Used Semi-Trailer Values Climb 19.64% on Thin Supply

Buyers and sellers of used heavy trucks should expect fewer listings and firmer prices, especially on lower-mileage units.

Updated on Nov. 7, 2026 in Trucks

Used Semi-Trailer Values Climb 19.64% on Thin Supply

Used heavy-duty trucks, semi-trailers, and medium-duty trucks showed the sharpest year-over-year inventory declines in October 2026, while used semi-trailer auction values climbed 19.64% from a year earlier. The shifts are drawn from October listings on Sandhills platforms and were published by Sandhills Global.

Why it matters

Fewer used commercial trucks and rising trailer values mean fleet buyers and owner-operators face a tighter, pricier used market for the next purchase. Lower-mileage units are drawing the most demand and holding value better than high-mileage trucks.

Used semi-trailer auction values rose 19.64% year-over-year in October 2026, led by used dry van and refrigerated trailers. High-horsepower tractor inventory is down 12% from a year earlier and has declined for 17 consecutive months.

The players

Sandhills Global

Lincoln, Nebraska-based publisher of TruckPaper.com, TractorHouse.com and MachineryTrader.com, which tracks used equipment inventory and values through its Sandhills Equipment Value Index.

The details

The Sandhills Equipment Value Index tracks values using auction and retail market data for model-year equipment in active use, and the October figures come from used units listed on Sandhills platforms. Inventory fell lower than year-ago levels in every equipment category tracked except aerial lifts and forklifts, where stock rose but values dropped. Demand is concentrated on lower-mileage units, which are performing better than higher-mileage trucks in the same market.

October 2026: used truck and equipment inventory declines and semi-trailer auction value increases were recorded.
November 6, 2026: Sandhills Global released its October market reports.

The Home Front

Sandhills' index series tracks used commercial equipment values over time, and the October readings show continued tightness in heavy trucks and trailers. For households, this market sits alongside rising equipment costs that affect the trucking and agricultural businesses many rural and suburban families depend on.

If you own or are shopping for a used heavy-duty truck or trailer, expect fewer listings and firmer prices, especially for dry vans and refrigerated trailers. Prioritize lower-mileage units, which are holding value best, and keep service records organized for resale.

The takeaway

Tight used-truck supply and rising trailer values make lower-mileage units and well-documented maintenance records worth prioritizing if you plan to buy or sell this year. Check current listings on TruckPaper.com or MachineryTrader.com before committing to a purchase.