An analysis by DAT Freight & Analytics found that freight rates are elevated and produce volumes are higher in markets surrounding FIFA World Cup host cities in the U.S. The effect is showing up both in overall freight metrics and specifically in produce movement, according to Principal Analyst Dean Croke.
For produce shippers and buyers, this is an underappreciated cost pressure right now. Host city markets are pulling more freight capacity, which tightens availability and pushes up rates for surrounding lanes — not just for teams shipping directly to event venues. The effect compounds what's already been a rising rate environment.
Anyone routing produce into World Cup host city markets over the next few weeks should factor in elevated freight costs and potential capacity constraints. Worth confirming carrier commitments in advance rather than relying on spot availability.