Act Pre March21 Web 607cf26544f37 607ecf074c2ae

ACT Research: March trailer orders triple 2020 volume

April 21, 2021
The solid order volume will result in further industry backlog growth, ACT's Maly says

ACT Research has put preliminary trailer orders at 29,500 in March. That's 12% better than February and more than triple the volume seen last year, when COVID-driven pressures began to meaningfully impact the market, according to ACT Research’s State of the Industry: U.S. Trailers report.

“Normal seasonal order patterns predict a month-over-month decline in net orders in March, so the rebound from February shows that fleets continue their positive expectations for the remainder of this year and into next,” said Frank Maly, director CV Transportation Analysis and Research at ACT Research. “Initial results point to dry van orders being the major source of strength; after a normal seasonal easing in February, they bounced back to a level similar to January volume.”

The solid order volume will result in further industry backlog growth, Maly noted.

“In response to those ever-growing commitments, OEMs have been struggling to increase their production levels. It appears those efforts are beginning to have an impact, he said. “This preliminary report shows them achieving a higher daily production rate in March. It also appears that March will post a positive year-over-year comparison for total production, the first positive comparison since July 2019.

“That being said, staffing challenges and component and material supplies remain a concern as production ramps.”

About the Author

Commercial Vehicle Staff

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Boost truck leasing profits with telematics insights! Reduce maintenance costs, improve uptime, and strengthen customer relationships. Learn how data drives success.
This free guide outlines simple steps for hiring and onboarding commercial drivers while ensuring that you meet Regulation Part 391 and maintain fully compliant driver qualification...
Ready to boost fleet efficiency by up to 50%? Learn how AI-powered dispatch and next-gen tech are transforming TMS workflows, improving driver planning, and streamlining operations...
Gain a strategic edge in today’s evolving fleet landscape. Join us to explore how fuel cards are helping fleet managers cut costs, enhance control, and prepare for an electrified...