March statistics in the semi-trailer segment reflect the general restraint of the logistics sector. Against the background of a critical increase in fuel prices ( diesel — 90 UAH/l ), carriers are focusing on updating their fleets with the most liquid and specialized equipment. A total of 1,299 registration actions were carried out during the month, which demonstrates a shift in interest towards new imported units with a general decline in demand for used equipment in annual terms.
Domestic market: stagnation against the background of agricultural expectations
Domestic resales form the basis of the segment ( 824 transactions ). Despite a slight growth compared to February (+5.5%), the market fell by 11.2% year-on-year. This indicates low activity of small and medium-sized businesses, which are currently refraining from rotating their fleet.
In the structure of types, dump trucks (relevant for the agricultural sector and construction), refrigerated vans (food logistics) and container trucks are leading. Almost every fourth deal on the domestic market concerns Schmitz Cargobull products. The second and third positions are confidently held by Krone and Kögel. This “big three” actually controls over 45% of the secondary market, which emphasizes the priority of equipment liquidity for Ukrainian owners.
Import of used equipment: focus on versatility
The segment of imports of used semi-trailers showed negative dynamics both compared to February (-7.9%) and compared to March last year (-13.9%). 372 units were imported.
The main demand remains for curtain side semi-trailers (universal logistics), tippers and refrigerators. In the brand list, Schmitz Cargobull dominates absolutely: 168 units, which is 4 times more than the closest pursuer ( Krone ). The presence of specialized brands in the top, such as Magyar (tankers) and Stas (grain trucks), indicates spot purchases for specific contracts, rather than a mass renewal of fleets.
New equipment: imported expansion and local tanks
The new semi-trailer segment shows contradictory trends. On the one hand, imports of new units increased by 40% year-on-year ( 77 units ), indicating the activity of large logistics operators. On the other hand, domestic production fell by 21.2% compared to February and last year ( 26 units ).
In new imports, Schmitz Cargobull occupies over 62% of the market. The priority types are refrigerators and isothermal vans, which is critically important for maintaining product quality in conditions of complicated logistics.
Ukrainian production is concentrated in the niche of tanks and platforms. The leader of the segment is Everlast (12 units), which specializes in fuel tanks. In conditions of shortage and high fuel prices, the development of its own fuel logistics remains a strategic direction for many gas station chains and agricultural holdings.
Summary and conclusions
- Monopoly of trust. Schmitz Cargobull has become the de facto industry standard, occupying leading positions in all categories. Carriers are not willing to experiment with lesser-known brands in conditions of high operating costs.
- Specialization above all else. The market is moving towards narrow-profile equipment (fuel tankers, refrigerators, dump trucks). Universal tilt semi-trailers are gradually losing their share in new registrations.
- Local potential. Despite the decline in overall production volumes in Ukraine, demand for complex special equipment (such as tanks for dangerous goods) remains stable, allowing domestic manufacturers to maintain a niche.
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