Ask the Expert: What’s the Future of Industrial Logistics?

Why you need to adapt to the evolving industrial logistics landscape

Industrial and manufacturing logistics was once a routine and overlooked part of many business operations. But in recent years, and the foreseeable future, businesses within the industrial vertical are faced with several big changes affecting their industry. From geopolitical conflicts to the rising demand for sustainability and technology integration, industrial supply chains worldwide will need to adapt in order to continue thriving. Whether you’re an industrial equipment supplier like an original equipment manufacturer (OEM), construction machinery supplier, aftermarket automotive parts retailer or other kind of industrial logistics company, keeping up with these changes is going to be a challenge without the right support.

The good news: With the right industrial shipping partner you can turn a challenging situation into an opportunity to streamline your supply chain and grow your business. In this article, Purolator’s leading industrial logistics expert, Stefania Blasi, explains how your business can find success in an evolving landscape and why working with Purolator is the ideal solution to future-proof your industrial logistics.

Key takeaways

• What are the top five industrial logistics trends shaping the industry?
• How to overcome logistics challenges and adapt your industrial supply chain
• How to choose the right industrial logistics partner
• Why you should choose Purolator as your industrial logistics partner
• Future-proof your industrial logistics network with Purolator

Top five industrial logistics trends in 2025 and beyond

1. Geopolitical uncertainty
2. Supply chain resilience
3. Sustainability
4. Technology integration
5. Workforce development

What are the top five industrial logistics trends shaping the industry?

Blasi has identified five key trends that are shaking up industrial equipment suppliers and manufacturing logistics now and into the future: 

• Geopolitical uncertainty

The supply chain disruptions caused by the Russia-Ukraine war are still affecting global logistics to this day,and new disruptions are on the horizon. For example, For example, on February 1, 2025, President Donald Trump’s proposal to introduce a 25% increase on tariffs for all Canada-Mexico shipments was actioned. A 25% tariff on top of current tariffs may be imposed, but is currently paused for 30 day as President Trump and Canadian Prime Minister,  Justin Trudeau strike a tentative deal on February 3, 2025.

“In the coming months, I anticipate a continued focus on reshoring and nearshoring as companies aim to mitigate risks associated with international trade volatility,” says Blasi. “This is a strong supply chain risk mitigation play as we see potential of a 25% tariff on imports from the U.S. from President Trump. These tariffs stand to impact the industrial sector hardest as the U.S. imports over $125 billion annually in aluminum, steel, passenger and electric vehicles, pulp and paper, and more.”

Blasi continues, “We now see that businesses are facing heightened uncertainty around trade between Canada and the U.S. This environment will prompt companies to explore alternative routes and rethink their supply chain strategies to minimize exposure to additional costs. One shift that we potentially anticipate is that companies will look to increase manufacturing and shipping of goods directly from Mexico to Canada.”

• Supply chain resilience

Whether it’s geopolitical turmoil, natural disasters or technology failures, the modern industrial logistics landscape of ongoing disruptions highlights the need for more agile and diversified supply chains.

“Companies need to diversify their sourcing, invest in nearshoring and reduce any sort of dependency on distant shippers. Purolator is the ideal shipping partner for added resilience during uncertain times because of our multimodal transport and vast cross-border shipping network,” explains Blasi.

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• Sustainability

Sustainable practices are in demand, with customers and regulators alike expecting lower emissions and more eco-friendly operations. Advancements in electric vehicles (EVs), route optimization and greener packaging further emphasize the push for green logistics. 

Blasi states: “The pressure for industrial logistics to adopt sustainable practices is rising. Sustainability is a top priority, and I expect it to influence everything from last-mile delivery to long-haul freight.”

• Technology integration

Advanced technology like artificial intelligence (AI) analytics, internet of things (IoT) tracking and predictive maintenance is revolutionizing industrial shipping. Additionally, emerging technologies like automated guided vehicles (AGVs), robotics and blockchain technology are also being adopted by industrial shippers to fill gaps in labour shortages, streamline warehouse operations and bring added security with each shipment.

“As digital transformation accelerates, I predict an even more widespread adoption of smart logistics solutions, enabling better forecasting, route optimization and real-time visibility,” says Blasi.

• Workforce development

The industrial logistics sector continues to face labour shortages. Shippers are increasingly turning to automation and robotics to offset workforce gaps while investing in upskilling programs to support long-term growth. 

As Blasi explains: “The industrial sector has been under so much pressure with labour shortages and evolving workforce expectations. I expect this trend to intensify as the sector seeks to balance labour challenges with productivity goals.”

How to overcome logistics challenges and adapt your industrial supply chain

But do these trends matter? According to Gartner, only 42% of industrial manufacturing business leaders believe that having an efficient supply chain is important to success. This perception may cause some industrial logistics companies to fall behind on current trends, and inaction can have serious consequences.

“If companies aren’t proactive about adapting to these changes, they’ll likely face operational disruptions. Without a diversified supply chain, you’re going to experience delays, stockouts and increased costs. Even falling behind on the technological and sustainability front could alienate certain partners and customers,” explains Blasi.

