Summer Freight Season Is Heating Up — Here’s What to Expect on the Road

As summer rolls in, the freight world kicks into high gear. This time of year always brings a noticeable shift — more loads, busier lanes, tighter schedules, and greater opportunities for drivers who are ready to move.

If you’ve been in the industry a while, you probably know the drill. But whether you’re behind the wheel or behind the scenes, it’s always worth revisiting what makes summer such a critical stretch for logistics—and how to make the most of it.

What’s Behind the Summer Surge?

From June through early September, freight volumes spike for a few key reasons:

• Seasonal Produce
  Farms across the U.S. are in full swing, especially in states like California, Florida, and Texas. Reefer demand rises sharply as fresh fruits and vegetables need quick, climate-controlled transport.

• Retail Ramps Up
  From summer sales to early back-to-school prep, retailers are moving a lot of inventory—fast. E-commerce shipments also pick up speed with more people shopping from home and vacation spots.

• Construction Season Peaks
  With longer daylight hours and warm weather, construction projects hit full stride. Building materials, heavy equipment, and supplies move in large volumes.

• Recreational Freight Rolls Out
  Everything from grills and patio furniture to boats, bikes, and camping gear is on the move during summer months.

What It Means for Drivers

With all that freight moving, opportunities abound. Shippers are looking for reliable capacity. Rates in certain lanes climb. Load boards are busier. And dispatchers are working overtime to keep everything running smoothly.

Of course, summer also brings its own set of challenges—equipment wear from heat, heavier traffic, and tighter schedules. But for drivers who like to stay active, it’s one of the best times of year to be out on the road.

Staying Ahead of the Curve

Now’s the time to double-check your maintenance schedule, stay hydrated, and keep an eye on high-volume areas where freight is moving fast. If you’re the kind of driver who likes to stay busy, the road is calling—and it’s not slowing down anytime soon.

Ready to Hit the Road This Summer?

There’s money to be made and miles to run—and 6th Street Logistics is the team to do it with.

Click here to apply to drive with 6th Street Logistics and take advantage of the summer freight boom.

Join a company that feels like family. Let’s make this summer your best season yet.