Produce Season: North Carolina & Wisconsin

March 8, 2023

Differences in Produce Season: Southeast vs Midwest

North Carolina and Wisconsin are two states known for their agricultural production, however the top crops grown in each state vary significantly. 


In North Carolina, the top four crops grown are: 

  1. Tobacco: Harvested in September and October 
  2. Sweet potatoes: Harvested in September and October 
  3. Soybeans: Harvested in September and October 
  4. Peanuts: Harvested in September and October 



In Wisconsin, the top four crops grown are: 

  1. Corn: Harvested in September and October 
  2. Soybeans: Harvested in September and October 
  3. Potatoes: Harvested in September and October 
  4. Cheddar cheese: Harvested year-round 
Reefer Demand & Capacity

The harvesting time of these crops can have a significant impact on transportation costs for dryvan and reefer truckload trucking. Reefer truckload trucking involves transporting perishable goods that require refrigeration such as Cheddar Cheese. 


In North Carolina, the major crops are harvested during the same period in September and October, this can lead to a high demand for transportation during this time, which can drive up costs for both drayage and reefer truckload trucking. Furthermore, the harvest of crops like tobacco and sweet potatoes, which are perishable goods, can require specialized equipment and handling, which can also increase transportation costs. 


In Wisconsin, the harvest of crops like corn and soybeans, which are also major crops in other Midwest states, can lead to increased competition for transportation during the fall harvest season, which can drive up costs for both drayage and reefer truckload trucking. Additionally, the production of perishable goods like potatoes and cheese can also require specialized handling and equipment, which can increase transportation costs. 

Reefer Load to Truck Ratio

In conclusion, North Carolina and Wisconsin are both known for their agricultural production, but the top crops grown in each state differ significantly. The harvest time of these crops can have a significant impact on transportation costs for reefer truckload trucking, as high demand for transportation during peak harvest season and the need for specialized handling and equipment can drive up costs. 



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