Class 8 truck orders climbed 14.2 % in May from a year earlier, ACT Research reported, providing analysts further evidence a gradual expansion of the nation’s truck fleet is under way.

North Americasn truck makers received about 25,900 net orders last month, up from 22,688 in May 2013, according to ACT’s preliminary data. May’s intake also rose 4.3% from the 24,831 orders placed in April.

We’re starting to hear dealers and even carriers talk about fleet expansion,” ACT Vice President Steve Tam said. “They’re whispering when they say it, but nonetheless we’re starting to depart from replacement only. Any growth is going to be cautious, but I think we’re to that point.

Through five months, orders stand at 141,984, up 25.3% from 113,292 booked during the same timeframe last year, ACT said.

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