Why Reshoring is Driving Equipment Demand

For years, reshoring was discussed more as an idea than a reality. Companies talked about bringing production closer to home, but many plans stalled as costs, labor concerns, and long standing global supply chains kept factories overseas. As we move into 2026, that conversation has clearly shifted. Reshoring is no longer theoretical. It is showing up in plant expansions, new domestic contracts, and most noticeably, increased demand for industrial equipment.

Several factors are pushing this change. Supply chain disruptions over the past few years exposed how fragile long distance sourcing can be. Extended lead times, shipping delays, and unpredictable costs forced manufacturers to rethink reliability. At the same time, customers are demanding shorter turnaround times and greater control over quality. Producing closer to the end user solves many of those issues, even if unit costs are sometimes higher.

Another driver is speed. Companies that are reshoring are often doing so under tight timelines. They are not building greenfield facilities with years to spare. Instead, many are expanding existing plants or reopening dormant capacity. That urgency is pushing buyers toward equipment that is available now, tested, and proven. This is where used and surplus machinery plays a critical role.

Rather than waiting twelve to eighteen months for new equipment builds, manufacturers are sourcing CNC machines, presses, process equipment, generators, transformers, and material handling systems that can be installed quickly. In many cases, these machines offer more than enough capability for the job at hand, with a far faster return on investment. Practical production is taking priority over cutting edge specs.

Domestic production growth is also benefiting small and mid sized manufacturers. Reshoring is not limited to massive factories or government backed megaprojects. Many contract shops, regional suppliers, and niche producers are seeing new opportunities as larger companies look to diversify their supplier base closer to home. These businesses tend to expand incrementally, adding one machine or one line at a time, which again favors the secondary equipment market.

Energy and infrastructure considerations are also shaping buying decisions. As plants add capacity, there is increased demand for power generation, electrical distribution, and backup systems. Reliable power is no longer an afterthought. It is a core part of production planning, especially as facilities adopt more automation and digitally controlled equipment.

At Surplus Record, we see these shifts reflected daily in search activity, inquiries, and listings. Equipment demand often tells a clearer story than headlines or forecasts. The current trend points to manufacturers prioritizing availability, flexibility, and reliability as domestic production ramps up.

Reshoring may have started as a strategic discussion, but it is now a purchasing decision. For equipment buyers and sellers alike, that shift is creating real opportunities in 2026 and beyond.