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By Walter Cabrales, Chief Operating Officer, Truck Freedom.
Rising costs continue to be one of the biggest challenges facing the final-mile delivery industry today. In fact, industry research indicates that the final mile can account for up to 53% of total delivery costs, making it one of the most expensive segments of the supply chain.
From fuel and insurance to labor, maintenance, and equipment expenses, carriers are under constant pressure to improve efficiency while maintaining high service levels. At the same time, customers continue to expect faster, more reliable deliveries, further increasing operational demands.
Through conversations with carriers, fleet managers, owner-operators, and logistics professionals throughout the year, one theme consistently emerges: companies are looking for practical ways to lower costs without sacrificing performance. Truck Freedom participated in many of these discussions, including at ECA Marketplace 2026, where carriers and shippers shared perspectives on rising costs, Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), and operational efficiency.
A growing number of fleet operators are taking a closer look at Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) when evaluating their operations. Rather than focusing solely on acquisition costs, carriers are increasingly considering the long-term impact of fuel consumption, maintenance requirements, insurance expenses, downtime, driver productivity, and asset utilization.
Many are also examining operational processes that can influence overall costs, including loading and unloading efficiency, route planning, dispatch optimization, equipment utilization, and the use of technology to improve visibility across their operations.
While every fleet faces unique challenges, the industry’s focus appears to be shifting toward a broader view of efficiency. The goal is no longer simply to move more freight, but to move freight more profitably by maximizing the value of existing assets and resources.
Industry discussions throughout 2026 have highlighted the growing importance of flexibility, productivity, and operational efficiency as carriers navigate an increasingly competitive environment. Companies are exploring a wide range of approaches and innovations aimed at reducing downtime, improving utilization, and lowering the total cost of delivery operations.
There is no single answer to the cost challenges facing final-mile delivery. However, one thing is clear: understanding Total Cost of Ownership and continuously improving operational efficiency will remain critical priorities for carriers looking to stay competitive in the years ahead.
