Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

a quarterly publication of the Agricultural Marketing Service 

www.ams.usda.gov/RTQ

Quarter 3, July-September 2018

Published March 27, 2019

Fruit and Vegetable Shipments 

Reported U.S. truck shipments of fresh produce during the third quarter of 2018 were 8.35 million 

tons, 13 percent lower than the previous quarter, but 0.2 percent higher than the same quarter 

last year. 

Shipments from California were the highest in the third quarter, totaling 3.19 million tons 

and accounting for 38 percent of the total reported shipments of fresh fruits and vegetables. 

Shipments from the Pacific Northwest totaled 1.55 million tons, representing 19 percent of the 

reported shipments. Movements from Mexico totaled 1.49 million tons, representing 18 percent 

of the reported total. 

The following top five commodities accounted for 44 percent of the reported truck movements 

during the third quarter of 2018: 

• Potatoes (13 percent)

• Watermelons, seedless (12 percent)

• Apples (7 percent) 

• Onions, dry (6 percent) 

• Grapes (4 percent) 

Truck Rates

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

four mileage categories—0-500, 501-1,500, 1,501-2,500, and 2,501+ miles. Please note the U.S. 

average truck rates provided below are calculated using weighted regional rates and volumes.

Contents

Quarterly Overview..................1

Regulatory News a

nd Updates...............................2

National Summary....................5

U.S.Truck Rates.........................5

Truck Rates for 

Selected Routes........................6

U.S. Diesel Fuel Prices ..............7

Relationship Between Diesel Fuel 

and Truck Rates........................8

3rd Quarter 2018 Comparison 

Analysis.....................................9

Quarterly Truck Availability ......10

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

Reported Shipments by Selected 

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

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

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

Pacific Northwest (PNW) ........15

Mexico Border Crossings ........17

Southeast................................21

Great Lakes.............................23

Terms and References ..............25

Contact Information .................26

Quarterly Overvie
2

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

U.S. Average Fruit and Vegetable Truck Rates per Mile

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

Q3 2017 5.06 2.52 2.25 1.26

Q4 2017 3.16 2.55 2.52 1.22

Q1 2018 3.05 2.64 2.54 1.04

Q2 2018 4.32 2.96 2.45 1.06

Q3 2018 5.32 2.85 2.57 1.56

Q3 Change from Previous 

Quarter 23% -4% 5% 46%

Q3 Change from Same 

Quarter Last Year 5% 13% 14% 23%

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

Diesel Fuel 

During the third quarter 2018, the U.S. diesel fuel price averaged $3.238 per gallon—1 percent higher than the previous quarter and 

23 percent higher than the same quarter last year (see figure 2).

Regulatory News and Upda

Ten Applications for Exemption from the Electronic Logging Device Rule Denied

On December 7, 2018, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced the denial of 10 applications for 

exemptions from the hours of service electronic logging device rule, stating it “has concluded that each application lacks sufficient 

merit to justify the exemptions sought.” FMCSA reviewed any safety analyses and public comments submitted and determined

whether granting the exemption would likely achieve a level of safety equivalent to, or greater than, the level that would be achieved 

by the current regulation. The applicants included associations that represent retailers and distributors of farm-related products and 

services, agricultural equipment dealers, and small business trucking companies, including those that haul fresh produce.

Renewing the National Commitment to the Interstate Highway System: A Foundation for the Future

On December 6, 2018, the Transportation Research Board (TRB) released the Congressionally-mandated study, Renewing the 

National Commitment to the Interstate Highway System: A Foundation for the Future, with 10 recommendations. TRB said, “These 

include as a near-term step: (1) increase the federal motor fuel tax to a level commensurate with the federal share of the required 

Renewal and Modernization Program investment, and (2) adjust the tax as needed to account for inflation and changes in vehicle fuel 

economy.” The study also recommends Congress “prepare for the need to employ new federal and state funding mechanisms, such 

as the imposition of tolls or per-mile charges on users of the Interstate Highway System.” 

Guide for Drivers on Electronic Logging Device Data Transfer Announced

On December 4, 2018, FMCSA, announced Using ELDs: A Guide for Drivers, which “Gives the driver a high-level overview of the 

various data transfer processes and includes some tips on troubleshooting common questions that could arise during data transfer.” 

The information provided in the guide could be useful background for drivers if they ever experience a request by a safety official to 

review the driver’s electronic logging device data for potential hours of service violations. 

Update on Pilot for 18-21-Year-Old Ex-Military Drivers to Operate Vehicles in Interstate Commerce

On November 27, 2018, FMCSA announced its plan to submit an Information Collection Request to the Office of Management and 

Budget for review and approval. It will request permission for the 3-year pilot program to allow a limited number of individuals, 

ages 18 to 20, to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce, if they received specified heavy-vehicle driver 
3

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

training while in military service and were hired by a participating motor carrier. On July 6, 2018, FMCSA published the details 

and FMCSA’ responses to comments on the pilot program. In a separate July 6, 2018, notice, FMCSA asked for comments on the 

information to be collected during the pilot program. U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao said, “This program will allow 

our Veterans and Reservists, to translate their extensive training into good-paying jobs, operating commercial vehicles safely 

across the country, while also addressing the nationwide driver shortage.” Documents and comments are available in Docket No. 

FMCSA-2017-0196 for the information collection, and Docket No. FMCSA-2016-0069 for the pilot program.

