Chicago, Illinois — Used Class 8 truck sales in the United States rose 1 percent in June, according to ACT Research, but the market remains a distant echo of last year's peak.

The uptick comes as freight volumes begin to slow after a two‑year surge, and buyers who had been locked out by the supply‑chain crisis are finally able to purchase equipment. However, the overall volume of sales is still 44 percent below the same month last year and 34 percent lower than the start of the calendar year. These figures underline that the industry is still far from the pre‑pandemic levels of activity.

ACT Research noted that average prices fell 6 percent and average mileage dipped 1 percent compared with May. In contrast, the average age of the trucks sold increased 5 percent month over month, suggesting that owners are pushing older units to the market as they wait for newer models to arrive. The data also show that dealers are offering more competitive pricing to attract buyers who have been forced to extend trade cycles during the supply‑chain bottleneck.

What This Means for Drivers

For CDL‑A drivers and owner‑operators, the lower prices may translate into a chance to acquire a Class 8 truck for less than the cost of a new unit, but the higher average age means more frequent maintenance and potential downtime. OTR truck drivers who rely on reliable equipment may find the aging fleet a risk to on‑time delivery, especially as freight rates tighten. Fleet managers will need to balance the cost savings against the projected increase in repair and parts expenses, while staying compliant with FMCSA regulations that mandate regular inspections for older vehicles.

Industry Reaction

Carriers across the country are recalibrating budgets in light of the declining freight market. Many are extending the lifespan of existing trucks, anticipating that the current dip will be temporary and that replacement cycles will pick up once demand rebounds. Industry analysts predict that the combination of lower prices and a higher supply of older trucks will keep the market liquid for the next 12 to 18 months, giving drivers a window to upgrade their fleets without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• June used truck sales up 1 percent from May, but remain 44 percent below last year’s level.
• Average prices dropped 6 percent and mileage fell 1 percent compared to the previous month.
• The average age of sold trucks rose 5 percent month over month.
• Supply‑chain constraints forced buyers to lengthen trade cycles, aging fleets in the process.

Looking for a better trucking job? US Trucker's free job‑matching service connects CDL‑A drivers, OTR drivers, regional drivers, and owner‑operators with 500+ top US carriers. Leave your details in the form on this page and a recruiter will call you within one business day. Trucking companies are hiring now.

Photo by Efrem Efre on Pexels