According to latest update on the used truck market reported in the latest release of the State of the Industry: U.S. Classes 3-8 Used Trucks, published by ACT Research, the wholesale used market was the only segment to grow from 2011 to 2012, up 3%. The auction and retail markets both fell 11%.

“Given slow economic growth and the threat of a fiscal cliff, the results for 2012 were not bad,” said Steve Tam, Vice President-Commercial Vehicle Sector with ACT. “Prices for Class 8 used trucks were also able to hang onto positive territory year-to-date.” he added. Total reported Class 8 trucks sold in December saw a modest price increase over November.

Trailer Volume

In a separate report, ACT said the trailer industry closed 2012 on a strong note. December saw new orders rise to a multi-year high, while cancellation activity remained at modest levels. New orders rose 38% month over month from November to 31,586 units. Trailer shipments for the full year were up almost 13%.

“The fact that orders strengthened in the face of the fiscal cliff speaks to the strength of underlying trailer demand and the ongoing health of trucking fundamentals,” said Frank Maly, Director-CV Transportation with ACT Research. “We believe that rising consumer and business confidence will bode well for continued strength in trailer demand in 2013.