The 2026 Annual Third-Party Logistics Study marks a significant milestone as it celebrates its 30^th anniversary as a historic chronicler of the U.S. supply chain. Dr. John Langley, the study鈥檚 creator and a supply chain professor and emeritus professor at the , along with sponsors and , will commemorate this edition by highlighting the most effective ways that the supply chain can collaborate and the emerging technologies that make them run.

The study is available for download at no cost at .

The publication centers its efforts on three special sections: How the relationships between shippers and 3PLs might evolve from transactional to strategic, successful strategic partnerships, and emerging technologies within the supply chain.

Each year, the research provides a deeper dive into the current state of the 3PL market and tackles contemporary issues like the supply chain鈥檚 response to rising tariffs and the crucial role of supply chain talent.

Highlights from the 2026 3PL Study:

• Relationships between shippers and 3PLs are moving away from being transactional to more strategic in nature. Shippers note that supply chain disruptions (81%), cost optimization through collaboration (76%) and digital transformation (57%) are among the top drivers for strategic partnerships. On the 3PL side, key considerations are demand for end-to-end visibility (61%), customized/value-added services (61%) and cost optimization via collaboration (56%).
• Contracts and other financial benefits drive strategic partnerships. Service level agreements are the most common way to connect shippers and 3PLs. Other elements that shippers employ include guaranteed volume/capacity (67%), flexible terminations (62%) and contract extensions (57%). For 3PLs, there are continuous improvement targets (72%), guaranteed volume/capacity (61%) and contract extensions (56%). It is interesting to note that a little over half of all shippers explained that they do not rebid business at the end of contracts.

• How the latest and greatest technology can improve the shipper鈥檚 supply chain. The great majority of shippers (90%) regard technological capabilities among the most critical elements of selecting a 3PL. The majority of shippers (80%) and 3PLs (81%) are deploying advanced analytics at some level. Artificial intelligence and machine learning are utilized by shippers at a 67% rate and at 73% for 3PLs. Barriers to deployment of next generation tech includes funding, unclear business cases, inadequate talent, trust of that technology, risk aversion and scalability.

According to Dr. Langley: 鈥渢he 3PL industry has grown and transformed significantly over the past 30 years. Both shippers and providers and managers of supply chain services have responded forcefully to the continually changing and challenging business and supply chain environments.鈥�

鈥淚n 30 years of the 3PL study, we鈥檝e tracked countless industry shifts, but this year holds something unique,鈥� said Shanton Wilcox, senior vice president of supply chain consulting at NTT DATA. 鈥淔or the first time, we see an overlap with a significant and ubiquitous business condition in the global tariffs, coinciding with material advancements in enabling technology, namely AI. This situation provides the motivation and capability for organizations to address the volatility and dynamic nature of this business challenge.鈥�

鈥淲e would like to congratulate Dr. Langley for three decades of 3PL Study excellence,鈥� stated Stacy Schlachter, Penske Logistics senior vice president of sales. 鈥淭his year鈥檚 report does a great job of delving deeper into the relationships between shippers and their 3PLs, what translates to the most effective collaborations, and what new technologies matter most to shippers.鈥�

By 鈥淢ove Ahead鈥� Staff

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 Penske 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.

Penske Truck Leasing is a Penske Transportation Solutions company headquartered in Reading, Pennsylvania. Solutions from Penske 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, 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 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. Penske 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 Penske Truck Leasing.

All week long, Penske 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 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 leadership team to Penske 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:聽

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:聽

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:聽

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.

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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:聽

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:聽

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:聽

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:聽

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:聽

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:聽

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:聽

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:聽

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 Penske, also have tools to improve efficiency, increase visibility and enable data-driven decision-making.

Brokerage Services:聽

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.

was honored by with two supply chain awards for driving innovation and efficiency with exemplary and solutions.

鈥淲e sincerely appreciate the recognition of our team and its work by our longstanding customers at Whirlpool,鈥� stated Jeff Jackson, Penske Logistics president. 鈥淚 am very proud of our associates for their continued commitment to accelerating supply chain performance for our customers.鈥�

笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 distribution center management solutions earned the 2024 Whirlpool Supply Chain Supplier Award for Digital Transformation for successfully implementing a new warehouse management system (WMS) in a pilot program now expected to be replicated across the wider supply chain network.

Similarly, the company鈥檚 freight management solutions earned the 2024 Whirlpool Supply Chain Supplier Award for Customer Service by supporting inbound and outbound manufacturing processes as well as finished goods related to supplier management and trucking carrier management deliveries.

Whirlpool noted that Penske has implemented industry-leading standards of service while innovating customer service capabilities.

By "Move Ahead" Staff

鈥淲e sincerely appreciate the recognition of our team and its work by our longstanding customers at Whirlpool,鈥� stated Jeff Jackson, Penske Logistics president. 鈥淚 am very proud of our associates for their continued commitment to accelerating supply chain performance for our customers.鈥�

笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 distribution center management solutions earned the 2024 Whirlpool Supply Chain Supplier Award for Digital Transformation for successfully implementing a new warehouse management system (WMS) in a pilot program now expected to be replicated across the wider supply chain network.

Similarly, the company鈥檚 freight management solutions earned the 2024 Whirlpool Supply Chain Supplier Award for Customer Service by supporting inbound and outbound manufacturing processes as well as finished goods related to supplier management and trucking carrier management deliveries.

Whirlpool noted that Penske has implemented industry-leading standards of service while innovating customer service capabilities.

Penske Logistics is a Penske Transportation Solutions company headquartered in Reading, Pennsylvania. The company is a leading provider of innovative supply chain and logistics solutions. Penske offers solutions including , , , , , , and a comprehensive array of technologies to keep the world moving forward. Visit to learn more.

Penske 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 Penske 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 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 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 Penske Truck Leasing 鈥� Northeast Region. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a practical investment that elevates how Penske 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�

Penske 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 Penske locations across North America visit for more information.

Penske Truck Leasing is proud to mark its second annual Rental Associate Appreciation Week, honoring the associates who keep customers moving.

The week recognizes the essential role Rental associates play in helping families through life鈥檚 busiest moves and keeping businesses running smoothly.

鈥淥ur Rental associates are instrumental in delivering 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 legendary customer service,鈥� said Kevin Malloy, senior vice president of rental at Penske Truck Leasing, in a video message to associates. 鈥淭heir dedication and performance keep our customers coming back.鈥�

Throughout the week, Penske will celebrate associates companywide and showcase the skills and career opportunities that make Penske Truck Rental an essential part of the transportation industry.

Penske operates more than 2,000 rental locations across North America, where associates provide personalized solutions for both household and commercial customers. From short-term rentals to seasonal fleet needs, the rental network helps businesses stay flexible and families move with confidence.

That customer connection is what inspires associates every day. Sarah Bell, an assistant rental manager in Bedford Park, Illinois, said, 鈥淵ou can be the reason a family moves states with a little less stress. I鈥檝e never felt the impact of my work so deeply before, and it inspires me to maintain our high standards for customer service.鈥�

Watch a special appreciation message to Penske rental associates below.

Click to view the video with French Canadian subtitles .

By: Caitlin Stibitz

The trucking and freight transportation industries have experienced several years of low rates, excess capacity and challenging headwinds. While the freight market is beginning to stabilize, uncertainty remains. Throughout 2026, shippers and carriers will need to rely on strategic planning, disciplined asset management and flexible operations to succeed in this evolving landscape.

Here are seven strategies to help as you plan for 2026:

1. Focus on Operational Efficiency

Carrier profitability remains under pressure, and shippers are not immune to tightening margins. Both parties can benefit from driving network optimization, which improves asset utilization and reduces empty miles. Artificial intelligence, routing software, load optimization tools and predictive analytics can help increase efficiency, control costs and improve service.

In 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 2025 Transportation Leaders Survey: A Road to AI Adoption, which surveyed more than 250 transportation and logistics leaders, 93% agreed that AI will improve resiliency and agility, better positioning organizations for future growth. Additionally, 70% are already using AI solutions. Respondents reported that AI has improved fleet planning (36%), route optimization (35%), operational efficiencies (34%) and driver safety (32%).

2. Prioritize Carrier Partnerships

The freight market in 2026 is expected to continue its slow path toward balance, which will mean capacity tightens. Shippers should prioritize strengthening relationships with their core carriers to ensure consistent service and competitive pricing. Moving beyond transactional arrangements and toward strategic partnerships can help shippers ensure they have access to reliable capacity, even in a shifting market.

