I wanted to let people know that we are experiencing the worst Refrigerated Truck shortage in California in many years and it has caused a significant increase in rates for truckload shipments. The reasons for this are multiple but the most significant are that the surge of seasonal freight along with a believed recovery of the economy has created more freight than there are trucks.
The unbalanced freight and truck ratio mixed with California passing clean air regulations requiring older refrigerated trucks to be refitted to pass inspections has put a major burden on truckers that many can’t afford. This has pushed a large amount of truckers to sell and salvage their trucks or simply refuse to come to California. There are trucks available but their cost is at a much higher premium than many are used to and it has put a strain on everyone in the industry. This surge in rates seems to be affecting truckload shipments primarily, with LTL remaining balanced.
Great Western Transportation is providing this information because we want people to know why shipments coming out of California have seen an increase in their rates. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to call us at 1-800-972-8484.
