From April to August, the U.S. shipping market enters one of its busiest times of year: produce season.
Capacity tightens, reefer rates climb, and everyone in freight is working around the clock to keep perishable goods moving.
But if your cargo is USDA Organic certified, there’s even more at stake. It’s not just about getting your freight from point A to B on time — it’s about protecting the integrity of the shipment, following strict transport standards, and choosing the right carrier to get the job done.
Not all freight is created equal — and that’s especially true when it comes to organic.
Shipping certified organic goods means your carrier has to follow specific practices to avoid contamination, ensure proper trailer conditions, and document the entire process. If those standards aren’t met, the consequences can be serious:
Your shipment could lose its organic certification
Receivers may reject the load
You risk damaging customer trust and your brand’s reputation
That’s a lot to risk over a rushed booking.
During produce season, speed matters — but so does selecting a carrier that understands the requirements of organic shipping.
Here’s what to look for when booking freight:
Work with carriers who know how to handle USDA Organic shipments. They’ll understand the cleaning procedures, paperwork, and precautions that come with hauling certified cargo.
Don’t just ask — verify. Carriers should be able to provide recent washout receipts or documentation to confirm the trailer is clean and residue-free.
Avoid backhauls or trailer swaps with non-organic freight unless there’s proper cleaning in between. A shortcut here could cost you the whole load.
Partnering with a 3PL that has experience in organic shipping and strong carrier relationships can help you move fast — without sacrificing quality or compliance.
Produce season moves fast — and so do booking decisions. But when organic freight is involved, rushing the process or skipping a few questions can lead to delays, compliance issues, or rejected shipments.
At the end of the day, the right carrier isn’t just available. They’re qualified, experienced, and prepared to transport organic goods the right way.
If you’re managing organic freight during produce season, take a moment to go beyond rate and availability. Make sure your shipping strategy includes the right partners, documentation, and standards from the start.
At WTS, we connect shippers and freight forwarders with carriers who meet USDA Organic handling requirements and know how to navigate the busy produce season.
Because when you’re dealing with organic freight, doing it right matters just as much as doing it fast.