According to preliminary data from ACT Research, North American Class 8 net orders in September reached 27,400 units, while net orders for Classes 5-7 dropped to 24,500 units, with both numbers marking lower sequential readings. ACT Research will publish complete industry data for September, including final order numbers, later this month.

“September traditionally marks the transition from the annual summer order trough into fall peak order activity,” Kenny Vieth, president and senior analyst for ACT Research, said. “However, with demand indicators from freight activity to freight rates and carrier profits in blatant contrast to equipment shortages and capacity constraints across all transportation modes, it is understandable that September’s Classes 5-8 order volume could be construed as disappointing relative to the economic set-up.

“It is important to note that it is not demand but supply that is dictating new order activity, as OEMs are being judicious in fully opening 2022 order books when there is not clear visibility of supply chain capacity next year. And while the story is just starting to develop, recent reports of energy sector issues in China dampen hope for the current supply situation to surprise on the high side in terms of recovery timing.”