FTR reports that preliminary North American Class 8 net orders for September hit 20,500 units. That’s a 60% jump from August, but still 41% below September 2024 levels, marking the ninth consecutive month of year-over-year declines.
What the Numbers Mean
- September’s total fell well short of the 10-year average of 29,499 units, signaling ongoing hesitation among fleets.
- Both vocational and on-highway segments improved, but the on-highway market also accounts for most of the year-over-year drop.
- Over the past 12 months, Class 8 orders have reached 237,467 units, underscoring how weak freight demand, tight carrier profitability, and subdued confidence continue to weigh on the industry.
Trade Tensions Add New Uncertainty
Adding to these challenges are fresh trade concerns. On September 25, President Trump announced a proposed 25% Section 232 tariff on imported heavy-duty trucks, though no official details have been released.
Dan Moyer, senior analyst for commercial vehicles at FTR, explained: “The immediate effect will be higher truck prices, assuming the tariff is officially implemented. Imported Class 8 trucks will face a 25% surcharge, and U.S.-built models may see added costs from imported parts. Some fleets are likely to delay or cancel orders, boosting demand for used trucks as operators extend vehicle lifecycles. In the near term, the market faces higher prices, supply chain disruptions, and ongoing uncertainty.”
Looking Ahead
The weak start to the 2026 order season highlights the difficult environment facing fleets, OEMs, and suppliers. Without a recovery in freight volumes and rates, fleets are likely to continue limiting replacement and expansion, keeping order activity volatile through the coming months.
👉 To view the accompanying chart, visit FTR’s Class 8 Truck Orders page.
FTR will release final September order numbers mid-month as part of its North American Commercial Truck & Trailer Outlook service. Want to learn more about that report and other FTR services?
