Used Class 8 truck same dealer sales volumes started 2017 on a positive note, up markedly compared to a relatively weak January 2016, according to ACT Research Co. Somewhat uncharacteristically, sales also rose from December, marking a second consecutive month-over-month increase.

“The retail and wholesale markets both posted gains, improving 9% and 11% month-over-month, respectively,” said Steve Tam, ACT’s vice president. “Conversely, the auction market erased last month’s gains, falling month-over-month.”

Used Class 8 exports had a strong close to full-year 2016, despite being down month-over-month in December. Export volumes were up 176% compared to December 2015, marking six straight months of year-over-year improvements. “While the year began with a bleak outlook, exports picked up during the second half, bringing 2016’s annual total to 13,886 units, 18% above 2015’s total,” noted Tam.