Adoption of AI-driven data analytics, automation, and data consolidation continues to increase, and organizations that integrate technology tools into daily operations may be better positioned to identify exceptions sooner, improve asset and labor utilization, and respond to changing customer and market conditions.

However, the benefits don鈥檛 come from just adding more software or technology, because different links in the supply chain have different needs. Machine learning models can evaluate fleet and shipment data to identify patterns that would be difficult or time-consuming for people to catch manually. Automated yard management systems check in trailers and flag delays without manual tracking. Computer vision tools can assess a photo of a loaded trailer to identify unused cube space, and inventory-counting drones can complete overnight counts without added labor. The key is deploying the right solutions at the right time.

The Growing Role of AI

The role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the supply chain continues to grow. The described 2025 as the year that AI moved decisively from promise to proof, pointing to a growing number of large-scale, commercially validated technology deployments across warehousing, transportation and logistics operations.

The report highlighted AI's value across four capabilities: interpreting data, predicting outcomes, recommending action and executing decisions. In practice, that means AI models are doing everything from flagging anomalies in shipment data to recommending routing adjustments before a delay occurs.

At the same time, the found that 67% of shippers and 73% of third-party logistics providers now report using artificial intelligence and machine learning at some level, which indicates AI is becoming an operating expectation rather than a differentiator reserved for early adopters.

Telematics Data Increases Visibility and Improves Decision Making

As shippers and logistics providers expect more information about loads, performance and operations, telematics has become an increasingly necessary tool for fleets of all sizes. By enabling and speeding up the long-distance transmission of computerized data, telematics helps fleets increase visibility through real-time updates, improve communications, optimize operations and manage their fleet more efficiently, thereby increasing profitability.

Data can help fleets and drivers improve safety, plus it can be aggregated and analyzed to understand a variety of vehicle, driver and business performance indicators. Telematics can also transmit fault codes, which can improve maintenance-related decision making, help prioritize repairs and drive maintenance efficiency.

How Technology Is Deployed Across 糖心传媒's Fleet and Supply Chain Solutions

How a business puts technology to work often depends on which type of fleet or supply chain solution it relies on. 糖心传媒 has rolled out various technologies across its network to support customers at every stage of their operation:

Full-service leases

Predictive maintenance tools help identify vehicle issues before they result in roadside failures, reducing downtime and keeping fleets on schedule. gives customers visibility into maintenance, vehicle health and utilization.

uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to help fleets benchmark performance and identify opportunities involving utilization, fuel efficiency and other operating metrics.

Rentals

Many of 糖心传媒鈥檚 commercial rental vehicles include connected technology, including telematics, GPS-supported tools and safety features. These capabilities can give fleets greater visibility into short-term capacity without requiring them to purchase and install their own onboard systems.

Logistics

AI and automation can support routing, load planning, demand forecasting and transportation-sourcing decisions. creates, manages and executes data, while pairing the best available software with custom-built tools to tackle complex supply chain challenges.

provides comprehensive, real-time, end-to-end supply chain visibility from warehouse to transportation. Load, order and item-level information are combined into a unified platform. Bringing all of the data together in a single source to help improve end-to-end visibility, painting a clearer picture of the entire supply chain.

Used trucks

Maintenance-history reports, vehicle specifications and condition information help buyers evaluate used equipment more carefully. Because many 糖心传媒 units are late-model vehicles that previously operated in its fleet, they often have onboard safety and driver-assistance features.

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• Used Truck Data Helps Buyers Make Smarter Purchasing Decisions

New markets often come with unfamiliar demand patterns, different customer expectations, new equipment needs and unexpected operational challenges, which is why speed, flexibility and discipline matter. The right strategy gives organizations room to test, learn and scale as real operating data becomes available.

Take Advantage of New Opportunities

The found that freight patterns and supply chain networks continue to shift. Tariff policy changes, geopolitical realignment, nearshoring and friendshoring are influencing where goods move and how companies structure their distribution networks.

These changes can create openings for new lanes, customers, sourcing locations and distribution points, but they also make demand harder to predict. Fleets and shippers that enter new markets with flexible, scalable strategies are in a better position to pursue new opportunities without committing too much capital too soon.

Top Risks of Market Expansion

The top risks when expanding are typically doing too much too soon or not doing enough. Companies that overinvest can be left with underused equipment, warehouse space, carrier commitments or fixed costs if growth does not meet expectations. Those that underinvest can struggle to meet customer expectations, provide inconsistent service and damage relationships before the market has a chance to develop.

Both scenarios are costly, which is why the strongest expansion strategies give fleets and shippers room to adjust as their needs change, scaling up if demand grows and scaling back if the market takes longer

Why Flexibility Matters More in New Markets

Established markets and customers give transportation and logistics leaders hard data on lane performance, seasonality, customer behavior, equipment utilization labor needs and operating costs. Being able to draw on that history helps support more confident planning. New markets don鈥檛 offer the same level of certainty. Demand projections are often based on research, expected customer interest and assumptions rather than actual operating experience. Once operations begin, demand may look different than expected.

The 2026 Report shows that network design is becoming more prevalent as companies respond to changes in trade flows, customer expectations and regulatory requirements. For fleets, shippers and their logistics providers, that means market entry strategies need to be agile.

Match the Strategy to the Level of Certainty

There is no single best way to enter a new market. The right path depends on how much demand is known, how quickly the opportunity needs to be served, how much control the organization wants and where the biggest constraints exist.

Equipment Choices Can Reduce Exposure

The decision about how to acquire equipment for a new market, whether to rent, lease, buy used or some combination of all three, can have a significant impact on capital requirements, cost structures and operating flexibility.

Rental equipment can be useful when a fleet wants to test a market, lane, customer or business segment without making a long-term commitment. Leasing can provide a more structured option once demand begins to take shape, giving fleets access to well-maintained equipment, predictable costs and support that can help protect uptime. Used trucks and trailers can play a role when a fleet is ready to move beyond testing a market and establish owned capacity while lowering the initial investment compared with new equipment.

Logistics Support Can Shorten the Learning Curve

Equipment is only part of the expansion decision. The right logistics infrastructure is another. Entering a new area without established carrier relationships, warehouse access, route knowledge, visibility tools or network engineering support can slow execution and increase risk.

Working with a logistics partner that already has infrastructure in the target market can help shippers move faster. Established carrier networks, warehouse capabilities, engineering expertise and technology can make it easier to serve customers from the start instead of building every capability from scratch.

Use a Phased Approach

Market entry does not have to be an all-or-nothing decision. A fleet may start with rentals to test demand, convert part of the operation to a lease as volume stabilizes, add used trucks when demand becomes predictable and owned capacity makes financial sense, and use a logistics partner for warehousing, brokerage or network design. A phased approach gives transportation and logistics leaders a way to act quickly while preserving the ability to adapt.

Test First, Commit Later

In an , adaptability is becoming a competitive advantage. 糖心传媒 offers several solutions that can support market expansion while giving fleets and shippers the ability to scale as new markets develop. 糖心传媒 offers flexible fleet solutions for business growth.

Rental Trucks and Trailers:

Fleets can test new opportunities with before committing to permanent assets. 糖心传媒 provides access to equipment in new geographies without a long-term commitment.

Leased Trucks and Trailers:

can help fleets enter a new market with a professional, well-maintained fleet, pre-determined monthly costs, and maintenance support.

Used Trucks:

offers late-model trucks and trailers with detailed maintenance reports. Used equipment can help fleets establish owned capacity at a lower acquisition cost while adding market-ready assets.

Logistics Services:

can provide access to existing network capabilities, carrier relationships, warehousing, supply chain visibility and operational expertise.

Learn More

Looking for more information on expanding into new markets?

• Expand Into New Markets With Used Trucks

Knowing where an ordered vehicle stands can help fleet managers prepare for what鈥檚 next. Whether coordinating a replacement, planning for onboarding or simply checking the status of an incoming vehicle, timely updates make it easier to plan with confidence.

now includes Vehicle Delivery Tracker, a feature that gives 糖心传媒 lease customers direct access to the status of vehicles on order. Instead of relying solely on manual status updates, customers can monitor each vehicle鈥檚 progress from OEM order confirmation through pickup within the same platform they use to manage their fleet.

Vehicle Delivery Tracker follows every ordered vehicle through five milestones:

1. Order Placed
2. Order Active
3. Arrived at 糖心传媒
4. Schedule Pickup
5. Picked Up

Along the way, customers can view the vehicles current status, estimated arrival month and other delivery information. The tracker also offers flexible viewing options, making it easy to monitor one vehicle or multiple orders based on individual preferences or workflows.

By giving customers direct access to order status throughout the delivery process, Vehicle Delivery Tracker helps reduce uncertainty between the time a vehicle is ordered and the day it enters service. Instead of wondering where an order stands, fleet managers have the information they need to coordinate next steps and prepare for incoming vehicles. This supports better planning for fleet readiness and vehicle onboarding while giving customers greater transparency into every stage of the delivery process.

To learn how Fleet Insight can support your operations, and explore our full-service leasing solutions and the technology available to our customers.

Some costs are easy to spot. Equipment purchases, fuel, labor and freight rates all have clear line items in transportation and supply chain budgets. But some of the most significant expenses are harder to identify.

Idle equipment, underutilized drivers, inefficient routes, excess inventory, unplanned maintenance and reactive decision-making can quietly erode margins and profitability over time often without triggering any immediate concern.

A truck sitting too long at a dock, a route with unnecessary miles or inventory stored in the wrong location may seem like minor inefficiencies, but they accumulate. And the longer they go unaddressed, the more they cost.

As transportation networks grow more complex and operating costs stay elevated, uncovering and eliminating these hidden expenses is essential to protecting fleet and supply chain performance.

The Cost of Inefficiency

Hidden costs often stem from inefficiencies that appear to be a normal part of day-to-day operations, which is exactly what makes them easy to overlook.

