New and net trailer orders significantly disappointed in September, conflicting with a seasonally anticipated double-digit gain. Net orders posted were 12,993, marking the lowest volume since August 2010, according to the most recent State of the Industry: U.S. Trailers published by ACT Research Co. (ACT).
“September’s weakness is further indication of fleet reticence toward equipment investment,” said Frank Maly, Director–CV Transportation Analysis and Research at ACT.
“The current environment of low freight rates and uneven freight volumes, along with over-capacity resulting from a long run of equipment purchases, is not conducive to short-term capex commitments.”