Posts Tagged “feature”
By Charlie Fabricant ALC Corporate
Although professional drivers have long recognized the importance of fuel efficiency, the growth of personal electric vehicles has introduced the general public to the concept of aerodynamic drag. A.K.A, the force caused by air when a moving object goes through it to slow it down. Measured in drag coefficient (Cd), the lower this number is, the less resistance an object faces when moving through wind.
As we recently saw in long-distance speed skating at the Winter Olympics, aerodynamic drag played a role in determining the gold, silver, and bronze winners. Just as humans are, vehicles are also affected by aerodynamics. Many new EVs brag about their extremely low drag coefficients (Cd), which hover around 0.2, and even the worst passenger EVs and electric pickups average around 0.35 Cd. However, even with the aerodynamic improvements manufacturers have made since it became a focus in the 1970s, class 8 tractor-trailers average around 0.65Cd. Now, I just threw some meaningless numbers at you, so let’s make this the fun kind of math, the type that saves you money (and carbon emissions).
Aerodynamic drag increases as the square of speed, meaning that as your speed doubles, your drag force increases by 4x (and the power required to move increases by 8x). All of this to say, aerodynamics play a critical role in fuel economy, and fighting drag accounts for approximately 65% of fuel consumption at highway speed. Now comes the previously-mentioned “fun” part. EPA’s SmartWay reports that a fully-optimized truck-trailer combo can achieve fuel reduction benefits up to 20% through a combination of largely low-cost aerodynamic upgrades. Not only that, but as these technologies have matured, the barrier to entry has dropped; roof fairings, gap reducers, and trailer side skirts are now estimated to pay themselves off within 12 months and offer up to 12% fuel efficiency improvements alone. Maintenance concerns have also been alleviated due to modern kits’ increased durability and flexibility. Obviously, the payback period is subject to local diesel prices and average driving speed, but with operational costs on the rise, where fuel represents 20-30% of total expenses, fuel efficiency improvements provide substantial savings even when diesel is “cheap.” Just to play with a little thought experiment (assuming $4 diesel), a long-haul truck running 110,000 miles a year will save approximately $4,000 – $6,000 in fuel costs for $5,000 in truck optimization, and remember, that upfront cost only exists for the first year. For a fleet of 10 trucks, that adds up to $50,000 straight to your bottom line every year after the first.
More so than we have seen in the previous few years, shippers are reprioritizing resilient business partners, as sustained tough conditions have caused many logistics companies to shutter in the post-COVID market. Additionally, ESG requirements continue to expand. With new regulations like California’s SB 253 requiring large organizations to report their entire value chain’s carbon footprint, carriers with high-efficiency equipment aren’t just saving money; they are becoming the ‘preferred capacity’ for the nation’s largest shippers. Aerodynamic upgrades provide an opportunity to combat rising operational costs while future-proofing equipment to meet ever-expanding emissions standards. If you’re a shipper looking for low-cost ways to improve your sustainability ratings or a carrier looking to optimize your margins and thrive in the years ahead, aerodynamic upgrades may be for you!
*****
Charlie Fabricant graduated from Vanderbilt University in 2021 with a double major in Economics and Human & Organizational Development with a minor in Environmental Sustainability. He joined the Nashville office as an undergraduate intern in 2021 and became a transportation broker along with the company’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) coordinator. In 2024, he was promoted to ESG programs manager.
charlie.fabricant@allenlund.co
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Spot truckload rates eased again during the week of February 15-21, as pricing settled into a more typical seasonal pattern.
Truckload freight trends from DAT One and DAT iQ
Spot market data for Feb. 15-21, 2026 (Week 8)
Broker-to-carrier 7-day average spot rates:
▼ Dry van: $2.40 per mile, down 3 cents week over week
▼ Refrigerated: $2.83 per mile, down 7 cents
▲ Flatbed: $2.63 per mile, up 3 cents
The total number of loads posted to the DAT One marketplace declined for the second straight week, falling 8% to 3.12 million. Truck posts decreased almost 4% to 211,147. Weather-driven volatility returns this week as a severe snowstorm hits the Northeast.