Research Plan to Improve Estimates of Impacts of Changes in Truck Size and Weight Regulations

On November 27, 2018, the Transportation Research Board’s Truck Size and Weight Limits Research Plan Committee announced

it “has issued its second and final report to the U.S. Department of Transportation. The report presents a research plan to reduce 

the major sources of uncertainty in projections of the consequences of proposed changes in truck size and weight limits. The 

report defines a program of 27 coordinated research projects in six areas. The committee issued its first report in April 2018, which 

summarized the research recommendations of past truck size and weight limit studies and identified criteria for deciding the priority 

of topics for inclusion in the research plan.”

California Air Resources Board Increases Tracking of Vehicle Emissions

On November 15, 2018, the California Air Resources Board announced it had “adopted a new emissions tracking program that will 

help regulators identify vehicles with excess smog-related and greenhouse gas emissions and propel California further towards its 

goal of meeting state and federal air quality standards in the decades ahead. Real Emissions Assessment Logging (REAL) is part 

of the amendments to the OBD (On-board Diagnostic) Regulations approved by the Board. The REAL program will require no new 

technology since it will take advantage of existing sensors to track the necessary data. Older vehicles will not be part of the REAL 

program and will not require any new equipment.”

EPA Acting Administrator Wheeler Launches Cleaner Trucks Initiative

On November 13, 2018, “U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Acting Administrator Andrew Wheeler launched the Cleaner 

Trucks Initiative (CTI) to further decrease nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from on-highway heavy-duty trucks and engines. He 

was joined by EPA Office of Air and Radiation Assistant Administrator Bill Wehrum, White House officials, state partners, labor 

representatives, and leaders from the trucking and engine manufacturing industry. The CTI will include a future rulemaking that will 

update the existing NOx standard which was last set in 2001 while also streamlining compliance and certification requirements.” 

Personal Conveyance Frequently Asked Questions and Guidance Updated

In November 2018, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) published Personal Conveyance Frequently Asked 

Questions. FMCSA states, “personal conveyance is the movement of a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) for personal use while offduty. A driver may record time operating a CMV for personal conveyance as off-duty only when the driver is relieved from work and 

all responsibility for performing work by the motor carrier. The CMV may be used for personal conveyance even if it is laden, since 

the load is not being transported for the commercial benefit of the motor carrier at that time. Personal conveyance does not reduce 

a driver’s or motor carrier’s responsibility to operate a CMV safely. Motor carriers can establish personal conveyance limitations 

either within the scope of, or more restrictive than, the guidance provided.”

Periodic Update of the Jason’s Law Survey on Truck Parking Underway

In November 2018, the Federal Highway Administration began the required periodic survey of States to inventory public rest areas 

and the periodic surveys of commercial motor vehicle operators (drivers), trucking operations managers, and truck stop owners and 

operators to “improve truck parking and provide States and metropolitan planning organizations with resources to identify parking 

needs and to encourage improvements and investments.” Under Jason’s Law, Section 1401 of Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st 

Century, Public Law 112-141, the inaugural Jason’s Law Truck Parking Survey Results and Comparative Analysis was completed in 

August 2015. 
4

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Critical Issues in the Trucking Industry – 2018

On October 29, 2018, the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) released Critical Issues in the Trucking Industry – 

2018. ATRI said the report was “based on an annual survey, which generated more than 1,500 responses from motor carriers 

and commercial drivers.” The top ten issues were: (1) driver shortage; (2) hours of service; (3) driver retention; (4) electronic 

logging device mandate; (5) truck parking; (6) compliance, safety, and accountability scoring program; (7) driver distraction; (8) 

transportation infrastructure, congestion, and funding; (9) driver health and wellness; and (10) economy. Emerging issues ranked 

close to the top ten were: (11) highway safety and crash reduction; (12) tort reform; and (13) automated truck technology. 

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Assessing Crash Risk Based on Commercial Motor 

Vehicle Driver Schedules

On October 25, 2018, FMCSA announced it will collect data as part of a “study to investigate how commercial motor vehicle (CMV) 

drivers’ schedules impact overall driver performance and safety. FMCSA needs these data to answer important research questions 

related to driver schedules and how these affect overall driver performance and fatigue.” Comments on the data collection were due 

by December 24, 2018, and can be viewed in Docket No.FMCSA-2018-0279.

Cost of Congestion to the Trucking Industry: 2018 Update

On October 18, 2018, the American Transportation Research Institute released Cost of Congestion to the Trucking Industry: 2018 

Update, which states that “traffic congestion on the U.S. National Highway System added nearly $74.5 billion in operational costs 

to the trucking industry in 2016, a 0.5 percent increase over 2015.” Delays totaled “nearly 1.2 billion hours of lost productivity. This 

equates to 425,533 commercial truck drivers sitting idle for a working year.” The top ten States with the highest congestion costs 

were: Texas, California, Florida, New York, New Jersey, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Ohio, and North Carolina.

FMCSA Will Seek Input on the Definition of Agricultural Commodity

In October 2018, the White House Office of Management and Budget published a notice indicating that the U.S. Department of 

Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) will seek, by March 2019, “public input and data for use in a 

future proposal on the definition of agricultural commodity in the hours of service of drivers regulations at 49 CFR 395.1(k)(1) and 

49 CFR 395.2.” The regulations state that “hours of service rules do not apply during planting and harvest periods, as determined 

by each State, to drivers transporting agricultural commodities from the source of the agricultural commodities to a location within 

a 150 air-mile radius from the source. Agricultural commodity means any agricultural commodity, non-processed food, feed, fiber, 

or livestock (including livestock as defined in sec. 602 of the Emergency Livestock Feed Assistance Act of 1988 [7 U.S.C. 1471] and 

insects).” 

