CNGA Looseleaf Dec 2018 Jan 2019

18 colorad o nga.org LooseLeaf  December 2018/January 2019 money on upkeep and care for a tree that will not look as good next season because it has been above ground all winter,” she said. She believes less substitutions are necessary when suppliers are able to harvest and ship smaller, on-demand orders throughout the season. By not relying on trees dug just in two short digging periods in the spring and fall, and digging year round instead, they will have the tree in stock as long as they have grown that variety to the right size. However, she and Hanni both caution that customers should be aware of the times of year that shipping costs are higher and trucks are more challenging to hire, and avoid asking for deliveries during those times. “During produce season in the Northwest and California, freight prices skyrocket. July to September is very busy for produce shipments like berries and apples. Then, in mid-November to mid- December, Christmas trees are shipping so the freight costs are high at that time as well,” Hiatt said. “Companies should choose a broker that is an expert in logistics and can help strategize order- ing to get the most for their money, based on the best times to ship throughout each season.” Another way shipping costs can increase is if a small order can’t fill a truck. “Shipping costs for partial trucks are higher than full loads,” said Hanni, adding that his company works with several truck brokers to ship trees at the best possible rate. “Regardless of when the trees need to ship, to avoid disappoint- ment we advise our customers to put in their orders as early as possible and think about acceptable substitutions should the item be in short supply,” he concluded. “Plan ahead, way ahead! And contact us as early as possible to discuss the available options.” “Plan ahead, way ahead! And contact growers as early as possible to discuss the available options.” – Martin Hanni Photo courtesy of Northwest Shade Trees