The US semi-trailer market is experiencing robust growth, driven by advancements in transportation technology, increasing e-commerce demand, and the adoption of smart and electric trailers. Market participants are continuously focusing on product innovation, strategic collaborations, and expansion of distribution channels to capture emerging opportunities. As industries such as logistics, construction, and food & beverage increasingly rely on efficient delivery solutions, semi-trailer manufacturers are responding with specialized designs and value-added features. The introduction of telematics, electrification, and sustainability efforts further fuels market dynamism, with established players and new entrants alike vying for competitive advantage through agility and technological leadership.
Latest Market Dynamics
Key Drivers
Rapid growth in e-commerce and retail logistics requiring more efficient and larger fleets, as highlighted by Wabash National's increased order bookings in early 2024.
The accelerated adoption of smart, connected, and electric trailer technologies to improve fuel efficiency and fleet management, with Utility Trailer Manufacturing expanding its smart trailer offerings in April 2024.
Key Trends
Integration of telematics and advanced tracking systems across fleets, exemplified by Great Dane's launch of Connected Solutions platform in May 2024.
Customized trailers to cater to specific industries, such as temperature-controlled solutions for food & beverage, an area where Hyundai Translead saw notable growth in Q2 2024.
Key Opportunities
Strategic partnerships between trailer OEMs and tech providers to develop next-generation electric and autonomous-ready semi-trailers, as Hyundai Translead and Aurora Innovation announced a joint program in June 2024.
Expanding rental and leasing networks to support small and medium fleet operators, with Stoughton Trailers rolling out a new U.S. rental network in March 2024.
Key Challenges
Shortages in skilled labor and manufacturing delays, impacting timely deliveries, with Fontaine Trailer Company reporting increased lead times due to supply chain issues as of July 2024.
Intense cost pressures from volatile steel and aluminum pricing, which affects trailer manufacturers like Manac Inc. that cited margin pressures in their June 2024 financial update.
Key Restraints
Strict regulatory compliance related to emissions and safety standards, necessitating large investments in R&D, as addressed by Wabash National in their 2024 compliance roadmap.
High upfront costs of electric and smart trailers limiting adoption among small fleet buyers, a challenge mentioned in East Manufacturing's Q2 2024 market note.
In 2025, dry van trailers are projected to hold the largest share of the US semi-trailer market, followed by refrigerated and flatbed trailers. This leadership is driven by the segment's widespread use in general freight, supported by robust demand from retail and e-commerce sectors. Refrigerated trailers, or reefers, are witnessing increased adoption to serve food and pharmaceutical logistics, reflecting the growing emphasis on cold supply chain reliability. Flatbed trailers maintain a steady position, particularly within construction and heavy industry applications. As the market evolves, specialized trailer types such as tankers and lowboys are gaining traction in niche sectors, though they collectively account for a smaller portion of total shipments.
US Semi-Trailer Market Share by Applications, 2025
Logistics leads the application landscape in the US semi-trailer market for 2025, capturing a significant proportion due to the persistent boom in supply chain and freight transportation activities. The food & beverage segment follows, boosted by growing regulations around safe, temperature-controlled transport and consumer demand for fresh goods. Heavy industry and construction remain key segments leveraging specialized trailers for machinery and bulk material transit. The oil & gas sector, while smaller, demonstrates a steady need for robust trailer solutions to support rig and equipment transportation, reflecting a stable baseline of demand. This diverse application distribution mirrors the varied requirements and growth dynamics across the US industrial and commercial economy.
The US semi-trailer market has demonstrated consistent revenue growth from 2020 to 2025, with projections indicating a continued upward trend through 2035. Starting at $6,200 Million in 2020, the market grew to $7,500 Million by 2025 and is expected to achieve $12,800 Million by 2035. This expansion is underpinned by steady demand for new semi-trailer units, rising replacements of legacy fleets, and technological enhancements such as electrification and digitization. Growth accelerates post-2025, fueled by increasing investments in connected infrastructure and evolving freight requirements. The revenue trajectory reflects both organic growth in core logistics and expansion to serve new verticals and smart transport initiatives.
US Semi-Trailer Market YoY Growth Rate (2020-2035)
Year-on-year growth analysis indicates that after a recovery phase in 2021, the US semi-trailer market saw a sharp increase in market activity, achieving a YoY growth rate of nearly 6.5% in 2022 and stabilizing around 5.8% in 2025. This momentum is expected to persist, with YoY growth gradually reaching 7.2% by 2030 and 7.8% in 2035. The trend demonstrates expanding market maturity, buoyed by digital transformation, new regulatory mandates for efficient fleets, and steady construction and industrial growth. Dynamic shifts in consumer behaviors, e-commerce growth, and supply chain modernization further catalyze the positive trajectory for market players.
In 2025, the Midwest dominates the US semi-trailer market with a 41% share, driven by a dense manufacturing base and strong logistics infrastructure. The South follows with 28%, harnessing proximity to major ports and robust agricultural production. The West and Northeast collectively account for 31%, supported by technology sector demand, import/export hubs, and established retail distribution networks. This regional balance underscores the role of both traditional and emerging economic engines in shaping semi-trailer demand, with the Midwest's pivotal position solidified by its central access to national freight corridors and supplier networks.
The player landscape in the US semi-trailer market for 2025 reveals a competitive market, with Wabash National Corporation leading at 21%, followed by Great Dane LLC at 16% and Utility Trailer Manufacturing Company at 14%. Other notable contributors include Hyundai Translead (12%), Stoughton Trailers LLC (8%), and a collective others segment accounting for 29%. These shares reflect a blend of strong legacy brands and innovative entrants, with top players differentiated by scale, technological advancements, and extensive distribution networks. The market exhibits moderate consolidation but retains ample room for new entrants and niche operators.
Large logistics companies represent the leading customer group for semi-trailer purchases in 2025, with a 44% share, reflecting ongoing fleet renewals and expansion to support the surging demands of e-commerce. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) account for 36%, leveraging leasing and rental opportunities to remain agile. The remainder (20%) consists of specialized buyers in construction, oil & gas, and other niche applications requiring customized or heavy-duty trailers. This distribution highlights the critical importance of adaptability in market offerings, as customer needs span volume, customization, and cost-effectiveness.
June 2024: Hyundai Translead partners with Aurora Innovation for autonomous-ready smart trailer launch.
July 2024: Fontaine Trailer Company announces production expansion in response to rising demand and supply chain bottlenecks.
May 2024: Great Dane debuts Connected Solutions telematics platform for advanced fleet management.
March 2024: Stoughton Trailers expands its US rental and leasing network for SMEs.
April 2024: Utility Trailer Manufacturing enhances its smart trailer portfolio with new modular digital solutions.
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About the Author
Sophia
Lead Industry Analyst
Sophia is a Lead Industry Analyst specializing in market research, industry analysis, and business consulting across Automotive & Transportation. Sophia brings a commercially grounded perspective to sectors shaped by changing demand, innovation, and competitive dynamics, helping turn complex market trends into clear strategic insights for business decision-makers. With 10+ years of experience across research, analytics, and strategic advisory roles, Sophia has helped organizations translate data into actionable growth strategies.
