>> I let them grow in their plug-trays for an average of a month. I then will transplant the majority to 2-3" pots or larger plug trays (larger compartments, not trays).
Ahhhh! Then we have almost the same experience. I can see where a reasonably slow-growing plant could stay in a 72-cell or 98-cell for around 4 weeks without potting up.
I always try to get the deepest plug trays I can find. I guess professionals don't feel the need, but I figure that any extra soil volume I can provide while not overflowing my one light shelf, is a Good Thing.