A Smarter Way To Plan for 2026 and Beyond
With shifting economic pressures, evolving regulations and volatile trade conditions, agility has become a top priority for fleets. Leased trucks offer a flexible, cost-effective tool fleet operators can use as they plan for the year ahead. Incorporating leasing into strategic planning can unlock capital, simplify operations and enhance adaptability.
Preserved Capital: Leasing generally requires lower initial capital outlay compared to purchasing, allowing fleets to deploy trucks without the heavy upfront costs associated with ownership and freeing up funds for other investments or operational needs. Additionally, Penske handles the disposal of leased vehicles at the end of the term, eliminating the financial risk and logistical burden associated with reselling or disposing of the assets.
Predictable Operating Costs: Full-service leases offer fleets consistent monthly payments, which simplifies budgeting and forecasting and provides predictable expenses. Full-service leases also include maintenance costs, emergency roadside service and tire replacement, giving fleet managers even greater visibility and control over costs.
Scalability: Fluctuating demand, seasonal surges and business growth can create the need to quickly adjust fleet size without committing to long-term asset ownership. Leasing offers the flexibility to scale fleets in response to these changes — whether driven by new contracts, peak seasons or expansion opportunities. Many leasing contracts offer short- or mid-term options that align with these business cycles.
Detailed Benchmarking Reports: Data is becoming a crucial part of fleet management. Penske’s Catalyst AI™ gives fleets access to customized benchmarking so fleet managers can compare their fleet’s performance to similar fleets. They can also compare individual vehicles to pinpoint performance differences and make targeted adjustments to drive better results, allowing managers to focus on specific metrics, including fuel efficiency, maintenance costs and utilization.
Access to the Latest Equipment and Technology: OEMs are rapidly introducing trucks with enhanced fuel efficiency and safety systems. Leasing provides access to the latest technology and can also offer a low-risk avenue to test alternative fuel vehicles.
Improved Uptime: Penske’s comprehensive maintenance program for full-service leases also improves customer uptime. Thorough preventive maintenance minimizes the risk of over-the-road breakdowns. And, in the event a breakdown does occur, Penske offers 24/7 roadside assistance and can provide a replacement vehicle if needed.
Back-Office Support: Penske assists with administrative tasks, including the permitting, licensing and registration of leased vehicles as well as fuel and mileage tax reporting, streamlining back-office tasks for fleets. Customers can quickly obtain replacement copies of credentials and registration cab cards through the Fleet Insight™portal. Penske can also help guide customers through fuel, distance and IFTA audit processes.
Planning Ahead
Leasing can be a strategic planning decision that allows fleet managers to build more agile, efficient and future-ready fleets for 2026 and beyond. As you plan for the year ahead, engaging with leasing partners early can help you ensure capacity, create your budget and identify your operational needs.