Forming relationships can also uncover opportunities for cost savings and improved service. 鈥淚n a world that seems to have more and more disruptions, there is no substitute for a long-term strategy of being fair and equitable with your trading partners,鈥� said Andy Moses, senior vice president of sales and solutions for Penske Logistics. 鈥淪avvy shippers and those who plan to succeed in any operating environment have figured out how to collaborate with their carriers.鈥�

3. Be Strategic With Equipment Investments and Maintenance

According to ACT Research鈥檚 , fleets will enter next year with deferred equipment replacement needs and aging assets. However, due to inflation, putting additional pressure on capital decisions. Fleets may want to monitor their miles per gallon and maintenance costs to help them decide when to invest in new equipment. For fleets ready to replace equipment, there are several options available to help them control costs, including leasing and renting, as well as adding used equipment.

If fleets are holding onto their assets longer, maintenance becomes more important. A strong focus on (PM) can help control costs, reduce downtime and extend the life of parts and components. , and full-service leases, which include maintenance, can help fleets control costs and gain more predictability over maintenance expenses.

4. Monitor Freight Rates and Trends

5. Seek Out Financially Stable Partners

6. Remain Flexible

7. Keep an Eye on Sustainability and Funding Opportunities

Major shifts in federal regulatory policy have created a complex landscape for fleets as they navigate the transition to sustainable technologies. While regulatory requirements may shift, the adoption of battery-electric vehicles continues to increase, and shippers face growing pressure from customers, regulators and investors to decarbonize supply chains.

The found that, despite federal-level uncertainty, more than $13.5 billion in funding remains available through state and local programs to support zero-emission and near-zero-emission projects. Adding EV infrastructure can be a lengthy process, so fleets should continue planning ahead to meet future sustainability goals.

Let Penske Help

At Penske, we offer integrated, flexible solutions that help shippers and carriers successfully navigate the challenges of freight and capacity planning in 2026 and beyond. Whether you need late-model equipment, scalable transportation solutions or support with sustainability initiatives, we are here to help:

Comprehensive Fleet Solutions: provides flexible, cost-effective, full-service leasing and fleet maintenance programs that keep fleets modern, safe and efficient. is also available for fleets that need short-term capacity or want to test markets before making a longer commitment. Both include proactive maintenance, a nationwide support network and 24/7 roadside assistance to maximize uptime and minimize service disruptions.

Owned Assets: offers access to a wide inventory of used commercial trucks for fleets that want to own equipment outright. All equipment includes detailed condition reports, and most units have had a single owner, Penske itself, so they are backed by a strong maintenance history and come with a five-year maintenance report. Pricing is transparent and there are flexible bidding options through the online auction platform. Penske also provides dealer-specific benefits, including wholesale pricing and equipment protection plans.

Reliable, Scalable Capacity: offers transportation solutions backed by strong fleet support from Penske Truck Leasing to provide stable, scalable capacity. Solutions include dedicated fleets, freight management and freight brokerage, as well as distribution center management and lead logistics allowing customers to adapt to shifts in market demands.

Advanced Fleet Benchmarking: With 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 all customers can access the AI-driven Comparative Insights feature, . The Catalyst AI enables fleets to compare their performance internally and against similar external operations. This AI tool goes beyond basic reporting to create customized performance benchmarks tailored to the equipment, usage patterns and operating environments of individual fleets. Catalyst AI can provide insights into the performance of specific assets or certain regions.

Forecasting and Network Optimization: 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 provides real-time supply chain visibility, predictive analytics and proactive monitoring to help shippers optimize their operations. By leveraging ClearChain, shippers can track shipments in real time, quickly identify potential disruptions and make data-driven decisions to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. The technology also offers customized reporting and performance insights, enabling shippers to streamline processes, improve customer service and maintain greater control over their supply chains.

Sustainable Solutions: Many of our business lines offer sustainable options. Penske Truck Rental offers electric vehicles for rent and Penske Truck Leasing, which was recently recognized by the U.S. EPA SmartWay program, offers a range of sustainable solutions for customers, including electric vehicle leasing, charging infrastructure support, and natural gas and renewable diesel. Penske Logistics has been investing in , including equipment technology, maintenance, renewable diesel and sustainable logistics facilities.

Additionally, , a joint venture formed by Penske Transportation Solutions and ForeFront Power, leverages 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 extensive fleet management experience and ForeFront Power鈥檚 expertise in renewable energy development. Penske Energy works with fleets to identify applications and routes where battery electric vehicles will work today and to design and source charging infrastructure.

Financial Strength and Industry Expertise: Penske offers the financial stability, scale and technology investments needed to support complex, nationwide transportation networks. To tap into our resources as you plan for the year ahead, contact us today.

As part of our ongoing commitment to safety and security, we recently implemented a new driver鈥檚 license digital verification process at Penske Truck Rental locations. More specifically, we must verify the driver鈥檚 license at the start of every rental to confirm it is valid, authentic and belongs to the person renting the truck by using data from participating state motor vehicle departments. This quick and easy process can be completed using the driver鈥檚 own smartphone to upload a photo of the driver and their U.S. driver's license. The new process helps protect our associates, customers and the public.

Background:

• What is it? We verify every driver鈥檚 license at the start of each rental to ensure it鈥檚 valid, authentic and belongs to the person renting the truck.
• When does it happen? At the time of pickup. The driver will use their smartphone to:
  • Upload a photo of their U.S. or Canadian driver鈥檚 license
  • Take a quick selfie to confirm their identity
• How does it work? We check the license information with state motor vehicle records 鈥� it鈥檚 fast, secure and hassle-free.
• Why is this process being implemented now? Was there a specific trigger or regulatory change?
  Penske continuously evaluates and enhances its rental processes to align with evolving industry standards, customer expectations, and operational priorities.

Driver Experience:

• How does this process impact the speed of vehicle pickup for our drivers?
  It鈥檚 a fast and easy process that typically takes less than two minutes to complete.
• Is this verification required for every rental, even for repeat drivers?
  Yes.
• Can this process be completed in advance, or only at the rental location?
  At this time, the verification process can only be completed at the rental counter. We are building functionality to allow for advance completion in the future.
• What kind of support is available if a driver has trouble completing the verification?
  A rental associate will be available to assist and guide drivers through the process.
• Is there a backup method for verification?
  Yes, if a driver doesn鈥檛 have a smartphone or cell service is weak, the rental associate will use a Penske-owned smart device or a driver鈥檚 license scanner to validate the driver鈥檚 license.

Security & Privacy:

• What company are you working with to implement this process?
  , a trusted digital identity verification company.
• How is the driver's license and selfie data stored and protected?
  The data is encrypted, and access is strictly controlled, logged, and monitored, with protections aligned to ISO/IEC 27001 and SOC 2 Type II standards.
• Who has access to the uploaded information, and for how long is it retained?
  Access is limited to authorized personnel at Incode. Data retention follows 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 policies, and the data is securely deleted once no longer needed.

National Accounts:

• Can this process be waived or modified for our fleet drivers under contract?
  We need to ensure all drivers operating a Penske rental truck are validated.
• Is there a way to bulk-verify drivers in advance for high-volume rental periods?
  Not at this time, see Driver Experience section above.

Key Contacts:

• Who can I contact with additional questions?
  Please send an email to IdentityVerification@penske.com.

This information is provided as a courtesy and does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. All information, content, and materials are for general informational purposes only, and Penske makes no representations or warranties about this information whatsoever, including without limitation its accuracy, completeness, or currency. This webpage contains links to other third-party websites maintained by Incode. Such links are for your convenience. Penske does not maintain and is not responsible for the contents of these third-party sites.

Last Updated: September 23, 2025

is the recipient of a 2025 Manufacturing Innovation Award from . The award was handed out at Toyota鈥檚 supplier conference, in recognition of 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 . Penske received this honor for attaining high marks in ingenuity, efficiency and cost savings for Toyota.

Jeff Jackson, Penske Logistics president: 鈥淲e thank Toyota North America for their recognition of our hard-working associates, who are dedicated to accelerating the supply chain performance of our valued customers each and every day.鈥�

Penske Logistics supports Toyota鈥檚 plant operations in Alabama, Indiana, and Ontario, Canada.

