Net Class 8 truck orders in September increased modestly from the previous month, possibly signaling that a historically weak season for orders was ending, according to ACT Research.

Final order numbers topped out at 16,100 units, beating the 14,200 units ordered in August. August represented a 3-month high in orders and another increase in Sept. indicates that the usually strong fall order season will return as usual. The summer months are usually the worst time of year for order numbers.

“October kicks off the traditional high-volume fourth quarter, when fleets and OEMs nail down commitments for the upcoming model year,” said Jim Meil, ACT Research principal and industry analyst.

Mexico was a standout heavy-duty segment, boosted by a weak peso, according to ACT.

“A proposed emissions mandate at the start of 2018 contributes to market strength; we believe truckers are taking the long view and positioning strategically,” said Meil. “For other segments the status is the same-- U.S. tractors, Canada ,and export markets across-the-board are lackluster.”