September net US trailer orders of 51,208 units were up 82% in a “significant improvement” from August’s uptick, and well above 2019’s level—by 174%, according to ACT Research’s latest State of the Industry: U.S. Trailer Report.
Before accounting for cancellations, new orders of 52,000 units were up 77% vs. August, and 140% better year-over-year.
ACT’s U.S. Trailers report provides a monthly review of current market statistics, as well as trailer OEM build plans and market indicators divided by all major trailer types, including backlogs, build, inventory, new orders, cancellations, net orders and factory shipments. It is accompanied by a database that gives historical information from 1996 to the present, as well as a ready-to-use graph packet, to allow organizations in the trailer production supply chain, and those following the investment value of trailers and trailer OEMs and suppliers, to better understand the market.
“The confluence of several factors is evident in September’s third-highest monthly net volume in history,” said Frank Maly, director of commercial vehicle transportation analysis and research at ACT. “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.
“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. Further solid numbers are likely in the near term, as the industry enters what has normally been its usual ‘order season.’”
Visit actresearch.net for more information.