Preliminary net orders for North American (N.A.) Class 8 trucks/tractors in July posted their seventh consecutive year-over-year decrease, sinking 7% compared to the same month in 2024 despite a 42% rise over last month, according to FTR.
At 12,700, orders remained notably below July’s 10-year average of 19,974 units, underscoring persistent caution among fleets amid trade tensions, fluctuating tariffs, and ongoing economic uncertainty impacting freight demand.
Although both vocational and on-highway segments improved m/m, the on-highway market primarily drove the y/y decline, highlighting particular vulnerability among carriers focused on longer-haul operations, FTR said. For the 2025 order cycle (September 2024-July 2025), total orders were down 15% compared to the same period 12 months ago.
“Ongoing tariff volatility and broader economic and truck freight market sluggishness continue to negatively impact the Class 8 market, driving a substantial 30% y/y decline in year-to-date net orders. Class 8 market uncertainty is further elevated due to the potential imposition of Section 232 tariffs specifically targeting Class 4-8 trucks, tractors, and related components,” Dan Moyer, FTR’s senior analyst, commercial vehicles, said in a release.
“The lack of clarity regarding potential Environmental Protection Agency revisions to 2027 NOx emissions standards adds to the uncertainty. As a result, many fleets are delaying commercial vehicle equipment investments. Meanwhile, continued record-high inventory levels are placing additional downward pressure on Class 8 production,” Moyer said.
