Summer Freight Trends: What Owner-Operators Should Expect in 2025

As summer rolls in, the freight market begins its seasonal shift, signaling the start of summer freight patterns. For owner-operators, this means new opportunities, new challenges, and the need to adapt strategies to stay profitable and efficient. With 2025 already shaping up to be an interesting year for trucking, here’s what to expect in the months ahead.

Hot Lanes and High-Demand Regions for Summer 2025

Summer brings a surge in demand across several regions in the U.S., particularly in the South and Midwest. Key hot spots expected to see increased freight volume in 2025 include:

• California’s Central Valley – Produce season kicks into high gear, boosting reefer demand.
• Texas and the Gulf Coast – Construction season fuels flatbed freight; cross-border activity remains strong.
• Chicago and the Midwest – A major freight hub year-round, but volume typically peaks in Q2 and Q3.
• Southeast Corridor (Atlanta, Charlotte, Jacksonville) – Retail restocking, agriculture, and imports drive dry van and reefer demand.
  

Staying informed on regional freight flows can help owner-operators position themselves in the right markets at the right times.

Reefer, Flatbed, and Dry Van: What’s Trending in 2025

Each trailer type has its seasonal surge, and this summer, trends are expected to mirror the shift toward steady economic recovery and increased consumer demand:

Reefer

• Strong Produce Demand: Expect heavy volumes from Florida, Georgia, and California as harvests peak.
• Grocery Retailers: With consumer spending rebounding, grocery chains are increasing orders — more reefer hauls are needed.
• Temperature-sensitive e-commerce: Pharmaceuticals and specialty food items continue to gain traction.
  

Flatbed

• Construction Season: Infrastructure projects and residential and commercial builds drive demand.
• Oil and Gas Sector: Activity is picking up in states like Texas, Oklahoma, and North Dakota.
• Heavy Equipment Moves: Summer is the peak time for hauling machinery and building materials.
  

Dry Van

• Back-to-school Shipments: Expect a bump starting in mid-summer.
• General Retail: E-commerce fulfillment and restocking drive van demand from distribution centers.
• Imports from Ports: Port traffic on the West Coast and Gulf continues to recover post-supply chain bottlenecks.
  

Spot Market Predictions for Summer 2025

Industry analysts predict a modestly stronger spot market this summer compared to last year. Key factors include:

• Driver capacity is tightening due to ongoing regulatory changes and higher operating costs.
• There will be a seasonal surge in volume, especially in produce and construction-related freight.
• Diesel prices are expected to remain relatively stable, easing cost pressure somewhat.
  

Rates for reefer and flatbed loads are likely to see upward movement through June and July, while dry van rates should stay steady with slight increases around back-to-school and pre-holiday inventory builds.

Tips for Maximizing Loads in the Summer Months

Here’s how owner-operators can make the most of the summer freight boom:

Stay Flexible with Lanes

Follow the freight. Chasing high-volume lanes like California to the Midwest or Texas to the Southeast can boost revenue.

Use Load Boards Smartly

Look for patterns in load availability. Use filtering tools to spot backhaul opportunities and avoid deadhead miles.

Maintain Your Equipment

Heat can be hard on trucks — check your A/C, coolant levels, tires, and reefer units regularly.

Plan for Produce Seasons

Reefer haulers should mark their calendars for regional harvests and be ready to shift quickly as demand spikes.

Leverage Broker Relationships

Establishing solid relationships with brokers can help you secure higher-paying, repeat freight during busy periods.

Conclusion

Summer 2025 is shaping up to be a season of opportunity for owner-operators who stay ahead of the trends and prepare accordingly. By knowing which lanes to target, which freight types are hot, and how to stay efficient on the road, you can make the most of the season’s freight boom.