An Analysis of the Operational Costs of Trucking: 2018 Update

On October 2, 2018, the American Transportation Research Institute released An Analysis of the Operational Costs of Trucking: 2018 

Update. The ATRI report indicates “the average marginal cost per mile incurred by motor carriers increased six percent to $1.69” in 

2017, compared to 2016. Driver wages and benefits accounted for 43 percent of the total average marginal costs in 2017, and fuel 

costs accounted for 22 percent.
5

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

National Summa

U.S.Truck Rates

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

5.32

2.85

2.57

1.56

0.00

1.00

2.00

3.00

4.00

5.00

6.00

Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4

2016 2017 2018

0-500 miles 501-1500 miles 1501-2500 miles 2501+ miles

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division 

Table 1: Average U.S. Truck Rates for Selected Routes between 501 and 1500 miles ($/Mile)

1st Qtr 2nd Qtr 3rd Qtr 4th Qtr *Annual

2018 2.64 2.96 2.85

2017 1.86 2.40 2.52 2.55 2.33

2016 2.22 2.34 2.47 2.04 2.26

2015 2.47 2.62 2.43 2.36 2.47

2014 2.31 2.66 2.65 2.50 2.53

2013 2.24 2.60 2.62 2.31 2.44

2012 2.10 2.54 2.45 2.29 2.35

2011 2.02 2.60 2.77 2.26 2.41

2010 1.82 2.21 2.33 1.94 2.08

2009 1.85 1.99 2.02 1.86 1.93

2008 2.02 2.56 2.77 2.24 2.40

2007 1.89 2.23 2.25 2.03 2.10

2006 1.92 2.10 2.21 2.02 2.06

*Annual: Weighted average rate for all 4 quarters.

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division
6

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Table 2: Quarterly Rates for Key Origins by Month; 501-1500 miles ($/Mile)

Origin

3rd Quarter 2018 2nd Quarter 2018

July August September April May June

Arizona n/a n/a n/a 2.90 n/a n/a

California 3.16 3.22 3.17 2.97 2.99 3.71

Florida 3.78 n/a n/a 2.63 3.16 2.89

Great Lakes 3.66 3.69 3.72 3.62 3.56 3.39

New York 2.83 n/a 2.92 2.97 3.23 3.44

Other 2.74 2.72 2.69 2.92 3.04 3.46

Mexico - Arizona 2.89 2.32 n/a 2.83 2.83 2.83

Mexico - Texas 2.47 2.18 2.10 2.77 2.66 2.69

PNW 2.01 2.00 2.15 2.17 2.12 2.02

Southeast 4.26 5.85 6.81 3.81 3.76 4.32

Texas 2.65 2.39 2.34 n/a 3.12 3.75

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

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

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

Truck Rates for Selected Routes

Table 3: Origin-Destination Truck Rates for Selected Routes, 3rd Quarter 2018 ($/Mile)

Origin

Destination

Atlanta Baltimore Boston Chicago Dallas Los 

Angeles Miami New York Philadelphia Seattle

California 2.80 2.80 2.82 2.77 3.05 4.73 2.79 2.83 2.85 3.22

Florida 3.18 4.33 3.75 3.02 n/a n/a n/a 3.93 3.89 n/a

Great Lake 3.20 3.60 3.32 4.10 3.08 n/a 3.17 4.30 3.99 n/a

Indiana n/a n/a n/a 4.46 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a

Mexico-Arizona n/a n/a n/a 2.42 3.57 2.33 2.59 3.24 2.86 n/a

Mexico-Texas 2.39 2.38 2.40 2.15 2.55 1.91 2.46 2.58 2.34 2.26

New York 3.00 5.15 8.97 3.27 n/a n/a 2.55 9.35 8.35 n/a

Other 3.07 3.05 2.73 2.81 4.41 2.21 2.51 3.24 3.00 n/a

PNW 2.37 2.59 2.56 2.42 2.26 2.05 2.32 2.63 2.58 8.57

Southeast 7.70 8.25 5.30 3.98 4.08 n/a 5.51 7.31 7.26 n/a

Texas 2.59 2.48 2.49 2.26 2.97 2.01 2.58 2.72 2.44 2.33

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

Note: “n/a” indicates rates not available
7

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Table 4: Origin-Destination Truck Rates for Selected Routes, 3rd Quarter 2018 ($/Truck)

Origin

Destination

Atlanta Baltimore Boston Chicago Dallas Los 

Angeles Miami New York Philadelphia Seattle

California 6,326 7,707 8,693 5,911 4,619 1,050 7,974 8,081 7,995 3,473

Florida 1,400 3,850 4,800 3,500 n/a n/a n/a 4,200 3,850 n/a

Great Lake 3,527 3,901 4,281 1,230 3,400 n/a 5,175 4,121 3,685 n/a

Indiana n/a n/a n/a 1,248 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a

Mexico-Arizona n/a n/a n/a 4,350 3,500 1,306 5,900 8,100 6,875 n/a

Mexico-Texas 2,746 4,262 5,281 3,069 1,277 3,058 3,769 5,162 4,442 5,415

New York 3,000 1,700 2,081 2,750 . n/a 3,700 1,846 1,920 n/a

Other 2,789 5,414 5,830 2,507 2,198 2,123 5,117 5,504 5,473 n/a

PNW 5,263 6,399 7,058 4,301 4,156 2,141 6,705 6,739 6,500 1,200

Southeast 2,562 3,244 4,397 3,380 4,900 n/a 3,910 4,125 3,431 n/a

Texas 2,746 4,262 5,281 3,069 1,277 3,058 3,769 5,162 4,442 5,415

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

Note: “n/a” indicates rates not available

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.

