Business Models of Seasonal Logistics Services in The U.S. Agricultural Sector

This article conducts a systematic analysis of business models for seasonal logistics services within the United States’ agri-industrial sector. Its relevance is underscored by significant crop losses due to delays in transportation and growing demand for flexible delivery solutions for fresh produce and agricultural inputs. The study’s novelty lies in comparing two organizational paradigms: specialized agro-logistics operators versus general carriers that retool their fleets seasonally to handle perishable goods. We describe the scale of seasonal movements, rate dynamics, workforce and equipment constraints, and we analyze inter-state resource migration practices enabled by digital freight platforms. Our objectives include assessing these models’ resilience, estimating their financial potential, and offering market participants actionable recommendations. Employing comparative analysis, econometric and statistical modeling, custom-harvester case studies, and content analysis of nine key sources (FAO, USDA, ATS, OTR Solutions, Corrigan Logistics, USCHI, among others), we pay special attention to how government policy affects staffing and storage infrastructure development. Findings confirm the effectiveness of hybrid contracting schemes and demonstrate that digitalization enhances trans-regional fleet mobility, reducing off-season idle time. Optimizing empty-run rates cuts CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption—boosting supply-chain sustainability. Future research should evaluate how climate change will shift harvest calendars and require new routing strategies. We also present an empirical ranking of states by seasonal peak intensity, guiding strategic investments in rolling stock and warehouse capacity.