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Navigating uncertainty: What fleets should know as tariffs and supply chain shifts create new challenges

The trucking industry is no stranger to change but 2025 is testing that resilience once again. With new tariffs pushing up the cost of trucks and parts, and continued supply chain volatility causing delays and shortages, fleets are facing rising operational costs and evolving risk exposures. In this environment, staying informed and being ready to adapt is critical.

Here are five ways commercial fleets can navigate these disruptions and how High Definition Vehicle Insurance (HDVI) is helping them stay ahead:

1. Don’t wait on repairs, parts are getting pricier and harder to find

Tariffs and global supply challenges are driving up the cost and lead time of vehicle parts. A delayed repair today could mean extended downtime tomorrow. Fleets that prioritize proactive maintenance will be better positioned to avoid costly service disruptions and maintain reliability.

Telematics provides real-time data that identifies early signs of wear or mechanical issues, allowing fleets to address problems before they escalate.

2. Adjust your coverage to match your changing operations

Whether you’re shifting from intermodal to long-haul routes, transporting new commodities, or expanding into different markets, every change impacts your risk profile. It’s essential to review your insurance policies to make sure they reflect your current operation, not last year’s.

HDVI helps customers and our agency partners with real-world needs. Your policy may include comprehensive physical damage protection (collision, fire, theft, rollover), downtime options, GAP coverage, towing enhancements, and coverage for non-owned trailers. We also work closely with fleets to identify any gaps tied to new cargo or lanes.

3. Use telematics to drive smarter, safer decisions

Telematics isn’t just about tracking, it’s about transforming data into better decisions. From monitoring vehicle health to improving driver behavior, telematics gives fleets the tools to boost safety and cut costs.

At HDVI, we integrate telematics directly into our insurance model. Safe driving can lead to monthly premium discounts of up to 20%. And when incidents do happen, telematics data speeds up the claims process, getting trucks back on the road faster.

4. Know what you’re hauling and what your policy covers

Not all cargo is created equal. Shifting to higher-value or specialty commodities may introduce new risks, and not every policy covers everything. Understanding commodity-specific exclusions and liabilities is key to ensuring you’re fully protected.

Working with HDVI gives you access to industry experts who help decode the fine print and make sure your coverage matches your business.

5. Speed matters: Claims delays cost money

When a truck is down, so is your revenue. That’s why HDVI brought the claims process in-house, cutting average resolution time for physical damage claims by 37% (from 52 days to about 33 days). We assign adjusters immediately and use telematics data to accelerate assessments and payouts.

Stay ahead, don’t fall behind

Uncertainty may be the new normal, but that doesn’t mean fleets have to operate in the dark. With the right tools, technology, and insurance partner, you can manage risk, stay efficient, and grow your business.

HDVI is here to help. Learn more about how we support modern fleets at hdvi.com.