The past few years have tested global supply chains like never before. Geo-political tensions, volatile markets, and unforeseen disruptions have exposed the limitations of traditional, linear supply chain models. As we look ahead, supply chain resilience is no longer a “nice-to-have”; it is a strategic necessity.

One of the most promising, newer tools for building resilience is network management – especially, if viewed through the lens of the one-way container leasing model. This approach, inspired by network theory and supported by the latest research, offers a new path to greater agility and lower costs.

Here is why…

Real-World Lessons in Resilience

2024 provided a stress test for global logistics. For instance – on major Asia-Europe routes – widespread blank sailings and equipment shortages threatened to bring supply chains to a standstill. These cases were not isolated – and suggested a need for a difference in strategy for the global supply chain.

As Cinti et al. (2025) document, the most resilient supply chain-firms have been those that have invested in flexible network structures, built strong interdependencies with partners, and established processes for temporary organizing during crises. In short, embracing a non-linear and network-based approach.

From Linear Chains to Dynamic Networks

Traditional supply chains have long been managed as sequential, upstream-to-downstream processes. While this approach worked in stable times, today’s environment is anything but. Disruptions – i.e. port congestion, equipment shortages, or shifting trade patterns – can ripple across the globe, almost instantly.

Recent research in the Journal of Business & Industrial Marketing [1] highlights the limitations of linear thinking and champions a supply network approach. In this model, companies proactively and dynamically manage mutuality, collaborate across organizations, and reconfigure resources to respond to change.

Drawing on academic research and industry experience, five key dimensions emerge:

• Network Structure: Dynamic allocation of container assets enables fast adaptation to changing conditions.
• Interdependencies: Collaborative planning and shared visibility foster trust and mutual support.
• Collaboration: Integrated processes across organizations allow coordinated responses to disruption.
• Strategic Positioning: Companies can utilize the network to anticipate risks and seize opportunities.
• Temporary Organizing: Quickly mobilize resources and reconfigure operations for rapid crisis response.

Supply Chain Partnerships are now Essential

As the dimensions suggest: No supply chain operates in a vacuum, and resilience is just based on internal processes. Rather, it is based on the strength and depth of partnerships across the network.

In fact, recent research and policy analysis underscore that collaborative relationships are foundational to building supply chains that can withstand and adapt to disruption.

According to the U.S. Council of Economic Advisers, the true costs of highly efficient but fragile supply chains became evident during recent crises, prompting a shift toward more collaborative, resilient models [2].

Partnerships enable organizations to share information, pool resources, and coordinate responses in real time—capabilities that are essential when facing sudden shocks or demand surges. Collaborative benefits include not only operational efficiencies but also enhanced trust, risk-sharing, and joint problem-solving.

The New Role of One-Way Container Leasing

In the context of network management, partnerships allow for more effective asset utilization, joint contingency planning, and the ability to rapidly reconfigure logistics strategies – making the entire network stronger and more resilient.

But how does container shipping fit into this new paradigm?

Well, for instance, one-way container leasing (where containers are leased for a single journey rather than round-trip) provides a practical mechanism for building network resilience.

By decoupling container flows from rigid return requirements, logistics operators gain the flexibility to reposition assets wherever they are needed most. This flexibility translates into several concrete benefits:

• Optimized Asset Utilization: Containers are routed to where demand exists, reducing empty repositioning.
• Cost Efficiency: Companies can reduce unnecessary moves through leveraging collaborative planning.
• Sustainability: Fewer empty moves mean lower emissions and a smaller environmental footprint.

Looking Ahead: A Call to Action

Now, supply chain resilience is not built overnight. It requires a shift in mindset; from managing chains to orchestrating networks. It also demands investment in new models, technologies, and relationships.

For logistics professionals, however, the message is clear: now is the time to evaluate your container management strategies. Are you locked into rigid, round-trip models that limit flexibility? Or are you leveraging network-based solutions that allow you to respond to the unexpected?

The future belongs to those who can adapt, collaborate, and innovate. Network management, and one-way container leasing in particular, offers a proven path to greater resilience, one that is supported by both real-world results and rigorous research.

Here is how you can get started:

1. Embrace network-based container management to increase flexibility and responsiveness.
2. Invest in long-term partnerships that foster trust, transparency, and joint problem-solving.
3. Continuously review and adapt your strategies to anticipate and respond to emerging disruptions.

These steps will help future-proof your business – and the supply chain – for resilience and growth.

Author: Rami Keränen, Commercial Director, OVL Container

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[1] Source: Cinti et al., 2025
[2] Source: White House, 2023