Did you know that there are four trucking seasons? Currently at the time of this article we are in the month of September 2022 which is the third trucking season also known as “Peak Season”. Before we dive deeper into the Peak Season, let’s first break down the other preceding seasons in the year to paint a full picture of how Peak season comes around every year.
Two crucial factors that have an impact on the transportation sector are supply and demand (market conditions). Every year, we witness the usual seasonal changes in market conditions, and they decide the prices and the capacity. You should see this right away if this is your first year working in the transportation sector. You can better comprehend the fluctuations of freight volume throughout the year by being aware of the seasonality of freight. In the freight industry, four seasons are typically recognized.
“The Quiet Season” – January through March
After the holidays are over we embark upon a new season. This is known as “The Quiet Season” in the trucking industry. In most parts of the U.S., the weather is unsuitable for shipping because it is cold and many roads are covered in snow and possibly ice. Since there was a lot of shipping work over the holidays, the transportation sector is currently recuperating. The freight volume is gradually rising over time, peaking in March as spring approaches.
Therefore, the months of January through March are known as “The Quiet Season” due to slow activity. This is also a time where a lot of trucking companies are questioning sustainability, operations, and costs to name a few. Mainly to ensure that they can remain afloat for the upcoming seasons. Large trucking companies typically do not stress as much about “The Quiet Season”. Small to mid-size trucking companies on the other hand are definitely a lot more concerned with this period of the year.
“The Produce Season” – April through July
This is a season when freight traffic begins to increase as spring approaches. The start of the produce season gives carriers more options for freight. While the market is becoming more competitive and rates are increasing, carriers are able to be more selective. Additionally, it makes the effort of finding a truck more difficult. Because carriers are converting to produce loads due to higher pay, the prices and capacities for non-product shippers may alter significantly.
Many shippers who didn’t research their locations to understand how the produce season will influence them get desperate to shift their goods in these circumstances.
“The Peak Season” (Currently) – August through October
Currently, we are in the month of September 2022 and that is right in the middle of “The Peak Season”. Following the produce season, everyone in the transportation industry experiences another busy time. People start getting ready for their vacations and the start of the school year in August. Companies need to make sure they are prepared for the Christmas season because they are sending things in and out of their warehouses because sales are usually higher. Freight volume and tariffs are at their highest levels.
“The Peak Season” is the first season in the year where trucking companies might perhaps feel a bit overwhelmed. Many of them, including Sugar Creek Transportation, are excited about the increased volume of freight. That typically yields more potential revenue. Ideal because it’s not uncommon for trucking companies to feel a bit frustrated during “The Quiet Season” and “The Produce Season”.
“The Holiday Season” – November through December
November and December are the busiest months of the year. They are not only busy due to the high demand for delivery of freight but also due to the tremendous amount of opportunity to generate revenue. Practically every consumer out there is purchasing gifts for their friends and family. Another reason why “The Holiday Season” is so busy is that shippers are ensuring that all items are scheduled for delivery prior to the holiday closures. Things tend to get a bit crazy a few days before holiday closures due to last-minute changes or unexpected delays.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it. The four trucking seasons that every trucking company endures every year. It’s quite the rollercoaster ride and it’s definitely not for everyone. Especially for the newcomers to the trucking industry. As we are rolling through “The Peak Season”, here at Sugar Creek Transportation we are excited to see our entire yard empty on most days. It gives us hope for the future and allows us to help many companies like Amazon, UPS, and Costco deliver their freight on time.
Seasoned truck drivers are definitely in demand. We at Sugar Creek Transportation are always looking for experienced, friendly, and family-oriented drivers to join our team. We need your help!
Are you a truck driver looking for a company that will not treat you like a number? Do you want to be a part of a family instead of a company that treats you like a notch on the belt? Do you have at least two years of driving experience? We are always looking for self-motivated, driven, and energetic people to join our family.
Give us a call at (909) 746-0370 or by email at recruiting@scetrans.com. Make sure to follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to stay in touch with us in real time.
