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Less Than Truckload Market
ID: MRFR/PNT/39986-HCR
200 Pages
September 2025
Less Than Truckload Market Research Report: By Service Type (Standard Less Than Truckload, Expedited Less Than Truckload, Freight Forwarding), By End Use Industry (Retail, Manufacturing, Consumer Goods, Healthcare), By Weight Class (Less than 150 lbs, 150 lbs to 1,000 lbs, 1,000 lbs to 5,000 lbs), By Distribution Channel (Direct Shipping, Third Party Logistics, Freight Brokers) andBy Regional (North America, Europe, South America, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa)- Forecast to 2035.
Less Than Truckload Market Trends
Multiple key market factors are driving change in the Less Than Truckload (LTL) Shipping Market as it addresses the increasing demand for e-commerce with smaller shipments. Due to increasing concerns over the environment, and the growing costs of fuel, shippers are opting for LTL solutions that are economical as well as sustainable for transporting goods. The set of customizable shipping services offered in online retail further allows for even greater expansion in the LTL business. Considering all of these factors, there exists a great deal of opportunity in this sector.
There are businesses that focus on customer service. They assist customers enjoyed quality service and boosting their overall satisfaction. Investing money into new technologies such as GPS tracking and monitoring not only allows for real time tracking of shipments but also optimizes the delivery routes. This improves the overall efficiency of the business. News regarding increased partnership between different LTL Ships, third party logistics providers and freight forwarders are commonplace, these partnerships are important as they greatly extend the market coverage of a business.
Adopting the last-mile concept enables customers to reach their target locations, this in turn tends to give greater LTL coverage and more customers. There is a greater shift towards greater use of digital platforms, this has connected people better and increased the overall efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Market Segment Insights
Less Than Truckload Market Segment Insights:
Less Than Truckload Market Service Type Insights
The Global Less Than Truckload Market revenue, segmented by Service Type, highlights significant insights into the overall industry landscape. In 2024, the market is valued at 90.82 USD Billion, with expectations for substantial growth by 2035. Among the various categories within this segmentation, Standard Less Than Truckload holds a substantial share, valued at 40.0 USD Billion in 2024 and projected to reach 55.0 USD Billion by 2035.
Its majority holding reflects the common need for cost-effective and efficient shipment solutions across different industries, making it an essential choice for businesses seeking reliability in their logistics operations.Expedited Less Than Truckload also plays a vital role, valued at 30.0 USD Billion in 2024 and anticipated to grow to 40.0 USD Billion by 2035. This segment caters to a growing demand for speedier deliveries, particularly in e-commerce and just-in-time manufacturing sectors, which have surged in recent years.
On the other hand, the Freight Forwarding segment, although smaller in scale with a valuation of 20.82 USD Billion in 2024 and 25.0 USD Billion in 2035, remains significant due to its ability to manage complex supply chains and international shipments, providing businesses with comprehensive solutions to transport their goods across borders.The Global Less Than Truckload Market statistics reveal a dynamic interplay between these segments, driven by trends such as increasing e-commerce activities, rising consumer expectations for faster delivery, and the ongoing optimization of logistics networks.
Each segment presents unique growth drivers, challenges, and opportunities; for instance, while Standard Less Than Truckload offers economical solutions for routine shipping needs, Expedited Less Than Truckload aligns with the evolving demands for quicker turnaround times.
The Freight Forwarding segment addresses the need for logistical sophistication in international trade, making it indispensable in today's globalized economy.With a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.57 from 2025 to 2035, the Global Less Than Truckload Market segmentation indicates that all service types will continue to evolve to meet changing market needs, implying a robust framework for companies aiming to leverage these different service offerings for success in the competitive logistics landscape.
Less Than Truckload Market End Use Industry Insights
The Global Less Than Truckload Market has emerged as a crucial component across various end-use industries, reflecting its growing significance in logistics and supply chain management. In 2024, the overall market value is expected to reach 90.82 USD Billion, demonstrating a steady demand for efficient transportation services. The retail sector plays a key role in this market, driven by the increasing e-commerce trends, while the manufacturing industry remains a dominant force, requiring reliable logistics solutions for raw materials and finished goods.Consumer goods also significantly contribute to the market, as rapid inventory turnover necessitates efficient transportation.
The healthcare industry demands specialized logistics services to ensure timely and safe delivery of medical supplies and pharmaceuticals, highlighting the importance of adaptability and compliance in less-than-truckload services. As per Global Less Than Truckload Market data, the industry's growth is propelled by the rising demand for faster shipping services, enhanced operational efficiencies, and the constant evolution of technology that streamlines logistics processes.However, challenges such as fluctuating fuel costs and regulatory requirements pose potential hurdles. Market growth is expected to create numerous opportunities, particularly for companies that innovate their service offerings within these critical end-use industries.
