and vegetables from Southeast were 395,000 

tons—down 1 percent from third quarter 2022. The summed volume of the top five commodities shipped 

from Southeast also decreased 1 percent year to year. Three of the top five commodities saw year-to-year 

volume decreases in the third quarter, including sweet potatoes (down 43 percent); dry onions (down 43 

percent); and bell peppers (down 33 percent). Shipments of seeded watermelons increased 32 percent, and 

shipments of seedless watermelons increased 17 percent. 

Rates

The quarterly average truck rate for shipments between 501 miles and 1,500 miles was $3.77 per mile—

down 1 percent quarter to quarter and down 41 percent year to year. 

Truck Overview 

Diesel fuel prices averaged $4.21 per gallon—up 9 percent quarter to quarter, but down 16 percent year to 

year. The Florida West and South Carolina district reported a slight shortage of trucks in July, and did not 

report in August or September. The South Carolina and South Georgia districts reported adequate truck 

availability in July, and did not report in August or September. The Vidalia district reported adequate truck 

availability in July and August, and did not report in September.
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2023

www.ams.usda.gov/services/transportation-analysis/agrtq 24

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any gaps in the chart lines are the result of quarters with no reported data for the region.

Figure 13: Southeast Truck Rates ($/Mile by Distance Traveled)

Table 19: Southeast Truck Overview (Availability Rating: 1=Surplus to 5=Shortage)

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any "-" in the table indicates no reported shipments during the quarter.

Note: Table values may not conform exactly due to rounding.

Note: AMS Specialty Crops Program defines regions by commodity, which may overlap in truck availability reporting.

Region/Reporting District July August September 3rd Quarter

Florida West And South Carolina District 4 - - 4

South Carolina 3 - - 3

South Georgia 3 - - 3

Vidalia District Georgia 3 3 - 3

Regional Average Availability 3.25 3 - 3.13

Diesel Fuel Price ($/gallon) 3.84 4.34 4.43 4.21
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2023

www.ams.usda.gov/services/transportation-analysis/agrtq 25

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any gaps in the chart lines are the result of quarters with no reported data for the region.

Figure 14: Refrigerated Truck Availability Monthly Ratings for Southeast
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2023

www.ams.usda.gov/services/transportation-analysis/agrtq 26

Great Lakes

Table 20: Reported Top Five Commodities Shipped from Great Lakes (1,000 tons)

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any "-" in the table indicates no reported shipments during the quarter or a percentage change with an at- or near-zero denominator.

Note: Table values may not conform exactly due to rounding.

Commodity 3rd Quarter 

2023

Share of 

Great Lakes 

Total

Previous 

Quarter

Same 

Quarter 

Last Year

Current Quarter as % change 

from:

Previous Qtr Same Qtr Last Year

Potatoes 145 42% 110 131 32% 11%

Watermelons, 

Seedless 52 15% - 55 - -5%

Apples 35 10% 35 9 -2% 297%

Peppers, Bell Type 23 7% - 19 - 17%

Cucumbers 21 6% < 1 24 - -11%

Top 5 Total 276 80% 145 238 90% 16%

Great Lakes Total 343 100% 164 315 109% 9%

Volume

Total reported shipments of fruit and vegetables from Great Lakes in third quarter 2023 were 343,000 

tons, up 9 percent year to year. The summed volume of the top five commodities shipped from Great Lakes 

increased 16 percent year to year. Three of the top five commodities saw year-to-year volume increases 

in the third quarter, including apples (up 297 percent); bell peppers (up 17 percent); and potatoes (up 11 

percent). Shipments of cucumbers decreased 11 percent, and shipments of seedless watermelons decreased 

5 percent.

Rates

The quarterly average truck rate for shipments between 501 miles and 1,500 miles was $4.25 per mile—up 1 

percent quarter to quarter, but down 11 percent year to year.

Truck Overview

Diesel fuel prices averaged $4.18 per gallon—up 9 percent quarter to quarter, but down 19 percent year 

to year. The Big Lake and Central Minnesota district did not report in July, and reported adequate truck 

availability in August and September. The Central Wisconsin district reported adequate truck availability 

throughout the quarter.
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2023

www.ams.usda.gov/services/transportation-analysis/agrtq 27

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any gaps in the chart lines are the result of quarters with no reported data for the region.

Figure 15: Great Lakes Truck Rates ($/Mile by Distance Traveled)

Table 21: Great Lakes Truck Overview (Availability Rating: 1=Surplus to 5=Shortage)

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any "-" in the table indicates no reported shipments during the quarter.

Note: Table values may not conform exactly due to rounding.

Note: AMS Specialty Crops Program defines regions by commodity, which may overlap in truck availability reporting.

Region/Reporting District July August September 3rd Quarter

Big Lake And Central Minnesota - 3 3 3

Central Wisconsin 3 3 3 3

Regional Average Availability 3 3 3 3

Diesel Fuel Price ($/gallon) 3.82 4.3 4.44 4.18
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2023

www.ams.usda.gov/services/transportation-analysis/agrtq 28

Source: AMS Transportation Services Division analysis of AMS Specialty Crops Program Market News data.

