Market Commentary
May’s refrigerated market was defined by sharp volatility, with Florida produce and floral demand driving early-month activity before DOT Blitz week triggered a significant capacity crunch and rate spike. Diesel pricing stabilized, though remained elevated.
As Florida seasonality fades, focus shifts toward Texas, Arizona, and California, where summer produce volumes are expected to push rates higher throughout June.
Market Commentary
May began relatively balanced across most refrigerated markets, with Florida produce and Mother’s Day floral shipments creating the primary source of outbound volume pressure. Outside of Florida, freight conditions remained mostly stable through the first half of the month.
That changed dramatically during DOT Blitz week (May 12–14), which created one of the strongest short-term capacity disruptions seen this year. Inspection-related downtime and reduced truck availability caused rates to spike rapidly across major refrigerated lanes, particularly outbound Florida, Texas, and cross-border Mexico freight.
Diesel pricing remained elevated into May, though pricing volatility eased compared to earlier months, helping create a more predictable operating environment for carriers despite higher baseline costs.
Toward the end of May, Florida produce volumes will taper seasonally, shifting market focus westward into Texas and Arizona. Looking ahead to June, California produce season and peak Mexico-Arizona crossings are expected to accelerate, driving tighter capacity and firmer refrigerated pricing as the industry moves into the “100 Days of Summer” produce cycle. Read more here on how to prepare for volatility.
Lane Rate Progression
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