Driver Shortages: How Labor Crunches Are Changing Returns Management

Driver Shortages: How Labor Crunches Are Changing Returns Management

Driver shortages are making headlines across the U.S. and Europe, creating ripple effects throughout the supply chain. According to industry reports, 69% of logistics companies say capacity is constrained due to a lack of drivers (Supply Chain Dive, Tech.co, Talking Logistics). While the focus is often on forward logistics, these shortages significantly impact reverse logistics as well—where delays in processing returns can lead to lost revenue, higher costs, and dissatisfied customers.

For businesses managing large volumes of returns, the message is clear: adapting to these disruptions isn’t optional. It’s essential.

The Driver Shortage Challenge—By the Numbers

Driver shortages are not new, but they’re worsening. With fewer drivers available, companies struggle to move goods efficiently across the supply chain. In reverse logistics, this creates unique challenges:

• Returns pile up at retail locations waiting for pick-up.
• Processing times extend, reducing the chance of refurbishing products for resale.
• Storage costs increase, and goods risk damage during extended delays.

Learn more about industry trends impacting reverse logistics in our Mid-Year Reverse Logistics Insights Blog.

How Driver Shortages Impact Reverse Logistics

Unlike forward shipping, reverse logistics often lacks predictable volume or timing. When driver shortages hit, this unpredictability amplifies:

• Customers wait longer for return labels and pick-ups.
• Warehouses face sudden surges when delayed returns finally arrive.
• Delays in refurbishment reduce recovery value.

Explore how PTS Corp manages Returns Management Services to avoid these pitfalls.

Why Businesses Need Scalable Solutions

Rigid supply chain strategies cannot adapt quickly to capacity fluctuations. That’s why scalable reverse logistics solutions are critical. Businesses need partners who can:

• Offer flexible warehousing to accommodate sudden spikes.
• Implement rapid triage processes to minimize bottlenecks.
• Keep visibility high, even when carrier timelines slip.

See how our Value-Added Services help bridge the gap when supply chain disruptions occur.

How PTS Corp Keeps Returns Moving Despite Disruptions

At PTS Corp, we’ve built our processes around flexibility and speed. Our reverse logistics solutions include:

• Rapid triage and disposition to keep goods flowing, even when transportation lags.
• Secure storage and inventory visibility, powered by real-time systems.
• Repair and refurbishment programs that recover product value efficiently.

By handling these steps internally, we reduce dependency on strained transportation networks and help clients maintain service continuity.

Learn more about our Repair and Refurbishment Services.

Looking Ahead: Driver Shortages Are Here to Stay

Industry analysts predict labor shortages will persist well into 2025 (AJOT). Companies that fail to plan for ongoing disruptions risk falling behind their competitors. Partnering with a reverse logistics provider who can adapt quickly ensures resilience in an unpredictable market.

Don’t Let Driver Shortages Derail Your Reverse Logistics

When delays happen, you need a partner who can pivot with you. PTS Corp offers scalable, end-to-end reverse logistics solutions that keep your returns process moving—no matter what challenges arise.

👉 Contact us today to learn how we can help you streamline returns and maintain efficiency.