Any gaps in the chart lines are the result of quarters with no reported data for the region.

Figure 16: Refrigerated Truck Availability Monthly Ratings for Great Lakes
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2023

www.ams.usda.gov/services/transportation-analysis/agrtq 29

Data Reporting and Publication Window

The publication date of each Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly (AgRTQ) depends on the timing of data 

reporting. Reporting of truck shipments in some regions can be delayed 2-3 months past their respective 

quarter. We publish the AgRTQ one month after that lag in order to capture a more complete picture of truck 

shipments during the quarter. 

Data Sources

This information is compiled from the weekly Specialty Crops Truck Rate Report by USDA, Agricultural 

Marketing Service (AMS), Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division. The website is: 

https://www.marketnews.usda.gov/mnp/fv-home.

Regional Markets

For the regional markets, some States are grouped into producing regions. The Pacific Northwest region 

includes Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. The Great Lakes region includes Michigan, Minnesota, and 

Wisconsin. The Southeast region includes North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia.

Shipment Volumes

Truck shipments for all commodities and origins are not available. Those obtainable are reported, but should 

not be interpreted as representing complete movements of a commodity. Truck shipments from all States are 

collected at shipping points and include both interstate and intrastate movements. They are obtained from 

various sources, including Federal marketing orders, administrative committees, Federal State Inspection 

Service, and shippers. Volume amounts are represented in 10,000 pound units, or 1,000 10-lb packages 

but are converted to 1,000 tons for this report. Mexican border crossings through Arizona and Texas data is 

obtained from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border and Protection (CBP) 

through USDA, AMS, Market News.

Rates

This information is compiled from the weekly Specialty Crops Truck Rate Report. Rates quoted represent 

open (spot) market rates that shippers or receivers pay depending on basis of sale, per load, including truck 

brokers fees for shipments in truck load volume to a single destination. Extra charges for delivery to terminal 

markets, multipickup and multidrop shipments are not included unless otherwise stated. Rates are based on 

the most usual loads in 48-53 foot trailers from the origin shipping area to the destination receiving city. In 

areas where rates are based on package rates, per load rates were derived by multiplying the package rate by 

the number of packages in the most usual load in a 48-53 foot trailer. Slightly cheaper rates will be reported 

during Quarters 2 and 3 as about 50 percent of onion shipments from California are hauled on open flatbed 

trailers. During Quarter 3, less than 20 percent of onions hauled from Washington, Idaho, and Oregon are on 

open flatbeds.

Regional Rates

Rate data for 10 destination markets are used to calculate average origin regional rates.

National Rates

The national rates reflect the average of the regional rates, separated by mileage category and weighted by 

volume between origin and destination.

Additional Information

Terms and References
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2023

www.ams.usda.gov/services/transportation-analysis/agrtq 30

Authors

Alexis Heyman, Coordinator; Analyst

Alexis.Heyman@usda.gov, 847.699.2414

Jesse Gastelle, Analyst 

Jesse.Gastelle@usda.gov, 202.690.1144

Kranti Mulik, Analyst

Kranti.Mulik@usda.gov, 202.756.2577

Patty Willkie, Specialty Crops Program and Market News Division Data 

Patty.Willkie@usda.gov, 202.720.2175 

Please sign up by entering your email address at the following link and 

selecting your preference to receive Transportation Research and Analysis: 

https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDAAMS/subscriber/new?topic_id=USDAAMS_177

For assistance with accessibility issues related to this document, please e-mail SharonC.Williams@usda.gov. 

Related Websites

USDA's Agricultural Transportation Open Data Platform

https://agtransport.usda.gov/

Specialty Crops Program

https://www.ams.usda.gov/about-ams/programs-offices/specialty-crops-program

Specialty Crops Truck Rate Report

https://mymarketnews.ams.usda.gov/filerepo/reports?field_slug_id_value=2375

Specialty Crops Movement Reporting

https://www.marketnews.usda.gov/mnp/fv-report-config-step1?type=movement

Economic Research Service Vegetable and Pulses 

https://www.ers.usda.gov/topics/crops/vegetables-pulses/

Economic Research Service Fruit and Tree Nuts 

https://www.ers.usda.gov/topics/crops/fruit-tree-nuts.aspx

National Agricultural Statistics Service, Crops

https://www.nass.usda.gov/Statistics_by_Subject/index.php?sector=CROPS

Refrigerated Truck Quarterly Datasets

https://www.ams.usda.gov/services/transportation-analysis/agricultural-refrigerated-truck-quarterly-datasets

Protecting Perishable Foods During Transport by Truck and Rail

https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/HS/HS132800.pdf

Preferred Citation

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service. Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly 

Report. March 2024 Web. <https://dx.doi.org/10.9752/TS051.03-2024> 

Photo Credit

Burt Barnes

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