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

Source: Energy Information Administration/U.S. Department of Energy 

2.07

2.30

2.38

2.47

2.57

2.55

2.63

2.87

3.02

3.20

3.24

2.00

2.20

2.40

2.60

2.80

3.00

3.20

3.40

Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4

2016 2017 2018

$/Gallon

U.S. diesel prices are up 1.2% 

from last quarter and up

23% from the same quarter 

last year.
8

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Table 5: 3rd Quarter 2018 Average Diesel Fuel Prices (All Types - $/Gallon)

Location Price Change From

 Last Quarter

Change From 

Same Quarter Last Year

East Coast 3.23 0.03 0.57

 New England 3.27 0.03 0.62

 Central Atlantic 3.40 0.04 0.62

 Lower Atlantic 3.11 0.03 0.54

Midwest 3.17 0.04 0.59

Gulf Coast 3.01 0.03 0.55

Rocky Mountain 3.36 0.10 0.66

West Coast 3.73 0.04 0.81

California 3.96 0.06 0.96

U.S. 3.24 0.04 0.61

Source: Energy Information Administration/U.S. Department of Energy

Relationship Between Diesel Fuel and Truck Rates

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.

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

Sources: Diesel Fuel: Energy Information Administration/U.S. Department of Energy; Truck Rate: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market 

News Division

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

$0.00

$1.00

$2.00

$3.00

$4.00

$5.00

$6.00

$7.00

Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4

2016 2017 2018

$/Mile

$/Gallon

Diesel Fuel 0-500 miles 501-1500 miles 1501-2500 miles 2501+ miles
9

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Table 6: Average Diesel Fuel Prices and Truck Rates

Year and 

Quarter

Diesel Fuel

($/gallon)

Truck Rates

 ($/mile) 

501-1500 miles

% Change From 

Last Quarter: 

Diesel

% Change From 

Last Quarter:

Truck

% Change From 

Same Quarter 

Last Year: Diesel

% Change From 

Same Quarter 

Last Year: Truck

2016 Quarter 1 2.07 2.22 -15% -6% -29% -10%

2016 Quarter 2 2.30 2.34 11% 5% -19% -11%

2016 Quarter 3 2.38 2.47 3% 6% -10% 2%

2016 Quarter 4 2.47 2.04 4% -17% 2% -14%

2017 Quarter 1 2.57 1.86 4% -9% 24% -16%

2017 Quarter 2 2.55 2.40 -1% 29% 11% 3%

2017 Quarter 3 2.63 2.52 3% 5% 11% 2%

2017 Quarter 4 2.87 2.55 9% 1% 16% 25%

2018 Quarter 1 3.02 2.64 5% 4% 18% 42%

2018 Quarter 2 3.20 2.96 6% 12% 25% 23%

2018 Quarter 3 3.24 2.85 1% -4% 23% 13%

2018 Quarter 4

Sources: Diesel Fuel: Energy Information Administration/U.S. Department of Energy; Truck Rates: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market 

News Division

3rd Quarter 2018 Comparison Analysis

Diesel fuel prices averaged $3.238 per gallon this quarter, 1 percent higher than last quarter and 23 per-cent higher than the same 

quarter last year (see figure 2). Average truck rates for shipments between 501 and 1,500 miles were $2.85 per mile, 4 percent lower 

than the previous quarter but 13 percent higher than the same quarter last year (see table 1).
10

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarterly Truck Availability

Table 7: U.S. Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Truck Availability, 3rd Quarter 2018

Truck availability legend

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

Region: California, Central, 

and Western Arizona Commodity Week Ending

7/3 7/10 7/17 7/24 7/31 8/7 8/14 8/21 8/28 9/4 9/11 9/18 9/25

Central And Southern San Joaquin 

Valley, California

Nectarines, Peaches, Plums, 

Grapes, Apples 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Imperial, Coachella & Palo Verde 

Valleys, California

Bell Peppers, Cantaloupes, 

Grapes, Honeydews, 

Watermelons

3 3 3

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

Salinas-Watsonville, California

Broccoli, Cauliflower, Iceberg 

Lettuce, Leaf Lettuce, Lettuce 

Romaine

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

San Joaquin Valley, California Onions 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Santa Maria, California

Broccoli, Cauliflower, Iceberg 

Lettuce, Leaf Lettuce, Celery, 

Strawberries

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

South District, California Avocados, Citrus 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 2

Region: Great Lakes 

(MI & WI) Commodity Week Ending

7/3 7/10 7/17 7/24 7/31 8/7 8/14 8/21 8/28 9/4 9/11 9/18 9/25

Central Wisconsin Potatoes 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Michigan Cucumbers, Squash, 

Blueberries 4 4 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Region: Mexico Border 

Crossings Commodity Week Ending

7/3 7/10 7/17 7/24 7/31 8/7 8/14 8/21 8/28 9/4 9/11 9/18 9/25

Mexico Crossings Through 

Nogales, Arizona

Tomato Squash Cucumber 

Mango Honeydew Watermelon 

Mixed Fruits, Vegetables, 

Mango

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Mexico Crossings Through Texas

Vegetables, Limes Mangoes 

Onions Tomatoes Broccoli 

Mixed Fruits, Limes Mangoes 

Tomatoes Broccoli Mixed Fruits

2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

Region: Pacific Northwest 

(ID, OR, & WA) Commodity Week Ending

7/3 7/10 7/17 7/24 7/31 8/7 8/14 8/21 8/28 9/4 9/11 9/18 9/25

Columbia Basin, Washington Potatoes, Onions 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 3 3 3 4 4 4

Upper Valley, Twin Falls-Burley 

District, Idaho Potatoes 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 3 3 3 4 4 4

Yakima Valley & Wenatchee 

District, Washington

Nectarines, Peaches, 

Apples, Cherries., Pears, 

Cherries, Peaches., 

Nectarines., Prunes.

