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................ 10

Reported Shipments by Selected 

Commodities................................... 11

Regional Markets...........................12

California......................................... 12

U.S.-Mexico Border......................... 15

PNW................................................ 19

Southeast........................................ 22

Great Lakes ..................................... 25

Additional Information..................28

Terms and References..................... 28

Contact Us....................................... 29

Quarter 3, July-September, 2020

Published April 21, 2021

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

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

Quarter 3, 2020

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Fruit and Vegetable Shipments 

During third quarter 2020, reported U.S. truck shipments of fresh produce were 9.06 million tons, 15 percent 

lower than the previous quarter but 4 percent higher than the same quarter last year. 

Also, in the third quarter, shipments from California were 3.26 million tons, higher than those from any 

other reported origin and accounting for 36 percent of the total reported shipments of fresh fruit and 

vegetables. Looking at the top five regions by volume, shipments from the Mexico border, were 1.88 million 

tons, representing 21 percent of the total. Shipments from the Pacific Northwest (PNW) were 1.66 million 

tons, representing 18 percent of the total. Movements from the Southeast were 425,000 tons, representing 

5 percent of the reported total. These top five commodities accounted for 42 percent of the reported truck 

movements during third quarter 2020: 

► Potatoes (12 percent)

► Watermelons, seedless (11 percent)

► Apples (8 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 2,500+ miles. Please note the U.S. average truck rates 

provided below were calculated using weighted regional rates and volumes.

Diesel Fuel 

During third quarter 2020, the U.S. diesel fuel price averaged $2.43 per gallon—unchanged from the 

previous quarter but 20 percent lower than the same quarter last year.

National Summary

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 2019 4.94 2.47 2.30 1.35

Q4 2019 3.21 2.52 2.29 1.37

Q1 2020 2.73 2.56 2.36 1.60

Q2 2020 2.58 2.51 2.27 1.54

Q3 2020 2.95 2.56 2.53 1.44

Q3 Change from 

Previous Quarter 14% 2% 11% -7%

Q3 Change from Same 

Quarter Last Year -40% 4% 10% 7%

Quarterly Overview
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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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

2020 2.56 2.51 2.56

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

2010 1.82 2.21 2.33 1.94

2009 1.85 1.99 2.02 1.86

2008 2.02 2.56 2.77 2.24

2.95

2.56

2.53

1.44

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

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

2017 2018 2019 2020

$/Mile 

0-500 Miles 501-1500 Miles 1501-2500 Miles 2501+ Miles
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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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 2020 ($/Mile)

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

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

3rd Quarter, 2020 2nd Quarter, 2020

U.S. Origin July August September April May June

Arizona 3.17 n/a n/a 2.85 3.04 3.18

California 3.01 2.98 3.15 2.73 2.67 2.99

Florida n/a n/a n/a 2.07 2.45 2.34

Great Lakes 3.40 3.49 3.73 3.43 3.41 3.34

Mexico-Arizona 2.23 1.70 n/a 2.24 2.65 2.71

Mexico-Texas 2.32 2.26 2.44 2.35 2.11 2.28

New York n/a n/a 5.29 3.06 3.06 3.06

Other 2.41 2.39 2.46 2.50 2.30 2.37

PNW 1.93 1.91 2.20 2.09 1.95 1.91

Southeast 4.09 5.49 6.02 3.79 3.28 3.43

Texas 2.54 2.81 3.06 n/a 2.22 2.43

Destination

U.S. Origin Atlanta Baltimore Boston Chicago Dallas Los Angeles Miami New York Philadelphia

