Trailer Orders Drop Sharply in February

After showing some strength at the start of the 2026 order season, the U.S. trailer market lost momentum in February. FTR reports that net trailer orders fell to 13,305 units for the month, down 45% from January and 31% from February 2025. That total also came in well below the 10-year February average, highlighting just how soft the month was.

The pullback is notable because it follows two much stronger months in December and January, both of which topped 24,000 orders. Those gains suggested the market might be regaining its footing, but February showed that demand is still under real pressure. For the 2026 order season so far, from September 2025 through February 2026, orders are now down 19% year over year.

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Production did improve in February, with total U.S. trailer builds rising 20% from January to 15,199 units and coming in roughly in line with year-ago levels. Even so, manufacturers are still likely to stay cautious as incoming order activity for 2026 production remains softer.

At this point, trailer demand appears to be hovering near replacement levels. Fleets generally still have enough capacity, and many are directing more of their capital toward Class 8 purchases. At the same time, elevated steel and aluminum costs, tariff uncertainty, high financing costs, and tighter capital spending continue to weigh on the market.

FTR’s Dan Moyer noted that the trailer market remains pressured by rising input costs and trade uncertainty, even as truck freight fundamentals begin to improve. The result is a market that still lacks the confidence needed for a broader rebound in orders.

 To view the chart accompanying this release, visit:
https://www.ftrintel.com/trailer-orders 

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FTR’s Truck & Trailer Outlook report helps industry participants track the trends shaping trailer demand, equipment production, and the broader commercial vehicle market. With forward-looking analysis and expert insight, it is designed to help you plan more confidently in a market still facing cost pressure, policy risk, and uneven demand.

 Learn more about Truck & Trailer Outlook and how FTR can support your planning. 

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