4 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 4 4

Idaho and Malheur County, 

Oregon Onions 4 4 4
11

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Table 7: U.S. Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Truck Availability, 3rd Quarter 2018 (continued)

Truck availability legend

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

Region: Southeast 

(GA, SC, & NC) Commodity Week Ending

7/3 7/10 7/17 7/24 7/31 8/7 8/14 8/21 8/28 9/4 9/11 9/18 9/25

Eastern North Carolina Sweet Potatoes 5 5 5 4 4 3 4 4 3 4 5 4

South Carolina Melons, Tomatoes 5 4 5 5

South Georgia

Peaches, Squash, Melons, 

Corn, Cucumber, Eggplant, 

Peppers

4 4 4 4

Vidalia District,Georgia Onions 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

North Carolina Melons 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Region: Texas and Oklahoma Commodity Week Ending

7/3 7/10 7/17 7/24 7/31 8/7 8/14 8/21 8/28 9/4 9/11 9/18 9/25

Lower Rio Grande Valley, Texas Watermelons, Onions 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

Note: Regions reported and commodities shipped vary by week, month, season, and year. Within a region, truck availability may vary by commodity and destination.

Note: Empty cells = no data available.

Source: USDA, AMS, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division, Weekly Fruit and Vegetable Truck Rate Report

Reported U.S. Shipments

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

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division 

0

2,000

4,000

6,000

8,000

10,000

12,000

3Q 4Q 1Q 2Q 3Q 4Q 1Q 2Q 3Q 4Q 1Q 2Q 3Q

2015 2016 2017 2018

(1,000 Tons)

3rd quarter 2018 U.S. shipments decreased 13% compared to the 

previous quarter, but were unchanged compared to the same quarter 

last year.
12

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

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

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

2018 7,988 9,648 8,349 25,985

2017 8,017 9,518 8,334 7,722 33,592

2016 7,562 9,417 8,406 8,053 33,438

2015 8,166 9,433 7,659 7,699 32,957

2014 7,779 8,965 8,081 7,643 32,468

2013 7,451 8,972 7,762 6,546 30,731

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

2006 6,335 8,400 7,854 6,960 29,550

2005 6,877 8,324 7,737 7,387 30,325

2004 6,867 8,331 6,876 6,732 28,807

2003 6,824 8,013 7,043 6,684 28,564

2002 6,787 8,094 6,414 6,460 27,755

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

Reported Shipments by Selected Commodities

Table 9: Reported Top 10 Commodity Shipments for 3rd Quarter 2018 (1,000 Tons)

Commodity 3rd Quarter 

2018

Previous 

Quarter

Same Quarter

Last Year

Current Quarter 

as % change from 

Previous Quarter

Current Quarter as 

% change from Same 

Quarter Last Year

Potatoes 1,100 1,070 1,205 3% -9%

Watermelons, Seedless 1,026 1,103 950 -7% 8%

Apples 608 767 605 -21% 0%

Onions Dry 536 669 569 -20% -6%

Grapes 371 173 355 114% 4%

Cantaloupes 358 250 303 43% 18%

Lettuce, Iceberg 321 356 306 -10% 5%

Strawberries 311 420 292 -26% 6%

Tomatoes 292 373 312 -22% -6%

Lettuce, Romaine 245 274 237 -11% 3%

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division
13

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Regional Marke

California

Volume: Total reported shipments of fruits and vegetables from California during the third quarter of 2018 were 3.19 million tons, 

an 8 percent increase from the same quarter last year. The sum of the top five commodities increased 13 percent from the previous 

year. Grape shipments rose to the top followed by iceberg lettuce; cantaloupe and seedless watermelons both saw strong increases 

over the previous year. 

Rates: The quarterly average truck rate for shipments between 501 and 1,500 miles was $3.19 per mile, 0.1 percent lower than the 

previous quarter, but 12 percent higher than the same quarter last year. 

Truck Overview: Diesel fuel prices averaged $3.96 per gallon, 1.5 percent higher than the previous quarter, and 32 percent higher 

than the same period last year. Shippers reported adequate truck availability in all California districts except the San Joaquin Valley 

throughout the quarter. Onions shippers in the San Joaquin Valley reported slight shortage conditions from July through August. 

Table 10: Reported Top Five Commodities Shipped from California (1,000 tons)

Commodity 3rd Quarter 

2018

Share of 

California Total

Previous 

Quarter

Same 

Quarter Last 

Year

Current 

Quarter as % 

of Previous 

Quarter

Current 

Quarter as % of 

Same Quarter 

Last Year

Grapes 368 12% 31 353 1089% 4%

Lettuce, Iceberg 318 10% 327 298 -3% 6%

Cantaloupes 316 10% 0 0 - -

Strawberries 311 10% 404 292 -23% 6%

Watermelons, Seedless 260 8% 81 176 221% 48%

Top 5 Total 1,573 49% 843 1,120 87% 40%

California Total 3,186 100% 2,235 2,944 43% 8%

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

“-” indicates no reported shipments during the quarter.

