Material Shortages in 2025: What Contractors Need to Know

If you're in the construction world, you've probably felt it already: material shortages are still making waves in 2025. From lumber and drywall to insulation and roofing materials, supply chain hiccups and high demand continue to challenge contractors across the country.

Here’s what you need to know — and how Ruck is helping keep your jobs moving even when stock is tight.

What's Causing Material Shortages in 2025?

Several factors are still putting pressure on the supply chain:

• High Demand: Residential and commercial construction is booming, and with that comes massive demand for materials.
  
  
• Manufacturing Delays: Some factories are still catching up from disruptions over the past few years, causing slower production.
  
  
• Transportation Costs: Rising fuel prices and driver shortages are making shipping slower and more expensive.
  
  
• Weather Events: Wildfires, hurricanes, and extreme weather continue to disrupt production and delivery routes.
  
  

Materials Most Affected

While it can vary by region, some materials remain especially hard to get in 2025:

• Lumber (especially specialty sizes)
  
  
• Drywall and insulation products
  
  
• Roofing materials (shingles, underlayment)
  
  
• Concrete and masonry supplies
  
  
• Electrical components
  
  
• HVAC equipment
  
  

If you’re planning a job, it's smart to verify material availability early and be ready to adjust timelines when needed.

How Ruck Helps Contractors Stay Ahead

While we can’t fix global supply chains (yet), Ruck is making it easier for contractors to manage material challenges on the ground:

• Fast Pickups: As soon as materials are available, our drivers can pick up and deliver same-day—no waiting around for supplier-scheduled deliveries.
  
  
• Flexible Runs: If you’re sourcing materials from multiple vendors to piece together an order, Ruck can coordinate pickups across locations.
  
  
• Real-Time Communication: If something is backordered or delayed, we’re quick to update you so you’re not stuck wondering.
  
  
• Vendor Partnerships: Many of our partner vendors are working closely with us to prioritize Ruck pickups, getting you your materials faster than standard deliveries.
  
  
• New! Ruck TRAKKER App: With our new TRAKKER app, you can view real-time local pricing trends for building materials. Stay ahead of price increases, compare costs across suppliers, and make smarter purchasing decisions for your jobs.
  
  

Tips for Contractors in 2025

• Order Early: Give suppliers as much lead time as possible.
  
  
• Stay Flexible: Be ready to swap materials or adjust project phases if certain supplies are delayed.
  
  
• Communicate with Clients: Set clear expectations about timelines and potential shortages upfront.
  
  
• Use Ruck for Deliveries: Keep your crew on-site and productive while we handle the runs.
  
  
• Track Prices with TRAKKER: Monitor material costs and adjust your bids before prices catch you off guard.
  
  

Final Thoughts

Material shortages are a real challenge in 2025, but smart planning—and having the right partners—can keep your projects moving. Ruck is here to help you adapt, stay efficient, and finish strong.

Need help navigating material shortages? Ruck can keep your jobs moving. Learn more here.

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