YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Joe Telega, vice president of leasing sales at AIM Transportation Solutions, discussed the company’s Vendor Expo and the challenges facing the transportation industry as fleet operators navigate rising costs, regulatory uncertainty and ongoing supply chain pressures.
Telega said the expo, held Wednesday at Covelli Centre, gave employees and industry partners an opportunity to learn about trucks, trailers, liftgates and other equipment firsthand while strengthening relationships with key vendors and manufacturers.
He said transportation companies continue to monitor the impact of tariffs, evolving Environmental Protection Agency regulations and supply chain disruptions, which have caused many fleet operators to delay purchasing decisions despite growing demand for equipment replacements.
Joining the discussion were Barry Roth and Vince Cerni, who shared what they are hearing from fleet managers across the region.
Roth said uncertainty surrounding future regulations and equipment availability has led many companies to take a wait-and-see approach, creating significant pent-up demand as aging fleets remain on the road longer than planned.
Cerni said rising fuel prices, equipment costs and day-to-day operating expenses continue to squeeze transportation companies, particularly small and midsize businesses. He said keeping trucks on the road and minimizing downtime has become increasingly important as fleet ownership costs continue to climb.
Despite the challenges, they remain optimistic that fleet replacement activity will accelerate as businesses move forward with long-delayed purchasing decisions and prepare for future growth.