More Combines, Fewer Tractor Sales in July

Tractor sales fell last month in both the U.S. and Canada, according to the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM). Total tractor sales in the U.S. fell 21% in July compared to a year ago, while self-propelled combine sales increased 9.2%. Combines sales were also up in June. Heavy-duty tractor sales were positive, but mid-range and sub-40 horsepower (hp) sales declined. Mid-range sales fell 16.3% and sub-40 sales dropped a whopping 27.9%.

Curt Blades, senior vice president, industry sectors and product leadership at AEM, said sales are on track with trends currently seen in the overall economy. He notes that the market is still favorable as farmers will only make those kinds of investments if they feel certain enough future markets will allow them to pay for it.

Read more on tractor and combine sales here.