Take equipment utilization. A fleet may have enough equipment to meet demand, but consistently low utilization means paying for assets that aren鈥檛 generating revenue. Ineffective maintenance practices compound the problem and can lead to increased fuel consumption, higher repair costs and more downtime. Unplanned repairs are also typically more expensive than scheduled preventive work and the frustration they cause drivers can contribute to higher turnover.

Driver behavior adds another layer of cost. Excessive idling, hard braking and inefficient speed management can increase fuel consumption by 10-15% or more compared to optimized driving habits 鈥� a meaningful hit to the bottom line that often goes untracked.

Shippers face similar challenges. Inventory stored in the wrong locations increases transportation costs, while freight moving through outdated routes may no longer align with where customers actually are. Overstocking creates a double burden: higher warehousing expenses and increased carrying costs.

For carriers and shippers, a lack of real-time visibility into shipment status drives inefficiency across the board, leading to manual check calls, reactive rerouting and last-minute decision-making. At the same time, unplanned downtime can reduce asset utilization, increase overtime and impact customer service levels.

Are Hidden Costs Affecting Your Operation?

Before carriers and shippers can address hidden costs, they need to know where to look. The following questions can help reveal areas of opportunity:

• Do you know your current empty mile percentages or equipment utilization rates? Low visibility into these numbers often means money is being left on the table.

• Can you see dwell time by location? Excessive wait times at docks and yards are a direct cost that frequently goes untracked.

• How does your fleet鈥檚 fuel economy compare to similar fleets? Significant gaps often point to deferred maintenance or driver behavior issues.

• Is your inventory positioned to minimize transportation costs? Poor positioning creates unnecessary miles and inflates carrier spend.

• How much time does your team spend on reactive decisions? Check calls, emergency rerouting and last-minute capacity sourcing are symptoms of a visibility gap and can add up.

If any of these questions are difficult to answer, that uncertainty is itself a cost. The good news: data and visibility tools can help address all of it.

Visibility Creates Opportunity

Reducing hidden costs starts with identifying where they exist. With the right data, analytics and visibility tools, companies can uncover inefficiencies that would otherwise go unnoticed.

For example, fleet utilization reports can reveal underused assets. Maintenance data can highlight recurring issues that drive up operating costs. Transportation and network analytics can uncover routing inefficiencies, empty miles and opportunities to improve asset productivity. Each of these insights represents a direct path to cost reduction.

Technology is making it easier to identify these opportunities. Artificial intelligence, predictive analytics and real-time visibility tools allow transportation providers and shippers to move beyond reactive decision-making and proactively address inefficiencies before they become larger, costlier problems.

The benefits extend beyond cost savings. Carriers and shippers who embrace visibility and analytics gain a meaningful competitive edge that includes leaner operations, sharper pricing, faster response times and less waste throughout the supply chain.

Build a More Efficient Operation

Eliminating hidden costs does not necessarily require major operational changes. In many cases, incremental improvements across the business can generate meaningful savings, and these opportunities are often interconnected.

Maintaining newer equipment may reduce fuel consumption and repair costs. Right-sizing fleet capacity can improve utilization. Optimizing transportation networks can cut miles and strengthen service performance. Better visibility into inventory and shipments can help organizations make faster, more informed decisions.

The key is evaluating transportation and supply chain operations holistically rather than focusing on individual expenses in isolation. Siloed cost reviews often miss the relationships between asset availability, routing efficiency and inventory positioning, which is often where the largest savings opportunities exist.

Hidden Cost Categories at a Glance

Solutions for Reducing Hidden Costs

Addressing hidden costs rarely comes down to a single fix. The right combination of solutions depends on an organization鈥檚 specific challenges, but several proven approaches can make a meaningful difference across different cost categories.

Full-service leasing: Leasing helps fleets reduce maintenance surprises, improve uptime and create more predictable operating expenses.

Rental trucks and trailers: Flexible capacity through rental equipment allows fleets to respond to changing demand without the cost of carrying underutilized equipment.

Used trucks and trailers: offers a cost-effective way to add capacity, reducing acquisition costs while giving fleets the flexibility to deploy equipment quickly when business conditions change.

Logistics: help companies identify and address inefficiencies in network design, routing, inventory positioning and capacity management, creating opportunities to improve performance across the entire supply chain.

Start Finding What鈥檚 Costing You

Hidden costs don鈥檛 disappear on their own, but they can be controlled. For carriers and shippers willing to look beyond obvious line items, the opportunity is significant. Better visibility, smarter use of data and the right operational solutions can turn inefficiencies into savings - the first step is knowing where to look.

Learn More

Looking for more information on eliminating hidden costs?

• How the Right Used Truck Strategy Helps Reduce Fleet Costs

The location in Byron Center, Michigan, received its LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certification. The building鈥檚 roof features a 216-kW DC PV system of solar panels. This location has achieved a direct reduction in Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions. It employs 100% renewable energy sourced from solar energy that is consumed and purchased renewable energy certificates to offset any utility usage from the grid.

Among the location鈥檚 sustainability features:

• Energy efficiency cost savings of nearly 63%
• By cost, 38% renewable energy generation
• No outdoor irrigation and a 42% indoor water use reduction
• Whole-building life-cycle assessment was completed
• Dedicated onsite storage and collection of recyclables
• The recycling of operational waste streams that include batteries, e-waste, tires and oil

Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED is a framework for identifying, implementing and measuring green building and neighborhood design, construction, operations and maintenance. LEED is a voluntary, market-driven, consensus-based tool that serves as a guideline and assessment mechanism.

To learn more about the company鈥檚 LEED-certified facilities, please click here.

In this photo of 糖心传媒 associates, from left: Chase Thomas, assistant district manager; Carlos Love, district manager; Ivet Frayne, vice president of environmental affairs; and Nicole Judge, environmental manager.

By 鈥淢ove Ahead鈥� Staff

What started as a modest introduction to SkillsUSA over a decade ago has evolved into a strong, lasting partnership that is helping shape the future of diesel and collision technicians nationwide. Among those leading the effort is Rick Labadie, director of staffing for 糖心传媒鈥檚 Technician Hiring Center.

Labadie recalls 糖心传媒鈥檚 initial involvement at the 2013 SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference in Kansas City. 鈥淲e showed up with a pop-up tent, a toolbox giveaway and about 2,000 糖心传媒-branded water bottles,鈥� said Labadie. 鈥淚t was over 100 degrees, and we were just trying to figure out what SkillsUSA was all about.鈥�

That first experience offered an enlightening perspective, showing Labadie and the team the organization鈥檚 impact and opportunity. 鈥淚t opened our eyes to the sheer number of skilled trades and the talent pipeline that exists.鈥�

Earning a Seat at the Table

Getting more involved wasn鈥檛 immediate. In the early years, participation required persistence and relationship-building. 鈥淚t wasn鈥檛 easy,鈥� Labadie explained. 鈥淵ou had long-standing committees and networks already in place. We had to build trust and find our way in.鈥�

糖心传媒 did that by partnering with technical schools and industry peers. A key milestone came through collaboration with Ohio Technical College, which helped the company gain involvement in SkillsUSA鈥檚 diesel competition. From there, 糖心传媒 began supporting and eventually leading specific competition stations.

糖心传媒鈥檚 presence within SkillsUSA expanded over time. In 2019, 糖心传媒 became an official partner, further solidifying its commitment. That growth extends beyond events. When 糖心传媒 first began engaging with SkillsUSA, it worked with roughly 40 to 50 technical schools. Today, that number has grown to over 400 nationwide.

鈥淚t takes a village,鈥� Labadie noted. 鈥淎nd these relationships with instructors, schools and industry partners are what make everything possible.鈥� 糖心传媒 continues to maintain ongoing engagement with schools through visits, tours and partnerships that bring students directly into company facilities to experience the work firsthand.

Today, 糖心传媒 is involved in multiple competition areas, including diesel technology and collision repair, with more than a dozen hands-on stations contributing to the national event.

Powering Workforce Success

糖心传媒鈥檚 support of SkillsUSA reflects a broader industry challenge: an ongoing shortage of skilled technicians. 鈥淭here鈥檚 a tremendous demand for talent,鈥� Labadie emphasized. 鈥淲e need to start earlier, engaging students in middle and high school and getting them excited about these careers.鈥�

Programs like SkillsUSA are helping shift perceptions. Once overlooked, skilled trades are now increasingly seen as viable, rewarding career paths, often without the burden of significant student debt. 鈥淭he narrative has changed,鈥� Labadie said. 鈥淪tudents and families are recognizing that the trades offer real earning potential and growth.鈥�

At national competitions, 糖心传媒 engages with some of the most promising young talent in the country. 鈥淭hese students are the best of the best,鈥� Labadie remarked. 鈥淚f we could hire every one of them, we would.鈥� The qualities that stand out, including attitude, aptitude and a willingness to learn, are the same traits 糖心传媒 prioritizes across its workforce.

Equally important is adaptability. As the transportation industry evolves, so too does the skill set required of technicians. 鈥淚t鈥檚 no longer just about turning wrenches,鈥� Labadie explained. 鈥淭oday鈥檚 technicians need to be tech-savvy, strong problem solvers and comfortable working with advanced diagnostics and evolving technology.鈥�

Developing Future Leaders

Through SkillsUSA, 糖心传媒 takes a strategic approach to strengthening its workforce pipeline. In 2026 alone, the company participated in 19 state-level competitions, with a focus on regions where school partnerships are still developing. 鈥淲e look at where we need to grow and work with SkillsUSA to help build those connections,鈥� Labadie said.

This targeted outreach not only enhances 糖心传媒鈥檚 recruiting efforts but also underscores its commitment to supporting and advancing the skilled trades industry.

For Labadie, one of the most rewarding parts of the journey is seeing the long-term results.

He points to moments when students, some already working at 糖心传媒, excel in SkillsUSA competitions, showcasing both their abilities and the strength of the company鈥檚 training programs. 鈥淚t鈥檚 about building that next generation,鈥� he added. 鈥淎nd making sure the knowledge from today鈥檚 experienced technicians gets passed down.鈥�

Looking Ahead

Reflecting on this year鈥檚 SkillsUSA conference, Labadie and his team were energized by the exceptional talent on display and the meaningful connections made throughout the week. As 糖心传媒 continues to invest in the next generation of technicians, that momentum carries forward well beyond the event itself. 鈥淲e鈥檙e not just there to hire. We鈥檙e there to be partners and stewards of the industry. This is bigger than any one company,鈥� Labadie concluded.

