Shifts in Sourcing Strategies and Nearshoring Could Affect Capacity Demands
Why shippers are reassessing their supply chain tactics
Changes are Underway
The 2026 Annual Third-Party Logistics (3PL) Study, which is sponsored by Penske, reported that pandemic-related supply chain disruptions and the U.S.-China trade war that began in 2018 highlighted the increased risk associated with overreliance on a single region.
As a result, many companies initiated the process of diversifying their supply chain and shifting production to Southeast Asia, Mexico or even domestic facilities to reduce both tariff exposure and vulnerability to future disruptions. This shift is already visible in U.S. trade data. In 2023, Mexico replaced China as the No. 1 trading partner with the U.S. and remained the U.S.’s No. 1 trading partner in 2024.
The 3PL Study found that evolving trade policies are prompting many shippers to re-evaluate their supply chains. Among shipper respondents, 45% said they are shifting to alternative approaches to sourcing and 40% are identifying new foreign suppliers. Long-term strategies include re-evaluating product portfolios (30%) and re-establishing manufacturing bases (25%).
Shifts in Equipment Needs
Shifts in sourcing locations, imports and exports, or port activity can change overall capacity demand or demand in specific lanes or geographic regions. Tapping into leases and rentals for Class 8 tractors and trailers or light- and medium-duty trucks can allow fleets to scale up without a long-term commitment. For trucks looking to add owned capacity, used trucks can be a fast, more cost-effective solution to expand the fleet.
Testing Demand:
When demand is in flux, whether in the overall network or specific lanes, fleets may be hesitant to invest in owned capacity. Rentals provide an easy entry point and can be used on a daily, weekly or monthly basis until fleets determine the consistency of their needs. Both rentals and leases enable fleets to add capacity without requiring significant upfront capital investments, provide predictable monthly payments that include maintenance, and offer back-office support for licensing, registration and other tasks.
Examining Different Equipment Sizes:
Shifts in demand may also change the sizes of equipment that can best serve specific customers or lanes. Leases and rentals provide the flexibility for fleets to test various equipment types and sizes to find the ideal configurations before making long-term commitments.
Adding Temporary Storage:
In addition to shifts in transportation capacity needs, companies may also need additional inventory storage. Leased and rented trailers can be positioned near terminals, warehouses or distribution centers to add temporary storage. Penske has dry van, refrigerated and flatbed trailers available to lease or rent.
Increasing the Fleet Size:
Used equipment provides fleets with immediate access to additional owned capacity, eliminating the long lead times often associated with new purchases. With the rising cost of new trucks, used vehicles offer a cost-effective alternative, delivering significantly lower upfront expenses. This not only helps reduce capital outlays but also supports faster returns on investment while minimizing financial risk.
Working With Penske
Penske provides some of the newest trucks in the industry and has equipment readily available for lease and rent. All equipment includes personalized support from Penske associates, maintenance and 24/7 roadside assistance. If you’re ready to buy, Penske offers access to a wide inventory, detailed condition reports, transparent pricing and flexible buying options.