Van: Fewer loads
▼ Van loads: 1.3 million, down 11% week over week
▼ Van equipment: 152,400, down 3%
▼ Linehaul rate: $2.04 per mile, down 2 cents
Reefer: Mid-February softness
▼ Reefer loads: 541,500, down 18% week over week
▼ Reefer equipment: 37,088, down 6%
▼ Linehaul rate: $2.46 per mile, down 7 cents
Flatbed: Holding steady
— Flatbed loads: 1.28 million, virtually unchanged week over week
▼ Flatbed equipment: 21,659, down 5%
▲ Linehaul rate: $2.26 per mile, up 2 cents
Market analysis from Dean Croke, Industry Analyst, DAT Freight & Analytics
Florida’s surge in outbound reefer rates over the previous three weeks retreated. Spot rates on every lane out of Central and South Florida plunged 20 to 32% across every major destination.
The national average spot reefer rate fell 11 cents per mile over the previous two weeks, eliminating half the pricing gains made during Winter Storms Fern and Gianna. Despite cooling, the national average reefer spot linehaul rate was 53 cents higher year over year. Reefer load posts dropped for the fourth consecutive week, but were still 40% higher than last year. At the same time, equipment availability declined 20% year over year.
Van load posts fell 11% while truck posts only dropped 3%, tilting pricing leverage back toward shippers and brokers. However, last week’s mild 2-cent rate decline indicates that carriers are holding relatively firm. Compared to Week 8 last year, the average rate is up 40 cents.
Flatbed load post volumes held steady last week following four consecutive weeks of increases. This volume remains robust, sitting almost 50% higher than the same period last year.
About DAT Freight & Analytics
DAT Freight & Analytics operates DAT One, North America’s largest truckload freight marketplace; DAT iQ, the industry’s leading freight data analytics service; the Convoy Platform automated freight-matching service; Trucker Tools, the leader in load visibility; and Outgo, the financial services platform for truckers. Check out the latest DAT iQ Market Update: https://www.youtube.com/DATLoadBoards.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Tomato supplies are tightening further, and market prices are rising. The supply chain in Mexico is stressed this week due to violent unrest throughout the country, and freezing temperatures this winter in Florida have significantly impacted yields, relates Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA in a press release.
Markon First Crop (MFC) Tomatoes are limited; packer label will be substituted.
Rounds
- Florida tomatoes are in very short supply due to prolonged sub-freezing temperatures affecting crops in late-January
Growers have enacted the Force Majeure clause on contracts due to crop loss
Domestic supply will remain very limited until new crop supplies become available in mid-April
The Ruskin/Palmetto region is anticipated to provide some relief in six weeks, depending on the weather - Mexico yields are lighter than years past due to inclement weather
Mixed quality is being observed at pack out
Demand is increasing quickly due to Florida’s supply issues
Shipments have further slowed this week due to cartel violence, but are expected to pick up next week - Expect tight supplies and very high prices for the next six weeks until Florida’s supplies ramp up
Romas
- Florida stocks are extremely limited due to recent freezes; growers have enacted the Force Majeure clause on contracts due to crop loss
- Mexico’s Culiacan growing region is experiencing very high demand and lighter yields heading into March
All sizes are tight, and quality is average due to past weather conditions
Volume from Central Mexico’s growing regions is limited, extending into South Texas
The Mexican supply chain is under stress this week due to violent unrest and disturbed freight movement throughout the country - Supply of Roma tomatoes will be more limited, leading to higher prices compared to round tomatoes; substituting round tomatoes is recommended as necessary
- Relief isn’t expected until supplies improve in Florida in six weeks
Grape & Cherry Varieties
- Florida is experiencing low supply levels due to freezing weather conditions
- Mexican yields are moderate due to past weather conditions that have led to quality issues
- Mexico is experiencing increased demand
- Expect elevated prices throughout March
*****
ALLEN LUND, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-
CMI Orchards of Wenatchee, WA continues to lead the pear category with a disciplined, grower-first approach that delivers seamless seasonal transitions, consistent eating quality, and year-round confidence for retail partners.
