Over the past decade, the wholesale used vehicle market has experienced dramatic highs and lows, from record pre-pandemic prices to the severe disruptions of COVID-19. The fleet industry has faced unprecedented challenges, including vehicle shortages, high interest rates, and extended asset lifecycles. As FLD approaches its 50th year in fleet and commercial vehicle remarketing, there is renewed gratitude and cautious optimism heading into 2026. Improved new vehicle availability, easing interest rates, and steady consumer spending are contributing to a more predictable environment.

In 2025, the market reflected largely stable and expected depreciation patterns, similar to 2024. Used wholesale vehicle prices rose modestly (4–6%) early in the year, then stabilized with minor volatility. Supply tightened across most vehicle classes, particularly low-mile units, due to reduced production from 2021–2023 and fleets holding vehicles longer. Upfitted Class 3–5 trucks retained value well, while Class 6 trucks remained popular for final-mile delivery because they fall below CDL requirements. However, aging inventory and higher mileage units became more common.

Class 7 and 8 trucks experienced greater volatility, influenced by fluctuating freight demand, driver shortages, insurance costs, and regional differences. Day cabs depreciated more steadily than sleepers.

Looking ahead, 2026 is expected to mirror the stability of the prior two years, barring major economic disruption. Key indicators—employment, housing construction, consumer spending, fuel prices, and freight activity—remain relatively supportive. However, uncertainty persists, particularly around interest rates, currency volatility, and tariffs. While tariffs may impact new vehicles more directly, their broader economic uncertainty continues to weigh on the fleet industry.