5 Harvest 2024 Equipment Market Trends to Watch

10/9/2024
In the shifting dynamics of the 2024 equipment market, volatility in supply, demand, and values has made it more critical than ever to stay informed and confidently take action.
Based on insights shared by Andy Campbell, Director of Insights at Tractor Zoom, during a recent webinar, this article breaks down the latest trends in key equipment categories.

1. Combine supply is stable, values declining

The combine market is witnessing a slowdown in sales, with a slight uptick in supply, a major departure from the prior year’s oversupply. However, values for popular models like the John Deere S770 and Case IH 8250 have seen sharp declines in recent months, with a -15% drop in the S770’s value and -20% for the 8250’s compared to 2023 auction values. 
Models matter, according to Campbell. While overall supply is stabilizing, specific models are losing value more rapidly. Monitor trends closely for Make/Model so that you can make the most prescriptive decisions whether selling, financing, or servicing equipment.

2. Larger row crop tractor models are hit hard

Larger row crop tractors, such as the John Deere 8R 410, are experiencing a sharper drop in inventory turn rates and, therefore, values compared to smaller models. 
In just the last 60 days, values have dropped by -7% for the 8R 410, with a year-over-year decline of -18%. Inventory is up by 70%, and there’s a consistent downward trend across the board for most larger tractors.
Large row crop tractors are seeing significant devaluation, a key takeaway for making the right decisions about repricing inventory on your lot.

3. 4WD tractors supply surplus smashing auction values

The 4WD tractor market is facing a downturn, with inventory turn rates dropping by 30%, while retail inventory supply has surged by 50-100% depending on the region. 
Sales are stagnant or declining, leading to significant depreciation in auction values. Late-models, like John Deere’s 9RX 640 have been hit hard, with a repeated month-over-month decline in values, exacerbated by elevated interest rates.

4. Supply of sprayers spike, leading to a rapid devaluation

The sprayer market has been marked by a steep devaluation, as supply has increased dramatically. The auction supply for self-propelled sprayers has tripled compared to the same period last year, driving down values.
The John Deere 410R, in particular, has seen a sharp decline of 25% in the last 60 days. The Case IH Patriot 4440, while more stable, still shows a 10% year-over-year drop.

5. Planters experiencing a strengthening retail turn-rate

Planters are one of the few equipment categories seeing positive movement in dealership turn rates when compared to last year, although most of this gain is coming from tight inventory management.
Digging into the data, the John Deere 1775 planter inventory is not facing oversupply with nearly 50% less inventory on dealer lots for the latest model compared to this time last year.
Planter values when listed on dealer lots are holding steady thanks to these inventory management strategies.

The ag equipment market outlook for 2025

Looking ahead to 2025, the market’s trajectory will likely continue to be influenced by global trade dynamics and the U.S. ag economy. It will be crucial to watch the global markets closely, as the flow of money where farmers are spending — especially with equipment investments — will be a key indicator of trends.
Staying on top of the industry’s fast-moving trends helps make sound decisions in this volatile market. Real-time values and equipment comparables can help you navigate the uncertainties ahead and position yourself for success.
Reach out via email to Andy Campbell (acampbell@tractorzoom.com) for more information and with any questions you may have about the current supply and values in the equipment market.

Reach out via email to Andy Campbell for more information and with any questions you may have about the current supply and values in the equipment market.

Watch the Harvest 2024 Equipment Market Trends Webinar for more insights.

Watch Webinar