Challenges that emerged in late 2025 are continuing to weigh on the US trailer market as the industry moves into 2026, according to the latest report from ACT Research.
Jennifer McNealy, Director of CV Market Research & Publications at ACT Research, said cancellation activity remained volatile through 2025 before stabilising at lower levels early this year.
“Cancellations gyrated wildly throughout 2025 before returning to a more subdued rate to start 2026,” said McNealy.
“February’s rate of 0.5 per cent of backlog fell well below the target range for the first time in 13 months, following an improved but still elevated 1.6 per cent reading in January.”
She noted that cancellations remain elevated in tank trailer segments, largely driven by carriers scaling back amid reduced oil and gas activity. However, sustained higher oil prices could help stabilise demand in this segment.
Backlog trends also softened in February after modest gains earlier in the year.
“After two consecutive months of net orders significantly outpacing build and injecting some momentum into otherwise weak backlogs, the tide receded in February,” said McNealy. “Backlogs declined 1.5% month-on-month, or roughly 1,100 units.”
With the annual order cycle drawing to a close, attention is turning to near-term demand.
“As is typical for this time of year, the industry is entering a period of backlog drawdown,” she added. “The key question is the strength of fleets’ appetite for trailers in the near term. As in 2025, shallow backlogs remain a central concern.”
ACT Research highlighted a range of ongoing pressures, including soft freight demand, weak carrier profitability, financing constraints and continued uncertainty around tariffs. These factors are being compounded by high input costs—particularly metals—and subdued capital expenditure.
“Those on the front lines are waiting,” said McNealy.
“There is an expectation that demand will rebound, but there is also concern about the industry’s ability to respond if that recovery is too rapid.”
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