The freight industry has faced persistent challenges since the pandemic boom, struggling with overcapacity, elevated inventory levels and rising interest rates driven by rapid e-commerce growth and aggressive post-COVID expansion strategies. More recently, shifting tariff policies and rising protectionism have disrupted trade routes and added uncertainty. A major consequence has been the oversupply of transportation assets, especially chassis and other intermodal equipment, as fleet expansions outpaced demand.
With modest growth expected in 2026, the industry is shifting focus from anticipating a rebound to strategically recalibrating — optimizing assets, managing costs and building resilience amid ongoing volatility. Strategic investments must be designed to deliver greater value to customers — enhancing operations to support evolving supply chain needs, attracting top-tier talent and deploying advanced technologies that maximize efficiency, reliability and service quality.
In today’s uncertain economic climate, offering smarter tools and flexible solutions that improve operational resilience will help customers navigate volatility. Specific pricing initiatives can make it more economical for trucking companies and beneficial cargo owners to maintain larger chassis fleets that can be leveraged during surges in port activity. Artificial intelligence can be used to analyze thousands of vendor invoices monthly, ensuring optimal quality, cost-efficiency and service.
Investing to modernize chassis fleets will reinforce commitment to reliable, high-performance equipment. Developing new solutions that meet evolving customer needs, adapt to market shifts, and drive cost efficiencies will keep partners competitive — even in challenging economic conditions.
As we plan for 2026, TRAC is energized by the opportunities ahead and grateful to our customers, employees and partners for their continued support as we work together to shape the future of intermodal growth.