Arizona 2.87 2.95 2.94 2.81 3.17 n/a 2.72 3.04 3.04

California 2.76 2.79 2.66 2.67 3.09 n/a 2.73 2.76 2.81

Great Lakes 3.42 3.99 3.37 4.38 2.83 n/a 2.67 4.33 3.67

MexicoArizona 2.56 2.38 2.41 2.11 2.59 1.91 2.24 2.47 2.46

MexicoTexas 2.53 2.42 2.37 2.17 2.97 1.77 2.66 2.46 2.41

Midatlantic 3.09 9.95 4.63 2.13 n/a n/a n/a 6.28 8.25

New York 5.24 4.67 6.73 5.43 n/a n/a 5.19 n/a 4.38

Other 2.96 2.50 2.37 2.53 3.56 2.10 2.37 2.60 2.33

PNW 2.40 2.53 2.46 2.49 2.34 2.04 2.36 2.60 2.49

Southeast 7.63 8.64 5.40 3.75 3.44 1.62 5.76 6.66 7.21

Texas 3.17 2.87 2.74 2.78 4.39 1.96 2.89 2.90 2.85
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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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 2020 ($/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

Destination

U.S. Origin Atlanta Baltimore Boston Chicago Dallas Los Angeles Miami New York Philadelphia

Arizona 6,033 7,667 8,517 5,700 4,117 n/a 7,067 8,200 8,050

California 6,253 7,653 8,185 5,685 4,632 n/a 7,754 7,888 7,849

Great Lakes 3,205 3,342 4,857 1,211 3,086 n/a 4,525 3,818 3,248

MexicoArizona 4,600 5,600 6,500 3,800 2,533 1,070 5,100 6,167 5,900

MexicoTexas 2,912 4,323 5,219 3,104 1,485 2,831 4,065 4,912 4,581

Midatlantic 2,160 995 2,085 1,700 n/a n/a n/a 1,445 1,155

New York 5,236 1,540 1,144 4,565 n/a n/a 7,524 n/a 1,007

Other 2,525 4,485 5,123 2,271 1,787 1,951 4,853 4,471 4,300

PNW 5,550 6,212 6,768 4,446 4,283 2,087 6,856 6,615 6,260

Southeast 2,728 3,150 4,274 3,179 3,919 3,800 4,289 3,782 3,414

Texas 2,912 4,323 5,219 3,104 1,485 2,831 4,073 4,912 4,581

2.63

2.87 3.02

3.20

3.24

3.26

3.02

3.12

3.02 3.06

2.90

2.43 2.43 2.30

2.50

2.70

2.90

3.10

3.30

3.50

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

2017 2018 2019 2020

$/Gallon

U.S. diesel prices were unchanged 

from last quarter and were down 20% 

from the same quarter last year.
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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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 2020 Price 

$/Gallon

Change From Last 

Quarter Change From Last Year

East Coast 2.51 -1% -17%

California 3.26 1% -17%

New England 2.62 -2% -15%

Central Atlantic 2.69 -1% -16%

Lower Atlantic 2.37 -1% -19%

Gulf Coast 2.18 -1% -22%

Midwest 2.3 1% -22%

Rocky Mountain 2.36 -1% -21%

West Coast Except California 2.58 -1% -19%

U.S. 2.43 0% -20%

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

$0.00

$0.50

$1.00

$1.50

$2.00

$2.50

$3.00

$3.50

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

2017 2018 2019 2020

$/Mile

$/Gallon

Diesel Fuel 0-500 Miles 501-1500 Miles 1501-2500 Miles 2501+ Miles
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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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

2017 Q3 2.63 2.33 3% -4% 10% -7%

Q4 2.87 2.56 9% 10% 16% 25%

2018 Q1 3.02 2.82 5% 10% 18% 51%

Q2 3.20 2.99 6% 6% 25% 24%

Q3 3.24 2.74 1% -8% 23% 18%

Q4 3.26 2.84 1% 4% 14% 11%

2019 Q1 3.02 2.59 -8% -9% < 1% -8%

Q2 3.12 2.60 4% < 1% -2% -13%

Q3 3.02 2.47 -3% -5% -7% -10%

Q4 3.06 2.52 1% 2% -6% -11%

2020 Q1 2.90 2.56 -5% 2% -4% -1%

Q2 2.43 2.51 -16% -2% -22% -3%

Q3 2.43 2.56 > -1% 2% -20% 4%
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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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.

