U.S. trailer orders surge 97% in July to 15,900 units

U.S. trailer orders surged 97% year-over-year in July, reaching 15,900 units, according to preliminary ACT Research data. The jump marked an 18% increase over June’s figures, defying typical seasonal patterns where July is usually the weakest net order month. Jennifer McNealy, director of commercial vehicle market research for ACT, noted that this year’s ordering cycle has been anything but ordinary, with demand strengthening later than usual. The atypical strength reflects an improving freight market supported by rising rates, though McNealy cautioned that the increased activity may be premature for 2027 order timing. OEMs cited tariff-related buying, healthier long-term business conditions, and pent-up replacement demand as key drivers behind the surge. Despite the uptick, McNealy warned that carriers remain cautious due to potential higher maintenance costs and the risk of repairing older equipment instead of purchasing new trailers.