Built on strong relationships, innovation and a shared commitment to workforce development, 糖心传媒 and leaders like Labadie are helping shape a strong future for the skilled trades.

By 鈥淢ove Ahead鈥� Staff

This week, we're proud to celebrate National Technician Appreciation Week and recognize the more than 11,500 associates whose precision drives our performance.

This year's theme, Precision Driven, reflects what sets 糖心传媒's technicians and CSRs apart 鈥� a relentless commitment to doing things the right way, every time. The work may happen in the shop, but its impact is felt with every delivery, every single day.

"Every mile we run safely and every customer we support starts with them," said Art Vallely, president, 糖心传媒 Truck Leasing.

What 糖心传媒 technicians and CSRs do requires deep technical expertise, constant problem-solving and an uncompromising commitment to quality. Across more than 1,000 locations in North America, they keep more than 400,000 vehicles road-ready, delivering the reliability and precision that customers count on every day.

"Our technicians and CSRs are not just doing a job 鈥� they are practicing a craft. And they have mastered it," added Vallely.

Their mastery shows up in every repair, every inspection and every adjustment. And that precision makes a difference. All week long, 糖心传媒 will recognize technicians and CSRs across the company, spotlighting the skills, dedication and teamwork that keep our company, and the supply chain, moving.

Watch a of appreciation from 糖心传媒's leadership team.

To watch with Spanish or French-Canadian subtitles, follow these steps:

• Click play.
• Locate the CC icon in the bottom-right corner of the screen.
• Select your preferred language.

Transportation and supply chain needs are constantly changing, especially in the current operating environment. Freight demand and capacity fluctuate, costs shift and customer expectations evolve.

Perfectly aligning supply and demand can be challenging. Overbuilding leads to idle assets and unnecessary costs. Underbuilding leads to missed opportunities and service challenges.

Rightsizing helps carriers and shippers align equipment and resources with actual business needs while maintaining the flexibility to adjust operations as those needs change. The ideal solution includes creating a core operation that supports consistent demand, then layering in flexible solutions to handle variability.

The Cost of Getting It Wrong

Many fleets and shippers make decisions based on peak demand or worst-case scenarios, which can result in equipment sitting unused during slower periods or in insufficient capacity when demand spikes.

Overcapacity and undercapacity both carry real costs, though they show up differently. Overcapacity is often visible in utilization data, such as trucks sitting in yards, trailers not moving or drivers without loads. Carrying excess capacity means paying for assets that are not contributing to revenue. Undercapacity often shows up in service failures, deferred maintenance and missed opportunities.

Rightsizing Requires Flexibility

Because business conditions change, rightsizing is not a one-time exercise. It requires ongoing attention and the right resources and partners at the right time.

As freight patterns change, customer needs shift, or new opportunities emerge, fleets and supply chains need to adapt accordingly. That requires visibility into utilization and demand as well as flexibility in how capacity is added. As part of the process, fleets should regularly evaluate whether their current vehicle-and-trailer mix meets their freight needs. That can include reviewing cab configurations, body types, engine specifications and trailer lengths.

Craft the Ideal Configuration

Building flexibility through a mix of owned, leased and rented equipment or scalable logistics services is one of the most effective ways to match supply and demand over time.

Different transportation solutions each play a role in a rightsizing strategy. 糖心传媒 provides a range of solutions that help fleets and shippers rightsize their operations, including:

: Leasing helps establish a stable, right-sized baseline fleet that supports consistent operations.

Rental provides flexible capacity that can scale up or down based on real-time demand.

Used Trucks: Used trucks offer a cost-effective way to fine-tune owned capacity without over-investing.

: Logistics services help optimize networks and scale operations without committing to fixed infrastructure.

Measure the Impact Before Committing

糖心传媒 offers two tools to help fleets quantify the business case for rightsizing before making a commitment. The Fleet Availability Calculator shows the revenue impact of improving fleet uptime. By entering revenue per unit per day, fleet size and annual workdays, the tool calculates how each 1% gain in availability translates to additional annual revenue, helping fleets understand what idle or down equipment is actually costing them.

Additionally, the Life Cycle Extension Calculator helps fleets evaluate the cash flow impact of adjusting trade cycles. Extending a 50-unit fleet鈥檚 replacement cycle from five to six years, for example, can improve annual cash flow by $250,000, so that capital can be redeployed toward strategic investments.

Looking for more information on rightsizing?

• Build a Cost-Effective Fleet That Meets Your Needs

This year鈥檚 Ohio SkillsUSA Championships brought together more than 4,000 registered students from across the state, representing one of the largest state-level SkillsUSA events in the country. Behind the scenes, 糖心传媒 plays a critical role in shaping that experience and helping move top-performing students from Ohio and other states to the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference in Atlanta each June.

A Personal Journey Rooted in Workforce Development

For Andy Boff, 糖心传媒鈥檚 director of maintenance initiatives, involvement with SkillsUSA is highly personal. Having started his career at 糖心传媒 in an entry-level role in 2009, Boff worked his way up with the support of peers and leaders across the organization. More than a decade later, he鈥檚 looking to pay that experience forward. 鈥淚鈥檝e had a lot of great mentors over my career,鈥� said Boff. 鈥淏eing part of SkillsUSA allows me to help others progress and advance their own careers, just like I was able to.鈥�

His first exposure to SkillsUSA came five years ago at the Ohio state competition. What immediately stood out was not just the students鈥� technical skills, but their professionalism and forward-thinking mindset. 鈥淭hey know where they want to be in five, ten years,鈥� Boff emphasized. 鈥淎nd they鈥檙e thinking about how to get there.鈥�

Why Ohio Stands Out

With more than 40,000 SkillsUSA members statewide, Ohio consistently ranks among the top three states nationally for membership. 糖心传媒 further strengthened its role in Ohio鈥檚 competitions by taking over the diesel equipment technology contest four years ago. The goal has been to replicate the challenges and expectations students experience at the national level.

The competition includes 12 hands-on stations, each focused on real-world vehicle systems, diagnostics and failure analysis. Students are judged not only on technical accuracy, but also on safety, organization, use of personal protective equipment and professional conduct. 鈥淭hese are exactly the components and scenarios they鈥檒l see in the field,鈥� Boff explained. 鈥淲e鈥檙e preparing them for day one on the job, not just for a medal.鈥�

That approach has helped Ohio qualifiers arrive at nationals more confident and better prepared to compete under heightened expectations.

Linking Classrooms and Careers

At its core, SkillsUSA serves as a bridge connecting education, industry and long-term occupations, something that鈥檚 essential for organizations like 糖心传媒. 鈥淎s we continue to grow, the number one thing we need is highly qualified technicians,鈥� said Boff. 鈥淎nd SkillsUSA helps connect us directly with various programs across the country.鈥�

In Ohio, that partnership extends well beyond competition. 糖心传媒 team members regularly participate in leadership conferences, serve on discussion panels, volunteer at events and host state officers at 糖心传媒 training centers. These interactions give students direct exposure to what employers expect, and what they can expect in return.

When engaging with students, Boff makes a point of asking not only about their career goals, but also what they hope for from future employers. That dialogue helps organizations better understand how to recruit, engage and retain the next generation of skilled employees.

From State to National Experience

For students advancing from Ohio to Atlanta, the national competition represents more than technical progression. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a whole new experience,鈥� Boff said, pointing to the chance for students to travel, explore a new city and meet peers from across the country. 鈥淚t鈥檚 an incredible opportunity for a 17- or 18-year-old.鈥�

At the national level, students are surrounded by others who share the same drive and discipline. That environment builds confidence, strengthens relationships and reinforces what it takes to succeed in the field and beyond.

Supporting the Skilled Trades Pipeline

Programs like SkillsUSA are more vital than ever, providing early access to certifications, real-world experience and core competencies that apply across industries. 鈥淪killed trades are alive and well,鈥� Boff affirmed. 鈥淭hey offer job security, strong career paths and long-term growth.鈥�

That message resonates not only with students, but also with parents and educators, as more families recognize the financial and occupational advantages of early career and technical education.

Recognizing a Strong Partnership

Additionally, 糖心传媒鈥檚 commitment to SkillsUSA was formally recognized at this year鈥檚 Ohio State Championships, where the company was named one of SkillsUSA Ohio鈥檚 鈥淚nstrumental Partners of 2026.鈥� The recognition reflects a partnership that began before the pandemic and remained strong throughout, with 糖心传媒 continuing to provide critical equipment, transportation and on-site support. That sustained involvement underscores the company鈥檚 dedication not only to today鈥檚 competitions, but to the students and educators who are shaping the future of the skilled trades.

Looking Ahead to Atlanta

糖心传媒 will once again have a strong presence at the national championships next month in Atlanta and will continue investing in students and the future workforce. 鈥淭his is just the beginning. The partnership continues to grow, and the impact continues to expand,鈥� concluded Boff.

From state-level competitions to the national stage, SkillsUSA is proving that with the right support, mentorship and opportunity, students can build careers that last.

Pictured from left to right: Brian Rupe, recruiter; Jackie Walker 鈥� executive director, SkillsUSA Ohio; Andy Boff, director of maintenance initiatives; Angela Scannell, technical schools and partnership programs manager; Derrick Fraley, recruiting manager and Taylor Turley, technician hiring specialist

By "Move Ahead" Staff

is the first truck leasing company to utilize the production T2 EV electric terminal tractor. 糖心传媒 will make the T2 EVs available for lease across North America beginning this quarter, giving customers an opportunity to reduce diesel fuel use, improve air quality and support sustainability goals.

The companies are showcasing this unit at the this week in Las Vegas.

The Kalmar T2 EV is developed entirely in-house and manufactured at Kalmar鈥檚 facility in Ottawa, Kansas. As Kalmar鈥檚 third-generation electric terminal tractor, the T2 EV delivers zero-emission performance without compromising uptime, durability or driver comfort.

