FTR has released preliminary data showing September Class 8 truck net orders at 19,777 units, 29% better than a year ago but just 3% higher than August orders.
September is now the fourth consecutive month with Class 8 orders below 20,000 resulting in annualized orders for the six-month period, including September, dipping to 240,600 units. Preliminary order numbers are for all major North American original equipment manufacturers.
Eric Starks, FTR's president, says "The order data was generally in line with expectations. Activity is modest but still suggests a flat production and sales market over the next few months. We will be looking hard at the October orders to see if production expectations through the end of the year can be met."