Pumpkins are the heartwarming color and traditional component of fall festivities in the United States. Whether consumers are picking pumpkins at the pumpkin patch or shopping at a local grocery store, many do not consider the logistics required to meet our country’s high demand.
Examining the Facts
- Nearly 1.5 billion pounds of pumpkins are produced in the U.S.each year.
- 90% of pumpkins come from Illinois.
- Michigan is ranked number 4 in the national production of pumpkins.
- Michigan generated $9.8 million from the production of 79 million pounds of pumpkins.
- The ideal storage temperature for cured pumpkins is 50-55 degrees.
- Full truckload shipping (TL) provides the space a pumpkin shipper would need to safely transport and accommodate the cargo.
All information can be referenced by Supply Chain, Michigan.Gov, and Truckload Shipping.
Pumpkin Logistics at FWF
FWF ships pumpkins into and out of farms and distribution centers during the months of August, September, and October. Beginning at a farm, the pumpkins are loaded with a fork lift onto van or reefer trailers as full truckload shipments. After 1-2 hours, the pumpkins are loaded into Gaylord boxes on skids at an average weight of 45,000 pounds.
When the trucks are fully loaded and ready to ship, the pumpkins are most often sent to a distribution center where they are prepared to be shipped to retail outlets based on demand. As consumers look for new and innovative dishes, FWF projects that the demand for pumpkins will continue to rise as they move into the main stream of produce.
Overview
The logistics of pumpkins are important to consider as billions of pounds are harvested each year. During the holiday season, pumpkins are shipped to and from pumpkin farms and distribution centers across the country. FWF solidifies the most vital link in this supply chain by connecting suppliers with consumers across the United States. FWF consults our customers on optimal logistic solutions for their pumpkin shipments and actively takes part in meeting the demands of the produce industry.