By "Move Ahead" Staff

Jeff Jackson, Penske Logistics president: 鈥淲e thank Toyota North America for their recognition of our hard-working associates, who are dedicated to accelerating the supply chain performance of our valued customers each and every day.鈥�

Penske Logistics supports Toyota鈥檚 plant operations in Alabama, Indiana, and Ontario, Canada.

Penske Logistics is a Penske Transportation Solutions company headquartered in Reading, Pennsylvania. The company is a leading provider of innovative supply chain and logistics solutions. Penske offers solutions including , , , , , , and a comprehensive array of technologies to keep the world moving forward. Visit to learn more.

For the 11th straight year, Penske Truck Leasing proudly participated in the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference (NLSC) 鈥� the nation鈥檚 premier gathering for students in technical, skilled and service-related occupations.

This year鈥檚 conference brought together over 17,500 attendees and 6,800 student competitors in Atlanta, Georgia. Once again, Penske was there to connect, support and inspire the next generation of diesel and collision repair professionals.

Celebrating 11 Years of Partnership

笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 presence at NLSC wasn鈥檛 just about showcasing trucks and tools 鈥� it was about building community, creating career connections, and investing in the future of skilled trades. Students participated in interactive exhibits, experienced live diagnostics and tech demonstrations and engaged directly with Penske recruiters, technicians and mentors.

As Andy Boff, director of collision repair and maintenance initiatives at Penske, said:

鈥淭hese partnerships are crucial 鈥� they show that skilled trades are alive and well, and they give students a chance to get excited about what their future could look like. It鈥檚 also a great way for us to hear directly from students about what they want from employers and their careers. SkillsUSA creates that buzz between student and industry.鈥�

Human Moments That Matter

In a heartwarming moment, a Penske Snap-on toolbox winner chose to gift her prize to her great-niece, a fellow collision repair competitor, which captured the essence of SkillsUSA: family, mentorship and shared opportunity.

Another proud moment came when SkillsUSA earned national exposure on Fox Business, with a student at our booth proudly representing Penske gear during a live segment, helping to highlight the importance of student-employer connections.

Building Authentic Career Connections

From immersive booth experiences to competition sponsorships and real-world tech demos, 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 presence was designed to attract and engage the next generation of talent. We proudly delivered:

• Hands-on experience with real-world technology and tools
• Exposure to career opportunities and direct recruiter connections
• Inspiration from industry leaders and role models
• Competitions that sharpen skills and build confidence
• Community support, mentorship and lasting professional networks
• Exclusive giveaways and contests that reward participation

Real-World Technology and Innovation in Action

笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 booth was designed to give students a realistic, hands-on look at technician careers and innovations driving the industry forward. Highlights included:

• A brand-new Emissions/Aftertreatment station, offering exposure to advanced diagnostics and emissions technology.
• A second diesel competition station managed by Penske, ensuring a smooth experience for judges and students.
• A LEGO-based diagnostics challenge and RealWear AR headset demo, both led by team member Sabrina Einsla, which introduced emerging diagnostics technology in a fun and engaging way, helping us connect with and inspire a younger talent demographic.

As Rick Labadie, director of staffing for the technician hiring center at Penske, noted:

鈥淭he students that are competing at SkillsUSA are the best of the best in their skilled trade throughout the USA. They represent the next generation entering our industry. Penske has been involved with SkillsUSA for many years, and it really takes a village to make this event happen 鈥� we鈥檝e built an incredible network through this partnership. Watching students experience our latest tools, trucks and technology firsthand is always rewarding. This event showcases the pride, innovation and potential within our industry.鈥�

Shaping the Future of Diesel Education

This year, Greg Klever, manager of technical schools and partnership programs at Penske, led the integration of emissions technology into the diesel equipment technology technical standards, ensuring the competition reflects current industry practices. Throughout the year, we expanded involvement to 14 state competitions and supported 75 competitors (44 high school and 31 post-secondary). Additionally, we stepped in to run the chassis station at the last minute, following a request from the technical chair, highlighting our team鈥檚 flexibility and commitment.

鈥淲ith this momentum, we鈥檙e on track for full implementation of the emissions station in 2026 and beyond. I鈥檓 proud to be part of this ongoing growth and grateful for 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 support in our efforts with SkillsUSA.鈥�

Key Milestone: Klever was also elected co-chair of the National Diesel Equipment Technology competition, a two-year leadership role that transitions into the chair role and enables Penske to bring feedback from OEMs and school partners to evolve the competition in meaningful ways for 2026 and beyond.

Thank You for Making Year 11 a Success!

This year reinforced why Penske continues to show up: to create opportunities, celebrate talent and cultivate community and collaboration within the skilled trades industry. We are proud to stand alongside the next generation of technicians, educators and partners who are shaping the future of our industry, and we look forward to continuing our role in powering careers and driving excellence in diesel and collision technology.

To explore technician careers and learn more about opportunities at Penske, visit .

Whether moving across town or across the country, a do-it-yourself move using a safe, reliable Penske rental truck may be the perfect option.

For those times when hiring movers is a better fit, 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 security experts encourage consumers to take a few precautions to ensure the safety of your family and your cherished belongings.

Scammers, offering seemingly inexpensive moving service, use online message boards, shell websites, social media, and other online listings to attract unsuspecting consumers.

Quite often, the prices and quotes are unclear, and when the movers show up, the scammers may be using unbranded trucks or trailers.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates moving companies and provides and to issues after the move.

If you need a full-service move, consider sourcing your movers from the

Tips for a Safe Move

• Lock all vehicle doors.
• Secure the rear cargo area with a hardened padlock.
• Park in well-lit areas and under the view of security cameras, if possible.
• Make sure you have adequate theft insurance in your homeowner's insurance policy, while moving to your new location.
• Be mindful of what you post on social media.
• Consider packing and using "tracker tags" in your boxes.
• Take photos of prized valuables while packing for your records
• Take photos of the vehicles the movers are using (plates, truck and trailer numbers)
• Take photos of the rental truck you are driving (plates, truck and trailer numbers)

What can you do if you are the victim of theft or think you've been taken advantage by a moving scammer?

If you are the victim of theft or a scammer using a Penske rental truck, call the police immediately and contact the location.

Provide the truck information, moving company, and any other details such as photos, truck plates, truck number, rental agreement number, etc.

鈥淢ove Ahead鈥� Staff

笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 top techs and customer service representatives (CSRs) from across the U.S. and Canada went head-to-head in Mooresville, North Carolina, at the 2025 National Tech Showdown.

The National Tech Showdown celebrates the skill, speed, and expertise of 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 frontline maintenance team with 44 finalists competing after eight weeks of local and regional challenges.

This year鈥檚 milestones:

• First time female techs reached the finals
• Seven past finalists returned
• Largest prize pool in event history

The format:
Two tracks tested bumper-to-bumper knowledge:

• Tech Pro: for Tech I and Tech II associates
• Preventive Maintenance (PM) Plus: Tech III and CSR associates

On June 12, all finalists completed a 25-minute online exam, and a one-hour, hands-on assessment focused on real-world performance.

鈥淭he Tech Showdown is a reflection of the discipline and expertise our maintenance teams bring to work every day,鈥� said Art Vallely, president of Penske Truck Leasing. 鈥淚t鈥檚 an opportunity to recognize the precision and focus that keep our customers moving and our operations strong. They are the best in the business!鈥�

Top 2025 Finishers:

Tech Pro

1. Conner Fletcher | Tech I - Memphis, TN
2. Brian Reynolds | Tech I - Parkersburg, WV
3. Todd Wilcox | Tech I - Mobile, AL

PM Plus

1. Erick Mckenzie | Tech II - Garland, TX
2. Dhruv Rana | Tech III - Kearny, NJ
3. Cody Allen | Tech II - Kansas City, MO

笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 commitment to technician training and growth spans more than 11,500 maintenance associates across North America.

鈥淭his competition is built to reflect the grit, pressure and real-world challenges our teams face,鈥� said Holly Gerke, vice president of maintenance development and technical training. 鈥淭hese finalists have trained, adapted and executed with accuracy. It shows the strength of their preparation and the value of continued learning across our organization.鈥�

READING, Pa., (July 14, 2025) 鈥� Penske Truck Leasing recognized 44 of its top maintenance professionals during the 2025 National Tech Showdown, held June 12 at the Team Penske race shop in Mooresville, North Carolina. The internal competition brought together nearly 3,000 technicians and customer service representatives from across the United States and Canada for a series of timed exams, skilled challenges and diagnostic tasks.