California, Central, And 

Western Arizona Commodities 7/7 7/14 7/21 7/28 8/4 8/11 8/18 8/25 9/1 9/8 9/15 9/22 9/29

Imperial, Palo Verde And 

Coachella Valleys, California 

And Central And Western 

Arizona

Bell Peppers, Corn, Beans, Eggplant, Melons 3 3 3

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

Salinas-Watsonville 

California

Berries, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Celery, Lettuce, Romaine, Leaf 

Lettuce 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

San Joaquin Valley California Peaches, Nectarines, Plums, Grapes, Apples, Onions 3 3 3 3 3 4 4 3 3 3 3 3 3

Santa Maria California Broccoli, Cauliflower, Celery, Lettuce, Romaine, Leaf Lettuce, 

Strawberries 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

South District California Citrus, Avocados 3 3 3 3 4 4 4 4 3 3 3 3 3

Great Lakes (MI & WI) Commodities 7/7 7/14 7/21 7/28 8/4 8/11 8/18 8/25 9/1 9/8 9/15 9/22 9/29

Central Wisconsin Potatoes, Onions 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 4 4 5

Michigan Apples, Cucumbers 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 4 3 3 3

Pacific Northwest (ID, OR, &, 

WA) Commodities 7/7 7/14 7/21 7/28 8/4 8/11 8/18 8/25 9/1 9/8 9/15 9/22 9/29

Columbia Basin Washington Potatoes, Onions 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 4 5 5 5 5 5

Idaho And Malheur County, 

Oregon Onions 3 3 5 5 5 5 5

Upper Valley, Twin FallsBurley District Idaho Potatoes 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 5 5 5 5 5

Yakima Valley & Wenatchee 

District Washington Apples, Pears, Peaches, Nectarines, Cherries, Prunes, Apricots 3 3 3 3 4 4 4 4 3 3 3 3 3
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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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.

U.S.-Mexico border Commodities 7/7 7/14 7/21 7/28 8/4 8/11 8/18 8/25 9/1 9/8 9/15 9/22 9/29

 Nogales, Arizona Mangos, Grapes 2 3 3 3 3

 Texas Limes, Mangos, Tomatoes, Broccoli, Mixed Fruit and Vegetables 3 4 3 4 3 3 3 3 4 3 3 3 4

Southern New Mexico Onions 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Southeast (GA, SC, & NC) Commodities 7/7 7/14 7/21 7/28 8/4 8/11 8/18 8/25 9/1 9/8 9/15 9/22 9/29

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

North Carolina Melons 5 5 5 5 4 5 5 5 5 5

South Carolina Melons, Tomatoes 5 4 4 5 5

South Georgia Watermelon, Cantaloupe, Corn, Cucumber, Eggplant, Squash 3 3 3 3

Vidalia District Georgia Onions 3 3 3 3 3

Texas and Oklahoma Commodities 7/7 7/14 7/21 7/28 8/4 8/11 8/18 8/25 9/1 9/8 9/15 9/22 9/29

Lower Rio Grande Valley, 

Texas Watermelons, Onions 3 4 3 4 3

Texas Watermelons, Onions 3 3 3 4 3 3 3 4
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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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)

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

2017 2018 2019 2020

(1,000 Tons)

3rd quarter 2020 U.S. shipments decreased 

16% compared to the previous quarter, but 

increased 4% compared to the same quarter 

last year.

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

2020 10,091 10,772 9,061 29,923

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

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
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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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: On Jan. 1, 2020, Specialty Crops Market News transitioned to the Department of Homeland Security ACE reporting system. According to 

AMS Speciality Crops Program, ACE is a more complete data system than their prior source and is an important factor behind the large increase in 

movements from the Canada border.

