Class 8 Truck Orders

Dan Moyer, senior analyst, commercial vehicles, commented, “The N.A. Class 8 truck and tractor market faces growing pressure from tariffs, near-record inventory, regulatory uncertainty, and weak freight demand. Tariff increases imposed on August 7 raised costs on vehicles, parts, and key inputs. A recent federal appeals court ruling casts doubt about the legality of country-specific ‘reciprocal’ tariffs, although those tariffs remain in place until at least October 14, pending U.S. Supreme Court review. By contrast, Section 232 tariffs on steel, aluminum, and copper are unaffected by that court ruling and may soon expand to trucks, components, and semiconductors, adding further risk.

“Uncertainty over 2027 EPA NOx standards is already delaying some fleet purchases and softening near-term demand, while tariff pressures could further suppress 2026 order activity. Fleets are extending truck lifespans and incurring higher maintenance costs. Suppliers are squeezed by input inflation and uneven demand. Dealers are leaning on used equipment and service. And OEMs face profitability pressure, volatile schedules, and greater supply chain exposure. Until tariff and regulatory paths are clarified, the outlook will remain unsettled.”