Paul Rosa, senior vice president of procurement and fleet planning, 糖心传媒 Truck Leasing: 鈥淭he transition to electric yard operations has to make operational and financial sense. With Kalmar Ottawa, we鈥檝e built a 20-year relationship based on equipment that performs in demanding environments. The T2 EV is delivering the performance standards we expect, along with measurable maintenance and operating benefits.鈥�

By 鈥淢ove Ahead鈥� Staff

It was authored by TRC Companies, a WSP member company.

and Volvo Trucks North America serve as title sponsors. Exelon Companies and S&P Global Mobility are supporting sponsors.

The Market Brief arrives as commercial fleets face a convergence of pressures that industry analysts are calling the most complex operating environment in modern trucking history.

A prolonged freight recession now in its third consecutive year has been compounded by sweeping federal policy reversals, tariff-driven truck cost increases and geopolitical volatility affecting global supply chains and energy markets.

Yet across all this disruption, the data reveals a picture of an industry in structural adaptation rather than retreat. TRC estimates that more than $5 billion in state, local, and utility program funding remains available annually through 2028 supporting clean fleet investment.

Fleet technology markets are maturing across nearly every fuel and drivetrain type. Artificial intelligence has moved from pilot projects to mainstream fleet operations. And the central strategic finding of this year鈥檚 Market Brief is clear: fleets managing total cost of ownership (TCO) across a portfolio of powertrain technologies 鈥� rather than concentrating on a single solution or waiting out the uncertainty 鈥� are demonstrating measurably greater resilience.

In a freight economy where external shocks can rapidly change the economics of any single technology, including conventional diesel, powertrain diversification has become both a financial strategy and a risk management imperative.

To access the full 2026 Market Brief at no cost and receive ongoing updates and analysis from State of Sustainable Fleets, visit .

By 鈥淢ove Ahead鈥� Staff

Transportation and supply chains have always involved uncertainty, but in recent years, volatility has become a constant, affecting nearly every aspect of operations. Freight demand shifts. The economy goes up and down. Fuel prices fluctuate. Interest rates change. Equipment availability tightens. Regulations evolve. Weather and global events disrupt supply chains. Driver availability changes.

Many of the factors that have the greatest impact on transportation operations are beyond a company鈥檚 control, and that is unlikely to change. What fleets and shippers can control is how they prepare, how they structure their operations and how quickly they can respond when conditions change.

Companies that focus on the areas they can control, including capacity, costs, uptime, fleet age, visibility and network design, are better positioned to manage the areas they cannot. The right mix of transportation solutions can help companies operate more efficiently, make better financial decisions and respond faster when the market shifts.

This article is part of 糖心传媒鈥檚 鈥�Control What You Can Control鈥� series that explores how leasing, rental, used trucks and logistics solutions each help fleets and shippers gain more control over different parts of their operations.

Building Flexibility Into Fleet and Logistics Strategy

One of the most effective ways to gain more control in an unpredictable environment is to build flexibility. Different equipment and logistics solutions each play a role in giving fleets and shippers more control over different parts of their operations.

Full-service leasing helps companies control maintenance, uptime, fleet age and monthly transportation budgets through pre-set payment terms, access to late-model equipment, and a lease that includes maintenance, roadside assistance and replacement vehicles.

Rental trucks and trailers help companies control capacity by allowing them to add or reduce equipment based on demand, seasonality or new business opportunities without long-term commitments. They can also help companies scale up quickly if demand fluctuates suddenly.

Used trucks help companies control long-term fleet costs, equipment availability and replacement timing by providing a lower-cost way to own and operate equipment.

Logistics services can help companies optimize their networks as well as individual routes, improve contingency planning, increase visibility and boost customer service.

Each of these solutions addresses a different area of the business, but together they give companies more control over costs, capacity, risk and performance to help carriers and shippers manage uncertainty, improve flexibility and put more of the business under the company鈥檚 control.

Control Costs, Capacity and Risk

In addition to improving operational flexibility, the right fleet strategy can also help companies better manage financial performance and risk. Transportation is often one of the largest operating expenses for many companies, and decisions about whether to own, lease, rent or outsource logistics can significantly impact total cost of ownership, cash flow and balance sheet management.

For example, leasing can help stabilize monthly costs and reduce exposure to large repair expenses, while rentals can help companies avoid investing capital in equipment that may only be needed temporarily. Purchasing pre-owned equipment can lower acquisition costs and reduce overall capital exposure, and logistics services can help reduce transportation and warehousing costs through network optimization and improved visibility.

When used strategically, these solutions allow companies to align transportation resources with actual demand, improve utilization and reduce financial and operational risk.

Solutions To Increase Control

By combining leasing, rental, used equipment and logistics services into a coordinated strategy, companies can put more of their operations under their control, improving cost management, service performance and the ability to adapt when conditions change.

糖心传媒 provides a range of transportation solutions that help companies gain more control over different parts of their operations. These include full-service truck leasing, commercial truck rentals, used truck sales and logistics services such as dedicated contract carriage, freight brokerage and warehousing.

In the following articles, we take a closer look at how each of these solutions helps fleets and shippers control costs, capacity, risk and performance in different ways. Read more in the 鈥�Control What You Can Control鈥� series here:

• Control Your Fleet Strategy With Used Trucks

honored its 13 Suppliers of the Year during its recent Supplier Conference in Frisco, Texas. The qualifications include a survey of 糖心传媒 field service locations, corporate feedback, and a supplier scorecard.

These are the 2025 糖心传媒 Truck Leasing Suppliers of the Year:

• Best Performing Supplier, Overall: Daimler Truck North America
• Best Innovative Supplier: International Motors
• Best Performing Supplier, Heavy- and Medium-Duty Chassis: Freightliner
• Best Performing Supplier, Light-Duty Chassis: GMC
• Best Performing Supplier, Mobile Refrigeration: Thermo King
• Best Performing Supplier, Heavy-Duty Engine: Detroit Diesel Corporation
• Best Performing Supplier, Liftgate: Maxon Lift Corp.
• Best Performing Supplier, Tires: Bridgestone Americas
• Best Performing Supplier, Components: Fontaine Fifth Wheel
• Best Performing Supplier, Heavy- and Medium-Duty Transmission: Allison Transmission Holdings
• Best Performing Supplier, Services: Imperial Supplies
• Best Performing Supplier, Trailer: Great Dane
• Best Performing Supplier, Truck Body: Morgan Truck Body

These honors are handed out every other year.

Paul Rosa, senior vice president procurement and fleet planning, 糖心传媒 Truck Leasing: 鈥淐ongratulations to our suppliers of the year. Our customers, which are comprised of fleets both small and large, rely on 糖心传媒 to provide them with the most efficient uptime. Our top suppliers are so instrumental in allowing our company to provide great services.鈥�

Gregg Mangione, executive vice president maintenance, 糖心传媒 Truck Leasing: 鈥淲ith one of the industry鈥檚 largest fleets, it is imperative that our vehicle manufacturers, and parts and service suppliers, provide 糖心传媒 with consistent and reliable services. Congratulations to the best-of-the-best 糖心传媒 suppliers.鈥�

By "Move Ahead" Staff

The 2026 will prominently include and Taking place the first full week of May in Las Vegas, the industry鈥檚 largest fleet technology conference will feature 糖心传媒鈥檚 abilities to serve customers with technology-powered tools that increase fleet efficiency and provide cleaner fleet solutions.

The company is a top sponsor for both the expo and the State of Sustainable Fleets Market Brief (which goes live on May 4 and at no cost as a digital download).

Visit the 糖心传媒 Transportation Solutions and 糖心传媒 Energy booths. See the cutting-edge technology firsthand that displays how 糖心传媒 leads by example.

Here is a listing of 糖心传媒 experts who will either panel or moderate a session:

• Josh Tippin, vice president of energy and fuel services, will discuss the company鈥檚 work with renewable diesel.
• Sean Falcone, 糖心传媒 Logistics vice president of fleet operations, will highlight the why behind a fleet鈥檚 clean transportation purchasing decisions.
• Michelle Gentile, vice president of vehicle supply purchasing and systems, is moderating a session on the safe fleet integration of automated trucks.
• Travis Hill, managing director of 糖心传媒 Energy, is moderator for a discussion about the use of artificial intelligence to optimize electric vehicle charging and grid flexibility.
• Paul Rosa, senior vice president of procurement and fleet planning, heads to the mainstage for a session detailing how fleets are navigating a challenging world.
• Bill Combs, senior vice president of sustainability and partnership strategy, joins Bridgestone Americas for a fireside chat on the power of collaboration as it pertains to decarbonization.
• Sherry Sanger, executive vice president of strategy and marketing, will appear on the mainstage for a talk about AI and how software is shaping fleet strategy. She will touch on 糖心传媒鈥檚 industry-leading Catalyst AI solution.
• Rosa will head to the Volvo Trucks North America booth and engage in a discussion about the State of Sustainable Fleets Market Brief and its 2026 findings.
• Sam Thompson, vice president of customer success and fleet telematics, will conclude 糖心传媒鈥檚 thought leadership appearances, in a session discussing AI and its future in the operation of a truck fleet.

By 鈥淢ove Ahead鈥� Staff

Periodic maintenance and new construction keep the nation鈥檚 roadways strong. New speed limits, traffic patterns and rights of way, as well as worker and vehicle movement in construction areas can all impact work zone safety.

, April 20-24, highlights ways motorists and professional truck drivers can work together to keep work zone workers safe.

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has joined with the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) and the American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA) to coordinate and sponsor the awareness campaign.

This year鈥檚 theme is 鈥淪afe Actions, Save Lives.鈥�

Before taking the wheel, the FHWA encourages drivers to keep the following in mind when entering a work zone.

Work zones present challenges for truck drivers. Narrowed lanes, sudden stops, traffic pattern shifts, and uneven road surfaces can lead to crashes and fatalities. Plan your route, reduce speed, stay alert, and do your part while traveling through work zones.

