Used Heavy-Duty Truck Inventories Plummet Toward Pandemic-Era Lows

The consistent erosion of available stock, particularly within the sleeper truck segment, has driven a significant shift in the secondary market. Sleeper truck inventory saw an 11.8% month-over-month decline, contributing to an overall 8.22% drop in heavy-duty truck availability. This trend of dwindling supply extends beyond highway transport; semi-trailers have now seen inventory levels fall for 12 consecutive months, with refrigerated units experiencing a sharp 44.84% year-over-year decrease.

While supply remains constrained, market participants are signaling optimism regarding future retail performance. Scott Lubischer, Truck Paper Sales Manager, noted that with OEM order boards nearing capacity and retail inventory continuing to exit the market, conditions are aligning for stronger retail values through the remainder of 2026 and into 2027. Despite the inventory crunch, asset values across various sectors—from high-horsepower tractors to construction equipment—continue to show mixed, often downward, trends, reflecting a complex recalibration of supply and demand following years of volatility.