Adapting to these trends without support can be difficult, especially when you need to spend time and resources to integrate new technologies and build resiliency. At the same time, falling behind isn’t worth the long-term costs. The solution? Consider working with Purolator, because we already have a shipping network designed to meet the challenges of the modern industrial logistics landscape. 

Here’s how Purolator can help your business prepare for change:

• Challenge: Monitor and adapt to geopolitical risks

Geopolitical conflict often leads to widespread supply chain disruption on a global level, but keeping track of—and predicting—these conflicts can be tricky. If you don’t have the time to keep track of geopolitics, then your industrial supply chain is at risk of disruption, which may lead to lost opportunities to competitors.

Solution: Geopolitical risks are unique because their exact effects on supply chains aren’t truly known until they actually happen, which is where Purolator comes in. With decades of experience in the industrial vertical, Purolator is an ideal partner for building resilient logistics and monitoring risks. Whether you need tariff mitigation strategies, cost management solutions like multimodal shipping or real-time shipment visibility to manage disruptions efficiently, our vast domestic and international network gives you the flexibility to pivot your logistics operations when the unexpected occurs.

Find out how you can succeed with logistics efficiency and resilience. Learn more.

• Challenge: Build resilient supply chains to withstand disruptions

Monitoring potential disruptions is only one half of the equation. Regardless of whether delays are due to geopolitics, labour shortages or natural disasters, forecasting won’t help if you haven’t invested in supply chain resiliency. But building resiliency is a challenge on its own, as diversifying your sourcing and investing in nearshoring or reshoring to reduce dependency on distant suppliers may require a total supply chain revamp. 

Solution: Not only does Purolator offer a variety of multimodal international shipping options for added supply chain flexibility and reliability, our trade compliance experts can help support your business with the right customs forms and brokerage documentation. Our vast shipping network covers the entirety of Canada, as well as many regions throughout the U.S., Mexico and the rest of the world, allowing you to reshore or nearshore your operations to strategic locations.

Discover what you need to know when shipping industrial parts to the U.S. and into Canada. Learn more.

• Challenge: Adopt the latest technology

Industrial logistics networks that fall behind on the latest technology integrations may find it difficult to meet changing customer demands, and ultimately lose out on opportunities to competitors. On the other hand, adopting the newest technology is expensive, especially when you factor in employee training times as well.

Solution: Purolator stays ahead of technological innovation, offering real-time tracking and artificial intelligence (AI) for predictive analytics to enhance visibility and decision-making. Our National Hub uses cutting-edge sorting technology and world-class automation to keep your industrial supplies on the move. We also offer route optimization, ensuring transparency, reliability and proactive shipment management.

Learn how AI and smart logistics have impacted supply chain dynamics. Learn more.

• Challenge: Prioritize sustainability

Like technology integrations, ignoring the push for sustainable practices could lead to reputational damage down the line. At the same time, adopting the latest sustainable technology and investing in green initiatives can be costly and time-consuming.

Solution: Purolator is committed to environmental sustainability. By partnering with us, you’ll have access to green logistics via our electric fleets, eco-friendly packaging and carbon-reduction goals. We can offer support and guidance on how your business can strive for long-term Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) goals, allowing you to meet customer expectations and maintain your competitiveness.

Did you know technology plays a key role in sustainable manufacturing? Learn more.

How to choose the right industrial logistics partner

With the right industrial logistics partner, you can let them focus on keeping your supply chain up to date while you hone in on what’s most important: growing your business. 

But how do you know which industrial shipper is right for you? When looking for a shipping partner, try to find a carrier who will:

Streamline your industrial supply chain with the latest technology

The right shipping partner is dedicated to technology, allowing you to meet customer demand while streamlining your supply chain and staying competitive. Opt for shipping partners who offer technology solutions like:

• • • Real-time tracking
    • Predictive analytics
    • Route optimization options 
    • AI-driven analytics
    • Automation

“At Purolator, we are absolutely all about technology. We’re a leader in technology with predictive analytics and real-time tracking so shippers can stay ahead of any disruptions with complete visibility and control over the entire shipping journey,” says Blasi.

Meet customer expectations with a strong commitment to sustainability

Aligning your logistics practices with environmentally responsible partners can boost your brand’s reputation and meet regulatory standards. At the same time, you’ll be meeting the rising customer expectation for green logistics and sustainable practices. Evaluate your shipping partner’s dedication to sustainability by looking for green initiatives, such as:

• • • Eco-friendly solutions like green fleets, EVs or hybrid vehicles
    • Sustainable packaging
    • Carbon footprint reduction programs

Blasi states: “Purolator has a proven track record for green logistics, underpinned by our measured goal to reduce our carbon footprint and innovate with sustainable practices like EV fleets and eco-friendly packaging. We’re a trusted partner for industrial businesses looking to achieve success with their green initiatives.”

