Trailer net orders in January, at 19,853, were down nearly 32% from December’s very strong order volume, but rose 18% year-over-year, according to State of the Industry: U.S. Trailers published by ACT Research Co. (ACT).
“Total trailer backlog is at its highest level in almost 20 years,” said Frank Maly, Director – CV Transportation Analysis and Research at ACT. “Part of January’s strength resulted from some 'out-of-pattern' orders as fleets are getting in queue for equipment.”
Maly noted that with ratification of the West Coast port contract proposal likely, the economy has side-stepped significant headwinds. He said ensuing freight onslaught will be a net positive for the commercial vehicle industry.
“Trailer demand continues to receive support from a wide array of factors, including solid freight volumes, pent-up demand for replacement equipment, and increased consumer and business spending. The foundation is in place for 2015 to be the best trailer market since the late 1990s.”