Commodity 3rd Quarter 

2020

Previous 

Quarter

Same Quarter 

Last Year

Current Quarter as % change from:

Previous Qtr Same Qtr Last Year

Potatoes 1,082 1,108 1,062 -2% 2%

Watermelons, 

Seedless 1,032 1,468 915 -30% 13%

Apples 707 761 621 -7% 14%

Onions Dry 611 771 587 -21% 4%

Avocados 532 577 476 -8% 12%

Tomatoes 495 499 391 -1% 27%

Grapes 383 386 403 -1% -5%

Limes 358 355 332 1% 8%

Tomatoes, Plum Type 354 466 317 -24% 12%

Lettuce, Iceberg 345 360 340 -4% 1%

Origin 3rd Quarter 2020 Volume % Change from Last Quarter % Change From Same Quarter 

Last Year

California 3,258 -4% -4%

Mexico 1,880 -36% 8%

PNW 1,659 9% 7%

Southeast 425 -34% 12%

Great Lakes 376 180% 12%

Indiana 239 n/a 28%

Canada 216 2% 659%

Texas 185 -40% -12%

Midatlantic 168 1,346% -4%

Colorado 134 -15% -16%
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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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 

2020

Share of 

California 

Total

Previous 

Quarter

Same 

Quarter 

Last Year

Current Quarter as % change 

from:

Previous Qtr Same Qtr Last Year

Grapes 364 11% 17 369 2,024% -2%

Lettuce, Iceberg 315 10% 305 307 3% 3%

Strawberries 276 8% 387 288 -29% -4%

Lettuce, Romaine 237 7% 250 239 -5% -1%

Oranges 205 6% 662 241 -69% -15%

Top 5 Total 1,396 43% 1,620 1,445 -14% -3%

California Total 3,258 100% 3,388 3,407 -4% -4%

Volume

Total reported shipments of fruits and vegetables from California during third quarter 2020 were 3.26 million 

tons, a decrease of 4 percent from the same quarter last year (year to year). The top five commodities 

decreased by 3 percent from year to year. Four of the top 5 commodities saw year-to-year decreases this 

quarter, including oranges (15 percent), strawberries (4 percent), romaine lettuce (1 percent), and grapes (2 

percent). Shipments of iceberg lettuce increased by 3 percent. 

Rates

The quarterly average truck rate for shipments between 501 miles and 1,500 miles was $3.05 per mile, a 

9-percent increase quarter to quarter, and a 4-percent increase year to year. 

Truck Overview

Diesel fuel prices averaged $3.26 per gallon, a 1-percent increase quarter to quarter but a 17-percent 

decrease year to year. Shippers in California reported adequate truck availability throughout the quarter. 
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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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 Travelled)

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.

$3.05

$2.75

$1.00

$3.00

$5.00

$7.00

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

2017 2018 2019 2020

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

Region/Reporting District July August September 3rd Quarter

Imperial, Palo Verde And Coachella Valleys, 

California And Central And Western Arizona 3 - - 3

Kern District California 3 3 3 3

Salinas-Watsonville California 3 3 3 3

San Joaquin Valley California 3 3.30 3 3.10

Santa Maria California 3 3 3 3

South District California 3 4 3 3.33

Regional Average Availability 3 3.26 3 3.09

Diesel Fuel Price ($/gallon) 3.25 3.26 3.26 3.26
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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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.

Table 13: Refrigerated Truck Availability Monthly Ratings for California

1

2

3

4

5

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

Prior 3-Year Average 2019 2020

Shortage

Slight 

Shortage

Slight

Surplus

Surplus

Adequate
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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U.S.-Mexico Border

Volume

Total reported shipments of fruits and vegetables from Mexico during third quarter 2020 were 1.88 million 

tons, an 8-percent increase year to year. The sum of the top five commodities increased 14 percent year to 

year. Each of the top five commodities increased, with particularly sharp increases of tomatoes and mangoes. 