This year鈥檚 event marked several milestones: female technicians competing in the finals for the first time, the return of seven 2023 national finalists and the largest prize pool in Tech Showdown history. Associates competed in one of two tracks: Tech Pro, for Tech I and Tech II associates, and Preventive Maintenance (PM) Plus, for Tech III associates and Customer Service Representatives. Each was designed to test bumper-to-bumper knowledge across all major brands in 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 fleet.

Conner Fletcher earned first place in Tech Pro after competing against 25 other national finalists. Erick Mckenzie placed first in the PM Plus, topping a field of 17 other competitors. Each finalist completed both a 25-minute online exam and a one-hour hands-on assessment designed to test critical thinking, technical depth, and on-the-job decision-making.

鈥淭he Tech Showdown is a reflection of the discipline and expertise our maintenance teams bring to work every day,鈥� said Art Vallely, president of Penske Truck Leasing. 鈥淚t鈥檚 an opportunity to recognize the precision and focus that keep our customers moving and our operations strong. They are the best in the business!鈥�

This year鈥檚 top finishers also included:

Tech Pro

• 2^nd: Brian Reynolds, of Parkersburg, West Virginia
• 3^rd: Todd Wilcox, of Mobile, Alabama

PM Plus

• 2^nd: Dhruv Rana, of Kearny, New Jersey
• 3^rd: Cody Allen, of Kansas City, Missouri

鈥淭his competition is built to reflect the grit, pressure and real-world challenges our teams face,鈥� said Holly Gerke, vice president of maintenance development and technical training. 鈥淭hese finalists have trained, adapted and executed with accuracy. It shows the strength of their preparation and the value of continued learning across our organization.鈥�

The 2025 Tech Showdown followed eight weeks of district and area-level competitions. At each stage participants completed online and hands-on exams, earning escalating monetary awards and the opportunity to represent their locations on the national stage. The national finalists earned the highest-level recognition and awards offered through the program.

笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 investment in Tech Showdown is part of a broader commitment to training, recognition and career development for its 11,500-plus maintenance associates across North America.

For more information about Penske Truck Leasing, visit: .

Penske Truck Leasing is a Penske Transportation Solutions company headquartered in Reading, Pennsylvania. A leading provider of innovative transportation solutions, Penske operates and maintains more than 414,700 vehicles and serves its customers from more than 990 maintenance facilities and more than 2,000 rental locations across North America. Solutions from Penske include full-service truck leasing, fleet maintenance, truck rentals, used trucks, and a comprehensive array of technologies to keep the world moving forward. Visit to learn more.

# # #

While fireworks and sparklers are staples of Independence Day celebrations, their incendiary nature place them among the hazardous cargo prohibited from Penske rental trucks.

Penske reminds consumers that under its rental agreement flammable, explosive or otherwise hazardous materials may not be transported in its rental vehicles.

Fireworks are considered a Class 1 hazardous material by the There are that apply to rental truck operators regarding the transportation of hazardous materials.

In addition to fireworks, Penske prohibits carrying or hauling hazardous cargo such as full gas tanks, propane tanks, paint thinners, pesticides, fertilizer, charcoal and lighter fluid.

Being mindful of hazardous cargo is just one factor do-it-yourself movers should keep in mind as they travel to new destinations over the long Independence Day holiday weekend.

Independence Day Travel Outlook

projects 61.6 million people will travel by car over the holiday weekend, a 2.2% increase over last year and the highest number on record.

鈥淪ummertime is one of the busiest travel seasons of the year, and July 4th is one of the most popular times to get away,鈥� said Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel.

鈥淔ollowing Memorial Day鈥檚 record forecast, AAA is seeing strong demand for road trips and air travel over Independence Day week,鈥� Barber said. 鈥淲ith the holiday falling on a Friday, travelers have the option of making it a long weekend or taking the entire week to make memories with family and friends.鈥�

, a provider of transportation data and insights, expects Wednesday, July 2 and Sunday, July 6 to be the busiest days on the road. Afternoon hours will be the most congested.

Drivers should hit the road in the morning to avoid the worst traffic. Construction, crashes, or severe weather could impact travel times. Drivers are advised to be mindful of stopped vehicles including emergency responders.

Tips for a Successful Moving Day

Whether moving across town or across the country, Penske Truck Rental has these tips for a successful moving day:

• Pack up early so loading can begin as soon as you pick up your truck.
• Give yourself enough travel time to account for potential delays, including road construction.
• Make sure you have snacks and drinks ready for the road.
• For cross-country movers, plan breaks and do a little sightseeing along the way.
• After you arrive at your destination, make sure you allow enough time to unload.
• If you are looking for a change of scenery and need some inspiration, check out our 2024 Top 10 Moving Destinations list.

offers on all one-way truck rentals, discounts for AAA members, college students and as well as packing supplies and 24/7 roadside assistance. Are you ready to make a reservation? Visit the for more information.

Supply chains often face threats of disruption, from labor shortages to shifts in consumer demand and changes in available capacity. Climate-related challenges and geopolitical tensions, combined with shifting trade regulations, are also introducing potential disruptions by increasing transit times, capacity constraints and rate volatility.

鈥淲hile uncertainty is still a prevalent phenomenon, one thing remains certain: volatility is here to stay. The key will be to ensure supply chains become more agile and robust,鈥� according to .

An Economist Impact survey found that 55% of executives expect major disruptions in 2025. Supply chains need to adapt and endure, which increasingly means they need to be resilient and ready for the unexpected. This growing awareness is pushing many businesses to reevaluate how they plan, source and operate across their networks.

As conditions grow more complex, smart planning and flexible strategies are essential. Here are several strategies manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and fleets can use to future-proof their supply chains.

Right-Size Your Fleet

How fleets acquire, maintain and divest equipment directly affects their operational and financial performance, and fleet optimization begins with understanding how to match assets to operational needs. By analyzing historical, real-time and forecasted data, companies can determine the right mix and size of equipment needed.

Private fleets often rely on a blended strategy of leases, rentals and owned equipment to meet shifting capacity demands, lifecycle planning and evolving technology requirements. According to the , 34% of fleets use a combination of ownership and leasing of heavy-duty equipment. Slightly more, 38%, own most of their equipment, and 28% lease all or most of their heavy-duty units.

Optimize Networks and Routes

An optimized supply chain network provides stability during disruptions and allows companies to scale as opportunities arise. We use advanced modeling tools to design the ideal logistics networks based on shippers鈥� priorities and operations.

Network design considers several factors, including various port, warehouse and supplier configurations, to identify ideal sourcing and storage locations and eliminate inefficiencies, reducing costs and improving delivery times.

At a tactical level, network design also identifies opportunities to cut costs and improve service levels. Examples include consolidating shipments and optimizing routes based on the time of day, traffic patterns and real-time weather or traffic disruptions.

The State of Logistics Report found that network design is shifting from a three-year effort to a more continuous exercise, aimed at keeping pace with the rate of change and volatility, and helping to future proof supply chains and your businesses against disruption.

Increase Visibility of Inventory

Transparency enables agility, and real-time visibility allows shippers to identify risks early and make proactive adjustments, such as rerouting freight, sourcing from another warehouse or moving up a shipment. Visibility also supports smarter inventory management, helping companies determine optimal reorder points and the most strategic sourcing locations.

Supply chain visibility, real-time tracking and reliable data are essential for companies focused on keeping inventory levels low. When various links in the supply chain are connected, technology can combine data on inventory with supplier lead times and anticipated demand to improve decision-making, making a just-in-time approach possible. Improved visibility is a powerful way to future proof freight flows and inventory strategies.

Use AI To Future Proof Operations

Trucking and supply chain operations are generating significant amounts of data from vehicles, engines, telematics devices, routing software and more. Artificial intelligence and machine learning can process massive amounts of data quickly to identify patterns and uncover correlations that humans might miss, enabling smarter and faster decisions. Fleets can use the information to enhance truck efficiency and get a comprehensive picture of their operations. AI is also being used to improve efficiency in warehouses and the yard, and to automate supply chain management tasks.

