Freight Forwarding Market Analysis

Global Freight Forwarding Market Overview

Freight Forwarding Market Size valued at USD 198.5 Billion in 2022. The Freight Forwarding industry is projected to grow from USD 208.0 Billion in 2023 to USD 302.6 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a compound yearly growth rate (CAGR) of 4.80% during the forecast period (2023 - 2032). The rise of e-commerce, the globalization of trade, and the increasing complexity of international supply chains are the prime market drivers enhancing growth of the market.

Source: The Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Freight Forwarding Market Trends

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  Globalization of trade and the rising complexity of international supply chains is driving the market growth

  
  

Market CAGR for freight forwarding is being driven by the rising ization of trade and the increasing complexity of international supply chains. These trends have created a dynamic business environment where companies engage in cross-border trade to access new markets, optimize production costs, and leverage economic opportunities. Freight forwarders play an important role in facilitating the movement of goods across borders, offering specialized services that address the complexities and challenges associated with international trade.

The globalization of trade is a fundamental driver for the freight forwarding market. As businesses extend their reach to novel markets and seek to capitalize on consumer demand, the movement of goods across borders becomes more frequent and intricate. Freight forwarders act as intermediaries, orchestrating the transportation and logistics processes involved in getting products from manufacturers to end consumers. Their expertise in navigating international regulations, customs procedures, and diverse transportation networks is crucial for businesses looking to establish and maintain a competitive edge in the marketplace. The increasing complexity of international supply chains further propels the demand for freight forwarding services. Modern supply chains are no longer confined to a single geographic region; instead, they are intricate networks involving multiple suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers spread across different countries. This complexity arises from factors such as varied regulatory environments, diverse transportation infrastructures, and the need for coordination among multiple stakeholders. Freight forwarders excel in managing this complexity by providing end-to-end logistics solutions that encompass everything from inventory management and customs clearance to transportation optimization.

Moreover, the globalization of supply chains has led to a greater need for flexibility and responsiveness. Companies must adapt to the changes in market demand, supply chain disruptions, and fluctuations in geopolitical landscapes. Freight forwarders offer the agility required to navigate these challenges successfully. They leverage their networks, technological capabilities, and industry expertise to provide adaptable solutions that can be customized to meet the specific requirements of each client. Technology is a crucial enabler in addressing the challenges posed by the globalization of trade and the complexity of supply chains. Freight forwarders leverage advanced technologies such as tracking and visibility systems, data analytics, and digital platforms to enhance efficiency, provide real-time insights, and optimize transportation routes. These technological advancements not only streamline the operations but also contribute to better decision-making, risk management, and overall supply chain resilience. Thus, driving the Freight Forwarding market revenue.

In 2024 DHL launched a new digital platform for freight forwarding services with enhanced tracking and logistics capabilities.

In 2023 Kuehne + Nagel introduced advanced freight forwarding solutions with improved efficiency and global reach.

Freight Forwarding Market Segment Insights

Freight Forwarding Service Insights

The Freight Forwarding market segmentation, based on service, includes Transportation & Warehousing, Packaging & Documentation and Value-Added Services. The transportation & warehousing segment dominated the market, accounting for the largest market revenue by providing the essential backbone for the seamless movement of goods across the supply chain. These services play a crucial role in order ensuring timely and efficient delivery by managing the physical transportation of cargo and providing secure storage facilities. Freight forwarding companies often integrate transportation and warehousing into comprehensive logistics solutions, offering end-to-end services that encompass everything from pick-up at the origin to final delivery at the destination. As trade and supply chains become more complex, the reliable coordination of transportation and warehousing services becomes increasingly crucial, driving the demand for integrated freight forwarding solutions that encompass these key components.

Freight Forwarding Mode of Transportation Insights

The Freight Forwarding market segmentation, based on mode of transportation, includes Land Freight Forwarding, Sea Freight Forwarding and Air Freight Forwarding. The sea freight forwarding category dominates the market due to its cost-effectiveness, capacity for handling large volumes of cargo, and its role as a primary mode for international trade. As a slower but highly economical option, sea freight is particularly suited for transporting bulky and non-perishable goods over long distances. The expansive maritime network enables connectivity between major ports, facilitating extensive trade routes and making sea freight an indispensable choice for businesses engaged in international commerce.

Figure 1:  Freight Forwarding Market by Mode of Transportation, 2022 & 2032 (USD Billion)

Source: The Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Freight Forwarding Customer Type Insights

The Freight Forwarding market segmentation, based on customer type, includes B2B and B2C. The B2B category dominates the market due to the inherently complex and expansive nature of industrial and commercial supply chains. The intricate requirements of B2B transactions often involve large volumes of goods, diverse shipping destinations, and specialized handling needs, necessitating the expertise of freight forwarders. These customers frequently engage in trade, sourcing components or distributing products across international borders, driving the demand for reliable and efficient logistics services.

Freight Forwarding Regional Insights

By region, the study gives market insights into the North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Rest of the World. The North American Freight Forwarding market area dominates this market due to its robust and highly developed logistics infrastructure, strategic geographic location, and the prominence of key players within the region. The presence of major international trade gateways, advanced transportation networks, and a strong economy positions North America as a leader.

Further, the prime countries studied in the market report are the US, Canada, Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Spain, Japan, China, India, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil.