Large blind spots, long stopping distances, and size constraints make maneuvering large trucks and buses in work zones particularly challenging. Passenger vehicle drivers should be mindful that CMV drivers need to take extra precautions when driving through these areas.

Pay close attention to road workers and flaggers 鈥� give them extra room, always slow down when approaching them, and be prepared to stop if necessary.

Research your routes and check for upcoming work zones. Make sure you are aware of road work before embarking on your route and when possible, use detours to avoid having to pass through these areas.Reduce speed while traveling through work zones, paying close attention to signs and signals.

Be aware of passenger vehicle drivers around you, who may not be aware of commercial vehicle driving challenges, including large blind spots and longer stopping distances.

When approaching lane closures, move into the open lane as soon as possible 鈥� pay close attention to vehicles around you that could be in your blind spot.

Rear-end crashes are common in work zones. Obey all speeds, avoid distractions, and maintain extra space between your vehicle and the one in front of you at all times.

For more information on work zone safety, visit the FHWA website.

By 鈥淢ove Ahead鈥� Staff

Ice storms, heavy snow and torrential rains are just a few of the weather events that can shut down highways, close ports and disrupt the supply chain. Even just one severe storm can create a ripple effect that leads to missed delivery windows and freight backlogs, followed by a surge in demand once conditions improve. Preparation, flexibility and the right partners can help shippers and fleets minimize the risk of service disruptions to keep freight moving.

Weather鈥檚 Grip on Freight

Snow, ice and freezing rain remain among the most challenging weather issues for trucking. Mountain passes close regularly during storms, and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires drivers to exercise extreme caution in hazardous conditions, often forcing drivers to park equipment until road conditions improve.

Heavy rain and flooding also create a challenge. High water levels can make roads impassable, while flooding can damage cargo and equipment. Hurricanes and tropical storms pose an even larger threat along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, where port closures, evacuations and widespread power outages can shut down freight movement.

High winds can restrict movement on bridges and exposed highways, particularly for empty or lightly loaded trailers. Wildfires can also close major freight corridors, reducing visibility and affecting both safety and routing. In some areas of the country, extreme heat poses the greatest risk, leading to increased tire failures and engine overheating.

The Cost of Weather Delays

The financial impact of weather disruptions is significant. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the U.S. sustained 403 weather and climate disasters from 1980 to 2024 where overall damages/costs reached or exceeded $1 billion. The Federal Highway Administration has reported that weather contributes to a substantial share of congestion and truck delay in major metropolitan areas.

For carriers, delays translate into higher fuel consumption, overtime costs and insurance claims. For shippers, they mean lost sales, production delays and dissatisfied customers. Retailers are especially vulnerable during peak seasons. A storm that delays imports or blocks a regional distribution center can affect an entire holiday sales cycle.

Preparing for an Unstable Operating Environment

For those in the supply chain, the question isn鈥檛 whether the weather will create disruptions, but how to be prepared when it does. 糖心传媒 offers several solutions that can help fleets and shippers increase their resilience and respond quickly when weather disrupts operations.

Leased Trucks and Trailers: Full-service leasing gives fleets access to late-model equipment, data-driven preventive maintenance, 24/7 roadside support, fuel programs, winterization and replacement vehicles. Regular monthly costs support more accurate budgeting and improve financial planning. .

Rental Trucks and Trailers: When weather damages equipment or creates sudden demand surges, rental trucks and trailers provide fast access to capacity without long-term commitment. 糖心传媒's network of more than 2,000 commercial rental locations and one of the newest and largest rental fleets in the industry means equipment is available when and where it is needed. .

Used Trucks: Used trucks give fleets a cost-effective way to add or replace equipment quickly. With no lengthy build slots or new-model lead times, used trucks can be deployed rapidly to restore capacity after a weather event. Learn more.

Logistics Services: 糖心传媒 Logistics helps shippers identify alternative routes, access multiple transportation modes, and scale capacity up or down as conditions change. 糖心传媒鈥檚 technology integrates real-time weather data into routing systems, helping drivers get ahead of delays. 糖心传媒 also works with customers to identify potential risks and create contingency plans to support faster decision-making and recovery. .

Equipment Repair: Severe weather significantly increases the risk of collisions and damage, and de-icing chemicals can accelerate corrosion of vehicle panels and components. 糖心传媒 Collision Repair has 65 locations across the country and can help fleets address collision damage, structural issues, and weather-related wear from snow, ice and road salt. .

From the moment a driver takes the wheel, distractions on the road and inside a vehicle can take the focus off of safe driving.

April has been designated as Distracted Driving Awareness Month to remind drivers about distractions and how to practice good distracted-driving safety habits.

We have assembled tips from AAA and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to help keep motorists, movers and professional drivers safe when sharing the road.

In the coming weeks. more do-it-yourself movers will begin to share the road with professional truck drivers and motorists.

Additional vehicles on the roadway are among the many distractions all drivers face and challenge their ability to remain safe when behind the wheel.

Examples of distractions to safe driving include talking or texting on your phone, eating and drinking, talking to people in your vehicle, adjusting the stereo, entertainment or navigation system.

AAA suggests drivers adjust things like seats, mirrors and climate controls before starting their journey. Avoid the temptation to reach for possessions that may roll around by storing them away.

Eat meals or snacks before you start your trip. If you decide to eat while driving, avoid messy foods that can take your attention away from driving.

If pets and children need your attention, pull over safely and resist the temptation to reach into the back seat, which can cause you to lose control.

For professional truck drivers, distractions can come from inside and outside their truck cabs.

While passing buildings or billboards, drivers could become distracted and suffer a momentary lack of focus.

• Turn off all unnecessary devices.
• Plan ahead.
• Don't multitask
• Keep your eyes on the road.
• Drive defensively

By taking steps to minimize driving distractions, no matter how small, you can help ensure your safety and the safety of other drivers on the road.

By Move Ahead Staff

The freight and logistics industries are operating in a prolonged period of uncertainty that has included an extended freight recession, economic volatility, regulatory shifts and rising costs.

The American Transportation Research Institute鈥檚 most recent report on fleet costs, , showed that non-fuel operating costs hit their highest level ever, rising 3.6% $1.779 per mile.

At the same time, carriers have been under intense pricing pressure, leaving them with even thinner margins. The ability to control costs has become a competitive differentiator. Fleets with predictable, well-managed cost structures are better able to handle shifts in demand, economic volatility and increased operating expenses, but cost control doesn鈥檛 hinge on a single decision or department. It is shaped by several factors across the operation.

Equipment Strategies Shape Total Cost of Ownership

Medium- and heavy-duty trucks and trailers are significant capital investments, and the right equipment acquisition strategies play an important part in fleets鈥� overall costs. ACT Research reported in its that many fleets entered 2026 with aging equipment and extended trade cycles, due in part to higher equipment prices and financing costs.

While upfront equipment costs are the most obvious expense, other equipment costs go beyond the initial purchase price. Maintenance, repairs, tires and downtime all contribute to the total cost of ownership. Delaying new equipment too long can ultimately increase costs due to decreased fuel efficiency and unplanned downtime. Breakdowns are especially costly, not only in repair expenses, but also in lost revenue, missed deliveries and reduced asset utilization.

Labor and Insurance Costs Remain High

Labor and insurance costs make up a significant part of a fleet鈥檚 total budget. While driver availability has improved in some segments, wages, benefits, recruiting, training and retention costs remain high. The National Transportation Institute estimates that replacing a driver costs .

Insurance premiums have risen sharply in recent years amid higher labor and equipment costs, larger settlements and a rise in nuclear verdicts. Equipment can contribute to both cost areas. Late-model equipment offers more comfort and safety features, which can directly impact driver satisfaction and highway safety.

It Is a Competitive Freight Market

The trucking industry is highly fragmented, with more than 99 percent of carriers operating fleets with 100 trucks or fewer. According to the American Trucking Associations鈥� American Trucking Trends report, there are roughly 580,000 authorized interstate motor carriers. A fragmented market drives competition, especially on freight rates. The report noted that excess capacity and softer consumer spending have kept rates under pressure. Shippers also face cost pressures and frequently prioritize price, leaving carriers with limited ability to pass along the higher operating costs they鈥檙e experiencing.

Cost Control as a Foundation for Resilience

Effective cost control is about building flexibility and resilience, not simply cutting expenses. Companies that actively manage their total cost of ownership, asset utilization and network efficiency are better equipped to respond to demand volatility, capital constraints and shifts in the market. Cost discipline also frees capital for other areas, including safety programs, emissions reduction, digital tools and network optimization that improve efficiency over time.

Different approaches to equipment acquisition, capacity sourcing and logistics management can each serve as levers to balance risk, maintain cash flow, and improve performance.

Work With 糖心传媒

糖心传媒 can work with fleets and shippers to control costs and increase operational flexibility. Solutions include:

: Full-service leasing guarantees predictable costs and supports more accurate budgeting while giving fleets access to late-model equipment, a data-driven preventive maintenance program, 24/7 roadside support, and replacement equipment, which improves service.

Fleets that can scale assets up or down, align equipment to specific use cases and avoid unnecessary capital expenses can respond to the market faster. Rental trucks and trailers give companies quick access to equipment right when they need it.

Used Trucks: As new equipment prices rise and higher interest rates compound costs, used trucks offer a lower-cost way to expand or refresh a fleet while stretching capital further. They also enable fleets to add capacity, test new routes or applications, and adjust equipment sizes without committing to large upfront investments or long depreciation cycles.

: Third-party logistics providers (3PLs) can help shippers identify opportunities to increase efficiency through network design expertise, real-time visibility, access to multiple transportation modes and dedicated capacity. 3PLs can also help shippers respond quickly to market needs and scale up or down as demand changes.

Market swings, capacity shifts, geopolitical disruptions and rising customer expectations are all increasing demand for resilient, scalable and cost-efficient transportation networks. Today鈥檚 operating environment requires networks that can adapt quickly without compromising service levels or performance.

