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Major Shippers Expand Autonomous and Third-Party Logistics Networks to Address Capacity Gaps

PepsiCo and Amazon are making significant moves to reshape their transportation networks amid capacity constraints and rising carrier pricing power. PepsiCo has signed a multiyear autonomous vehicle deal to bolster deliveries in traditionally hard-to-staff regions, expanding its logistics reach without relying on traditional driver recruitment. Meanwhile, Amazon has opened its less-than-truckload shipping service to all third-party businesses, allowing smaller shippers access to its trucking network for partial-load deliveries. The moves come as carrier pricing power strengthens ahead of seasonal peaks. Industry pricing indices show carriers maintaining elevated rate leverage, with forecasts suggesting sustained pricing pressure through the quarter. The dual strategies reflect how major logistics players are responding to workforce shortages and capacity limitations by diversifying transportation options and leveraging technology to fill supply chain gaps.