Summer Trucking - Trends and Expectations

The trucking industry is a tough job, with tough times in between. Trucking is a seasonal job, but the key seasons are when drivers make the most money. The seasons to look out for in your route, are the ones which have higher demand and better pay. As we head into June, we are seeing the tail end of produce season, and can see things start to pick up near peak season. There will be chance to make money before August peak season hits. If you are looking to haul for more money or considering time off, it’s important to note a few trends we may see this summer in trucking.  

Truck drivers can expect busier roads and highways this summer, as many are heading out on family trips and excursions. There is also the added element of heat, or even storm seasons, depending on the areas you are in. Summer can be tricky for drivers, so it is important to plan ahead and ensure to take a few things into account:

• Check weather reports before leaving
• Pay close attention to your brakes and tires (heat can cause damage and issues)
• Watch out for construction zones (adjust to the speed limit, as obstacles and pedestrians are abound)
• Add extra time to your trip (prepare for traffic and congestion)

When it comes to the trucking industry, as we head into June and July, we can expect to see the demand for trucks to increase, tied to summer produce and construction season, because trucks will be needed to transport farming and construction equipment. We are now getting back into a busier wave of work. These types of shifts will affect truck capacity, as there will be a greater demand for drivers to transport necessary goods and materials. Some key trends to look out for this summer will be tied to construction, produce season and even holidays. 

Produce Season

Though we saw things pick up the last two months, it is June when things are in full swing, with a need for distribution of both materials and goods across the United States. Farmers will need to move produce into grocery stores, so there will naturally be a greater demand for transport during this time period. It is dry-van and reefer trucks which will be most impacted by these capacity changes, as they will be used to transport some of the key cargo during this season. Perishable freight needs time sensitive transport, making it a product of high liability and thus will be giving opportunity to some truckers to earn a decent amount during the month. 

We can also expect to see many businesses ship more, as they are trying to distribute their inventory across the country and complete their commitments. The reason for this move is due to quarterly reporting and analysis done on these businesses, so many will opt to fulfill any commitments on time, in order to prepare for the next quarter.

Equipment Transport

Due to warmer weather and construction season getting underway, a lot of trucks, especially open deck, will be transporting heavy or large equipment used for road work and even farming. Laws regulating the weight limits on fragile highways across the United States, which occurs in difficult winter months, are pulled back, with trucks now able to transport heavier weight limits. 

Holidays

We will see the rise in summer holidays and celebrations taking place. The demand for truckers may see an increase in early June, due to many truckers choosing to take time off to spend with family this past Memorial Day weekend. As we head towards 4^th of July, we can also see the end of June reflect a shift in prices, due to these changes.

Preparing For Summer

Summer may turn out to a busier time than what we have seen in recent months, but it is also a chance for many carriers or drivers to earn more. However, with a busy schedule comes a need to plan ahead and prepare for potential delays or disturbances. Some ways shippers and brokers can help carriers prepare this season is:

• Give enough lead time: The industry standard is usually 48-72 hrs minimum notice before freight needs to be loaded or picked up.
• Pay fair prices for freight: Take into account accessorial fees and other market prices.
• Avoid dwell time: Drivers need to stay productive in order to earn money, so when reaching the shippers, goods should be ready to be loaded right away.
• Utilize technology:  Real-time tracking, and improved communication or paperwork system will save both time and money, and ensure accuracy. 

Summer is here, and that means peak season is around the corner for truck haulers. With crops picking up, we can already see an opportunity for higher prices as early as June. More produce means less trucks. It's a good time to start planning ahead. If you are looking to earn this summer, be sure to plan, prepare and stay safe out there.