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Dealers sold fewer trucks than last month, but at higher prices

In the May 2019 Commercial Truck Guidelines Industry Update, analysts from J.D. Power Valuation Services reported the unexpected happened, as the volume of trucks sold was down and pricing was up by an equally notable amount, in April compared to the expected higher volume of trucks being sold at lower pricing. The retail channel also had a surprisingly good month

“Since last month, the trade war heated up unexpectedly as talks broke down between China and the U.S.,” said Chris Visser, Commercial Truck Senior Analyst at J.D. Power Valuation Services. “As such, we will once again see a bump in freight volumes as manufacturers pull ahead imports in advance of tariff increases and expansion. This spike will be shorter in term than the last one, but it means the industry will continue to need an elevated number of trucks in the coming weeks.”

Major findings

• Auction Pricing Up Unexpectedly
  • Lower sales volume cause swing in averages
• Retail Pricing Ticked Upwards
  • Dealers sold fewer trucks than last month, but at higher prices
• Medium Duty Trucks Flat to Downwards
  • A newer mix of trucks has entered the market in recent months

Download the free May 2019 Commercial Truck Guidelines Industry Update.

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