Trailer orders in North America softened in May, according to US company ACT Research Co. However, given that orders in May have fallen below April volumes in ten of the past 12 years, the decline was anticipated. That they fell as far as they did – down 23 per cent month over month on a seasonally adjusted basis – is a reflection of the current soft patch in commercial vehicle demand.
“Production rose five per cent month over month, although on a per day basis, build was virtually unchanged from April,” said Frank Maly, Director – CV Transportation with ACT Research. “The combination of soft orders and rising production caused industry backlogs to fall, dropping five per cent from April to 111,953 units in May. The backlog typically falls this time of year, so May’s results were expected. While down from April, May’s backlog remains at a healthy level,” he added.