FTR: Class 8 orders down more than 30% month-over-month

FTR reported that Class 8 preliminary net orders for March came in at 18,200 units, down 34% from February and 4% below March 2023. Orders for the past 12 months have totaled 264,800 units. With March orders comparable to the March 2023 level, FTR says the market is still performing at a solid level.

FTR says March orders, like February’s activity, are consistent with the recent demand trend and are in line with seasonal expectations. After maintaining an average level of around 27,000 units for the last three months, FTR adds that orders appear to be slowing at a seasonally typical rate, while build slots continue to be filled at a healthy rate.

“Despite weakness in the freight markets that has persisted for more than a year, fleets continue to be willing to order new equipment,” says Eric Starks, FTR chairman of the board. “Order levels in March were below the historical average but remained in line with seasonal trends. Demand is not declining rapidly, but neither is the market doing significantly better than replacement level demand. Our expectation for replacement output by the end of this year is unchanged.”

Fontaine Specialized announced the new Magnitude 75 lowbed trailer. This 3+3+2 modular multi-purpose trailer is designed to transport a diverse range of loads, according to Fontaine, who adds that the Magnitude 75 comes in three distinct deck options: flat (MFLD), drop side rail (MDSR), and beam (MBMD)."The Magnitude 75 epitomizes versatility in heavy-haul lowbeds. It accommodates loads of up to 75 tons in 16 feet as a 3+2 or with five close coupled axles," said Heather Gilmer, vice president of sales. "Furthermore, it adeptly handles 70 tons in just 12 feet configured with the tandem axle EQ2 spreader. This adaptable trailer features a hydraulic detachable gooseneck and a tridem axle bogie, each providing seven ride height positions. This enhanced flexibility is invaluable for operators maneuvering heavy loads across obstacles or beneath bridges.”Fontaine says the Magnitude 75 was made with 100,000-lb. minimum yield steel main beam flanges; and the flat and beam decks boast a 24-in. loaded deck height, while the drop side rail deck reduces it to 15-in. At full load, all modular decks offer 6-in. of ground clearance.