Navigating the Current State of the Trucking Industry

The North American trucking industry is facing notable challenges, and it's essential for truck drivers and maintenance technicians to stay informed. Recent data reveals a decline in Class 8 truck orders, raising concerns about the industry in the near term.

According to FTR Transportation Intelligence, net orders for Class 8 trucks in February dropped to 17,000 units. This represents a 31% decrease from the previous month and a 38% decline compared to February 2024. Historically, February orders average around 26,912 units, making this year's numbers considerably lower than expected.

According to experts at FTR Transportation Intelligence and ACT Research, there are several factors behind this decline:

• Tariff Concerns

  Ongoing uncertainty regarding U.S. trade policy is putting pressure on the industry. Tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports, as well as duties on steel, aluminum, and Chinese products, are driving up costs. Approximately 45% of all Class 8 trucks built for the U.S. and Canadian markets may be affected by these tariffs, with 40% of U.S. trucks produced in Mexico and 65% of Canada’s trucks assembled in the U.S.

• Economic Uncertainty

  Shifts in economic policies have created hesitation among trucking companies. Businesses are wary of investing in new equipment amid unclear trade conditions and changing regulations.

• OEM Slowdowns

  Truck OEMs have seen a decrease in orders across the board. The on-highway truck market was particularly affected, though vocational truck orders also experienced a drop.

For truck drivers and maintenance technicians, these trends signal potential changes in workload, repair demands, and fleet planning. With fewer new trucks being ordered, older equipment may remain in service longer. This could result in:

• Increased Maintenance Needs

  Extended use of older trucks means technicians may see more frequent repairs, especially involving engines, transmissions, and suspension systems.

• Parts and Supply Challenges

  Tariffs on imported truck parts may increase costs or limit availability, requiring maintenance teams to plan strategically.

• Potential Job Shifts

  As fleet owners weigh replacing aging vehicles or postponing investments, drivers may experience changes in routes, loads, or available trucks.

Despite the current slowdown, the industry is not without options. Companies may adjust production strategies to minimize tariff exposure, but these shifts are costly and require time to implement. Meanwhile, with EPA 2027 NOx regulations on the horizon, some fleets may accelerate purchases to avoid future cost increases, while others may continue to delay investments amid ongoing uncertainty.

Truck drivers and maintenance technicians can take proactive steps to adapt:

• Stay Informed

  Keep an eye on industry updates regarding tariffs and regulations.

• Prioritize Preventive Maintenance

  With older trucks potentially staying on the road longer, regular maintenance can help avoid costly breakdowns.

• Communicate with Fleet Managers

  Understanding their plans for vehicle replacement and maintenance schedules can help you prepare for potential changes in your workload.

The trucking industry is resilient, and by staying informed and proactive, drivers and technicians can successfully navigate this evolving landscape.