BLOOMINGTON, IN – Trucking industry analysts at FTR have released data showing North American orders of 43,620 Class 8 trucks in December 2014.

It is the third consecutive month that orders topped the 40,000 level. Unlike the previous two months, however, December 2014 showed strong sales among OEMs, with almost all manufacturers showing healthy increases from the previous month.

It is an indication, FTR says, of an overall vibrant truck market.

Total North American Class 8 truck orders for 2014 equaled 375,000 units, the second highest order year in history (vs. 2004) with 2014Q4 orders exceeded only by 2006Q1.

Don Ake, FTR VP of commercial vehicles said the market momentum is now feeding on itself with orders once again exceeding expectations in December.

“Reports are that more than 75% of the larger fleets have their 2015 orders booked,” he said. “One OEM reportedly has lead times for volume orders out to July.  With build slots at a premium, fleets have accelerated orders for 2015 requirements to reserve their places for future deliveries.  Some of these orders will inevitably be moved out or even cancelled, but for now the industry is very bullish on the 2015 truck market.”

Final data for December will be available from FTR later in the month as part of its North American Commercial Truck & Trailer Outlook service.

FTR has also created an interactive chart that helps explain the strong sales.