Figure 2:  FREIGHT FORWARDING MARKET SHARE BY REGION 2022 (USD Billion)

Source: The Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Europe's Freight Forwarding market accounts for the second-largest market share due to the continent's extensive and interconnected logistics infrastructure and the facilitation of cross-border trade within the European Union. Further, the German Freight Forwarding market held the largest market share, and the UK Freight Forwarding market was the fastest-growing market in European region.

The Asia-Pacific Freight Forwarding Market is expected to rise at the fastest CAGR from 2023 to 2032. This is due to rapid economic growth, burgeoning international trade activities, and the increasing demand for efficient logistics solutions. Moreover, China’s Freight Forwarding market held the largest market share, and the Indian Freight Forwarding market was the fastest-growing market in Asia-Pacific region.

Freight Forwarding Key Market Players & Competitive Insights

Leading market players are investing heavily in research and development in order to expand their product lines, which will help the Freight Forwarding market grow even more. Market parties are also undertaking various strategic activities to spread their footprint, with important market developments including mergers and acquisitions, higher investments, new product launches, contractual agreements, and collaboration with the other organizations. To spread and survive in the more competitive and rising market climate, the Freight Forwarding industry must offer cost-effective items.

Manufacturing locally to minimize the operational costs is one of the key business tactics used by the manufacturers in the Freight Forwarding industry to benefit the clients and grow the market sector. In recent years, the Freight Forwarding industry has offered some of the most significant advantages to the supply chain industry. Major players in the Freight Forwarding market, including Uber Freight LLC, Kuehne+Nagel International AG, Schenker Deutschland AG, Deutsche Post DHL, FedEx, MGF, Nippon Express Co., Ltd., Expeditors International of Washington, Inc., CEVA Logistics AG, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics, and others, are trying to raise market demand by investing in the research and development operations.

AIT Worldwide Logistics is a transportation and logistics company that has established itself as a prominent player in the industry. With its headquarters in Chicago, AIT operates a comprehensive network of offices and partners worldwide, facilitating seamless supply chain solutions for businesses across diverse sectors. The company is known for its customer-centric approach, offering a wide array of services, including air and sea freight, customs clearance, warehousing, distribution, and specialized logistics solutions. AIT's commitment to leveraging technology, coupled with its extensive reach, enables it to provide clients with efficient and tailored logistics strategies. Announced on December 5th, 2023, AIT Worldwide Logistics, a US-headquartered freight forwarder, acquired Mach II Shipping Ltd, a UK-based specialist in worldwide air and sea freight forwarding. This acquisition strengthens AIT's presence in the UK and Europe, particularly in the life sciences sector.

Rhenus Group is the logistics service provider known for its comprehensive range of supply chain solutions and expertise in various industry sectors. Headquartered in Germany, the company has established a significant international presence with a network of offices and facilities across Europe, Asia-Pacific, North America, and other regions. Rhenus offers a diverse set of services, including freight forwarding, warehousing, customs clearance, and e-commerce logistics. Renowned for its customer-centric approach, Rhenus tailors’ solutions to meet the specific requirements of clients, whether they operate in manufacturing, automotive, healthcare, or other industries. Announced on December 2nd, 2023, the Rhenus Group increased its presence in the European port terminal market by acquiring a 49.99% shareholding in Rietlanden Terminals. This strategic move enhances Rhenus' capabilities in container handling and logistics services.

Key Companies in the Freight Forwarding market include

• Uber Freight LLC


• Kuehne+Nagel International AG


• Schenker Deutschland AG


• Deutsche Post DHL


• FedEx


• MGF


• Nippon Express Co., Ltd.


• Expeditors International of Washington, Inc.


• CEVA Logistics AG


• Hellmann Worldwide Logistics

Freight Forwarding Industry Developments

December 2023 Dutch forwarder Share Logistics acquired compatriot VN Logistics, which specializes in chemicals, renewables, cosmetics, and c-commerce. This move strengthens Share Logistics' offerings in these growing segments.

September 2023 Agility and Cainiao Smart Logistics Network partnered to provide end-to-end logistics solutions for cross-border e-commerce. This partnership combines Agility's  logistics network with Cainiao's expertise in e-commerce logistics, creating a strong solution for businesses selling goods internationally.

November 2023 CEVA Logistics and ZIM Integrated Shipping Services partnered to offer customers enhanced visibility and control over their ocean freight shipments. This partnership leverages CEVA's logistics expertise and ZIM's extensive shipping network to provide customers with a seamless and efficient transportation experience.

Freight Forwarding Market Segmentation

Freight Forwarding Service Outlook

• Transportation & Warehousing


• Packaging & Documentation


• Value-Added Services

Freight Forwarding Mode of Transportation Outlook

• Land Freight Forwarding


• Sea Freight Forwarding


• Air Freight Forwarding

Freight Forwarding Customer Type Outlook

• B2B


• B2C

Freight Forwarding Regional Outlook

• North America
  
  
  
  • US
  
  
  • Canada
  
  
  
  


• Europe
  
  
  
  • Germany
  
  
  • France
  
  
  • UK
  
  
  • Italy
  
  
  • Spain
  
  
  • Rest of Europe
  
  
  
  


• Asia-Pacific
  
  
  
  • China
  
  
  • Japan
  
  
  • India
  
  
  • Australia
  
  
  • South Korea
  
  
  • Australia
  
  
  • Rest of Asia-Pacific
  
  
  
  


• Rest of the World
  
  
  
  • Middle East
  
  
  • Africa
  
  
  • Latin America