As the global supply chain faces unprecedented challenges, the ability to anticipate, adapt, and recover have become requirements in order to survive. However, if you want to compete and thrive in today’s non-linear supply chain, one-way container leasing specialist, OVL Container, stresses the pivotal role of collaborative models and strategic network management.
From linear supply chains to resilient networks
Recent studies show how traditional, linear supply chains have become inadequate for today’s world of global shipping and trade. Instead, a network-based approach – emphasizing interdependencies, collaboration, and flexibility – will enable businesses to proactively manage disruptions.
In fact, according to Cinti et al. (2025) , companies that proactively manage their supply networks are better positioned to maintain continuity, reduce costs, and recover quickly from shocks – as seen recently with the disruptions on Asia-Europe routes, stressing the value of flexible container networks.
“Network management is no longer just an operational concern; it is a strategic imperative for supply chain-resilience. Freight forwarders and shipping managers are increasingly leveraging one-way leasing to build supply chains that are not only more responsive, but also more robust in the face of disruption”, says Rami Keränen (pictured), Commercial Director at OVL Container.
Building the future of resilient logistics
It was not only happening in Europe and Asia, however. Globally, we have seen disruptions such as port congestion and equipment shortages. According to Mincinaukas, this underlines the need for a shift towards strategic network management – and one-way container is facilitating this shift.
This would explain why, since 2024, more and more freight forwarders are utilizing one-way leasing as part of a strategic supply network approach with the goal of bypassing bottlenecks and ensuring critical goods reached their destinations despite widespread blank sailings, according to Cinti, et al.
“The global supply chain is no longer linear, and securing resilience now lies in embracing networked solutions and collaborative models, including partnerships. One-way container leasing is a proven enabler of this transformation, offering both operational flexibility in terms of freight and shipping flows as well as strategic advantages such as resource sharing among partners”, adds Keränen.