We use AI in several applications. Fleets can use to improve miles-per-gallon and utilization. Our logistics company, Penske Logistics, utilizes AI-enabled yard management tools to automate trailer check-ins and check-outs, thereby increasing visibility into trailer locations and statuses, and streamlining yard operations while reducing manual errors. Other examples include network and route optimization, warehouse automation and more.

The State of Logistics Report noted that AI is no longer an emerging trend and AI-driven innovations are tools to enhance efficiency and resilience.鈥� As adoption accelerates, companies that embrace AI-driven efficiencies today will be best positioned to lead the next era of freight transportation,鈥� researchers wrote. AI-enabled tools are quickly becoming must-haves for companies working to future-proof their supply chain.

Diversify Key Suppliers

Overreliance on a single supplier or geographic region can leave businesses vulnerable. To reduce risk, many companies are reevaluating supplier locations and adding new sources of supply for critical components and materials. According to the State of Logistics Report, 36% of shippers are embracing friendshoring, 32%, are creating parallel supply chains and 29% are expanding into neutral markets.

These sourcing strategies help ensure products are available as needed, without overstocking, but they also require adaptable logistics support. Penske helps businesses stay agile with a nationwide network of transportation options, making it easier to shift resources as supplier networks evolve.

Secure Capacity With Confidence

Shippers and transportation providers can access capacity in several ways, both for long-term needs and short-term capacity surges. Fleets with in-house transportation can secure rental trucks and short-term leases to meet short-term spikes in demand. Utilizing long-term leases or purchasing used trucks can support sustained demand.

Companies can also turn to logistics providers to access capacity through for-hire or dedicated fleets, or on the spot market via freight brokerage. As a broker, we have access to a large pool of Penske-qualified carriers, which enables us to find the best rates and value. Our carrier sourcing solutions have saved millions of dollars in transportation costs by reducing rates and offering better carrier selection. In addition, we have the processes in place to add new carriers in 30-45 minutes.

Tap Into Trailers

Trailers offer a scalable solution to meet shifting transportation capacity or storage needswithout the commitment and cost associated with adding trucks or leasing warehouse space. They can be added to an existing fleet to increase capacity, create trailer pools or serve as temporary warehousing solutions. Incorporating trailers into your fleet strategy is another way to add agility and future proof freight handling.

Create a Contingency Plan

Having a plan in place before it鈥檚 needed allows companies to pivot quickly if something unexpected occurs. Contingency planning is often associated with adverse events, such as extreme weather or global disruption, but it can also be helpful when new opportunities arise. Plans should evaluate solutions related to transportation, warehousing and fulfillment.

Developing alternative routes, maintaining backup suppliers and leveraging technology to simulate 鈥渨hat-if鈥� scenarios are critical elements of preparedness. Being ready to act fast ensures companies aren鈥檛 losing market share as demands shift or disruptions occur.

Stay Prepared With Penske

Future proofing your supply chain starts with the right partner. We bring decades of experience, nationwide infrastructure, and advanced fleet and supply chain technology to help businesses stay agile, flexible and prepared.

In addition to full-service short- and long-term truck leases at , we have more than 85,000 commercial rental vehicles available through , including high-roof cargo vans, straight trucks with liftgates, Class 8 tractors, and dry van, flatbed and refrigerated trailers.

For companies looking to expand or refresh their fleet with greater control, offers well-maintained vehicles backed by strong maintenance records and transparent pricing.

Additionally, provides transportation and warehousing solutions across the supply chain, including dedicated transportation, transportation management, distribution center management and supply chain management.

We are also investing heavily in technology to increase visibility, break down silos and improves decision-making.

From planning and capacity to technology and visibility, we help you future proof your supply chain every step of the way.

What's Next?

Regardless of where you begin, each part of your transportation strategy helps to build a more flexible and resilient supply chain. From acquiring the right vehicles to optimizing your logistics network, our business lines offer targeted solutions to help you stay ahead. Explore how each one supports your future proofing strategy:

Learn More About Future Proofing With Truck Leasing

Leasing offers long-term flexibility, predictable costs and access to the latest vehicle technology to help you stay ready for what鈥檚 next.

Learn More About Future Proofing With Truck Rental

Commercial truck rental gives you fast, scalable access to the equipment you need 鈥� when and where you need it.

Learn More About Future Proofing With Logistics

Our logistics solutions are built to adapt, helping you increase visibility, improve efficiency and navigate disruption with ease.

Every day, more than 6,500 warehouse professionals across North and South America power Penske Logistics and its customers. This week, Penske is proud to recognize the dedication and impact of these essential team members during Warehouse Associate Appreciation Week, June 8鈥�14.

From bustling distribution centers in the United States and Canada to operations across Mexico and Brazil, 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 warehouse associates are the heartbeat of its logistics network. They help ensure that everything from automotive parts and household appliances to food, pharmaceuticals and more flows efficiently through the supply chain.

鈥淵ou not only deliver exceptional results and service to 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 customers 鈥� you keep the world moving forward,鈥� said Jeff Jackson, president of Penske Logistics, in a video message to associates. 鈥淥ur global supply chain starts with you.鈥�

Across 156 facilities, 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 warehouse teams work behind the scenes, but their impact is far-reaching. Their efforts help keep store shelves stocked, businesses operating smoothly and communities supplied with what they need most. Whether navigating daily operations, meeting seasonal demand or rising to unforeseen challenges, 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 warehouse associates exemplify precision, professionalism and a relentless drive for excellence.

鈥淭his week is all about celebrating you and your trade,鈥� said Pete Bayer, senior vice president of distribution center management operations. 鈥淵ou are a crucial part of the Penske Logistics organization, and we want you to know how important you are.鈥�

To 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 warehouse professionals: THANK YOU for the work you do to move the world forward.

Click to view the video with with or with .

By: Caitlin Stibitz

With forecasters predicting an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season, fleet operators are encouraged to take steps now to prepare in the event strong storms impact your area.

The Atlantic hurricane season began Sunday, June 1 and ends Sunday, Nov. 30, but the season historically peaks between mid-August and mid-October.

Along with high winds, hurricanes can cause flooding and storm surges. If your area is affected by these conditions, planning ahead can potentially save your business and your life.

Penske has tips and resources available to help you prepare for a hurricane and guidance before, during and after a storm.

Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook

The 2024 season saw 18 named storms form with winds of 39 mph or greater. Eleven of the storms became hurricanes with winds of 74 mph or greater, and five strengthened to major hurricanes with winds reaching 111 mph or greater, according to the

The season included three record-breaking storms: Hurricane Beryl, the earliest Atlantic basin Category-5 hurricane on record; Hurricane Helene, which made landfall as a Category-4 storm on the Florida Gulf Coast and Hurricane Milton, which resulted in a tornado outbreak that produced 46 tornadoes and caused torrential rainfall and localized flooding.

NOAA鈥檚 outlook for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season predicts a 30% chance of a near-normal season, a 60% chance of an above-normal season, and a 10% chance of a below-normal season.

The forecast includes a prediction of between 13-19 total named storms with 6-10 forecast to become hurricanes. NOAA predicts 3-5 will form into major hurricanes.

Hurricane Preparation

The Department of Homeland Security, through its Ready national public service campaign, has assembled some hurricane for every stage of the storm. It includes evacuation tips, what to include in a disaster supply kit and how to create a family communication plan.

Tips for Penske Customers and Consumers

Penske offers the following advice to consumers and Penske customers on what to do before a storm arrives:

• Make safety your number one priority.
• Top off truck fuel tanks.
• Move trucks to higher ground if in a flood-prone area.
• Stay tuned to local news stations for weather reports.
• Adhere to all travel, road advisories and restrictions.
• Delay travel into impacted areas when possible.
• Know your evacuation routes and have a plan.
• Seal and lock all fuel tank tops.
• Secure outdoor items and clear debris that could become a projectile.
• Charge all mobile phone battery packs and ensure you have charging cables.
• Put mobile devices on low-power mode to conserve battery.
• Ensure you have employee contact information and a post-storm follow-up plan to verify the status of each employee.

Important: If you suspect your vehicle may have been flooded do not start the vehicle. Starting the vehicle may cause significant damage to the emission control system. Contact your local Penske service location or 24/7 Roadside Assistance for guidance.

