Net Class 8 truck orders rose to a three-month high in August, helped by cancellations which fell to a near three-year low, according to the latest numbers from ACT Research.

Class 8 orders totaled 14,200 units for the month, which was the best order month since March at 16,000 units. This is also significant jump from July’s total of 10,358 units, one of the weakest totals since the first quarter of 2010.

“While down in August against traditional comparisons, Mexico remains the bright spot in the market as freight generation continues to benefit from peso weakness,” said Kenny Vieth, ACT’s president and senior analyst. “A proposed emissions mandate at the start of 2018 is likely adding to market strength as truckers think strategically.”

Medium-duty Class 5-7 truck orders also increased in August, jumping to 17,100 units ordered for the month. This is in-line with the order trend that has been in place since April.

“With the consumer economy hitting on most cylinders, and without any irrational demand activity cycle-to-date  - maybe a few months of peakiness early in the year as new products were ramped-up - there is good consistency in MD demand and steady-as-she-goes expectations remain in place,” said Vieth.