Page 3 - February 2025

TRAILERTALK
FTR Reports U.S. Trailer Net Orders Up Strongly

Y/Y in January at 23,966 Units

monthly output since 2010. With total trailer net orders significantly
outpacing production, backlogs increased by 12,210 units, pushing
the backlog/build ratio up to 9.7 months, which is the highest
since February 2023. While this higher ratio is largely attributed to
exceptionally low production levels, it also suggests easing pressure
on OEMs to further scale back production in the near term.

Dan Moyer, senior analyst, commercial vehicles, commented, “Many
fleets continue to prioritize purchasing power units over trailers — a
trend unlikely to reverse given the approaching implementation of
EPA’s 2027 NOx regulations on trucks. During the 2025 order season so
far, North American Class 8 net orders are up 4% y/y while U.S. trailer
net orders are down 21%. Trailer OEMs have scaled back production,
and prolonged cuts are possible if demand remains weak.

U.S. trailer net orders in January decreased by 2% month-over-month “Tariffs threaten further disruption. The 25% tariffs on steel and
(m/m) but rose by 81% year-over-year (y/y), reaching 23,966 units. aluminum imports planned to take effect next month along with
January marks the third consecutive month of positive y/y growth. the 10% additional tariff already imposed on Chinese imports and
Total trailer net orders for the 2025 order season (September 2024– the currently paused but still possible 25% tariffs on Canadian and
January 2025) are down 21% y/y at 98,926 units — an average of Mexican imports will raise material costs, squeeze margins, and
19,785 units per month — despite the first month of 2025 showing a strain supply chains. Tariffs will affect not only fully assembled trailers
healthy level of orders. imported into the U.S. but also domestically produced trailers, which
depend on imported materials and components. Expect market
Total trailer production increased by 2% m/m in January to 12,042 volatility as OEMs try to adapt to uncertainty over scope and timing of
units. However, production was down 35% y/y — 46% below the tariff impacts.”
seven-year January average — and was still the second lowest

Time to Renew!

Keep Your NTDA Membership Active

The National Trailer Dealers Association (NTDA) appreciates its members and your ongoing
support! Renewals for 2025 were due no later than Jan. 31, 2025.

Your NTDA membership is key to staying connected with the semi-trailer industry and
accessing valuable membership benefits. Whether it’s exclusive events, resources, or
networking opportunities, you don’t want to miss out by allowing your membership to lapse.

Timely renewal of your membership or payment of dues ensures uninterrupted access to these benefits. It also supports the essential work
provided by the Association, including publications, training, Convention, advocacy, money-saving programs, market data, and much more.

If you need a copy of your company’s membership dues invoice or a W-9 form, email accounting@ntda.org or call (810) 229-5960.

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