The most popular truck brands in the U.S.

Truck drivers strive for excellence in their work. It’s not just about meeting schedules and deliveries, but about having a reliable partner on the road that helps them achieve their goals. That partner, of course, is their truck.

If you ask different truck drivers what the perfect truck is, each one will likely have a different answer. In the end, the best truck is the one each driver considers ideal; there is no exact formula or absolute truth. However, some brands stand out. This doesn’t necessarily mean they are the best—although for many they are—but rather that they have earned a prominent place due to their popularity within the trucking community.

For this reason, we present a list of the most popular truck brands in the United States.

The most popular truck brands in the U.S.

1. Freightliner

Freightliner Trucks is undoubtedly the most popular brand in the United States. With a market share of around 40% and trucks equipped with power ranging from 350 to 600 horsepower and torque of up to 2,050 lb-ft, Freightliner ranks #1 in sales in the U.S.

This brand is a favorite among large fleets (transportation companies), as it is known for being cost-effective, reliable, and easy to repair.

2. Kenworth

Kenworth, part of the parent company PACCAR, is one of the most widely used brands in long-haul transportation. It is the second most important heavy-duty truck brand in the U.S., with a market share of about 16%.

Its iconic models, such as the W900, are known for their smooth driving experience and high quality.

3. Peterbilt

Peterbilt, also part of PACCAR, is another popular brand among owner-operators, with a market share of around 13% in the U.S. It is recognized for its classic long-nose design. Additionally, it offers high quality and driver comfort, which is why it remains one of the most sought-after brands among truckers.

4. Mack Trucks

Mack Trucks, known for its bulldog logo and the iconic truck featured in the movie Cars, is another of the most popular brands. Famous for its durability and strong performance in heavy-duty applications such as construction and demanding loads, Mack holds about 8.5% of the North American market.

4. Volvo Trucks (North America)

Despite being a European brand, Volvo Trucks has a strong presence in the U.S. market. It stands out for its technology, safety, and fuel efficiency.

Volvo trucks are often easier to drive, as they tend to be lighter and more compact. Although it ranks fifth in the United States, Volvo Trucks holds the second position globally.

6. International (Navistar)

International is a classic brand in the U.S. Widely used in commercial fleets and regional transportation, it holds around 11% of the market. Historically, International trucks have been known for their power and performance, providing a comfortable driving experience.