Ukrainian carriers purchased 1,330 semi-trailers / Depositphotos
During October, Ukrainian transport firms procured 1,330 semi-trailers, encompassing both new and previously owned units. This signifies a 4.7% surge compared to September’s figures, yet it marks an 18.8% decline from the preceding year.
This information is provided by Delo.ua, citing assessments from specialists at the Institute for Auto Market Research.
Examining October 2025, the bulk of semi-trailer acquisitions stemmed from internal resales within the country, constituting nearly 60% of the market, or 795 units. Imported pre-owned semi-trailers comprised approximately a third of the market, totaling 412 units. Freshly imported semi-trailers accounted for merely 7.7% of sales (103 units), while domestically produced items held the smallest segment, at 1.5%, or 20 units.
When considering sales trends, internal resales experienced a slight contraction relative to September, decreasing by 5.1%, and plummeted by 16% year-on-year. Conversely, imports of used semi-trailers demonstrated a monthly augmentation of 16.1%, although they receded by 26.6% when juxtaposed with October 2024.
The sales of recently imported semi-trailers saw the most pronounced growth, escalating by 60.9% month-on-month, albeit with a slight decrease of 3.7% year-on-year. Ukrainian production also revealed substantial monthly growth, registering at 53.8%, even though year-on-year sales diminished by 16.7%.
Internal Marketplace: “German Big Three” Dominate
Dump trucks emerged as the most favored, succeeded by tilt semi-trailers and tanker variants.
Within the internal resale sphere, Schmitz Cargobull maintains its leading position, demonstrably outperforming its rivals. Krone and Kögel are vying for the second spot, distinguished by a slim margin.
Beyond the top tier, Polish Wielton and Bodex are solidifying their market presence. The listing also includes Ukrainian VARZ and Turkish Oztreyler, signifying a market transition towards more economical and functional alternatives.
Second-hand Imports: Rising Interest in “Specialized Units”
Among recently imported semi-trailers, tilt models lead the way, pursued by refrigerated units and dump truck variations.
Once more, Schmitz Cargobull reigns as the unequivocal leader. Krone and Kögel serve as a “budget-friendly option.” The rankings also encompass Lohr (reflecting expansion in the car carrier market), Magyar, Benalu, Stas, and Carnehl – producers of tankers and dump trucks, coveted by both agricultural and fuel transportation sectors.
New Semi-Trailers: Patriotism and the Bolstering of Ukrainian Trademarks
Within the fresh segment, dump trucks witness the highest demand, closely tracked by refrigerated vans and canvas-covered models.
Schmitz Cargobull preserves its dominant position, yet the second spot is shared by Van Hool and the Ukrainian manufacturer Everlast, affirming the competitiveness of Ukrainian tankers and specialized equipment.
The roster also features Ukrainian TAD, renowned for its low loaders, alongside Wielton, Bodex, Mega, Krone, and Kögel, thereby constructing a well-rounded assortment of European and local alternatives.
“October introduced some genuinely intriguing dynamics to the semi-trailer market. (…) Haulers have begun to aggressively invest in refreshing their vehicle fleets, importing newer semi-trailers from Europe or procuring entirely new ones. The surge in the “Made in Ukraine” division (+53.8% monthly) is particularly encouraging. It suggests that our manufacturers (such as Everlast, VARZ, TAD) are gaining an edge not only through pricing but also through swift order processing and servicing, which is exceptionally pivotal for businesses at present,” remarks Stanislav Buchatsky, automotive market analyst, regarding the existing climate.
It’s worth mentioning that in October 2025, Ukrainian carriers acquired 1,491 new and used tractor units. Notwithstanding an 8.9% reduction compared to October of the previous year, the market showcased a noteworthy resurgence relative to September – marked by an increase of 13.2%.