Rates

In third quarter 2020, truck rates for shipments between 501 miles and 1,500 miles from the Arizona border 

crossings averaged $2.16 per mile, down 15 percent from quarter to quarter and down 14 percent year to 

year. Rates for shipments between 501 miles and 1,500 miles from the Texas border crossings averaged $2.35 

per mile, up 4 percent quarter to quarter and up 15 percent year to year. 

Truck Overview

Diesel fuel prices for border crossings from Arizona averaged $2.58 per gallon, decreasing by 0.5 percent 

quarter to quarter and by 19 percent year to year. Diesel fuel prices for border crossings from Texas averaged 

$2.18 per gallon, a 1-percent decrease quarter to quarter, and a 22-percent decrease year to year. Shippers 

at the Arizona-Mexico border crossings reported adequate availability through early August, data was not 

provided for the remainder of the quarter. Shippers at the Texas-Mexico border crossing reported conditions 

fluctuated between adequate and slight shortage through the quarter. 

Table 14: 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 

2020

Share of 

MexicoTotal Total

Previous 

Quarter

Same 

Quarter 

Last Year

Current Quarter as % change 

from:

Previous Qtr Same Qtr Last Year

Avocados 227 12% 242 211 -6% 8%

Limes 179 10% 178 166 1% 8%

Mangoes 169 9% 173 147 -2% 15%

Tomatoes, Plum Type 156 8% 218 139 -29% 12%

Tomatoes 153 8% 160 117 -5% 31%

Top 5 Total 884 47% 972 779 -9% 14%

Mexico Total 1,880 100% 2,942 1,740 -36% 8%
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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Texas California Arizona New Mexico

Commodity

3rd 

Quarter 

2020

Commodity

3rd 

Quarter 

2020

Commodity

3rd 

Quarter 

2020

Commodity

3rd 

Quarter 

2020

Avocados 224 Onions Green 33 Mangoes 69 Peppers, Other 66 

Limes 160 Tomatoes, Plum 

Type 33 Tomatoes 24 Onions Dry 13 

Tomatoes 122 Misc Tropical 31 Tomatoes, 

Plum Type 22 Misc Tropical < 1

Tomatoes, Plum 

Type 100 Cucumbers 30 Cucumbers 16 Corn-Sweet < 1

Mangoes 99 Peppers, Other 22 Watermelons, 

Seedless 11 

Mexico through 

TX Total 1,317 Mexico through CA Total 277 Mexico through AZ Total 207 Mexico through NM Total 80 

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

$5.12

$2.37

$2.35

$2.41

$1.00

$2.00

$3.00

$4.00

$5.00

$6.00

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

2017 2018 2019 2020

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

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

Quarter 3, 2020

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

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.

$2.97

$2.35

$1.00

$1.50

$2.00

$2.50

$3.00

$3.50

$4.00

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

2017 2018 2019 2020

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

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.

$2.16

$2.41

$1.00

$1.50

$2.00

$2.50

$3.00

$3.50

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

2017 2018 2019 2020

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

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

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

Quarter 3, 2020

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

Table 16: Truck Overview from the U.S.-Mexico Border

Region/Reporting District July August September 3rd Quarter

Mexico Crossings Through Nogales, Arizona 2.55 3 - 2.78

Mexico Crossings Through Texas 3.5 3 3.4 3.3

Regional Average Availability 3.03 3 3.4 3.14

Diesel Fuel Price ($/gallon), through Texas 2.20 2.18 2.17 2.18

Diesel Fuel Price ($/gallon), through Arizona 2.59 2.59 2.57 2.58

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.

