Pumpkin logistics for Halloween: How to get it right

Like trick-or-treating, wearing fun costumes, and watching horror movies, pumpkins are a staple of Halloween. In fact, they’re so popular that the United States produced around 14.42 million cwt (hundredweight) of them in 2024 alone. 

But before they can be carved into jack-o’-lanterns, pumpkins must be grown and shipped to stores and retailers. And pumpkin logistics can be a tricky task. 

How do shippers make sure pumpkins arrive intact, ready to be carved, displayed, or eaten during the spooky season? 

In this post, we’ll explain how to ship pumpkins safely and offer some expert tips to help you get it right.

How are pumpkins processed to prepare them for shipping?

Proper processing is a key part of pumpkin logistics in the US. Let’s explore how it works.

• Harvesting: Pumpkins are typically harvested from the vine by hand when they are fully mature and hardened.
• Cleaning and sorting: Pumpkins must be washed to remove dirt and anything else that could affect their quality. Once checked, pumpkins are sorted by quality and size, ready to be packaged. 
• Packaging: Pumpkins are packaged in crates, cartons, or bulk bins. For wholesale shipments, cardboard bins are the standard choice. These may be lined or cushioned as needed.
• Shipping and distribution: Pumpkins are shipped from farms to distributors, retailers, or end customers. The destination depends on the buyer. 

How to pack pumpkins for shipping

Pumpkins must be packed securely before shipping. Using the wrong packaging could cause serious problems during the pumpkin logistics process. This would waste time, money, and produce. 

Here are some of the most important elements of proper pumpkin packaging:

Strong materials to prevent damage

Pumpkins must reach their destination in good condition, which means protecting them from damage during transit. 

With this in mind, package pumpkins in strong bulk bins or corrugated cartons with padding. This will reduce the likelihood of bruising and other forms of damage.

Ventilate pumpkins to ensure quality

Like any other perishable goods, pumpkins must be stored in a ventilated space. They need good airflow to avoid mold and premature decay. 

Find the right stacking strategy

In pumpkin shipping, stacking is vital to make the most of the space available. However, it’s essential to avoid overpacking them into containers, as this can restrict airflow and cause damage. 

Always place heavier pumpkins on the bottom and store lighter ones on top. Sorting pumpkins by size before packaging them will help you stack efficiently. 

Maintain optimal temperatures

Using a truck with temperature controls can provide the right environment for pumpkin shipping. Pumpkins keep best in cool, dry conditions with a temperature of 50 to 55°F. 

Refrigerated trailers may not be the best option, because pumpkins will decay faster if kept too cold. But opting for vented van shipping can help protect pumpkins from heat during transit and keep them at the ideal temperature.

Informative labeling and handling directions

Careful labeling is a key part of knowing how to ship pumpkins. Add “fragile” and “perishable” designations to packaging to reduce the likelihood of rough handling. This will help pumpkins reach their end destination in one piece.

Key challenges in pumpkin logistics

Pumpkin shipping comes with its own set of unique challenges, including: 

• Seasonality: Demand for pumpkins spikes in the autumn. Being able to supply the amount of pumpkins needed on time requires precise planning. 
• Fragility: Like other types of produce, pumpkins can bruise, crack, and rot if handled poorly. Shippers need to carefully package and label pumpkins to keep them intact.
• Weight and size: Pumpkins are heavy and bulky. That can make shipping costs a concern, especially for companies moving pumpkins in large quantities. 
• Transit times: Pumpkins must reach sellers and end customers as soon as possible to maintain their optimal shelf life. Shippers must time their shipping properly to achieve on-time delivery.
• Market reach: Growers often ship pumpkins across states or even internationally. Dealing with other markets can make pumpkin logistics more complicated, particularly for smaller companies. 

DTS is your partner for pumpkin shipping and seasonal freight 

Shipping pumpkins for Halloween demands careful planning. Understanding when pumpkins will be harvested, knowing how to package them properly, and using the right packaging and labels are key. Plus, you need to find carriers who know how to ship pumpkins on time and with care.

This can be a time-consuming and complex process to handle on your own. That’s why working with shipping professionals, like DTS, is a great idea. We have decades of experience in managing seasonal and specialty shipping for countless businesses. 

To discuss your produce and food transportation needs or for a tailored pumpkin shipping quote, get in touch today.