Build resilient supply chains and monitor changes in an uncertain logistics landscape

Whether it’s delayed due to workforce shortages or rising tariff costs because of geopolitical turmoil, finding a partner who is dedicated to your supply chain’s success is integral. Look for shippers who provide:

• • • Localized supply chain networks and nearshoring to help your customers get to market faster
    • Multimodal transport options that shorten transit routes and avoid bottlenecks 
    • Courier and freight consolidation solutions for cost management
    • Cross-border expertise so your industrial supplies clear customs without issues
    • Special handling services that let you ship heavy equipment or specialized industrial goods 

Most importantly, look for a partner who can act as a trusted advisor and come up with custom solutions to overcome the unexpected, such as the proposed Canada-Mexico trade tariffs by President Donald Trump.

“With Trump’s newly imposed tariffs, Purolator has been proactive in working with customers to establish strategies to migrate risk. We work with our customers to find out where they can source from tariff-exempt regions, how we can help them reduce their costs and assist with nearshoring strategies that bring production closer to the end market. Leveraging Purolator’s strong cross-border infrastructure will help ensure a smoother transition in response to tariff changes,” explains Blasi.

Why you should choose Purolator as your industrial logistics partner

If you’re looking to stay ahead of industrial supply chain trends and deliver an exceptional customer experience during times of uncertainty, then Purolator is the shipping partner you need. We offer flexible custom solutions like multimodal transportation and cross-border expertise, so you can nearshore your supply chain and consistently deliver an exceptional experience while overcoming unexpected disruptions.

• • • Vast delivery network throughout North America and beyond: Our shipping network covers 100% of Canadian postal code, including remote regions.* Our infrastructure also covers many areas in the U.S., Mexico and other countries around the world. Send industrial parts and supplies to even the most remote regions in Canada, or deliver packages seamlessly to the U.S. and international destinations, too. 

• • • Flexible multimodal transport: Purolator offers various transportation services, including truckload (TL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) freight, rail, sea and air transit modes. Combine these options with multimodal transportation so you can customize your industrial shipments to accommodate different delivery times, budgets and package sizes.

• • • Customs clearance guidance and cross-border shipping expertise: With Purolator, you can ensure that your shipments comply with necessary regulations, minimizing the chances of costly delays and fines regardless of whether you’re nearshoring or reshoring across the border. Our cross-border experts can help you achieve customs clearance success. If you’re looking to save on paper and reduce manual errors, try our Purolator Trade Assistant and Digital Commercial Invoice. And if your goods need to be returned, we’ve got you covered with our seamless cross-border returns management process. 

• • • Optimize your industrial shipments with the latest technology: To stay competitive, you’ll need a shipper who keeps up with the latest technology solutions. We use AI analytics and route optimization to determine the shortest way to quickly get your deliveries to their destination. Additionally, our National Hub shows our commitment to staying at the cutting edge of technology. With world-class automation features, our hub is designed to scale with demand and get even more shipments quickly, safely and reliably.

• • • Special handling solutions: Whether you’re shipping heavy construction machinery, aftermarket automotive parts, agricultural augers, raw materials for industrial manufacturing and more, our specialized handling services ensure your heavy equipment transport complies with regulations alongside dangerous goods expertise.

• • • Integrated freight and ground shipping: Purolator is a leading integrated freight, package and logistics solutions provider.† Whether you want to prioritize speed or cost-effectiveness, our express delivery and standard ground services can accommodate different delivery times (including weekend delivery), budgets and package sizes. And if you’re shipping on pallets, our freight services can help you move items in bulk. 

• • • Virtual Assistant and customer support: With Purolator’s 24/7 customer support and Virtual Assistant for quick chat queries online, you can quickly resolve issues and get answers to your shipping questions, regardless of time zone.

• • • Mission Critical: When disruption occurs and you need a shipment to go out now, Purolator Mission Critical ensures that your goods are prioritized and delivered as quickly as possible, even outside of regular hours. With complete visibility and real-time tracking, you’ll know exactly when your most urgent shipments arrive.

• • • Sustainable shipping and packaging solutions: Packaging waste and shipping emissions are becoming a top priority for many customers and regulators. With Purolator, your customers can get peace of mind knowing that we offer sustainable packaging options, ship with zero-emission vehicles in certain regions and are fully committed to environmental sustainability. 

Future-proof your industrial logistics network with Purolator

In today’s rapidly evolving industrial landscape, staying ahead of emerging trends is essential for ensuring long-term success. From disruptions due to geopolitical uncertainty and workforce shortages to technological advancements and sustainability demands, your industrial supply chain must be agile and resilient to meet these challenges. By partnering with Purolator, your business can navigate these complexities with flexible multimodal transportation solutions, cutting-edge technology, green logistics and a robust supply chain network that stretches throughout North America and the rest of the world. With the right strategic partner, your industrial business can unlock new opportunities and achieve a competitive edge in an increasingly dynamic market.

Purolator has a strong focus on supply chain resilience, both domestically and internationally. We have a vast network across Canada, the U.S. and Mexico, allowing you to create a robust logistics network across that entire corridor. If you’re looking to nearshore or reshore your logistics and build resiliency, then Purolator is your ideal partner.” — Stefania Blasi, Senior Director, Industrial Vertical Global Sales & Strategy at Purolator Inc.