Trailer orders defy seasonal weakness

COLUMBUS, Ind. – Despite what is traditionally one of the worst months for trailer demand, commercial trailer net orders in September more than doubled their very weak September 2009 volume.

According to ACT Research, last month’s order activity reflected continuation of a healthy rebound from what was the worst year for commercial trailer demand in nearly five decades.

Dry van trailers, the largest segment of commercial trailers, saw orders jump 182 percent over the same period last year; and orders of 13,301 were nearly 19 percent above August 2010 levels.

"Net orders in September were at their highest volume since May; however, when seasonally adjusted, September’s order activity represented the best volume in the past 32 months," said Kenny Vieth, partner and president of ACT Research, who added that strong reefer van orders and improved flatbed trailer orders were key drivers of the demand.