MILEMARKER BLOG
Future-Proofing Your Fleet: Flexible Strategies for a Brighter 2025
Looking ahead after a tough year
Let’s face it – 2024 was rough. After the frenzied demand for trailers during and after the pandemic, this past year felt like slamming on the brakes. Fleets sat underutilized, budgets got tighter, and everyone was left wondering when the industry would get back on track.
Here’s the good news: experts predict 2025 will bring a turnaround. Demand is expected to climb, and companies that start planning now will be ready to hit the ground running. At Milestone, we’re all about helping you stay ahead of the curve with flexible leasing and fleet optimization strategies that make sense – whether you’re scaling up, scaling down, or just getting your fleet fine-tuned for what’s next.
Lessons from 2024: Why flexibility is everything
If 2024 taught us anything, it’s that flexibility isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity. Owning too many trailers during a slowdown can turn your fleet into a financial anchor, weighing you down with unnecessary costs.
“That’s why flexibility matters so much,” says Sean Ellison, Senior Vice President of Highway Operations at Milestone. “Our customers don’t just lease trailers – they gain options. With flexible leasing and renting, they can adapt to the highs and lows without overcommitting.”
Daily rentals, short-term leases, and traditional long-term options let you adjust your fleet size as market conditions change. Need extra capacity for a busy season? No problem. Want to scale back without parking a bunch of unused equipment? We’ve got you covered.
Unlocking cash flow: The Sale/Leaseback solution
Let’s talk about turning those underutilized trailers into something more useful – like cash. Milestone’s sale/leaseback program lets you sell your trailers to us, unlock their value and then lease them back for as long as you need – without disrupting your business.
“Our sale/leaseback program is a game-changer for businesses,” says Chuck Cannata, Executive Vice President of Highway at Milestone. “You free up capital to reinvest in your company, but you still get to keep using the equipment. It’s a smart way to balance cash flow and flexibility without disrupting your trailer fleet operational efficiency.”
Here’s the best part: with Milestone’s national network, you can sell all your trailers to a single buyer, in a single transaction – no matter where your trailers are located. We handle all the details, from paying off lenders to executing title transfers, making the process completely turnkey.
Whether you’re exploring a sale/leaseback or an outright sale of over-the-road trailers, we make it easy to monetize your assets while keeping your operations moving forward.
What’s on the horizon for 2025?
The freight market is showing signs of recovery after a tough few years. Experts are predicting a turnaround fueled by a rebalancing of supply and demand, stabilizing inventory levels and more consistent consumer demand. Retail and e-commerce freight needs are also expected to grow, setting the stage for increased activity and a more favorable rate environment.
With capacity tightening as some fleets exit the market, carriers could see higher rates and a potential upswing. While the recovery might be gradual, the outlook for 2025 is much brighter, and businesses that plan ahead will be ready to seize the opportunities.
Future-proofing your fleet: What to do today
Ready to make 2025 your year? Here’s how to start preparing now:
- Audit your fleet: Take a close look at what’s working and what’s sitting idle. Could some trailers be better utilized – or monetized through a sale/leaseback?
- Plan for peaks: Whether it’s seasonal demand or a market rebound, map out when and where you’ll need extra capacity.
- Lean on a partner: With flexible leasing options, nationwide availability and a team that’s got your back, Milestone is here to make sure you’re ready for whatever comes next.
Let’s get set for 2025
Let’s get set for 2025The ups and downs of the past few years have been tough, but 2025 is looking like a fresh start. The right plan can turn uncertainty into opportunity – and Milestone is here to help you make it happen.
“We’re committed to giving our customers the tools they need to succeed,” says Chuck Cannata. “Whether it’s flexible leasing, sale/leaseback options, or fleet optimization, we’re ready to partner with you to navigate what’s next.”
Ready to start the conversation?
Let’s work together to future-proof your fleet for a brighter year ahead. Fill out the form below to get started today!