1

2

3

4

5

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

Prior 3-Year Average 2019 2020

Shortage

Slight 

Shortage

Slight

Surplus

Surplus

Adequate

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

Quarter 3, 2020

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

PNW

Table 17: 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 

2020

Share of 

PNW Total

Previous 

Quarter

Same 

Quarter 

Last Year

Current Quarter as % change 

from:

Previous Qtr Same Qtr Last Year

Apples 652 39% 685 558 -5% 17%

Potatoes 534 32% 511 547 5% -2%

Onions Dry 282 17% 154 242 83% 16%

Cherries 97 6% 92 107 6% -9%

Pears 46 3% 70 52 -33% -10%

Top 5 Total 1,612 97% 1,512 1,505 7% 7%

PNW Total 1,659 100% 1,523 1,551 9% 7%

Volume

During third quarter 2020, total reported shipments of fruits and vegetables from the PNW were 1.66 million 

tons, increasing by 7 percent year to year. The sum of the top five commodities also increased by 7 percent 

year to year. Decreases in shipments of potatoes (2 percent), cherries (9 percent), and pears (10 percent), 

were offset by increases in shipments of apples (17 percent) and dry onions (16 percent). 

Rates

The quarterly average truck rate for shipments between 501 miles and 1,500 miles was $2.04 per mile, 

increasing 3 percent quarter to quarter, and by 6 percent year to year.

Truck Overview 

Diesel fuel prices averaged $2.58 per gallon, with decreases of 0.5 percent quarter to quarter and 19 percent 

year to year. Potato and onion shippers in the PNW reported adequate truck availability until the last week in 

August when slight shortage and shortage conditions continued through the end of September. Shippers in 

the Yakima Valley and Wenatchee District of Washington, on average, reported adequate truck availability in 

July, slight shortage conditions in August, and adequate conditions in September. 
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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

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

Table 18: 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.

$7.25

$2.04

$2.44

$1.00

$3.00

$5.00

$7.00

$9.00

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

2017 2018 2019 2020

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

Region/Reporting District July August September 3rd Quarter

Columbia Basin Washington 3 3.25 5 3.75

Idaho And Malheur County, Oregon - 3 5 4

Upper Valley, Twin Falls-Burley District Idaho 3 3 5 3.67

Yakima Valley & Wenatchee District 

Washington 3 4 3 3.33

Regional Average Availability 3 3.31 4.5 3.60

Diesel Fuel Price ($/gallon) 2.59 2.59 2.57 2.58
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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: Refrigerated Truck Availability Monthly Ratings for PNW

1

2

3

4

5

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

Prior 3-Year Average 2019 2020

Shortage

Slight 

Shortage

Slight

Surplus

Surplus

Adequate
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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

Southeast

Table 19: 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 

2020

Share of 

Southeast 

Total

Previous 

Quarter

Same 

Quarter 

Last Year

Current Quarter as % change 

from:

Previous Qtr Same Qtr Last Year

Watermelons, 

Seedless 263 62% 213 218 23% 21%

Sweet Potatoes 54 13% 66 42 -19% 30%

Peaches 19 5% 24 20 -19% -5%

Onions Dry 15 3% 77 38 -81% -61%

Watermelons, Seeded 13 3% 13 7 -4% 86%

Top 5 Total 364 86% 394 324 -8% 12%

Southeast Total 425 100% 640 379 -34% 12%

Volume 

During third quarter 2020, total reported shipments of fruits and vegetables from the Southeast were 

425,000 tons, up 12 percent year to year. The sum of the top five commodities also increased 12 percent 

year to year. Decreases in dry onions (61 percent), and peaches (5 percent) only slightly offset strong 

increases in seedless watermelons (21 percent), sweet potatoes (30 percent) and seeded watermelons (86 

percent). 

Rates

The quarterly average truck rate for shipments between 501 miles and 1,500 miles was $5.04 per mile, up 47 

percent quarter to quarter and up 10 percent year to year.