Penske Contact information

• Penske Location and Fuel Finder Tool
• 24/7 Roadside Assistance: 1-800-526-0798
• Consumer Truck Rental Reservations: 1-888-996-5415
• Commercial Truck Rental Reservations: 1-800-736-7531

Created annually for CSCMP by global consulting firm and presented by , this publication offers to the industry a close-up of the American economy through the lens of the logistics sector.

The report further suggests ongoing fragile business optimism driven by fluctuating demand, emerging technological disruptions, and a renewed need for resilience and agility.

Notable trends and statistics include:

• U.S. business logistics costs are $2.58 trillion, which amounts to 8.8% of the national GDP. Last year, the numbers were $2.45 trillion and 8.8% respectively.
• The logistics industry in 2024 saw a return to pre-pandemic patterns in some areas, but was also marked by flat business volumes, excess truck capacity and rising operational costs.
• E-commerce continues to move along at a brisk pace, with global online retail sales nearing $6.3 trillion, resulting in more efficient last-mile delivery, increasingly agile warehousing, and a stronger demand for air freight.
• Geopolitical tensions, combined with proposed and enacted tariffs, and shifting trade regulations around the world, have combined to increase transit times, capacity constraints, rate volatility in ocean freight (leading to longer home package delivery times and delays), and a greater reliance from third-party logistics providers to deliver end-to-end support.
• Mexico overtook China as the United States鈥� largest trading partner in 2024. Transactions between the U.S. and Mexico topped at a record $840 billion, a 6% year-over-year improvement.
• Technology investment continues to be an essential component of the modern supply chain. Data analytics, artificial intelligence as well as robotics and automation are among the headliners supply chain leaders are working on.

Mark Baxa, CSCMP president and CEO stated: 鈥淭oday鈥檚 logistics leaders are operating in a world of rapid shifts and persistent uncertainty鈥攁 true fog of global commerce. This year鈥檚 State of Logistics Report helps supply chain professionals cut through that fog with insight, data, and direction. It highlights not only the challenges of disrupted trade flows, evolving customer expectations, and constrained capacity, but also the resilience and innovation reshaping the logistics landscape. At CSCMP, we鈥檙e proud to provide this essential industry benchmark, empowering leaders to navigate complexity and chart a confident course forward.鈥�

Korhan Acar, Kearney partner and lead author for the State of Logistics Report, shared: 鈥淎s the fog thickens, the logistics industry must move beyond short-term fixes and fundamentally rethink resilience鈥攏ot as a luxury, but as a strategic imperative embedded in networks, technology, and decision-making. In a world defined by disruption, resilience is what ensures continuity, enabling agility and long-term durability. And as AI and automation drive down the cost of building resilient supply chains, the greater risk now lies in standing still.鈥�

Andy Moses, senior vice president of solutions and sales strategy, Penske Logistics remarked: 鈥淭here is a great deal of quality content in this year鈥檚 State of Logistics Report. Each day, we are helping our customers find resiliency in their supply chains, as we leverage best-in-class technology and amass capacity on a flexible basis as needed.鈥�

Penske Logistics is a Penske Transportation Solutions company headquartered in Reading, Pennsylvania. The company is a leading provider of innovative supply chain and logistics solutions. Penske offers solutions including dedicated transportation, , lead logistics, , , , and a comprehensive array of technologies to keep the world moving forward. Visit to learn more.

Since 1926, Kearney has been a leading management consulting firm and trusted partner to three-quarters of the Fortune Global 500 and governments around the world. With a presence across more than 40 countries, our people make us who we are. We work impact first, tackling your toughest challenges with original thinking and a commitment to making change happen together. By your side, we deliver鈥攙alue, results, impact. To learn more about Kearney, please visit .

Since 1963, the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) has supported the supply chain management community through their mission to lead the supply chain profession by connecting, developing and educating the world鈥檚 supply chain management and logistics professionals throughout their careers. With more than 10,000 members globally, representing business, government, and academia from 62 countries, CSCMP members are the leading practitioners and authorities in the fields of logistics and supply chain management. To learn more, visit

The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) has released the findings of the Penske Logistics-sponsored 2025 State of Logistics Report. The longstanding report indicates that businesses continue to navigate through a fog of supply chain and economic uncertainty. What is true today may not be true tomorrow in this rapidly changing landscape.

Created annually for CSCMP by consulting firm Kearney, this publication offers to the industry a close-up of the American economy through the lens of the logistics sector. The report further suggests ongoing fragile business optimism driven by fluctuating demand, emerging technological disruptions, and a renewed need for resilience and agility.

Notable trends and statistics include:

鈥� U.S. business logistics costs are $2.58 trillion, which amounts to 8.8% of the national GDP. Last year, the numbers were $2.45 trillion and 8.8% respectively.

鈥� The logistics industry in 2024 saw a return to pre-pandemic patterns in some areas, but was also marked by flat business volumes, excess truck capacity and rising operational costs.

鈥� E-commerce continues to move along at a brisk pace, with global online retail sales nearing $6.3 trillion, resulting in more efficient last-mile delivery, increasingly agile warehousing, and a stronger demand for air freight.

鈥� Geopolitical tensions, combined with proposed and enacted tariffs, and shifting trade regulations around the world, have combined to increase transit times, capacity constraints, rate volatility in ocean freight (leading to longer home package delivery times and delays), and a greater reliance from third-party logistics providers to deliver end-to-end support.

鈥� Mexico overtook China as the United States鈥� largest trading partner in 2024. Transactions between the U.S. and Mexico topped at a record $840 billion, a 6% year-over-year improvement.

鈥� Technology investment continues to be an essential component of the modern supply chain. Data analytics, artificial intelligence as well as robotics and automation are among the headliners supply chain leaders are working on.

Mark Baxa, CSCMP president and CEO stated: 鈥淭his year鈥檚 State of Logistics Report helps supply chain professionals cut through that fog with insight, data, and direction. It highlights not only the challenges of disrupted trade flows, evolving customer expectations, and constrained capacity, but also the resilience and innovation reshaping the logistics landscape.鈥�

Korhan Acar, Kearney partner and lead author for the State of Logistics Report, shared: 鈥淎s the fog thickens, the logistics industry must move beyond short-term fixes and fundamentally rethink resilience鈥攏ot as a luxury, but as a strategic imperative embedded in networks, technology, and decision-making. In a world defined by disruption, resilience is what ensures continuity, enabling agility and long-term durability. And as AI and automation drive down the cost of building resilient supply chains, the greater risk now lies in standing still.鈥�

Andy Moses, senior vice president of solutions and sales strategy, Penske Logistics remarked: 鈥淭here is a great deal of quality content in this year鈥檚 State of Logistics Report. Each day, we are helping our customers find resiliency in their supply chains, as we leverage best-in-class technology and amass capacity on a flexible basis as needed.鈥�

By 鈥淢ove Ahead鈥� Staff

Whether you are planning a household or commercial move, rental trucks are convenient ways to transport a lifetime of belongings and memories to your new destination.

Summer heat and humidity can have an impact on items kept in enclosed spaces such as a rental truck, so great care should be taken when packing items into the truck.

Penske reminds consumers that under its rental agreement flammable, explosive or otherwise hazardous materials may not be transported in its rental vehicles. Consumers should avoid transporting items such as propane tanks, paint thinner, pesticides, fertilizer, charcoal, and lighter fluid.

Fireworks are considered a Class 1 hazardous material by the There are that apply to rental truck operators regarding the transportation of hazardous materials.

Hazardous Materials Best Practices

A general rule of thumb is that all appliances or machinery that hold gasoline or oil should be completely drained before they are loaded into a truck.

You should also avoid packing any type of combustible or highly flammable items like aerosol cans and lighter fluid.

When packing items like a gas generator, lawnmower or weed whacker, make sure to drain the gasoline and oil completely until the tank is dry. Any amount of gasoline and oil can lead to build-up of highly combustible vapor.

When packing your truck, we recommend avoiding the following additional items:

Aerosols, ammunition and guns, antifreeze, automobile batteries, cleansers containing bleach or ammonia, compressed gasses, hazardous waste, marine pollutants, matches, nail polish remover, oil or gas, paint cans, rubbing alcohol, signal flares, and weed killer.

If you have questions about whether specific items are hazardous, or you have general questions about what you are allowed to pack into your moving truck, then contact your local branch of the Department of Transportation or a moving advisor at Penske Truck Rental.

