The Value of Flexibility: Renting Trucks in Uncertain Times
June 17, 2025
By: Donnie Miller, PacLease National Rental Manager
Given the daily shifts in news related to tariffs and the economy, there is a lot of uncertainty in the air. In the transportation sector, there are numerous approaches to address these challenges, and renting trucks remains a beneficial choice for many. Here are the questions we are hearing and thoughts to consider.
With the current climate, why would rental be a good decision?
Renting trucks gives you the ability to continue to operate without having to make large-scale decisions during uncertain times. With the option for short-term agreements, you can return the truck whenever necessary.
Another benefit is that you can test out the equipment you’re considering purchasing or leasing, so when you are ready to move forward, you will have good data and a feel for how your drivers like the equipment.
Business is a little slow right now; what would be the benefit of renting?
During slow periods companies often have extra assets that are not generating revenue. This could be a great time to sell some of your older units to gain capital and rely on rental units to bridge the gap until you are ready to purchase or lease new units.
I keep a few older units on hand just in case of a breakdown, or a new business spike. Is that a good idea?
While having a few extra units on hand can give you peace of mind, there could be a better option. Often, these extra units are older and can be less desirable equipment for drivers. Renting can be a more efficient option during business spikes or vehicle breakdowns.
What types of trucks can I rent?
That all depends on the rental/leasing company you’re working with. Some will rent box trucks, day cabs, and sleeper units. Others, like PacLease, have franchises that offer those trucks, plus vocational trucks as well. Those could include trucks with reefer units, dumps, lift gates, roll-offs, and flatbeds.
Are rental trucks older trucks that might have maintenance issues?
That again depends on who you rent from. Some rental companies have older trucks for rent. But others start with new -- PacLease locations typically begin with new trucks in their rental pools and then cycle them out after four to six years. This keeps mileage low, and reliability high for rental customers.
What type of rental agreements are available? Short term versus long term?
Rental agreements can range from daily to up to a year with many rental companies. Many of our customers also rent for seasonal work, agriculture, for example, rents when produce is in full season. More aggressive rates can be given based on the length of the rental agreement.
What are the requirements and benefits if I’m interested in a National Rental Account?
If you have multiple locations, a solid business profile (you may be asked for 2 years of financials if you’re not a public company) and have a rental budget in a certain range, most rental/leasing companies can offer you a national rental agreement. This means you can receive uniform rates across your network and, in most cases, work with one account manager for all your rental needs, saving time and money.
About the Author:
Donnie Miller brings 23 years of experience in the truck rental industry to his role as the National Rental Manager at PacLease. In this role, he works closely with franchise rental associates, providing training through PacLease University and supports the company’s large National Rental Accounts. Donnie has also developed and executed numerous rental solutions aimed at helping customers improve their operational efficiency.