Truck Overview 

Diesel fuel prices averaged $2.37 per gallon, down 0.7 percent quarter to quarter and down 19 percent year 

to year. Sweet potato and melon shippers in North Carolina struggled to find available trucks much of the 

quarter. Tomato and melon shippers in South Carolina reported shortage and slight shortage conditions in 

July and early August; data was not available for the remainder of the quarter. Shippers in Georgia reported 

adequate availability in July and early August; data was not available for the remainder of the quarter. 
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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

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

Table 20: 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.

$8.63

$5.04

$1.62

$0.00

$2.00

$4.00

$6.00

$8.00

$10.00

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

2017 2018 2019 2020

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

Region/Reporting District July August September 3rd Quarter

Eastern North Carolina 4.25 3.25 4.2 3.9

North Carolina 5 4.75 5 4.92

South Carolina 4.5 5 - 4.75

South Georgia 3 - - 3

Vidalia District Georgia 3 3 - 3

Regional Average Availability 3.95 4 4.6 4.18

Diesel Fuel Price ($/gallon) 2.38 2.37 2.35 2.37
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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: Refrigerated Truck Availability Monthly Ratings for Southeast

1

2

3

4

5

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

Prior 3-Year Average 2019 2020

Shortage

Slight 

Shortage

Slight

Surplus

Surplus

Adequate
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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

Great Lakes

Table 21: 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 

2020

Share of 

Great Lakes 

Total

Previous 

Quarter

Same 

Quarter 

Last Year

Current Quarter as % change 

from:

Previous Qtr Same Qtr Last Year

Potatoes 158 42% 95 124 67% 28%

Watermelons, 

Seedless 55 15% - 45 - 23%

Cucumbers 33 9% 1 40 4,561% -17%

Peppers, Bell Type 25 7% - 23 - 7%

Cabbage 20 5% 1 17 1,313% 15%

Top 5 Total 290 77% 97 248 201% 17%

Great Lakes Total 376 100% 134 336 180% 12%

Volume

Total reported shipments of fruits and vegetables from the Great Lakes during third quarter 2020 were 

376,000 tons, up 12 percent year to year. The sum of the top five commodities increased 17 percent year to 

year. Four of the top five commodities increased, including potatoes (28 percent), seedless watermelon (23 

percent), bell peppers (7 percent), and cabbage (15 percent). Shipments of cucumbers fell by 17 percent. 

Rates 

The quarterly average truck rate for shipments between 501 miles and 1,500 miles was $3.59 per mile, up 6 

percent quarter to quarter, and up 2 percent year to year.

Truck Overview

Diesel fuel prices averaged $2.30 per gallon, up 1 percent quarter to quarter but down 21 percent year 

to year. Shippers in the Great Lakes region reported adequate truck availability through the first week in 

September, then slight shortage and shortage conditions emerged in Central Wisconsin and Minnesota for 

the remainder of the month. 
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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

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

Table 22: 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.

$4.38

$3.59

$2.67

$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 4 1 2 3

2017 2018 2019 2020

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

Region/Reporting District July August September 3rd Quarter

Big Lake And Central Minnesota - 3.89 4.25 4.07

Central Wisconsin 3 3 3.85 3.28

Michigan 3 3 3.21 3.07

Regional Average Availability 3 3.30 3.77 3.36

Diesel Fuel Price ($/gallon) 2.31 2.31 2.30 2.30
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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: 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

Prior 3-Year Average 2019 2020

Shortage

Slight 

Shortage

Slight

Surplus

Surplus

Adequate
Agricultural Refrigerated Truck Quarterly

Quarter 3, 2020

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

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, 2020

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

Authors

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

April.Taylor@usda.gov, 202.720.7880 

Jesse Gastelle, Data Analysis 

Jesse.Gastelle@usda.gov, 202.690.1144 

Patty Willkie, Specialty Crops Program and Market News Division Data 

Patty.Willkie@usda.gov, 202.720.2175 

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

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

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 

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

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

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. April 2021 Web. <https://dx.doi.org/10.9752/TS051.04-2021> 

Photo Credit

Burt Barnes

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