In an update from last week’s report, the desert shipping areas for winter vegetables in California and Arizona are pretty much history. Heat in the desert is taking its toll on any leaf lettuce left, and it’s best to avoid hauling that product. The transition to the San Joaquin Valley, Salinas Valley and the Santa Maria district continues and light volume loadings are underway.
In the weeks ahead, produce haulers should see a dramatic improvement for produce loads. Not only is California weather bringing the crops along nicely, but weather around the country is on the mend. That means more consumers getting out more often, buying fresh fruits and veggies, which increases demand for product. It all translates into more produce shipments, and higher freight rates.
Light shipments of broccoli and cauliflower are coming out of Salinas and some oberservers are predicting record volume this spring.
The Central San Joaquin Valley produce shipments are limited with broccoli and cauliflower, while light volume of head lettuce gets underway around March 21st in the Westside district. These loadings out of the Huron area should continue through mid April.
Salinas Valley vegetables – grossing about $6600 to New York City.