#United States #Lincoln #Sandhills Global #Used Trucks #Truck Inventory

Market Decline in Used Trucks: An Overview

The latest reports from Sandhills Global signal a concerning trend in the used truck market, highlighting a stagnation attributed to ongoing economic uncertainties. Inventory levels for used heavy-duty trucks across Sandhills' platforms in the United States have been on a downward trajectory for the better part of seven months. In March, inventory saw a modest increase of 0.24% month-over-month; however, this pales in comparison to a significant year-over-year decrease of 23.02%.

Scott Lubischer, Manager at Truck Paper, noted that there is a clear impact from the shift in buyer behavior, with many opting to delay purchases due to unpredictable economic conditions. This caution is leading original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to reduce production, further exacerbating the stagnation in new truck sales, which appears to have shifted from 2025 into 2026.

Notably, used day cab trucks showed a slight month-over-month increase of 2.18%, but used sleeper trucks saw a drastic year-over-year reduction of 40.56%. This disparity underscores the shifting dynamics within the used truck market as economic uncertainties weigh heavily on potential buyers.

Trailer Market Performance

The situation is similarly mixed within the trailer market. Used flatbed trailers experienced a notable month-over-month increase of 5.95%, while used dry van trailers fell by 2.59%. Year-over-year trends reflect a broader decline, with the used reefer trailer segment witnessing a sharp drop of 24.35% in inventory levels.

Interestingly, the inventory of used medium-duty trucks is bucking this trend, having increased by 5.45% month-over-month and 13.35% year-over-year. Used dry cargo delivery box trucks, in particular, exhibited the most substantial month-over-month growth at 6.94%, contrasting sharply with declining values in many categories.

Shift in Values and Pricing

Despite these shifts in inventory, prices are not following suit. Used tractor asking values, for example, dipped slightly by 0.46% month-over-month and fell significantly by 5.45% year-over-year in March. The category of tractors with power ratings between 175 to 299-hp experienced the largest year-over-year decline, highlighting a broader trend of decreasing prices amidst increasing inventory.

In the combine harvester market, inventory levels saw a slight increase of 0.68% month-over-month; however, values remain under pressure with both asking and auction prices trending downward. As the Equipment Value Index (EVI) data shows, buyers are increasingly focused on determining the best possible price before committing to purchases. The spread measurement between asking and auction values continues to fluctuate, providing insight into the competitive landscape for potential buyers and sellers alike.

Conclusion: What Lies Ahead

In summary, the Sandhills Global reports reveal significant turbulence in the used truck and equipment markets, with increasing inventory levels, fluctuating values, and a general hesitation among buyers. As buyers remain cautious, influenced by rising interest rates and economic uncertainties, sellers must adapt to shifting market conditions. Continued monitoring and adjustments will be paramount as we move further into 2025.

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