Discover insights from TEN Cool and ACT Research through our latest collaborative video series! By combining ACT Research's unparalleled expertise in forecasting and analysis with TEN's extensive network and industry knowledge, this series explores the data, trends, and strategies that matter most. Together, we're empowering businesses to stay ahead of the curve and achieve success in a rapidly evolving market.
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The commercial trailer market in 2024 experienced a mix of stability and transformation. External factors such as economic uncertainty, rising costs, and trade policies shaped the industry's trajectory. Here are the key takeaways from our latest video:
1. Stability in the Trailer Market with Growth in Refrigerated Equipment
- While the overall trailer market remained stable in 2024, demand for new trailers was softer, especially for dry van trailers.
- Change to Demand for new trailers was soft in 2024, and the dry van segment was particularly hard hit
2. Key Challenges Influencing Trailer Demand
Several factors influenced trailer purchasing decisions in 2024, including:
- Freight Market Conditions: Spot and contract rates played a role in shaping fleet investment strategies.
- Economic Pressures: Higher interest rates and inflation increased the cost of capital, making leasing a more attractive option.
- Rising Maintenance Costs: Many fleets turned to full-service leasing as a way to manage maintenance expenses and improve cost visibility.
- Supply Chain Constraints: Lead times for specialized and multi-temp refrigerated trailers remained extended, adding further complexity to fleet planning.
3. Tariffs and Market Uncertainty
- The announcement of new U.S. tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China introduced additional concerns for fleet operators and trailer buyers. While the full impact is still unfolding, companies are closely monitoring cost implications and potential retaliatory actions.
- Additionally, natural disasters and geopolitical events continue to create volatility in supply chains, influencing equipment availability and fleet management strategies.
As we look ahead to the rest of 2025, industry professionals remain cautiously optimistic, monitoring freight trends, interest rates, and policy changes to determine their next moves.
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Additional Resources
TEN Cool is the dedicated temperature-controlled platform of TEN (Transportation Equipment Network). As the second-largest temperature-controlled equipment provider in North America by fleet size, TEN Cool specializes in providing advanced fleet solutions, equipment architecture, tailored customer service, and customizable term structures. The division supports equipment and customers across both the United States and Canada.
ACT Research is recognized as the leading publisher of commercial vehicle (CV) industry data, market analysis, and forecasting services for the North American market. The ACT Research staff is committed to data quality & integrity, in-depth analysis, and timeliness. Our winning forecast is recognized as the industry standard.