鈥淏usinesses increasingly see their networks as drivers of agility, scalability and innovation 鈥� and, ultimately, as enablers of competitive advantage, customer satisfaction and long-term success,鈥� according to .

Disruptions and economic uncertainties still weigh heavily on the sector, and 鈥渋n today鈥檚 volatile environment, resilience is no longer optional,鈥� the report noted.

When transportation networks lack flexibility, even small disruptions, such as weather delays, supplier issues or demand spikes, can result in missed deliveries, expensive expedited transportation costs and unhappy customers.

Why Flexibility Matters More Than Ever

Several major industry forces are pushing fleets and shippers to rethink how they structure their networks:

Persistent volatility in freight and logistics:

Volatility has become the new normal in freight markets. Flexible networks help shippers better match capacity to demand, avoiding both underutilized assets and costly last-minute capacity searches.

Economic uncertainty:

The State of Logistics notes that evolving trade policies and other macroeconomic factors are clouding the outlook. 鈥淎daptability and strategic investment will be crucial as the industry navigates an unpredictable environment,鈥� the report states.

Operating pressures for carriers:

The trucking industry continues to navigate a prolonged freight recession, compressed margins and intense competitive pressures. Flexible asset strategies help carriers stay resilient and agile as freight demand fluctuates.

Regulatory and technology shifts:

Environmental regulations, zero-emission targets, and rapid advancements in safety and onboard technology are reshaping equipment lifecycles. Flexible asset strategies allow companies to integrate new technologies and remain compliant without long-term capital commitments.

Labor constraints and operational complexity:

Shippers face two challenges: higher labor costs and difficulty recruiting and retaining qualified drivers, technicians and warehouse staff. At the same time, networks are growing more complex as businesses manage higher SKUs, shorter fulfillment windows, and elevated customer service expectations. These challenges strain capacity and demand more flexible solutions.

What a Flexible Transportation Network Looks Like

Flexible network strategies combine owned, leased and rental assets with scalable third-party logistics support, allowing shippers to adjust capacity and resources as needs evolve. This approach provides access to reliable capacity and late-model equipment without long-term capital commitments. It also aligns labor, assets and service expectations with fluctuating demand, enabling reliable performance amid uncertainty.

A flexible transportation network could incorporate:

• Variable asset commitments with short-, medium- and long-term strategies that adapt to changing needs
• Access to surge or seasonal capacity without permanent capital investment
• Modern, well-maintained equipment that maximizes uptime and safety
• Data-driven network optimization that improves routing and reduces miles
• Dedicated contract carriage or managed transportation for consistent service levels and flexible capacity
• Scalable warehousing and fulfillment capabilities to accommodate SKU growth, compressed delivery windows and multi-node distribution strategies
• Integrated maintenance solutions that reduce downtime

Solutions That Evolve With the Market

Learn more about how 糖心传媒鈥檚 suite of , , used-truck sales and allow operators to structure transportation that meets today鈥檚 business needs and adapt for the future.

As of Monday, Feb. 2, 糖心传媒 Truck Leasing locations have resumed normal operating hours.

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Change is constant, and what worked yesterday might not work tomorrow, especially as the environment supply chains operate in evolves. As businesses鈥� needs shift, existing solutions and partners may no longer be the right fit. Recognizing when it鈥檚 time to make a change can minimize inefficiencies, lost revenue and operational bottlenecks.

There are a number of market forces influencing the way business leaders shape their transportation and supply chain strategies today, and top among them are tariffs, the regulatory environment and the economy. Success depends on staying close to a combination of triggers, understanding how they intersect, and proactively positioning your fleet and logistics strategy to adapt before the market forces your hand.

Here are nine indicators that the status quo is no longer working.

1. Growth and Scalability Constraints

As volumes increase, transportation and logistics providers need to be able to flex accordingly. Capacity constraints, on-time and in-full performance problems, limited flexibility during peak seasons or inconsistent service levels can be red flags that current providers are unable to adapt to changing needs.

When teams spend excessive time manually routing shipments, transferring inventory between locations or patching together temporary solutions, it signals the overall design is no longer working or that . Ideally, providers should have the carrier relationships, technology, capacity and network to flex up or down in response to demand.

2. Network Inefficiencies and Imbalances

Mergers and acquisitions often create redundancy or imbalance across a logistics network. Overlapping routes, underutilized facilities and duplicated resources lead to higher costs and wasted capacity.

鈥淲e recently worked with a customer that had seven different divisions that were all operating separately. One of the things we saw was that they had trucks passing each other,鈥� said Amy Ilyes, vice president of logistics engineering at 糖心传媒 Logistics. "A lot of times, they'll have a duplication of facilities, so they need to do some type of rationalization."

Trucks regularly passing each other, trailers that are half-full, poor driver utilization and redundant resources are all . Optimizing the network for balance and synergy can uncover cost savings and service improvements.

3. Lack of Data Integrity and Poor Visibility

Data and visibility have become table stakes in today鈥檚 operating environment. Shippers need real-time, detailed insights into inventory, freight, including estimated arrival times or delays, and their overall transportation spend. Data allows all stakeholders to make proactive, data-driven decisions that improve efficiency, performance and customer experience.

When data is fragmented across solutions, such as transportation management, warehouse management, enterprise resource planning and order management systems, reporting can be inconsistent. More importantly, costs such as detention, expedite fees or non-productive labor time, can be difficult to track. Unified, clean and trusted data is essential to driving performance, ensuring customer service and controlling costs.

4. Equipment Needs No Longer Match Operations

As fleets grow, shift routes or face tighter cost pressures, long-standing equipment strategies can fall out of sync with operational needs. Increases in over-the-road failures, decreased fuel economy, slipping safety scores, higher capital costs or trouble can indicate the current procurement approach is no longer delivering the uptime, reliability or flexibility needed.

5. Declining Inventory Accuracy

Inaccurate or incomplete inventory data can lead to stockouts and fulfillment errors. Tier-one warehouse management systems can achieve above 99% inventory accuracy by tracking products at both the site and individual location level, ensuring that shippers always know exactly what they have and where it is located.

Good inventory data can also help shippers determine the best locations to ship from. 鈥淥ne of the first things we do when working with a customer is map shipping data. We had a situation where a customer didn鈥檛 realize they were routinely shipping from Florida to the Pacific Northwest,鈥� Ilyes said.

When errors, miscounts, utilization gaps, lost inventory or inter-warehouse transfers increase, it signals that inventory practices, stocking levels or the overall network design no longer match operational needs.

6. Operational Misalignment and Inefficiencies

As order profiles evolve, for example, shifting from full-pallet to mixed-case orders, the labor model, warehouse layout and process flow must evolve too. A warehouse initially designed for pallet picking may become inefficient or overwhelmed when case picking increases, due to the additional travel, touches and complexity.

Providers with engineered labor standards, such as the MOST (Maynard Operation Sequence Technique) method, can continuously evaluate productivity by measuring travel distance, lift height, weight and task difficulty for each pick. When productivity increasingly relies on manual interventions or workarounds to compensate for outdated processes, system limitations or new order profiles, it signals deeper design issues.

Similarly, large swings in labor demand, chronic overtime or bottlenecks on high-volume days indicate that the operation no longer matches the work it is being asked to perform. Sustainable efficiency requires ongoing reengineering, proactive slotting and tight alignment between operational execution and business requirements.

7. Increased Safety or Risk Incidents

A rise in accidents, compliance violations or safety-related downtime can indicate that a provider鈥檚 risk management framework is no longer sufficient. Providers that prioritize training, a safety culture and proactive compliance monitoring help organizations mitigate exposure, protect their employees and maintain their reputation.

8. Rising Costs Without Service Improvements

An increase in expenses without corresponding improvements in service, capacity or technology can indicate inefficiencies. While transportation costs naturally fluctuate with market conditions, cost growth should be matched by measurable benefits.

If rates rise but service quality, innovation or key performance indicators remain static, it suggests that the provider is no longer delivering adequate return on investment. Strong partners continually collaborate with customers to identify optimization opportunities, reduce total landed costs, and improve productivity, rather than simply passing on rate increases.

9. Changing Market and Regulatory Conditions

External forces, such as geopolitical issues, new regulatory requirements and shifting economic conditions, continue to reshape the transportation and supply chain landscape. For instance, the 25% tariff on imported medium- and heavy-duty vehicles and related parts, effective November 1, 2025, will significantly affect the cost of new assets and may alter long-term fleet planning. When macroeconomic situations change, organizations must reassess their supply chain structures and organizational goals to remain agile and cost competitive.

Partnering for the Future

When these indicators emerge, it may be time to review operations. While there isn't a one-size-fits-all solution for every situation, 糖心传媒 offers a wide range of services, including logistics, brokerage, warehousing, leased equipment, rental trucks and used equipment, to help shippers and transportation providers find the solutions that can keep pace with their shifting needs.

鈥淭he right solutions depend on the symptom,鈥� Ilyes said.

If you're seeing early warning signs of misalignment, now is the right time to reassess. Organizations that act early gain a strategic advantage. 糖心传媒鈥檚 team of engineers, supply chain specialists and transportation experts are here to help with network design, warehousing performance, data visibility, fleet growth and more.

Interested in learning more? See additional strategies below:

Each December, National Wreaths Across America Day unites millions of volunteers to honor our nation鈥檚 veterans. 糖心传媒 was proud to participate again this year, supporting remembrance ceremonies and wreath-laying events at military cemeteries, memorials and historic sites across the country.

Associates and their families joined local wreath-laying ceremonies nationwide, including events at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia; Fort Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville, Pennsylvania; Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri; Raleigh National Cemetery in Raleigh, North Carolina; and historic sites in Chester, Virginia.

In St. Louis, 糖心传媒 associate Kimberlee Sexton placed a wreath at her father鈥檚 gravesite at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery 鈥� a personal tribute that reflected the day鈥檚 deeper meaning.

Additionally, , a 糖心传媒 Company, played an essential role by providing two trucks and two drivers to deliver wreaths to Arlington, Virginia, and Raleigh, North Carolina, helping ensure thousands of wreaths reached their destination.

