US Metalworking Machinery Orders Up 17.8% Through November 2025

New orders for metalworking machinery totaled $437.9 million in November 2025, according to the latest U.S. Manufacturing Technology Orders (USMTO) Report published by AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology.

The November total represents a 19.6% decrease compared to October 2025 and was nearly equal to November 2024 levels, differing by just over $2 million. Despite the month-over-month decline, year-to-date figures remain significantly higher than last year.

Year-to-Date Orders Show Strong Growth

Metalworking machinery orders tracked by the USMTO report reached $4.92 billion through November 2025, marking a 17.8% increase over the first 11 months of 2024. Even without December’s final tally, total 2025 orders are already nearly 5% higher than the full-year total for 2024.

End-of-year manufacturing technology orders typically trend upward as companies allocate remaining capital equipment budgets and pursue potential tax advantages. November 2025 followed this historical pattern while also continuing elevated activity that began in August.

Orders in November were nearly 26% above the typical November level. Excluding October, the three-month cumulative order value ending in November was the highest recorded since May 2022.

Industry Breakdown Shows Mixed Results

While most customer industries reported lower order values in November, several sectors demonstrated relative strength.

Contract machine shops and aerospace manufacturers posted declines that were slightly less severe than the broader market. Primary metal manufacturers reversed a three-month downward trend with notable order increases. North America remains one of the few regions to expand steel and aluminum production during 2025, which may have supported investment activity in this segment.

Manufacturers of industrial machinery also recorded increased order values. Gains were additionally reported among companies specializing in molds, metalworking machinery, and specialty tools and dies.

The late-year expansion in capacity across several sectors may point to increased manufacturing activity in 2026, though broader economic conditions remain a factor.

Market Outlook

Despite November’s month-over-month decline, the overall metalworking machinery market remains on solid footing based on year-to-date growth. Tax incentives and easing financial conditions could encourage continued investment in manufacturing technology. However, geopolitical instability and economic uncertainty may influence capital spending decisions moving forward.

The latest USMTO data reflects a metalworking machinery market that, while experiencing short-term fluctuations, continues to demonstrate longer-term growth momentum entering 2026.