Reefer Freight Rates Rise on California Routes

Some reefer loads are paying more.

On October 22, 2026, DAT Freight & Analytics reported that refrigerated produce freight volume increased 7% nationwide during the previous week.

But total volume was still 3% below last year's level.

Some California routes saw much bigger changes.

Produce shipping rates from Salinas to New York increased 17% in one week. Rates from Santa Maria to New York climbed 13%.

Freight volume in the Imperial and Coachella region jumped 72%, although it remained below last year's level.

!What This Means for CDL Drivers

Drivers hauling fresh produce may find more loads on certain routes.

But these are shipper-paid rates that include broker fees, not necessarily what truck drivers receive.