Less Than Truckload Market Weight Class Insights
The Global Less Than Truckload Market, particularly in the Weight Class segment, is expected to play a critical role in meeting the diverse transportation needs of various industries. By 2024, the overall market is valued at 90.82 billion USD, reflecting a steady growth trajectory. Within this segment, the classification of shipments by weight improves logistical efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
The category of less than 150 lbs gathers significant attention as it typically encompasses smaller, high-frequency shipments, essential for rapid delivery solutions.Meanwhile, the range of 150 lbs to 1,000 lbs serves as a bridge for a substantial portion of the market, catering to medium-sized businesses requiring flexible shipping options. The higher range, from 1,000 lbs to 5,000 lbs, dominates the sector due to the bulk and heavier shipments characteristic of many industrial operations, thereby reflecting the market’s capacity to handle larger freight volumes.
Trends such as e-commerce growth and just-in-time delivery are driving demand across all weight classes, while challenges related to capacity and rates influence market dynamics, presenting various opportunities for logistics providers.Overall, this segmentation enhances the Global Less Than Truckload Market statistics and contributes significantly to the industry's revenue generation.
Less Than Truckload Market Distribution Channel Insights
The Global Less Than Truckload Market revenue is projected to reach 90.82 USD Billion in 2024, underscoring a robust demand for effective transportation solutions. Within the Distribution Channel segment, several key pathways emerge, including Direct Shipping, Third Party Logistics, and Freight Brokers. Direct Shipping occupies a significant role by offering streamlined logistics solutions directly to shippers, enabling faster transit times and improved reliability.
Meanwhile, Third Party Logistics has gained prominence due to its ability to provide comprehensive shipping solutions, leveraging technology to enhance visibility and efficiency.Freight Brokers continue to dominate by acting as intermediaries, optimizing load consolidation and ensuring competitive pricing, thus driving market participation. These dynamics are crucial as organizations seek to optimize their supply chains and reduce operational costs. The Global Less Than Truckload Market segmentation showcasing these channels reflects the industry's adaptability to evolving logistical challenges, highlighting growth opportunities in the coming years.
As businesses increasingly aim for efficiency, the role of advanced logistics solutions will likely expand, impacting overall market growth positively and shaping future trends in the Global Less Than Truckload Market Statistics.
Regional Insights
The Global Less Than Truckload Market is expected to show significant growth across various regional segments, with North America holding the majority of the market. In 2024, North America is valued at 45.5 USD Billion and is projected to grow to 60.0 USD Billion by 2035, making it a dominant force in the industry due to its robust logistics infrastructure. Europe follows with a valuation of 22.0 USD Billion in 2024, anticipated to reach 30.0 USD Billion in 2035, reflecting a stable demand for LTL services amidst its diverse economies.
The APAC region is increasingly important with a valuation of 15.0 USD Billion in 2024, growing to 20.0 USD Billion by 2035, driven by the rapid expansion of e-commerce and manufacturing.South America and MEA are relatively smaller segments, with valuations of 5.0 USD Billion and 3.32 USD Billion respectively in 2024, yet they present opportunities for growth as logistics markets evolve. The Global Less Than Truckload Market statistics demonstrate varied regional dynamics, influenced by factors like infrastructure development, trade regulations, and technological advancements, which drive market growth in the industry.
Key Players and Competitive Insights
The Global Less Than Truckload Market is characterized by intense competition, driven by a variety of factors including efficiency, pricing strategies, technological advancements, and service offerings. Companies in this sector are constantly seeking ways to optimize their operations to meet customer demands and enhance profitability. The market is fragmented, featuring a diverse range of players from large established firms to regional carriers, each competing in aspects such as delivery times, network reach, and customer service.
The growth of e-commerce and increasing demand for flexible shipping options have further intensified competition, leading to strategic collaborations, mergers and acquisitions, and investments in technology to improve fleet management and tracking capabilities. As globalization continues to expand trade networks, the importance of effective Less Than Truckload services becomes ever more critical, ultimately shaping the dynamics of the market.Estes Express Lines stands out in the Global Less Than Truckload Market due to its extensive service network and long-standing reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction.
The company has established itself as a leader in the sector by providing a broad range of transportation services that cater to varying customer needs, including time-definite deliveries and customized solutions. Its robust infrastructure, including multiple service centers and a modern fleet, allows Estes Express Lines to maintain a high level of service quality while efficiently managing shipments across extensive geographical areas. The company leverages advanced technology for real-time tracking and shipment visibility, enhancing customer experience.
