The next era of logistics is here
Customer expectation changes, regulatory pressures and a fluctuating economy have been reshaping supply chains over the last few years, and further changes are sure to come throughout 2026. For those who haven’t evaluated their logistics strategies recently, success in the new year may require changes to how you move goods and serve customers.
ArcBest is here to help you navigate these changes. We’re ready to partner with you to turn current and future logistics trends into competitive advantages that help you meet your goals and keep your promises. Here’s a look at what you can expect to see more of in 2026:
Driving last-mile innovation to enhance value
For many customers, a successful delivery involves more than just getting a product to the door. Customers expect flexible scheduling, setup and recycling options. Customers are looking to last-mile services to create a premium experience that goes beyond speed to include service, sustainability, convenience and communication.
Our Final Mile services are designed to make delivery seamless for your customers, offering options such as inside placement, light assembly and debris removal. Our ABF FLEX option takes convenience a step further by allowing for freight to be delivered without waiting for a signature or face-to-face interaction, with photo documentation for added confidence.
Christopher Adkins, Chief Strategy Officer at ArcBest, explained, “If scheduling delivery windows is an issue for your customers, the ABF FLEX delivery option allows them to receive their shipment without waiting around. It’s a free service designed to make delivery more convenient, ensuring quick delivery and giving your customers peace of mind.”
That means fewer missed or delayed deliveries and happier customers.
Expanding hyperlocal fulfillment to deliver faster
Consumers want products faster than ever, and businesses are responding by decentralizing inventory through regional hubs. This shift can reduce transit times and transportation costs, but only if you have the right strategy and execution. Success in this area will require planning, real-time visibility and a partner who can integrate these moving parts into a cohesive plan.
Our managed logistics solutions can help you optimize your inventory placement and routing to get your products closer to demand.
“Our Managed team works alongside your operations and integrates with your goals. So, when it comes to hyperlocal fulfillment, we can combine warehousing and distribution strategies with different transportation options to make sure you meet your customers’ expectations while also controlling costs,” Adkins said.
The result? Faster delivery and lower transportation costs.
Continuing sustainability programs to meet compliance goals
Regulatory requirements for emissions reporting and climate disclosures are expected to tighten in 2026, so continuing sustainability initiatives is critical. Some updates to keep an eye out for include:
California’s SB 253 requires Scope 1 and Scope 2 Greenhouse Gas emissions disclosures for covered companies doing business in the state. SB 253 requires that emissions data be auditable and accurate.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plans to finalize Renewable Fuel Standard volume mandates for 2026, which will set the required blending levels for renewable fuels like ethanol and biodiesel into traditional fuels, which could impact fuel costs.
The EPA is also expected to publish updated emissions rules for heavy vehicles in early 2026 as part of ongoing regulation. Stricter compliance requirements could impact rates and capacity.
We’re continuing our comprehensive approach to sustainability, utilizing tactics such as electric trucks and route optimization to reduce emissions, and providing the information you need to track sustainability metrics. No matter what changes are on the horizon, our sustainability teams will continue working to address industry challenges and create solutions.
Leveraging AI to optimize operations
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a term you’re likely hearing everywhere, including in logistics. Along with developing technology like autonomous forklifts and reach trucks to improve safety and efficiency in our customers’ facilities, ArcBest is incorporating AI as a way to amplify human expertise and improve efficiency.
“At ArcBest, we’re using AI to continually improve our customers’ experiences. For example, we’ve introduced tools that help connect customers to the right teams faster, so our people can spend more time solving problems and delivering excellent service,” Adkins said.
We also utilize AI to support our customers’ sustainability goals by reducing empty miles through smarter route planning and optimizing pricing comparisons with enhanced visibility in ArcBest View —our new customer service platform currently in beta. Faster, data-driven decisions mean greater efficiency for everyone.
Partnering for what’s next
While many aspects of the industry are expected to change in 2026, our plan at ArcBest remains consistent: listen and work together to deliver logistics solutions that help you achieve your goals.
Want to discuss your supply chain and how we can help you navigate any changes? Get in touch today.