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

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

$4.73

$3.19

$2.83

$2.82

$0.00

$2.00

$4.00

$6.00

$8.00

1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3

2016 2017 2018

0-500 Miles 501-1500 Miles 1501-2500 Miles 2501+ Miles
14

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Table 11: California Truck Overview (Availability Rating: 1=Surplus to 5=Shortage)

Region/Reporting District July August September 3rd Quarter

Central And Southern San Joaquin Valley, California 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00

Kern District, California 3.00 2.50 3.00 2.83

Salinas-Watsonville, California 3.00 2.50 3.00 2.83

San Joaquin Valley, California 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00

Santa Maria, California 3.00 2.50 3.00 2.83

South District, California 3.00 3.00 2.50 2.83

Imperial, Coachella & Palo Verde Valleys, California 3.00 n/a n/a 3.00

Regional Average Availability 3.14 2.92 3.08 3.05

Diesel Fuel Price ($/gallon) 3.96 3.94 3.97 3.96

Diesel Fuel Source: Energy Information Administration/U.S. Department of Energy

For the purpose of this report, the California sub-group of the West Coast PAD District 5 was used to represent the diesel fuel price.

Figure 6: Refrigerated Truck Availability Monthly Ratings for California

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

1

2

3

4

5

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

2018 2017 Prior 3-Year Average

Shortage

Slight 

Shortage

Adequate

Slight

Surplus

Surplus
15

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Pacific Northwest (PNW)

Volume: Total reported shipments of fruits and vegetables from the Pacific Northwest (PNW) during the third quarter of 2018 were 

1.55 million tons, a decrease of 3 percent from the same quarter last year. A 5 percent increase in apples was offset by decreases in 

potatoes, dry onions, cherries, and pears. 

Rates: The quarterly average truck rate for shipments between 501 and 1,500 miles was $2.05 per mile, 3 percent lower than the 

previous quarter but 16 percent higher than the same quarter last year. 

Truck Overview: Diesel fuel prices averaged $3.45 per gallon, 1 percent higher than last quarter, and 23 percent higher than the 

same period last year. Shippers in the Washington Columbia Basin and the Upper Valley, Twin Falls-Burley District of Idaho reported 

slight shortage truck availability conditions from July through mid-August, adequate conditions from mid-August through early 

September, then slight shortage conditions the rest of September. In the Yakima Valley and Wenatchee District of Washington, 

availability was mostly adequate with slight shortage conditions in the first week of July and the last 2 weeks of September. 

Table 12: Reported Top Five Commodities Shipped from PNW (1,000 tons)

Commodity 3rd Quarter 

2018

Share of 

California Total

Previous 

Quarter

Same 

Quarter Last 

Year

Current 

Quarter as % 

of Previous 

Quarter

Current 

Quarter as % of 

Same Quarter 

Last Year

Potatoes 572 37% 539 609 6% -6%

Apples 545 35% 707 517 -23% 5%

Onions Dry 221 14% 137 230 61% -4%

Cherries 128 8% 86 151 50% -15%

Pears 48 3% 69 54 -30% -11%

Top 5 Total 1,514 97% 1,538 1,562 -2% -3%

PNW Total 1,554 100% 1,551 1,601 0% -3%

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

“-” indicates no reported shipments during the quarter.

Figure 7: PNW Truck Rates ($/Mile by Distance Travelled)

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

$8.57

$2.05

$2.37

$2.60

$0.00

$2.00

$4.00

$6.00

$8.00

$10.00

1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3

2016 2017 2018

0-500 Miles 501-1500 Miles 1501-2500 Miles 2501+ Miles
16

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Table 13: PNW Truck Overview (Availability Rating: 1=Surplus to 5=Shortage)

Region/Reporting District July August September 3rd Quarter

Columbia Basin, Washington 4.00 3.50 3.75 3.75

Idaho And Malheur County, Oregon n/a n/a 4.00 4.00

Upper Valley, Twin Falls-Burley District, Idaho 4.00 3.50 3.75 3.75

Yakima Valley & Wenatchee District, Washington 3.20 3.00 3.48 3.23

Regional Average Availability 3.73 3.33 3.75 3.60

Diesel Fuel Price ($/gallon) 3.46 3.43 3.47 3.45

Diesel Fuel Source: Energy Information Administration/U.S. Department of Energy

For the purpose of this report, the West Coast less California District was used to represent the diesel fuel price for PNW.

Figure 8: Refrigerated Truck Availability Monthly Ratings for PNW

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

1

2

3

4

5

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

2018 2017 Prior 3-Year Average

Shortage

Slight 

Shortage

Adequate

Slight

Surplus

Surplus
17

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Mexico Border Crossings

Volume: Total reported shipments of fruits and vegetables from Mexico during the third quarter of 2018 were 1.49 million tons, 2 

percent less than the same quarter last year. The sum of the top five commodities decreased 1 percent from last year with increases 

in avocados, peppers, and tomatoes offset by decreases in limes and mango. 

Rates: Truck rates for shipments between 501 and 1,500 miles from the Texas border crossings averaged $2.27 per mile, down 28 

percent from the previous quarter, but 13 percent higher than the same quarter last year. Rates for shipments between 501 and 

1,500 miles from the Arizona border crossings averaged $2.75 per mile, down 15 percent from last quarter, but 12 percent higher 

than the same quarter last year.

Truck Overview: Diesel fuel prices for border crossings from Texas averaged $3.01 per gallon, 1 percent higher than the previous 

quarter, and 23 percent higher than the same quarter last year. Diesel fuel prices for border crossings from Arizona averaged $3.45 

per gallon, 1 percent higher than the previous quarter, and 23 percent higher than the same period last year. Shippers reported 

surplus truck availability conditions at Texas Border crossings throughout the quarter. At Arizona border crossings, shippers reported 

adequate conditions from July through August. 

