Newsletter Volume 2, Spring/Early Summer 2024
Current State of Freight
Spring has sprung, and in the PNW we are seeing glimpses of summer! The days are getting longer, the temperatures are slowly climbing, and my kids are getting excited about summer freedom! Cue Alice Cooper…
While most of us enjoy the changing of seasons, it always means something is changing for us in transportation.
Since we primarily operate in the Western United States, let’s take a look at what to expect in those areas this season.
Arizona Spring means waning Mexican imports from the winter highs as harvest operations move North.
- Expectations: Inbound pricing to increase slightly as outbound freight volumes drop.
California will feel the shift as well, they will be well into their own produce harvest by the end of Q2.
- Expectations: Outbound spot pricing to slowly increase through Q2.
The PNW will be slow now until late in Q3. While CA is gearing up for harvest, the PNW is just starting to plant.
- Expectations: Lower outbound rates with elevated inbound rates through the summer.
Preston Fivecoat, VP/COO
Nursery
Nursery had a bit of a late start, but is currently in full swing! Every year nursery stock is what carries the PNW freight market through the Spring season.
There are thousands of truckloads of plants and trees that make their way out of the PNW to various destinations across the United States and Canada.
SEND is proud to be heavily involved in with nursery. It is complex, requires multiple picks and drops, and lots of communication. And that is right up our alley! Nursery will ship all through the summer with a predictable slow down in June as the temperatures really start to heat up.
If you need plants moved, give us a call!
Fuel
Diesel peaked back in February and has since been bouncing around in accordance with crude prices. While we have seen some relief in recent weeks, there is potential for increases through summer.
There are various factors contributing to this including crude costs, scheduled refinery maintenance, geopolitical issues, and transition to summer blend fuel mixes. Perhaps the stickiest of these are the geopolitical issues and crude costs. The two issues are related, and have potential to get worse before they get better.
War in Ukraine and the Middle East, along with terrorism in the Red Sea, are creating uncertainty. The extent of the impact this might have is still unknown, but it has potential to be costly. The best we can do for now is be aware of it.
Partner with SEND for expert guidance and reliable logistics this spring and summer season. We’ll help you navigate every challenge so your food and beverage freight arrives on time and in top condition.