New model years are already showing up at dealerships, and the 2026 rollout is moving quickly. Automakers are already tightening production schedules, allocation is getting increasingly competitive, and factory lead times are stretching well into next year. Waiting until the new year to make decisions can leave your business facing limited availability, higher costs, and missed opportunities to align your fleet strategy with your operational goals.
Securing allocation early is one of the biggest advantages of planning ahead. Popular models and trim levels often sell out quickly as manufacturers set their production schedules. By placing factory orders now, your drivers can receive the vehicles they actually need rather than settling for whatever happens to be left over. This early action is especially important for fleets with specific safety, payload, or upfitting requirements that leave little room for substitution.
Reviewing your fleet vehicle selector for 2026 is another critical component of early planning. This is the ideal time to evaluate whether your selector reflects your business’s evolving needs. Many organizations are incorporating EVs and hybrids, right-sizing vehicles to manage fuel and maintenance expenses, or standardizing equipment to simplify operations. A well-designed selector supports long-term budgeting, enhances consistency, and ensures your fleet remains aligned with productivity and sustainability objectives.
“A well-designed Fleet Vehicle Selector is not only a list of vehicles, but it is a financial and operational strategy that shapes your fleet for years to come. Factory ordering your 2026 vehicles now is an important way to protect your budget and ensure vehicle availability.”
Victor Tilane, Account Executive | Jim Pattison Lease
For fleets that require upfitting, early planning is even more essential. Specialized equipment, decals, shelving, safety equipment, and branding all require thoughtful coordination and additional lead time. Addressing these needs in advance means vehicles can arrive fully ready for work, helping your organization avoid delays that could disrupt operations or force costly interim solutions.
Submitting your entire model year requirements, including those that are not urgent can be managed via a delayed delivery build. Delayed deliver builds ensure that orders are price protected in the event of an increase and will be delivered closer to the actual timeframe required. The bottom line is simple: factory order windows for 2026 are open now, and proactive decisions made today can help keep your fleet cost-efficient, competitive, and aligned with your operational strategy throughout the year ahead.
If you need support reviewing your vehicle selector or placing factory orders, Jim Pattison Lease is here to help. Our team specializes in guiding businesses through every step of fleet planning, from selecting the right vehicles to securing allocation and building a strategy that supports long-term success. Let’s connect today and start building your 2026 fleet plan with confidence.
