The market situation in the semi-trailer segment remains very difficult. Sales of both new and used vehicles are severely limited. The troubles of transport companies related to lower demand for their services and low freight rates translate into limited revenue and demand for newer fleets. Fleet expansion has come to a complete standstill, with isolated transactions involving the replacement of used trailers. Fleet renewal is blocked by the inability to sell older trailers. The Polish market is not absorbing them, and export opportunities to the East have been effectively blocked due to the embargo imposed on Russia.
Sales statistics for new trailers do not indicate such a serious collapse. Up to and including May, 7,705 units were registered, 8.9% more than in the same period last year. The market growth effect was driven by registrations of mainly refrigerated trailers in the first months of 2025, almost doubling the previous year’s result (+89%). However, this is a consequence of the orders collected at the IAA in Hannover at the end of 2024 and now fulfilled. This does not therefore represent any change in trend, but merely a concentration of a few contracts in a short time frame.
All types of semi-trailers, from curtainsider semi-trailers to reefer, tipper, sub-container and more specialised semi-trailers, are having problems selling in Poland. There is also a growing problem with the lack of collection of already ordered and delivered trailers. Only boxes are in greater demand, but this is the result of fleet purchases in Europe by large logistics companies, which is not directly linked to the current transport situation. The market climate is described as worse than last year.
Problems with sales of new semi-trailers across Europe are already beginning to take their toll on the financial health of manufacturers, especially the smaller ones. There is a fierce battle for customers, resulting in large discounts and destabilising the market. In addition, it will be difficult to return to profitable price levels in the future. Production is being cut back to maintain crew capacity and reduce the slope. They are also starting to look for new sources of income. Wielton in May unveiled a low-cost EVO curtainsider trailer with limited configuration options but sufficient functionality with online ordering. In addition, a trailer refurbishment service has been launched under the Retrailer brand, which restores trailers to full capacity and extends their life cycle. Time will tell whether these products and services will stand the test of time, although they seem ideally suited to the tough situation and limited financial possibilities of hauliers.
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