Class 8 Truck Orders See Modest Lift—But Risks Loom

Source: FTR Transportation Intelligence

Montreal, August 5, 2025 – Preliminary data from FTR Transportation Intelligence shows North American Class 8 net orders rose to 12,700 units in July, a 42% month-over-month (m/m) increase, but still 7% below July 2024—marking the seventh straight year-over-year (y/y) decline. Orders remain significantly below the 10-year July average of 19,974 units, highlighting the cautious stance of fleets amid economic and policy headwinds.

“Ongoing tariff volatility and broader economic and truck freight market sluggishness continue to negatively impact the Class 8 market,” said Dan M., Senior Analyst, Commercial Vehicles at FTR.

Year-to-date orders are down 30%, and uncertainty surrounding potential Section 232 tariffs and the upcoming 2027 NOx regulations has led many fleets to delay new equipment purchases.

While both vocational and on-highway segments improved from June, the on-highway sector drove the y/y decline, reflecting the vulnerability of fleets serving long-haul markets.

For the 2025 order cycle (September 2024–July 2025), total orders were down 15% y/y. Over the past 12 months, 254,349 units have been ordered.