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Jun 1, 2001 12:00 PM

Changes occurring in the tank trailer manufacturing industry over the past year will reduce annual production capacity by at least 1,000 units a year, according to the results of an informal survey conducted by Modern Bulk Transporter.

Stainless steel trailers used to transport chemicals and liquid edibles are most affected by the cut in production capacity, according to tank builders interviewed during the National Tank Truck Carriers annual conference May 6-8 in Boston MA.

The production capacity loss is the result of plant closings in New York, South Carolina, and Wisconsin. A steep drop in new tank orders precipitated the plant closings, and there is general agreement that more plant closings are likely if the tank truck industry remains in the economic doldrums much longer.

Manufacturers add that it will be difficult to rebuild production capacity when the economy rebounds once skilled workers find jobs in other sectors.