Central to that strategy is a carefully managed import program that extends the Bartlett (William) pear season beyond the domestic window while keeping domestic growers and long-term category health at the forefront.
As the U.S. Bartlett season comes to a close in early spring, CMI will transition to imports to maintain shelf presence and consumer engagement. This continuity allows retailers to avoid gaps, protect shelf space, and deliver a consistent pear experience to shoppers.
“A well-timed import program is essential to maintaining momentum in the pear category,” said William Gant, Pear Manager at CMI Orchards. “Without it, retailers risk losing visibility and consumer confidence. Our goal is to ensure a smooth handoff that keeps pears front and center while protecting the value of domestic production.”
CMI works closely with the Kleppe Family from the Southern Hemisphere to bring Gaucho pears to the U.S. Market. The Kleppe Family shares CMI’s commitment to precision growing, disciplined harvest practices, and exceptional quality standards. This relationship ensures that imported Bartlett pears deliver the same flavor, texture, and eating experience consumers expect—without compromise.
“Our Southern Hemisphere partners grow pears with an incredible level of care and expertise,” Gant said. “Consumers are not trading down on flavor or quality when they purchase imported Bartletts. The eating experience remains consistent, which is critical to keeping shoppers engaged and loyal to the category.”
Imports are positioned as a complement—not a replacement—to domestic programs. This balanced approach allows CMI to support retailers year-round while maintaining a strong focus on domestic pear production, particularly Anjou and Bosc varieties.
This season’s domestic Anjou and Bosc crop is significant, supported by strong yields and favorable sizing, and CMI remains committed to promoting these varieties throughout the year.
“Our domestic growers are the foundation of our pear business,” Gant added. “With Anjou and Bosc, we’re focused on year-round promotion and consistency, making sure our growers are prioritized and our retail partners have dependable programs they can build around.”
Across all pear programs, domestic and imported alike, CMI applies the same rigorous standards for quality, conditioning, and program discipline. This consistency enables retailers to plan confidently through seasonal transitions and reinforces trust in pears as a reliable, high-performing category.
“Strategic imports allow us to stabilize the category, not just fill a short-term gap,” said Gant. “By taking a long-term view and aligning closely with our growers and retail partners, we’re helping ensure pears remain relevant, exciting, and dependable for consumers all year long.”
Localized security activity in parts of Mexico is creating transportation disruptions that may impact cross‑border freight movement, according to Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA
- Intermittent delays have been reported on roads connecting to the Nogales, Arizona and McAllen, Texas border crossings
- Due to shelter‑in‑place measures in certain areas, some growers are temporarily not moving product into the U.S. as a precaution for employee safety across harvesting, packing, and logistics operations
- Commodities potentially affected include limes, mixed berries, strawberries, and green onions
- Conditions remain fluid as routes adjust and security activity continues
- There are no confirmed closures of U.S. ports of entry at this time
- Markon will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed
Meanwhile, on Sunday, February 22, after a military operation by the Mexican Ministry of Defense that resulted in the death of cartel leader Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, a wave of violence and unrest took over the state of Jalisco.
In the city of Puerto Vallarta, for example, gunmen from the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel could be heard on the streets, sending tourists and locals into hiding. Gunshots and vehicles set on fire blocked off several roads and highways, halting normal life and severely impacting the packing and harvesting of several local crops, including limes, mangoes, and avocados. The last two are especially important to the state, as most of the production is shipped to the US.
Ecuadorian banana exports ended 2025 at over 377 million boxes, a 3.5 percent increase from the same period in 2024.
The figures were featured in the latest report published by the Association of Marketing and Export of Bananas of Ecuador (ACORBANEC), corresponding to shipments between January and December 2025.
The result consolidates bananas as one of the main pillars of Ecuadorian foreign trade, in a year marked by logistical challenges, international demand variation, and adjustments in global trade flow.
In December 2025, year-over-year exports remained steady, reaching nearly 33 million boxes. However, during the last campaign, monthly performance was variable, with export peaks in Q2 and Q4, which helped offset less dynamic months.
