Growing Optimism for Class 8 Orders in 2026: ACT Research

ACT Research reports growing industry optimism for Class 8 truck orders in 2026, driven by rising spot freight rates giving large fleets more confidence.

Good news for the industry 🚛📈

Optimism is returning to the Class 8 truck market. ACT Research, one of the most respected analysis firms in the trucking industry, reported on March 12, 2026 that there is growing optimism among heavy-duty truck manufacturers and buyers.

What Does ACT Research Say?

ACT's report highlights several factors driving confidence:

• Spot freight rates rising consistently — especially flatbed (ratios of 70:1)
• Interest rate cuts making financing more accessible
• Manufacturing and freight activity on the rise
• Aging fleets needing replacement
• EPA 2027 on the horizon — better to buy now than wait for higher prices

Context: Demand at 4-Year High

This optimism doesn't come out of nowhere. Overall trucking demand and prices are at their highest point in 4 years, according to SDC Executive data (March 12, 2026):

• Very tight capacity — more freight than available trucks
• Truck posts on DAT reached 10-year low
• Load posts rose 6% week-over-week
• Companies are keeping lean inventories to offset tariff costs
• This means goods are moving faster

But It's Not All Rosy

While demand is strong, there are clouds on the horizon:

1. Skyrocketing Diesel Prices

The U.S.-Iran conflict has sent diesel prices soaring. The national average hit $4.86/gallon, with California at $6.15/gallon.

In some states like Arkansas, diesel jumped 33% in just one month.

This could make fleets postpone purchases until the fuel market stabilizes.

2. JB Hunt Closes Georgia Facility

Despite overall optimism, JB Hunt announced the closure of a Georgia facility (March 12, 2026), citing "changing business conditions." The closure will affect 74 employees.

This shows that, while the market is improving, not all companies are feeling the boom equally.

3. Mexico Truck Production Falls 48%

Heavy truck production in Mexico fell nearly 50% in February 2026 compared to the previous year, according to ANPACT.

This reduces the supply of available new trucks, which could drive up prices or extend delivery times.

What Does It Mean for You?

If you're thinking about buying a new truck in 2026:

✅ Good Time to Negotiate

With more orders coming in, manufacturers are more flexible on price and financing. Interest rates have dropped, making financing more accessible.

✅ Check Thoroughly Before Buying

We've seen that even trucks with 0 miles don't always come perfectly aligned from the factory. Before hitting the road:

• Run it through a complete road simulator inspection
• Check alignment with precision equipment
• Inspect brakes, suspension, steering

At The Truck Savers™ we offer FREE road simulator inspections that detect problems before they cost you money.

✅ Consider APU to Save Diesel

With fuel prices so high, a Go Green APU can save you $500-800/month or more in diesel.

If you're financing a new $150,000 truck, adding a $12,000 APU can pay for itself in less than 2 years just from fuel savings.

✅ Don't Wait Too Long

New EPA 2027 regulations are coming soon, significantly increasing new truck costs due to:

• More complex aftertreatment systems
• Advanced monitoring technology
• Additional certifications and testing

Manufacturers are already warning that prices will rise.

What's Coming

If production keeps falling in Mexico and demand stays strong, we'll see:

1. Fewer new trucks available in 2026-2027
2. Longer delivery times
3. Used truck prices rising (less new supply = more used demand)
4. Preventive maintenance importance increasing (no cheap trucks available)

Conclusion

Optimism is back, rates are rising, and fleets are buying. But operating costs are also rising.

If you're going to invest in a new truck:

• Negotiate price and financing well
• Inspect EVERYTHING before accepting delivery
• Consider fuel-saving technologies (APU, aerodynamics)
• Keep your equipment at 100% to maximize ROI

Call us: (713) 455-5566 (Houston) | FREE road simulator inspection