Taking these necessary steps is vital to the protection of yourself and your property. It is also important to your rental truck and the safety of other drivers on the road.

Have a question or want to reserve your next Penske moving truck? Contact the experts at by calling 1-888-996-5415 or chat live with a Penske representative by clicking .

By "Move Ahead" Staff

What started with nearly 3,000 competitors has come down to just 44 of 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 skilled maintenance technicians and preventive maintenance professionals. These standout finalists are headed to the 2025 National Tech Showdown 鈥� a high-stakes competition that celebrates the precision, expertise and pride of our frontline service teams.

鈥淭ech Showdown is more than a contest 鈥� it鈥檚 a celebration of the talent, expertise and dedication that powers our business every day,鈥� said Art Vallely, president of Penske Truck Leasing. 鈥淭his year鈥檚 event raises the bar, sets a new standard for excellence and further emphasizes our deep commitment to investing in and developing our maintenance team.鈥�

Over the past eight weeks, competitors moved through district and area competitions that tested their technical knowledge and problem-solving abilities through a mix of online exams and hands-on challenges. The top performers from each area earned their spot at Nationals, where they鈥檒l compete for the top honor and unprecedented awards.

This year brings several exciting milestones. Three women are among the national finalists 鈥� a first in Tech Showdown history. Seven competitors are returning after participating in the 2023 competition. And for the first time, 12 additional finalists have been awarded Golden Pit Passes 鈥� special invitations recognizing their performance and potential.

Now in its 25th year and with the largest award pool in program history, the final round takes place June 12 at the Team Penske racing headquarters in Mooresville, North Carolina.

Want a closer look at the action? Follow along on social media as we celebrate our finalists and share more from Mooresville as the road to Nationals reaches the finish line.

By: Caitlin Stibitz

Traveling over the Memorial Day holiday? Make sure to pack a hefty dose of patience as a record number of drivers are expected to share the road to holiday destinations.

Joining holiday travelers will be thousands of do-it-yourself movers heading to new hometowns and professional truck drivers, working hard to keep the supply chain moving.

projects 45.1 million travelers to head 50 or more miles from home over the holiday weekend which begins Thursday, May 22, and ends Memorial Day, Monday, May 26. This year鈥檚 travel forecast sets a new Memorial Day record.

鈥淢emorial Day weekend getaways don鈥檛 have to be extravagant and costly,鈥� said Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel. 鈥淲hile some travelers embark on dream vacations and fly hundreds of miles across the country, many families just pack up the car and drive to the beach or take a road trip to visit friends.鈥�

Holiday Travel Outlook

AAA projects 39.4 million people will travel by car over Memorial Day weekend, an additional one million travelers compared to last year.

More holiday travelers will arrive to their destinations by car. Driving is the preferred mode of transportation, with 87% of Memorial Day travelers choosing to take road trips, according to AAA.

INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, expects the afternoons over the Memorial Day weekend to be the most congested. Travelers should plan to travel in the morning hours for the best chance to avoid heavy traffic.

Drivers in major metro areas, including Boston, New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C., can expect to see the heaviest traffic.

Summer Moving Season

Memorial Day also signals the start to the busy summer moving season, as do-it-yourself movers pack up for moves across town and across the country.

• Pack up early so loading can begin as soon as you pick up your truck.
• Give yourself enough travel time to account for potential delays, including road construction.
• Make sure you have snacks and drinks ready for the road.
• For cross-country movers, plan breaks and do a little sightseeing along the way.
• After you arrive at your destination, make sure you allow enough time to unload.

Moving plans taking a holiday? If you are looking for a change of scenery and need some inspiration, check out our 2024 Top 10 Moving Destinations list.

Penske Truck Rental offers on all one-way truck rentals, discounts for AAA members, college students and as well as packing supplies and 24/7 roadside assistance. Are you ready to make a reservation? Visit the for more information.

By 鈥淢ove Ahead鈥� Staff

, the artificial intelligence engine transforming commercial fleet management. Built in-house and powered by over 100 billion data points and more than 300 real-time models, Catalyst AI marks a major leap in data-driven decision-making 鈥� from the individual vehicle to the entire hub.

This release expands the platform鈥檚 ability to generate fast, meaningful, and scalable insights, helping fleet professionals act on data with unmatched precision.

鈥淭he new release marks a next chapter for Catalyst AI鈥攐ne that makes complex data more usable, more scalable, and more actionable,鈥� said Art Vallely, president of Penske Truck Leasing. 鈥淲e鈥檝e enhanced the platform鈥檚 ability to surface trends, benchmark at the vehicle level, and identify meaningful outliers across fleets and facilities. Built in-house, the platform was designed to help our customers spend less time chasing data and more time improving performance.鈥�

New Features for Smarter Fleet Decisions

Catalyst AI now includes four core enhancements:

• FantasyFleet 鈥� Offers a new comparison set made up of top-performing vehicles mostsimilar to each vehicle in the user鈥檚 fleet鈥攈elping them find gaps and elevateperformance
• Vehicle-levelComparison 鈥� Enables users to compare individual vehicles to pinpointperformance differences, helping identify where targeted adjustments can drivebetter results
• Hub-levelComparison 鈥� Allows users to assess operations by location and uncoveropportunities for improved efficiency at the local level
• ImpactingMetrics 鈥� Gives users the ability to focus on specific metrics that mattermost to their business鈥攆uel efficiency, maintenance costs, utilization, andmore

This update reflects 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 commitment to giving fleets greater control over their operations 鈥� from trend detection to actionable benchmarking.

Real Results, Real Customers

鈥淐atalyst AI gives fleet managers the data they need at their fingertips to run the operation and know exactly where they stand. It lets us see how we鈥檙e performing against the market in real-time,鈥� said Brian Harper, fleet operations leader at Darigold, an early adopter of the platform. 鈥淭he data surfaced through Catalyst AI has already supported internal reporting and opened opportunities to reduce costs and reevaluate how we measure success. 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 at the tip of the spear with this kind of information,鈥� he continued. 鈥淎nd I鈥檓 glad to be in front of it with them, rather than behind it.鈥�

Meeting Industry Demands Head-On

According to 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 2025 Transportation Leaders Survey: A Road to AI Adoption, AI is seen as critical for resilience and adaptation in transportation:

• 93% of leaders believe AI can improve resiliency
• 54% say fleet-to-market comparisons would enhance efficiency and decision-making
• 40% of AI adopters have seen 50%+ improvements in fuel usage, cost, or routing.

Yet, 84% of transportation leaders say the industry is behind, and 36% feel only somewhat prepared for continued disruptions. These findings underscore the growing urgency for AI tools that deliver both visibility and measurable outcomes.

鈥淲e鈥檝e designed Catalyst AI with our customers鈥� needs in mind,鈥� said Sherry Sanger, executive vice president of strategy and marketing at Penske Transportation Solutions. 鈥淐atalyst AI represents a strategic leap forward in how fleets use data. It鈥檚 not just about visibility鈥攊t鈥檚 about empowering smarter decisions across the entire network with technology that works in the real world.鈥�

The Technology Behind the Intelligence

鈥淐atalyst AI now analyzes over 100 billion data points annually,鈥� said Tim Haynes, vice president of digital and customer data at 黑料社 鈥淲e鈥檝e engineered a system that runs more than 300 models in real time鈥攄elivering comparison logic, trend detection, and scoring that is both scalable and immediate. This release reflects the technical backbone required to help fleets benchmark smarter and respond faster.鈥�

Catalyst AI is embedded within Comparative Insights, a feature of 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 Fleet Insight庐 digital platform. While fleet-level insights remain free to customers, new Comparative Insights Premium unlocks deeper comparisons and access to the new Fantasy Fleet 鈥� available with a 30-day free trial.

Visit to learn more and start your journey with Catalyst AI.

By: Tana Korpics

Summary Bullets

• Penske delivers a new level of AI-powered fleet intelligence鈥攗nmatched in scope, scale, and actionable insights.
• Developed in-house, Catalyst AI applies proprietary models that transform complexity into competitive advantage.
• Catalyst AI advances from fleet-level visibility to granular insights鈥攅nabling real-time benchmarking and diagnostics now at the individual vehicle and hub level.
• 93% of leaders believe AI can improve resiliency鈥攂ut 84% say the industry is behind, signaling urgency for adoption.

