Trucks with gross vehicle weight ratings in excess of 10,000 pounds were up 5% in October, according to figures compiled by Wards Communications.
Dealers sold 51,393 medium and heavy trucks during the month, up from 48,756 sold during October 2004.
Class 5 trucks had the steepest increase, up 21% from October 2004. Class 8 trucks (GVW ratings above 33,000 pounds) also were up sharply, topping year-earlier levels by 14%.
Through the first 10 months of 2005, dealers sold 549,442 medium and heavy trucks, up 27%. Class 3 trucks led the way with a 73% increase. Others posting strong gains were Class 5 (up 30%), Class 8 (up 28%) and Class 7 (up 22%) through the first 10 months of 2005.