Improving Lead Times for Factory Orders

The market for new work trucks is stabilizing in 2025. Order-to-delivery (OTD) times are trending downward across most vehicle segments (Enterprise Fleet Management, 2025). This is truly good news for your new fleet. Instead of buying vehicles off a dealer lot, you should focus on factory-ordering. By doing this, you ensure the truck is built precisely to your operational needs. Consequently, you save money by avoiding unwanted dealer options and higher floor plan costs. For pickups and vans, average OTD times are settling around 20 weeks, but you must still plan ahead (Work Truck Online, 2025). Therefore, start your purchasing process early and involve a fleet expert to guide you.

Strategizing for Quicker Upfitting

Upfitting operations have also improved significantly, but they remain a key area for potential delays. Current lead times for upfitting are averaging around three months, plus transportation time. Therefore, you need to simplify your vehicle specifications where possible. For example, some fleets are adjusting specs on common pickup components to secure faster production dates. You must work closely with your OEM or dealer to understand which specific options might cause a snag in the supply chain (Work Truck Online, 2025). Always ask for realistic timelines when ordering your specialized equipment. Furthermore, consider finding a reputable upfitter who has established partnerships with the manufacturer. This coordination streamlines the entire process significantly.

Moving Beyond the Bailment Pool

As OTD times decrease, the need for costly bailment pool vehicles is declining. These “pool units” offer immediate availability, but they limit your control over the vehicle’s specifications. Since you want a truck perfectly suited for your job, factory-ordering is the best choice (Enterprise Fleet Management, 2025).

You must select the optimal engine, suspension, and body type for your specific routes. You must track your Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for every vehicle. TCO includes everything from fuel and maintenance costs to resale value. Ultimately, a lower TCO guarantees a healthier budget for your new fleet. Use the current market stability to plan your purchases well into 2026. This allows you to spec the right vehicle, guaranteeing the lowest lifetime operating cost.