Private fleets expand with reduced mileage, increased driver pay and quicker trade cycles

The landscape of private fleets in the United States is undergoing a significant transformation, characterized by rising driver salaries, reduced mileage, and an increasingly youthful fleet of equipment. This evolution is documented in the National Private Truck Council’s (NPTC) 2025 Benchmarking Survey Report, which reveals compelling trends shaping the industry. As private fleets adapt to changing market conditions, they are not only enhancing operational efficiency but also redefining their role within the broader logistics ecosystem.

In a climate where efficiency is paramount, understanding these trends is crucial for stakeholders across the transportation sector. From fleet operators to policymakers, the findings of this report shed light on the changing dynamics of transportation management and the implications for future operations.

Market share stabilizing at a new plateau

According to Tom Moore, general editor of the NPTC report, the private fleet community has solidified its market position, achieving a notable share of outbound freight movements. This year has seen private fleets recognizing their value as integral components of supply chain management, marking a shift from merely being a service-oriented community to focusing on delivering added value.

In 2024, the share of outbound freight movements by private fleets experienced a slight decline from 75% in 2023 to approximately 70%. However, Moore emphasizes this shift as indicative of a "new plateau," one that remains significantly above pre-pandemic levels. Historically, private fleets maintained an outbound market share fluctuating between 67% and 68%, a pattern that reflects their established dominance in logistics.

• **Outbound freight share**: 70% in 2024
• **Previous year's share**: 75% in 2023
• **Pre-pandemic average**: 67% - 68%

Moreover, the inbound freight share has rebounded to 43%, signaling a strategic shift as private fleets pursue this segment after focusing primarily on outbound logistics. With advanced data analytics and routing technologies, fleets are effectively optimizing inbound loads, aligning them with outbound logistics for improved efficiency.

For instance, David Barth, transportation safety manager at Wegmans Food Markets, shared insights on their refined approach to inbound freight. The company has begun to factor in variables like driver schedules and dwell times, ensuring that inbound logistics support their overall operational strategy. This careful calibration underscores the growing complexity of supply chain management and the need for adaptability in operations.

Moving closer to customers, running fewer miles

One of the most striking trends highlighted in this year's report is the increasing number of locations from which private fleets operate. Moore notes that many members are strategically positioning themselves closer to their customers, a move that not only enhances service delivery but also facilitates more frequent home time for drivers.

The shift towards proximity has led to a historic decrease in mileage. The average annual miles driven by heavy-duty units have dropped to just 80,000, a decline of nearly 5,000 miles from the previous year and the lowest level recorded in the survey’s history. This reduction reflects a broader trend of optimizing routes and reducing unnecessary travel, which ultimately contributes to more sustainable operations.

Truck ownership and rental trends

When examining equipment acquisition strategies, ownership remains the preferred method for private fleets. According to the survey, 45% of carriers own 90% or more of their heavy-duty power units, a notable increase from previous years. In contrast, leasing accounts for 28% of fleets, while a mix of owned and leased equipment comprises the remainder.

Jim Lager, executive vice-president at Penske Truck Leasing, elaborated on how current market conditions—characterized by excess capacity and a freight recession—are prompting fleets to reassess their equipment strategies. The leasing market, which surged during the tight supply conditions of 2021, is now experiencing a shift as ample vehicle availability redefines acquisition strategies.

Rental activity has similarly declined, with participation dropping to just under 25% of fleets. The average rental fleet size is now around 12 vehicles, a significant change from previous years when a third of respondents were involved in rental operations. This trend reflects a cautious approach as fleets align their assets more closely with fluctuating freight needs.

Maintenance trends and shorter equipment trade cycles

The report also highlights a significant increase in maintenance outsourcing, with 41% of fleets allocating 90% or more of their maintenance expenditures to external providers, primarily leasing companies and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). This marks a departure from traditional in-house maintenance practices, with only 17% of fleets managing all maintenance internally—the lowest percentage recorded.

In terms of equipment turnover, Class 8 trade cycles have stretched slightly to 6.6 years. However, the average replacement mileage has accelerated to approximately 568,000 miles. Moore notes that this strategy allows fleets to cycle equipment before significant maintenance is required, effectively leveraging warranties as a key part of their operational strategy. The average age of power units in surveyed fleets is now under 4.5 years, further underscoring the trend towards maintaining a younger fleet.

• **Maintenance outsourcing**: 41% of fleets spend 90% on external services
• **In-house maintenance**: Only 17% manage all maintenance internally
• **Average trade cycle**: Extended to 6.6 years

Interestingly, most types of trailers, including vans and flatbeds, are experiencing stable or slightly extended trade cycles. Refrigerated trailers, however, stand out with an average age of just 7.2 years—the youngest in the survey's history—demonstrating the unique demands of this segment within the industry.

Driver compensation and retention strategies

Driver turnover has improved to an overall rate of 18.4%. This positive trend can be attributed to private fleets' increased understanding of the costs associated with turnover. Moore emphasizes that competitive pay remains a crucial tool for retaining talent within the industry. Average earnings for drivers have surpassed $90,000, with some reaching maximum pay levels of around $135,000.

In addition to financial incentives, safety remains a paramount concern for private fleets. The report indicates that fleets have set a benchmark in safety, with Department of Transportation (DOT) recordable accidents at just 0.49 per million miles—three times safer than the broader industry average. This commitment to safety not only enhances operational efficiency but also fosters a culture that values the well-being of drivers and the integrity of the supply chain.

To delve deeper into the factors influencing operational costs in the trucking industry, consider viewing this insightful video that discusses essential strategies fleets need to adopt in 2024:

As private fleets continue to evolve, the interplay between driver compensation, safety practices, and operational efficiency will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of transportation within the United States. The findings of the NPTC report underscore the importance of adaptability and strategic planning in navigating the complexities of the modern logistics landscape.

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