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USDA reefer lane · Week of September 8, 2026

Reefer rates rose 1% from South & Central California to Boston

Here is the simple read for brokers and carriers, followed by the complete four-week rate history.

See all four weeks

This week

+1%

USDA week-over-week change

Typical rate

$9,650

Midpoint used in the chart

Four-week move

-5%

First chart point to latest

Four-week rate trend

Citrus

Typical rate Reported range
This week
+1%
Four weeks
-5%
Typical now
$9,650
Four-week refrigerated truck rate trend from South & Central California to Boston Typical rates are shown as a line. Vertical markers show the full USDA reported rate range for each week. $11,000 $10,500 $10,000 $9,500 $9,000 $8,500 $10,200 Aug 18 $9,550 Aug 25 $9,550 Sep 1 $9,650 Sep 8
The line uses the midpoint of USDA’s “mostly” range when available, otherwise the midpoint of the full range. It is a benchmark, not a quote.

For freight brokers

What to do

Start calling earlier and leave room in the budget. Carriers have more leverage on this lane.

For carriers

What to do

Capacity is tight or rates are rising. You may have room to hold for a stronger offer.

Verify the chart

The numbers behind it

Every point below links to the USDA report it came from. The full range is what USDA observed. “Typical” is the midpoint used for the chart.

Rate date Typical Full range Weekly move Truck supply
Aug 18 $10,200 $9,500 to $10,700 -3% Slight Shortage
Aug 25 $9,550 $8,800 to $10,200 -6% Slight Shortage
Sep 1 $9,550 $8,800 to $10,200 No change Slight Shortage
Sep 8 $9,650 $8,800 to $10,200 +1% Slight Shortage

Read this correctly

  • This is a benchmark, not a quote. It covers a common 48 to 53 foot refrigerated trailer on the reported produce lane.
  • Rates include broker fees. Extra pickup, drop, and terminal charges generally are not included.
  • Blank is not zero. “Not comparable” means USDA did not publish a weekly percentage for that row.
  • Confirm the live market. Commodity, timing, stops, and truck requirements can move your actual price.
About the USDA National Truck Rate Report →