The 2025 Ecuadorian banana export season showed a similar recovery to 2024, when the industry experienced a year-on-year contraction. The observed growth reflects greater stability in shipments and a better response from destination markets.
According to ACORBANEC’s report, the European Union and Russia remained the main destinations for Ecuadorian bananas in 2025, accounting for over 50 percent of exports (31 percent and 20 percent, respectively).
Both markets continued to show sustained demand, despite an international environment marked by geopolitical tensions and supply chain adjustments.
Other traditional markets also contributed to the results, diversifying shipments and reducing dependence on a single destination, which is key for the sector’s stability. The Middle East ranked third with a 15 percent share, followed by the United States with 12 percent. The top 5 was completed by South American destinations, with a seven percent share.
Between January and December, Ecuadorian banana exports to China also grew significantly, increasing by 16 percent. Likewise, Türkiye saw a 30 percent uptick compared to the same period in 2024.
Shipments to Argentina also increased (17 percent), along with Saudi Arabia (10 percent), Russia (11 percent), Libya (14 percent), and Sweden (19 percent).
On the other hand, Ecuadorian banana exports to South Korea fell by 20 percent.
Legend Produce of Scottsdale, AZ in partnership with premier Honduran grower-exporter Agrolibano and Kiss Melons, is proud to announce the launch of its 2026 winter specialty melon program.
Beginning in February and running through May, the program will deliver the iconic Sugar Kiss (orange-flesh) and Summer Kiss (green-flesh) melons grown in the prime melon regions of southern Honduras.
Weekly shipments will arrive at Miami, Florida, and Port Hueneme, California, ensuring consistent supply of exceptionally sweet, high-brix melons to the North American market during the offshore season. A limited volume of containers will also be shipped directly to select partners in Asia and Europe.
Legend and Agrolibano have partnered for over 25 years to provide winter melons to the domestic markets.
“This is a great opportunity to build upon our relationship with Agrolibano and expand the seasonality of the Kiss program,” said Marco Ochoa, Chief Financial Officer at Legend Produce.
“This winter program is a game-changer for the Kiss Melons brand and a testament to the strength of our partnership,” said Milas Russell, III, Managing Director of Kiss Melons, LLC.
“Working with Agrolibano’s over 40 years of knowledge, world-class growing and harvesting teams and Legend Produce’s seamless import and distribution network allows us to extend the unmistakable Sugar Kiss and Summer Kiss eating experience to consumers in North America and Asia and, for the first time in limited quantities, to key markets in Europe.”
The 2026 winter program will feature the signature Sugar Kiss and Summer Kiss varieties under the iconic Kiss Melons labels.
About
Legend Produce – Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, with sales offices throughout the U.S., Legend Produce has been a leading importer and domestic producer of melons for more than 25 years. Renowned for category expertise Legend manages traditional cantaloupe and honeydews, watermelons, specialty melons and is the sales agent for the Kiss Melons brand year-round.
Agrolibano – A family-owned agricultural leader based in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, Agrolibano has been growing and exporting fresh produce for over 40 years. Recognized as one of Central America’s most advanced and socially responsible producers, Agrolibano farms thousands of acres of melons in the Choluteca and Valle regions using cutting-edge irrigation, integrated pest management, and GlobalG.A.P.- and SMETA-certified packing facilities.
Kiss Melons– Founded in Yuma, Arizona, Kiss Melons has rapidly become one of North America’s most recognized and trusted premium melon brands. Famous for its Sugar Kiss, Summer Kiss and Honey Kiss varieties, the brand is celebrated for delivering consistently sweet, juicy fruit in distinctive packaging that has earned strong consumer loyalty from coast to coast. Kiss Melons are exclusively marketed and sold by Legend Produce.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Chilean kiwifruit volume is predicted to increase by 20 percent this season, according to the Chilean Kiwi Committee.
The industry counting on growth from four strategic markets: India, the US, Brazil, and Mexico. These are destinations with great growth potential, reports the committee, with large populations and a still very low per capita consumption of kiwifruit ranging from 0.1 to 0.5 kilos per person.