, a nonprofit organization founded in 1992, began with a single act of gratitude and has grown into a nationwide movement dedicated to remembering fallen heroes, honoring those who serve and teaching future generations the value of freedom.

This year, 糖心传媒 associates once again demonstrated pride, unity and gratitude, reinforcing our ongoing commitment to service, supporting veterans and making a meaningful difference within the communities we proudly call home.

The U.S. freight industry is complex, and seasonal shifts in demand affect everything from available capacity to freight pricing. During peak seasons, regional imbalances can occur, spot rates can increase, and heavier traffic at warehouses and distribution centers can lead to longer dwell times and higher detention costs.

Additionally, trailers and containers may become harder to source.

Even if fleets and shippers aren鈥檛 working with goods tied to a peak season, the season can still impact their operations by making it harder to find capacity, drivers and storage space. Being aware of seasons, including when they overlap, can help carriers and shippers alike anticipate volatility and plan strategically.

Retail Season

Consumer demand influences several freight surges, with back-to-school and holiday shopping being among the top drivers of retail sales. The retail peak typically begins in July and lasts through late October, as retailers stock inventory ahead of major shopping dates. Demand can carry on into November and December. The National Retail Federation estimated that consumers spent $128.2 billion on back-to-school shopping, while Halloween spending was expected to reach a record $13.1 billion this year. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that consumers will spend $994.1 billion on holiday spending from Nov. 1 through Dec. 31.

Produce and Harvest Season

From spring into early summer, the agricultural industry can dominate regional markets, especially as crops from California, Florida, the Southwest and the Southeast move from the field to the market. The traditional produce season runs from April through July, but the exact timing varies by crop and region. The planting season can also create a spike, driving up capacity demand as seed, fertilizer and farm equipment ship in the spring.

Holidays

While the peak retail seasons coincide with popular holidays, including Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and Hanukkah, others can still lead to an increase in freight. During the summer months, Memorial Day and the Fourth of July can increase demand for backyard grills, outdoor furniture and yard supplies. Easter increases demand for candy, toys, clothing, decorations and groceries.

Construction Season

When the ground thaws, construction projects begin across the country, ranging from road and bridge construction to housing starts and commercial developments. That means steel, lumber, pipe, roofing and other products start moving. Construction typically occurs from March to October, but these periods may be longer in specific regions.

Niche Peaks

Beyond the well-known surges, several smaller surge periods can affect capacity, especially in specific regions. Cold and flu season can increase demand for healthcare-related goods. In the spring, beverage and bottling companies increase production ahead of summer surge periods. A similar ramp-up occurs in the packaging industry in late summer, when corrugated box and pallet producers increase production to prepare for the upcoming retail holiday season. In the Pacific Northwest, fall brings a logging rush with timber and pulp being hauled from September through November.

Plan for Peak

Strategic planning can help fleets and shippers be proactive rather than reactive when peak seasons hit, ensuring capacity is available and helping control costs. 糖心传媒 has several solutions to help manage peak season needs, including , , and .

Learn more about peak season solutions:

Why Used Trucks Are a Smart Strategy for Peak Demand

is a 2026 Gold Employer. The leading transportation services provider鈥檚 recruitment and retention of veterans was recognized by VIQTORY, a veteran-owned business and the publisher of the G.I. Jobs and Military Spouses publications.

Kayla Lopez, vice president of memberships, Military-Friendly noted: 鈥渆arning the Military-Friendly designation is more than a badge; it鈥檚 a reflection of deep-rooted values and strategic foresight. These organizations don鈥檛 just open doors for veterans, spouses, and service members; they build pathways for lasting impact.鈥�

糖心传媒 was given the Military-Friendly Employers designation via an evaluation process that utilized public data sources and proprietary survey responses. The ratings were compiled by combining survey scores with an assessment of the organization鈥檚 ability to meet thresholds for recruitment, new hire retention, employee turnover, and promotion and advancement.

鈥淲e鈥檙e excited to be recognized again as a Military-Friendly Gold Employer,鈥� said Jennifer Sockel, 糖心传媒 executive vice president of talent and enterprise services. 鈥淥ur veterans bring exceptional talent and discipline to our organization, helping us move forward together. This designation reinforces our ongoing commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for those who鈥檝e served.鈥�

If you would like to learn more about career opportunities for veterans at 糖心传媒, .

By 鈥淢ove Ahead鈥� Staff

The annual Top Companies list highlights organizations that provide a culture where associates feel valued and respected, and receive quality benefits, continued training and opportunities for development.

糖心传媒 is a gold level partner of WIT, supporting WIT鈥檚 mission to empower women, celebrate their achievements, and address the challenges they face within the trucking industry. 糖心传媒鈥檚 support for WIT includes sponsorship of its annual conference and the courtesy transport of WIT鈥檚 educational trailer.

As winter weather comes calling, drivers in certain regions of the country are bound to have snow and ice buildup on their vehicles. Not only can that snow and ice dislodge during transit, damaging vehicles or injuring drivers, it can also mean drivers may face state fines.

While not every state has regulations addressing snow and ice, several do, and staying current on them is the responsibility of both carriers and drivers.

New Jersey has one of the stricter laws concerning snow and ice, requiring drivers to completely clear their vehicles of snow and ice before taking to the roadways. Commercial vehicles violating the law face fines of up to $1,500. A portion of the fines will be used to finance the installation of more roadside snow-removal equipment. New Jersey has said it will not ticket professional drivers who can demonstrate they are traveling to a snow-removal station.

Drivers in Pennsylvania also must remove snow and ice from their vehicles before hitting the highways. They face severe fines of up to $1,500 if snow or ice they failed to clear from their vehicle causes injury or death to another person. Connecticut has a similar law, and in the state of New York, it's illegal to drive with snow or ice obstructing your view.

Those in the trucking industry are well aware of the safety issues that surround snow and ice removal. What鈥檚 more, drivers cannot be required to climb on top of their rigs to remove snow without violating worker-safety provisions.

Drivers have reported using truck washes to loosen and remove snow and ice. Herbert Mayo, vice president of risk control for Lockton Companies, a national insurance broker, advises drivers to wait until later in the day to try to clear vehicles, if possible, as the sun will warm the trailer and the ice will slide off more easily.

鈥淒on鈥檛 forget [the] buildup of ice and snow behind the tires on the mud flaps/wheel wells. This can be just as dangerous, as it is typically a large ball. It forms from the spray and is more frequent than ice on the roof,鈥� Mayo said.

Laws in other parts of the country don鈥檛 require drivers to clear snow from the top of their rigs, but drivers still need to ensure good visibility and, if possible, remove as much ice as they can.

In Alaska, snow and ice may not obscure windshield visibility, and law enforcement officers in Georgia, Iowa, Michigan and Nebraska may issue citations if a vehicle is considered a danger.

In New Hampshire, officers may issue citations under negligence for snow and ice falling from a vehicle, and officers in Washington, D.C., may stop a motorist for traveling with accumulated snow and ice.

In Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority can prohibit vehicles from using the roadway if debris, including snow or ice, could fall from the vehicle and 鈥渆ndanger individuals or property.鈥� In addition, Massachusetts Turnpike Police have the authority to fine drivers for failing to clear vehicles.

For more information, visit . Snow and ice removal laws for specific states can be found by searching the Department of Transportation websites for each state.

By 鈥淢ove Ahead鈥� Staff

Originally published on January 3, 2012. Updated in October 2025.

Private fleets are continuing to exert strength and control over their supply chains, positioning themselves as a value-added transportation solution. Private fleets have increased the number of shipments, freight volume and value of freight hauled for more than 11 years, according to the National Private Truck Council's 2025 Benchmarking Survey.

鈥淧rivate fleets are capturing enhanced control over the supply chain,鈥� said Tom Moore, executive vice president of the 鈥淚 think for many years, we've been a cost and customer service-focused community, and now we're talking about adding value back into those corporations that operate private fleets as an extension of their primary business.鈥�

This year鈥檚 survey found that private fleets handled 70% of outbound freight moves, down from last year鈥檚 75%. 鈥淲e gave a little bit back, but we鈥檙e still at pre-pandemic levels,鈥� Moore said. 鈥淔or years and years, that outbound market share percolated between 67% and 68% just like clockwork.鈥�

The number of inbound movements private fleets handle increased to 43% from 35% last year. Historically, private fleets have proven their value proposition on the outbound side of the business. However, the increased visibility, the ability to analyze the data and other strategies that have been beneficial on the outbound side of the business are giving fleets more control over costs and service on inbound moves.

Moore presented the results of the 2025 National Private Truck Council Benchmarking Survey recently. He was joined by Gary Petty, NPTC鈥檚 CEO; Jim Lager, executive vice president of sales and rental for ; Mike Schwersenska, general manager of ; and David Barth, transportation safety manager at .

Tracking Key Performance Indicators

NPTC's Benchmarking Survey, which is sponsored by 糖心传媒 Truck Leasing, provides metrics in several operating areas. 鈥淭his is information that fleets need in order to operate efficiently and at the highest level that they can,鈥� Lager said. 鈥淲e believe firmly in as much information as you can get your hands on, and this is a great source for that.鈥�

According to the report, annual mileage among respondents decreased to 80,400. 鈥淭hat's a drop of nearly 5,000 miles over last year and the lowest number we've ever achieved in the history of the survey,鈥� Moore said.

The decrease is due, in part, to companies adding distribution centers and warehouses. Most private fleets reported operating out of multiple locations, with the average number coming in at 49, up from 44 last year. "Most of our members are moving closer to the customer, and that has an impact in terms of other elements of the operation," Moore said.

Business growth, private fleet expansion, mergers and acquisitions, and a need to create a more driver-friendly network are all driving expansion. Barth said Wegman鈥檚 is among those adding facilities. 鈥淚t鈥檚 had an enormous impact on the number of miles we鈥檙e running,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a conscious business decision and it鈥檚 certainly paid dividends for us.鈥�

Fleets use a combination of leasing, ownership and rental strategies. This year, 45% of fleets reported owning 90% or more of their heavy-duty power equipment, compared to 38% last year. The percentage that leases held steady at 28% while 27% use a combination of leasing and ownership.