Table 14: Reported Top Five Commodities Shipped from Mexico (1,000 tons)

Commodity 3rd Quarter 

2018

Share of 

California Total

Previous 

Quarter

Same 

Quarter Last 

Year

Current 

Quarter as % 

of Previous 

Quarter

Current 

Quarter as % of 

Same Quarter 

Last Year

Avocados 179 12% 250 158 -28% 13%

Limes 161 11% 157 173 3% -7%

Peppers, Other 136 9% 125 118 9% 15%

Tomatoes 123 8% 181 122 -32% 1%

Mangoes 119 8% 168 150 -29% -20%

Top 5 Total 718 48% 879 721 -18% -1%

Mexico Total 1,491 100% 2,852 1,514 -48% -2%

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

“-” indicates no reported shipments during the quarter.

Table 15: Mexico Truck Overview (Availability Rating: 1=Surplus to 5=Shortage)

Region/Reporting District July August September 3rd Quarter

Mexico Crossings Through Nogales, Arizona 3.00 3.00 n/a 3.00

Mexico Crossings Through Texas 1.20 1.00 1.00 1.07

Regional Average Availability 2.10 2.00 1.00 1.70

Diesel Fuel Price, through Arizona($/gallon) 3.46 3.43 3.47 3.45

Diesel Fuel Price, through Texas ($/gallon) 3.00 2.99 3.05 3.01

Diesel Fuel Source: Energy Information Administration/U.S. Department of Energy

For the purpose of this report, the Gulf Coast PAD District 3 was used to represent the diesel fuel price through Texas.

For the purpose of this report, the West Coast less California District was used to represent the diesel fuel price through Arizona.
18

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Table 16: Top 5 Commodities Shipped to U.S. from Mexico by State of Entry (1,000 tons)

Texas California Arizona New Mexico

Commodity 3rd Quarter 

2018 Commodity 3rd Quarter 2018 Commodity 3rd Quarter 2018 Commodity 3rd Quarter 2018

Avocados 174 Misc Tropical 39 Mangoes 50 Peppers, Other 66

Limes 140 Cucumbers 34 Tomatoes 18 Onions Dry 9

Tomatoes 91 Peppers, Other 33 Cucumbers 10 Misc Tropical 1

Mangoes 68 Onions Green 30 Bananas 8 Cucumbers 1

Tomatoes, Plum 

Type 68 Tomatoes, Plum Type 30 Tomatoes, Plum Type 7 Corn-Sweet 0.2

Top 5 Total 541 Top 5 Total 166 Top 5 Total 94 Top 5 Total 77

Mexico through 

TX Total 987 Mexico through CA Total 294 Mexico through AZ Total 134 Mexico through NM Total 77 

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

Figure 9: Mexico Truck Rates ($/Mile by Distance Travelled)

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

$2.55

$2.51

$2.56

$0.00

$1.00

$2.00

$3.00

$4.00

1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3

2016 2017 2018

0-500 Miles 501-1500 Miles 1501-2500 Miles 2501+ Miles
19

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Figure 10: Mexico through Texas Truck Rates ($/Mile by Distance Travelled)

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

$2.27

$2.55

$2.33

$0.00

$1.00

$2.00

$3.00

$4.00

1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3

2016 2017 2018

0-500 Miles 501-1500 Miles 1501-2500 Miles 2501+ Miles

Figure 11: Mexico through Arizona Truck Rates ($/Mile by Distance Travelled)

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

$2.75

$2.78

$0.00

$0.50

$1.00

$1.50

$2.00

$2.50

$3.00

$3.50

1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3

2016 2017 2018

0-500 Miles 501-1500 Miles 1501-2500 Miles 2501+ Miles
20

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Figure 12: Refrigerated Truck Availability Monthly Ratings for Mexico

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

1

2

3

4

5

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

2018 2017 Prior 3-Year Average

Shortage

Slight 

Shortage

Adequate

Slight

Surplus

Surplus
21

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Southeast

Volume: Total reported shipments of fruits and vegetables from the Southeast during the third quarter of 2018 were 421 thousand 

tons, up 0.3 percent from the same quarter last year. The sum of the top five commodities also increased 1 percent from the same 

quarter last year. Decreases in sweet potato and sweet corn shipments were offset by strong increases in peaches, dry onions, and 

seedless watermelons. 

Rates: The quarterly average truck rate for shipments between 501 and 1,500 miles was $5.36 per mile, 33 percent higher than the 

previous quarter, and 12 percent higher than the same quarter last year.

Truck Overview: Diesel fuel prices averaged $3.11 per gallon, 1 percent higher than the previous quarter and 21 percent higher than 

the same period last year. Shippers in the Southeast region reported slight shortage and shortage conditions throughout much of the 

quarter. 

Table 17: Reported Top Five Commodities Shipped from Southeast (1,000 tons)

Commodity 3rd Quarter 

2018

Share of 

California Total

Previous 

Quarter

Same 

Quarter Last 

Year

Current 

Quarter as % 

of Previous 

Quarter

Current 

Quarter as % of 

Same Quarter 

Last Year

Watermelons, Seedless 215 51% 158 213 36% 1%

Sweet Potatoes 59 14% 83 77 -28% -23%

Onions Dry 44 10% 84 38 -48% 14%

Peaches 25 6% 21 7 17% 235%

Corn-Sweet 12 3% 110 15 -89% -25%

Top 5 Total 355 84% 455 352 -22% 1%

Southeast Total 421 100% 697 420 -40% 0.3%

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

“-” indicates no reported shipments during the quarter.