Reading, Pa., May 12, 2025 鈥� Today, Penske Truck Leasing introduced the new generation of fleet intelligence with the latest release of Catalyst AI鈩�, its proprietary artificial intelligence engine and industry leading AI platform that redefined fleet management. Built specifically for commercial transportation, Catalyst AI applies machine learning in advanced methods鈥攖urning one of the industry鈥檚 richest vehicle data sets into faster, more strategic decision-making across operations.

Catalyst AI was built to meet a fundamental need in modern operations: how to take the right action, at the right time, from the right data. The update introduces four core enhancements designed to make that possible:

• Fantasy Fleet 鈥� Offers a new comparison set made up of top-performing vehicles most similar to each vehicle in the user鈥檚 fleet鈥攈elping them find gaps and elevate performance.
• Vehicle-level Comparison 鈥� Enables users to compare individual vehicles to pinpoint performance differences, helping identify where targeted adjustments can drive better results.
• Hub-level Comparison 鈥� Allows users to assess operations by location and uncover opportunities for improved efficiency at the local level.
• Impacting Metrics 鈥� Gives users the ability to focus on specific metrics that matter most to their business鈥攆uel efficiency, maintenance costs, utilization, and more.

鈥淭he new release marks a next chapter for Catalyst AI鈥攐ne that makes complex data more usable, more scalable, and more actionable,鈥� said Art Vallely, president of Penske Truck Leasing. 鈥淲e鈥檝e enhanced the platform鈥檚 ability to surface trends, benchmark at the vehicle level, and identify meaningful outliers across fleets and facilities. Built in-house, the platform was designed to help our customers spend less time chasing data and more time improving performance."

Catalyst AI continues to evolve in step with the complexities of modern fleet operations, delivering faster insights, clearer benchmarks, and intelligence designed to keep businesses ahead. Developed by Penske, the platform reflects what today鈥檚 fleet professionals need: trusted insights that drive action.

That demand is reflected in 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 2025 Transportation Leaders Survey: A Road to AI Adoption, which found that 93% of senior business decision makers in the transportation and logistics industry agree that AI will improve their organization鈥檚 resiliency and ability to adapt to sudden shifts. More than half (54%) said the ability to compare their fleet鈥檚 performance to others in the same market would improve both efficiency and operational decision-making. As they specifically plan for today鈥檚 continued economic uncertainty, fleet leaders cited their most critical data needs as: visibility into maintenance costs (44%), fuel price trends (41%), and fleet utilization (36%).

Organizations that have embraced AI are already reaping the benefits with 40% of respondents using AI tools saying they鈥檝e seen improvements of at least 50% in fuel usage, cost reduction, or distance traveled through smarter routing and optimization. However, 84% of transportation leaders think the industry is lagging behind in AI adoption and 36% only feel somewhat prepared to respond to ongoing supply chain disruptions and economic volatility. This signals a growing urgency for tools that not only provide data but translate it into tangible actions that drive outcomes, such as lowering operating costs and increasing efficiency.

鈥淲e鈥檝e designed Catalyst AI with our customers鈥� needs in mind,鈥� said Sherry Sanger, executive vice president of strategy and marketing at Penske Transportation Solutions. 鈥淐atalyst AI represents a strategic leap forward in how fleets use data. It鈥檚 not just about visibility鈥攊t鈥檚 about empowering smarter decisions across the entire network with technology that works in the real world.鈥�

Since Catalyst AI launched in 2024, the platform has grown to support thousands of users, helping fleet professionals move from lagging metrics to leading decisions. The platform is now a foundational part of how teams across 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 network report, benchmark, and plan鈥攁cross vehicles, locations, and systems.

鈥淐atalyst AI now analyzes over 100 billion data points annually,鈥� said Tim Haynes, vice president of digital and customer data at 黑料社 鈥淲e鈥檝e engineered a system that runs more than 300 models in real time鈥攄elivering comparison logic, trend detection, and scoring that is both scalable and immediate. This release reflects the technical backbone required to help fleets benchmark smarter and respond faster.鈥�

Catalyst AI is embedded within Comparative Insights, a feature inside the Fleet Insight庐 digital platform. Comparative Insights, powered by Catalyst AI, at the fleet level remains available at no cost to Penske customers. The new Comparative Insights Premium Plan unlocks access to vehicle- and hub-level comparisons and the Fantasy Fleet feature, with a 30-day free trial available before subscription. To learn more, visit .

About Penske Truck Leasing

is a Penske Transportation Solutions company headquartered in Reading, Pennsylvania. A leading provider of innovative transportation solutions, Penske operates and maintains more than 419,000 vehicles and serves its customers from more than 990 maintenance facilities and more than 2,200 rental locations across North America. Solutions from Penske include full-service truck leasing, fleet maintenance, truck rentals, used trucks, and a comprehensive array of technologies to keep the world moving forward. Visit to learn more.

Survey Methodology 鈥� The second edition of The Transportation Leaders Survey: A Road to AI Adoption was conducted online by Big Village among a sample of 255 U.S. adults 18 years of age and older who are owners, founders, or executive leaders or decision makers of a Transportations or Logistics businesses. This survey was live April 16-23, 2025.

The transportation and logistics sector is moving past AI curiosity and into real-world application. According to 笔别苍蝉办别鈥檚 newly released 2025 Transportation Leaders Survey: A Road to AI Adoption, fleet leaders are steadily embracing artificial intelligence (AI) and seeing measurable returns 鈥� even as traditional practices and implementation concerns linger.

In what marks a turning point for the industry, 70% of companies now report adopting AI solutions 鈥� up 17 percent from 2024. And that investment is paying off. Fleet executives cite improvements in fleet planning (36%), route optimization (35%), and operational efficiency (34%) among the top gains realized over the past year.

But the transformation is just beginning. While optimism is growing, 84% of executives still believe the industry lags behind others in adopting AI 鈥� up 20 percent since 2024. The results paint a picture of an industry gaining confidence in AI鈥檚 value while acknowledging the work ahead to fully harness its potential.

From Potential to Performance

The data reveals a shift from theoretical benefit to tangible impact. About four in ten respondents say their organizations have achieved at least 50% savings in fuel costs, operational expenditures, and distance traveled through AI-powered route optimization.

Leaders are also seeing gains in driver safety, customer satisfaction, and visibility across the supply chain 鈥� a clear sign that AI is becoming integral to fleet operations. And this momentum isn鈥檛 isolated. More than nine in ten (91%) of executives believe organizations that adopt AI are better positioned for future growth.

Persistent Challenges and Emerging Risks

While leaders recognize how AI can help future-proof their operations, many are still struggling to navigate current challenges. Rising costs (52%), supply chain disruptions (45%), and managing fleet operations (40%) continue to challenge executives. In fact, fleet operations jumped 10 percent as a top concern year-over-year, indicating increasing complexity as fleets grow and customer expectations rise.

The report also highlights a stark contrast between innovation and legacy mindsets: 94% of respondents still rely on traditional annual forecasting to guide fleet planning. At the same time, nearly all (97%) agree that benchmarking with real-time data is becoming essential to navigate economic uncertainty and sudden market shifts.

Leadership Is Aligned, But Caution Remains

One promising insight: leadership is largely on board. 93% of respondents say their senior teams understand the value AI brings to supply chains and fleets. And looking ahead, 91% agree it鈥檚 critical for the next generation of fleet and logistics professionals to be equipped with AI-enabled skills and tools.

However, concerns around AI鈥檚 risks haven鈥檛 diminished. Security risks (49%), limited regulation governing (36%), and fears of unethical use (35%) are top of mind. These findings highlight the need for strategic, responsible adoption that balances innovation with transparency and trust.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 survey makes one thing clear: AI is no longer a concept on the horizon 鈥� it鈥檚 a practical tool reshaping how fleets operate. Organizations that have embraced AI are already reaping the benefits, and the foundation is being laid for broader, more transformative adoption in the years ahead.

As the industry continues to evolve, success will hinge on bridging the gap between emerging technology and traditional practices, all while building trust in the systems that drive the future of fleet management.

By: Tana Korpics

Survey Methodology 鈥� The second edition of The Transportation Leaders Survey: A Road to AI Adoption was conducted online by Big Village among a sample of 255 U.S. adults 18 years of age and older who are owners, founders, or executive leaders or decision makers of a Transportations or Logistics businesses. This survey was live April 16-23, 2025