FTR reports preliminary October U.S. net trailer orders at 33,600 units, up 40% from August and up substantially y/y with a 65% improvement.
October order activity was vibrant and right in line with expectations. Although there have been some indications the dry van market is softening, orders in this segment were steady. Trailer orders have now totaled 290,000 units over the past twelve months.
“There is good news on the vocational side,” said Don Ake, FTR Vice President of Commercial Vehicles. “Flatbed demand continues to be sturdy as the housing and energy markets continue to prosper. Renewed energy activity is also helping tankers and lowbeds.
“Demand may be off some from the great levels of the last few years, but sales should remain at high volumes. Orders are expected to be healthy for the next two months as fleets complete placing orders for 2018 requirements. The trailer market next year continues to look very positive.”