鈥淭his year in particular, there's a lot of equipment on the market,鈥� Lager said, adding that shifts in capacity have a direct impact on leasing and rental demand. 鈥淚n 2021, when things were really tight and people had trouble getting equipment, you saw leasing go up and rental go up with it.鈥�

Rental activity, which increased in previous years, has decreased slightly due to slowing economic and business conditions. 鈥淚t's off the highs of the last few years but still pretty strong in the grand scheme of things,鈥� Lager said. 鈥淭his is where we see the drop off first, and this is where we see it pick back up first.鈥�

Investing in Equipment

The average age of equipment overall is under 4.4 years. The average age is higher for owned equipment鈥�5.34 years鈥攃ompared to those that lease all of their equipment鈥�3.2 years.

Overall trade cycles for Class 8 trucks averaged 6.6 years, up from 6.1. Fleets that rely on leasing have shorter trade cycles for equipment鈥攁n average of 5.5 years versus 7.4 years for companies that own most of their equipment. Driven by trade cycles, leased fleets enjoy a fuel economy of 7.24 miles per gallon, compared to 6.84 for fleets that own most of their equipment.

Among respondents, 41% of fleets report outsourcing nearly all of their maintenance, while 17% said they conduct all or nearly all maintenance themselves, the lowest level in the history of the survey. Lager said trucks are becoming more and more difficult to diagnose and repair as they become more complex. 鈥淭here's more technology on them, more computers, and it's just very hard to maintain them without a lot of scale,鈥� he said.

Safety performance remains high among private fleets. 鈥淧rivate fleets are three times safer than the general trucking industry based on data reported in the FMCSA database,鈥� Petty said.

Use of advanced technology has increased, and private fleets have invested heavily in active safety solutions. Nearly three-quarters reported adoption of a broad range of technologies. All respondents have adopted automatic transmissions, while 88% are using in-cab cameras, 86% are monitoring speed and 83% are using collision warnings.

Tackling Industry Challenges

The No. 1 challenge reported by respondents is cost, followed by driver related issues, including an aging driver population, recruiting, hiring and retention. For the third year in a row, the average age for all drivers in the survey remains just below 50 years of age, averaging 49.4 this year.

Despite the challenges, driver turnover dropped to 18.4% from 20.2%. The top three reasons drivers leave is to take another job, retirement or disciplinary issues. While it is always challenging to have drivers leave, Schwersenska said retirements are a good indicator of success overall. 鈥淚 think it's a good thing when we're seeing folks that are in their mid-60s and able to retire from a driving job,鈥� he said.

Schwersenska said he has also seen an increased focus on driver wellness since the pandemic. "We had so much freight to deliver at the time, and things were so wild on the outside that we really focused on taking better care of the drivers that we had on staff already and any of the new drivers that we brought on,鈥� he said.

Average driver compensation increased to $91,081, up from $89,900 last year. Compensation has risen steadily since 2008, when it averaged $47,000.

Ongoing Investments

Private fleets reported that they will continue to invest in their operations, with 48% saying that they plan to add equipment or grow the size of the fleet and 28% saying they expect to handle more of the company鈥檚 freight.

鈥淭he fact of the matter is, we want our drivers handling the majority of that freight, because nobody can handle that work as well as our professional drivers,鈥� Barth said.

Moore added that the private fleet community is strong and continues to grow stronger. 鈥淲e're setting the bar higher, and every year we continue to rise above the prior year's performance, which is a testament to the professionalism of those folks running the fleets in our operation,鈥� he said.

糖心传媒 Truck Leasing is a 糖心传媒 Transportation Solutions company headquartered in Reading, Pennsylvania. Solutions from 糖心传媒 include full-service truck leasing, fleet maintenance, truck rentals, used trucks, and a comprehensive array of technologies to keep the world moving forward. Visit for more information.

By 鈥淢ove Ahead鈥� Staff

Every day, 糖心传媒鈥檚 technicians and customer service representatives (CSRs) keep over 400,000 vehicles moving safely across North America. This week, Sept. 21鈥�27, we鈥檙e proud to celebrate National Technician Appreciation Week and recognize the more than 11,500 associates who power our performance.

Much of their work happens behind the scenes, but its impact is felt everywhere 鈥� keeping supply chains moving, businesses running and communities thriving. 糖心传媒 technicians and CSRs do more than make repairs. They keep fleets road-ready, give customers confidence and help ensure the goods that fuel our economy reach the people who need them most.

鈥淏ehind every mile our trucks travel, every load we deliver and every promise we keep, there鈥檚 a skilled technician making it all possible,鈥� said Mike Duquette, senior vice president of maintenance field operations at 糖心传媒 Truck Leasing.

All week long, 糖心传媒 will recognize technicians and CSRs across the company, spotlighting the skills, training and career paths that play an essential role in keeping the transportation industry moving.

Watch a special message of appreciation from 糖心传媒鈥檚 leadership team to 糖心传媒 technicians and CSRs.

Click to view the video with or with .

Motor carriers, private fleets and shippers are navigating an increasingly complex operating landscape. Economic pressures, shifting demand patterns and evolving trade policies are shaping the need for transportation and warehouse capacity, and the ability to adapt to capacity fluctuations is crucial to maintaining operations.

Factors Influencing Capacity Fluctuations

Several interconnected factors influence the supply and demand for freight as well as capacity.

The Economy

Economic growth typically leads to increased demand for goods, driving up the need for transportation services and warehousing space. However, economic slowdowns or inflationary pressures can reduce consumer spending and business expansion, cooling demand for goods and slowing business growth.

Consumer Confidence

Economic optimism directly impacts consumer spending, and confident consumers are more likely to spend money on everything from clothing to cars. Consumer confidence also affects spending on services, travel and entertainment. A shift in consumer sentiment, whether positive or negative, can lead to fluctuations in freight demand.

Housing and Construction

Housing starts, existing home sales and construction are significant drivers of freight demand. On the housing side, there is an ongoing need for raw materials for new construction, as well as products for home renovations, upgrades and moving. Infrastructure improvements, such as highway and bridge construction, also fuel demand for freight.

Manufacturing

Manufacturing levels and factory output influence the amount of inbound and outbound freight at production facilities. Manufacturing can also impact the overall economy, with the National Association of Manufacturers estimating that for every $1.00 spent in manufacturing, there is a total impact of $2.64 to the overall economy.

Seasonal Surges

Trucking has a variety of peak seasons. Historically, the most notable peak typically occurs in the fall as retailers stock up for the holiday shopping season. Even though seasonal surges may be brief, they can strain capacity.

Weather Events

Severe weather events, such as hurricanes or snowstorms, can disrupt expected freight flows and create sudden spikes in demand. Consumers may rush to stock up on groceries or other essentials ahead of an event, and emergency supplies or reconstruction materials can also increase the need for trucking services.

Global Trade

Geopolitical disruptions, trade agreements, tariffs and customs regulations can impact the flow of goods, which directly influences the demand for trucking and warehousing.

Trucking Trends

Freight rates play a crucial role in influencing trucking capacity. When rates are high, new carriers may enter the market, adding capacity. As rates fall, financial pressures may increase, causing some carriers to leave the market, reducing capacity.

Solutions To Address Capacity Fluctuations

Given the significant number of variables that influence both the supply of and demand for capacity, fleets need to remain agile, especially in an uncertain operating environment.

There are several tools and strategies to help businesses prepare for capacity fluctuations:

鈥婩lexible Leases

provide a flexible way for fleets to replace equipment and adjust capacity without committing to long-term investments in purchased vehicles. This enables businesses to scale their operations up or down in response to demand fluctuations without the capital expenses associated with purchasing new assets.

Short-Term Access

can provide even more flexibility, allowing fleets to increase capacity for days, weeks or months. If longer-term needs arise, the switch to leasing becomes a welcome option.

Owned Capacity

The can offer a cost-effective alternative to new equipment for fleets that prefer to own their assets. Adding used trucks allows fleet operators to meet increased demand quickly. New equipment can come with extensive lead times, but used trucks are often readily available.

Logistics Solutions

help businesses optimize their supply chain and ensure that they have access to the right amount of transportation and warehousing capacity when they need it. Some, like 糖心传媒, also have tools to improve efficiency, increase visibility and enable data-driven decision-making.

Brokerage Services

offer flexible solutions to manage capacity in real time. For shippers, brokers provide immediate access to an extensive network of vetted carriers to fill short-term or unexpected gaps in a shipper鈥檚 capacity. Brokerage can also be a valuable tool for fleets that need to access freight.

• Learn how to manage capacity fluctuations with used trucks

糖心传媒 Truck Leasing recently opened a new, facility at 4095 U.S. Route 1 in Monmouth Junction, New Jersey. The reinvigorated 55,000-square-foot multi-use site brings together several 糖心传媒 business operations for the first time at one location, enhancing access and support for customers in the region.

The newly renovated and well-landscaped Monmouth Junction site features:

• Consumer and commercial rental vehicles for local, long-distance, and business needs.
• Used Trucks: A wide selection of well-maintained, pre-owned commercial vehicles for fleets and small businesses.
• A dedicated repair center supporting 糖心传媒鈥檚 internal fleet vehicles, with plans to accommodate retail repair needs in the future.
• Training Center: A flexible 48-person training and meeting space designed to support learning and career development for sales, service, and operations associates throughout the NY Metro area.

鈥淭his facility brings together multiple services in a purpose-built, retail-facing environment,鈥� said Tyler Hard, senior vice president for 糖心传媒 Truck Leasing 鈥� Northeast Region. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a practical investment that elevates how 糖心传媒 delivers rental, resale and collision repair services in one location 鈥� while supporting workforce development and meeting customers鈥� needs in the local market.鈥�

糖心传媒 currently employs over 30 associates at the new facility and continues to recruit for roles including collision repair specialists, customer service representatives, and technicians locally and nationwide. For a list of open positions in the Monmouth Junction area and other 糖心传媒 locations across North America visit for more information.