The Chilean kiwifruit industry has been trying to commercially develop the yellow variety for a long time, but existing varieties are in a phase of adjustment and decline, with stable volumes compared to the previous year.
For the time being, green kiwifruit will remain the bulk of Chilean kiwi supply. The goal is to reach the highest quality standards to compete solidly in international markets.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKES, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
In 2025, the Guatemalan mango industry exported over 3.6 million boxes of 8.8-pound fresh fruit to the United States, a four percent increase from 2024, when shipments reached 3.5 million boxes.
According to local ag news outlet AGEXPORT HOY, this growth confirms the sector’s recovery, driven by a stronger supply and more integrated production planning.
The AGEXPORT Mango Committee emphasized that the season has been marked by strong export performance, the sector’s technical strengthening, and various industry efforts to position Guatemalan mango in international markets.
Luisy Fernanda Monroy, coordinator of the AGEXPORT Mango Committee, explained that 162 certified farms participated in the Guatemalan mango season, and the Tommy Atkins variety registered the biggest volume, accounting for 88 percent of shipments. The cultivar was followed in popularity by Ataulfo, Keitt, and Kent.
“Guatemalan-origin mangoes continue to position themselves in their main markets: the United States, Europe, and Chile,” Monroy said to the publication.
In a season defined by shifting supply dynamics and a seemingly insatiable consumer appetite for easy-peelers, the United States is on track to set a new record for tangerine and mandarin imports.
According to the US Department of Agriculture, the country’s imports are forecast to climb by four percent, reaching an all-time high of 555,000 metric tons in the 2025/26 marketing year.
This marks the second consecutive year of record-breaking import volumes, a trend that underscores the growing importance of foreign supply in the American fruit bowl.
The agency noted that imports are now expected to account for nearly half of all US fresh tangerine and mandarin consumption.
The surge in imports is largely the result of a projected dip in domestic production.
After a bumper year in 2024/25, California—which accounts for nearly all US tangerine and mandarin production—is entering a lower-yielding cycle, leading to a nationwide output forecast of 997,000 tons, down 10 percent.
While the Golden State’s harvest typically dominates the window between November and May, the gap left by a lighter crop is being filled by a diverse trio of international partners: Chile, Peru, and Morocco.
Chile and Peru remain the heavy hitters for the US market, primarily supplying fruit during the May-to-October window.
The US has historically been Chile’s primary destination for small citrus, usually receiving over 90 percent of the Andean country’s output.
Meanwhile, Morocco—the third-largest supplier—is expected to increase shipments between November and April, supplementing the lower local volumes during the peak winter months.
Despite the forecast record import levels, the USDA notes that the total US supply of tangerines and mandarins will actually fall by about five percent to 1.6 million tons. This suggests that while imports are working overtime, they won’t quite fully offset the contraction in domestic harvests, potentially keeping prices firm for retailers and wholesalers alike.
While the US market is navigating a domestic squeeze, the global citrus landscape remains resilient. Despite substantial gains in markets such as China, Türkiye, and Morocco, growth has been offset by significant declines in the European Union and the US.
According to the USDA, global tangerine and mandarin production is forecast to rise slightly (less than one percent) to a total of 38.4 million tons.
China remains the undisputed titan of the mandarin world. Its production is forecast to rise by 100,000 tons, bringing it to a staggering 27.1 million tons. This growth is being fueled by favorable weather conditions in the powerhouse growing regions of Guangxi and Yunnan. As the world’s largest producer and consumer, the Asian Giant’s steady output provides a stable floor for the global market, even as it directs more fruit toward its own domestic processing industry.
Conversely, the European Union is facing a tougher season. Production in the EU is forecast to drop by six percent to 2.8 million tons. The report cites delayed fruit ripening in Spain and smaller fruit sizes in Italy as the primary culprits. This contraction is expected to lead to lower consumption within the bloc, as higher prices and limited availability of premium-sized fruit impact shelves.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.