U.S. trailer orders rise 18% in July, defying seasonal trends

Preliminary data from ACT Research indicates that U.S. trailer orders reached 15,900 units in July, representing an 18% increase from June and a 97% jump compared to the previous year. This surge defies typical seasonal patterns, as July is historically the weakest month in the annual ordering cycle.

Industry analysts attribute this atypical strength to improving trucking fundamentals and rising freight rates. Manufacturers also noted that the uptick may be driven by a combination of factors, including tariff-related purchasing, healthier business conditions, and pent-up replacement demand.

Despite the growth, experts suggest caution. While the order cycle has been unusual—with strength beginning later than expected in December rather than last autumn—some purchasers remain wary due to the challenges carriers have faced in recent years and the potential for high maintenance costs compared to new equipment purchases.