U.S. Trailer Net Orders Post Another Significant Improvement in September

ACT Research reports trailer orders of 51,208 units were a significant improvement up 82% from August’s

September net US trailer orders of 51,208 units were a significant improvement (up 82%) from August’s uptick and well above September 2019’s level (up 174%). Before accounting for cancellations, new orders of 52k units were up 77% versus August and 140% better year-over-year, according to this month’s issue of ACT Research’s State of the Industry: U.S. Trailer Report.

“The confluence of several factors is evident in September’s third-highest monthly net volume in history,” said Frank Maly, Director–CV Transportation Analysis and Research at ACT Research. He added, “Pent-up demand is one factor, as we’re now seeing capex release that was curtailed earlier this year by COVID-driven uncertainty. Another factor is lower build rates, pushing fleets to quickly submit their orders, rather than take a chance that new units might not be delivered until well into next year.”

Maly continued, “In addition to fleets, dealers could also be worrying about the timing of stocking orders; conversations have included mention of dealers entering the fray in preparation for next year.” He concluded, “Further solid numbers are likely in the near-term, as the industry enters what has normally been its usual ‘order season’.”

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