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

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

$8.18

$5.36

$0.00

$2.00

$4.00

$6.00

$8.00

$10.00

1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3

2016 2017 2018

0-500 Miles 501-1500 Miles 1501-2500 Miles
22

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Figure 14: Refrigerated Truck Availability Monthly Ratings for Southeast

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

1

2

3

4

5

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

2018 2017 Prior 3-Year Average

Shortage

Slight 

Shortage

Adequate

Slight

Surplus

Surplus

Table 18: Southeast Truck Overview (Availability Rating: 1=Surplus to 5=Shortage)

Region/Reporting District July August September 3rd Quarter

Eastern North Carolina 4.60 3.50 4.33 4.14

North Carolina 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00

South Carolina 4.75 n/a n/a 4.75

South Georgia 4.00 n/a n/a 4.00

Vidalia District Georgia 4.00 4.00 n/a 4.00

Regional Average Availability 4.30 3.75 4.17 4.07

Diesel Fuel Price ($/gallon) 3.10 3.09 3.13 3.11

Diesel Fuel Source: Energy Information Administration/U.S. Department of Energy

For the purpose of this report, the Lower Atlantic District was used to represent the diesel fuel price for the Southeast.
23

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Great Lakes

Volume: Total reported shipments of fruits and vegetables from the Great Lakes during the third quarter of 2018 were 355 thousand 

tons, down 15 percent from the same quarter last year. The sum of the top five commodities also decreased 15 percent with 

decreases in potatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and apples. 

Rates: The quarterly average truck rate for shipments between 501 and 1,500 miles was $3.68 per mile, 4 percent higher than the 

previous quarter, and 2 percent higher than the same quarter last year. 

Truck Overview: Diesel fuel prices averaged $3.13 per gallon, 1.4 percent higher than last quarter, and 23 percent higher than the 

same period last year. Shippers in Central Wisconsin and Michigan reported mostly adequate truck availability conditions throughout 

the quarter except for 2 weeks of slight shortage conditions in early July in Michigan. 

Table 19: Reported Top Five Commodities Shipped from Great Lakes (1,000 tons)

Commodity 3rd Quarter 

2018

Share of 

California Total

Previous 

Quarter

Same 

Quarter Last 

Year

Current 

Quarter as % 

of Previous 

Quarter

Current 

Quarter as % of 

Same Quarter 

Last Year

Potatoes 142 40% 89 171 59% -17%

Watermelons, Seedless 46 13% 0 44 - 4%

Cucumbers 39 11% 2 42 1745% -7%

Peppers, Bell Type 19 5% 0 24 - -22%

Apples 17 5% 17 26 0% -35%

Top 5 Total 262 74% 108 308 143% -15%

Great Lakes Total 355 100% 119 418 199% -15%

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

“-” indicates no reported shipments during the quarter.

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

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division

$4.36

$3.68

$3.06

$0.00

$1.00

$2.00

$3.00

$4.00

$5.00

$6.00

1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3

2016 2017 2018

0-500 Miles 501-1500 Miles 1501-2500 Miles
24

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Table 20: Great Lakes Truck Overview (Availability Rating: 1=Surplus to 5=Shortage)

Region/Reporting District July August September 3rd Quarter

Central Wisconsin 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00

Michigan 3.26 3.00 3.00 3.09

Minnesota-North Dakota (Red River Valley) 3.00 3.00 n/a 3.00

Regional Average Availability 3.09 3.00 3.00 3.03

Diesel Fuel Price ($/gallon) 3.16 3.14 3.20 3.17

Diesel Fuel Source: Energy Information Administration/U.S. Department of Energy

For the purpose of this report, the Midwest District was used to represent the diesel fuel price for the Great Lakes.

Figure 16: Refrigerated Truck Availability Monthly Ratings for Great Lakes

1

2

3

4

5

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

2018 2017 Prior 3-Year Average

Shortage

Slight 

Shortage

Adequate

Slight

Surplus

Surplus

Source: Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Market News Division
25

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Terms and Referen

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.
26

Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Contact Informati

Adam Sparger, Coordinator

Adam.Sparger@ams.usda.gov, 202.205.8701

April Taylor, Quarterly Overview and U.S. Diesel Prices

April.Taylor@ams.usda.gov, 202.295.7374 

Brian McGregor, Regulatory News/Updates 

Brian.McGregor@ams.usda.gov, 202.720.0035 

Jesse Gastelle, Data Manager 

Jesse.Gastelle@ams.usda.gov, 202.690.1144 

Patty Willkie, Specialty Crops Program and Market News Division Data 

Patty.Willkie@ams.usda.gov, 202.720.2175 

Related Websites:

Specialty Crops Program

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

Specialty Crops Truck Rate Report

http://www.ams.usda.gov/market-news/fruits-vegetables 

Economic Research Service Vegetable and Pulses 

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

Economic Research Service Fruit and Tree Nuts 

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

National Agricultural Statistics Service, Crops

http://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

To subscribe, please send an e-mail to Adam.Sparger@ams.usda.gov. Printed copies are available upon request. 

For assistance with accessibility issues related to this document, please e-mail Jessica.Ladd@ams.usda.gov. 

Preferred Citation: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service. Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly Report. 

March 2019. Web. <http://dx.doi.org/10.9752/TS051.03-2019>

Photo Credit: USDA

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.