Why secure, flexible storage matters this peak season

SecurSpace recently joined Let’s Talk Supply Chain to discuss the forces shaping the transportation market during the 2026 peak season – and what it means for motor carriers, shippers, yard owners, and industrial outdoor storage operators.

In the podcast, Robert Strenk, Senior Director of Marketplace at SecurSpace, shares his perspective on rising freight demand, emerging congestion, cargo theft, yard capacity, and the investments that can make parking and storage facilities more secure and operationally effective.

Here are four key takeaways from the conversation:

1. The 2026 peak season could be the busiest since 2022
   SecurSpace is seeing strong parking and storage demand extending through September. As import volumes and trade activity remain elevated, greater warehouse utilization and longer dwell times at ports and rail hubs will increase  demand for drop-yard and overflow storage.
2. Flexible yard capacity can help carriers respond to volatility
   Owning or leasing real estate can create significant fixed costs, particularly as property values, taxes, insurance, and maintenance expenses rise. Flexible parking and storage arrangements allow carriers to increase or reduce capacity as volumes change without committing to space they may not need year-round.
3. Cargo theft requires stronger standards and greater collaboration
   Cargo theft tactics are becoming more sophisticated and scalable. In response, SecurSpace is working with industry organizations and technology partners to strengthen and standardize facility requirements and expand access to secure locations. Important criteria include perimeter fencing, comprehensive lighting, CCTV coverage, inventory reporting, controlled access, and automated security measures.
4. The best yards compete on more than location
   Pricing matters, but so does yard layout, security, responsiveness, and the driver experience. Efficient gate operations, accessible equipment, accurate inventory visibility, and driver amenities can help reduce delays, improve safety, and make a facility more attractive to carriers.

With peak season underway and the potential for tighter capacity and increased congestion, both carriers and yard operators should be evaluating their parking and storage strategies now.

Watch the full episode to learn more about the market forces shaping the rest of 2026 and how secure, flexible yard capacity can help logistics operators respond to disruption and maintain fluid throughput.