Demand remained strong despite limited remaining build slots in 2026 and the arrival of a historically weaker seasonal period, according to ACT Research.
Preliminary May Class 8 orders reached 26,500 units in North America, according to ACT Research. May Class 8 orders increased 103% year-over-year (Y/Y) and 12% month-over-month (M/M).
ACT said demand remained strong despite limited remaining build slots in 2026 and the arrival of a historically weaker seasonal period.
“Class 8 order strength continued in May, with preliminary orders of 26,500 units, up 103% y/y and 12% m/m, respectively,” said Carter Vieth, research analyst at ACT Research. “Despite the lack of build slots remaining in 2026 and entering what is historically a weak seasonal order period, new equipment demand remains buoyed by materially improved spot and contract rates, on top of regulatory clarity.”
Classes 5-7 Orders Increase 32%
Preliminary Classes 5-7 orders reached 19,000 units in May, up 32% Y/Y. Vieth said the increase may partially reflect economic resilience, along with dealer stocking as EPA’27 requirements move closer.
“Preliminary Classes 5-7 orders rose 32% y/y to 19,000 units in May,” Vieth said. “A moderate improvement from year-ago levels that may partially reflect the US’s economic resilience, but given EPA’27 is edging closer, may reflect some level of dealer stocking.”
ACT Research will publish complete May industry data, including final order totals, in mid-June.
Post time: Jun-26-2026