The emphasis on operational excellence and commitment to safety further bolster its standing in a competitive landscape, making it a preferred choice for numerous businesses that rely on efficient and timely delivery of goods.R+L Carriers has carved out a significant niche in the Global Less Than Truckload Market through its commitment to quality service and competitive pricing. With a focus on customer-centric solutions, R+L Carriers has built a reputation for reliability and responsiveness, making it an appealing option for businesses requiring dependable shipping services.
The company's strategic infrastructure, with service centers located nationwide, enables effective coverage and accessibility, enhancing its ability to meet diverse shipping needs. R+L Carriers places a strong emphasis on maintaining a modern fleet, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and adopting innovative technologies that streamline operations. This dedication to continuous improvement and customer satisfaction positions R+L Carriers as a formidable competitor in the less than truckload landscape, allowing it to effectively navigate the complexities of the logistics industry while meeting the evolving demands of its clientele.
Industry Developments
- Q2 2025: FedEx Corp. intends to spin off that LTL division as a stand-alone, publicly traded company FedEx announced plans to spin off its FedEx Freight less-than-truckload (LTL) division into a separate, publicly traded company by mid-2026, marking a major structural change in the LTL sector.
- Q1 2025: Saia (which opened 21 terminals and relocated 9 more in 2024), are seeing tonnage increases of 12.2% year-over-year in February 2025 Saia expanded its LTL network by opening 21 new terminals and relocating 9 more in 2024, resulting in a 12.2% year-over-year increase in tonnage as of February 2025.
- Q1 2025: ABF Freight and FedEx Freight announced 5.9% increases, while Saia implemented a more aggressive 7.9% and Old Dominion a more modest 4.9% Major LTL carriers including ABF Freight, FedEx Freight, Saia, and Old Dominion implemented general rate increases ranging from 4.9% to 7.9% in early 2025.
- Q4 2024: TFI International described Q4 2024 as “a disaster” for the company’s LTL division TFI International reported significant operational and financial challenges in its LTL division during the fourth quarter of 2024.
- Q2 2024: Saia (which opened 21 terminals and relocated 9 more in 2024), are seeing tonnage increases of 12.2% year-over-year in February 2025 Saia completed the opening of 21 new LTL terminals and the relocation of 9 others in 2024, significantly expanding its operational footprint.
- Q2 2024: Estes Express Lines... generated just under $5 billion in LTL revenue, an increase of more than 18% from the prior year Estes Express Lines reported LTL revenue growth of over 18% in 2024, reaching nearly $5 billion, the strongest growth among major LTL carriers.
- Q2 2024: XPO ranked No. 4 on this year's Top Less-Than-Truckload Carriers list XPO achieved nearly 5% year-over-year growth in its LTL operations in 2024, with revenue approaching $4.9 billion.
Market Segmentation
Outlook
- North America
- Europe
- South America
- Asia Pacific
- Middle East and Africa
Report Scope
| Attribute/Metric Source: | Details |
| MARKET SIZE 2023 | 88.55(USD Billion) |
| MARKET SIZE 2024 | 90.82(USD Billion) |
| MARKET SIZE 2035 | 120.0(USD Billion) |
| COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR) | 2.57% (2025 - 2035) |
| REPORT COVERAGE | Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends |
| BASE YEAR | 2024 |
| MARKET FORECAST PERIOD | 2025 - 2035 |
| HISTORICAL DATA | 2019 - 2024 |
| MARKET FORECAST UNITS | USD Billion |
| KEY COMPANIES PROFILED | Estes Express Lines, R+L Carriers, New England Motor Freight, ABF Freight, Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corporation, Southeastern Freight Lines, YRC Worldwide, Averitt Express, Roadrunner Transportation Systems, Saia Inc, Werner Enterprises, XPO Logistics, Old Dominion Freight Line, FedEx Freight |
| SEGMENTS COVERED | Service Type, End Use Industry, Weight Class, Distribution Channel, Regional |
| KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES | E-commerce growth driving logistics demand, Increasing demand for cost-effective shipping, Expansion of regional distribution networks, Adoption of technology in freight management, Sustainable transportation practices gaining focus |
| KEY MARKET DYNAMICS | Growing e-commerce demand, Rising fuel prices, Increasing focus on sustainability, Technological advancements in logistics, Capacity constraints in freight networks |
| COUNTRIES COVERED | North America, Europe, APAC, South America, MEA |
FAQs
What is the expected market size of the Global Less Than Truckload Market in 2024?
The Global Less Than Truckload Market is expected to be valued at 90.82 USD Billion in 2024.
What is the projected market size for the Global Less Than Truckload Market by 2035?
By 2035, the Global Less Than Truckload Market is projected to reach a value of 120.0 USD Billion.
What is the expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for the Global Less Than Truckload Market from 2025 to 2035?
The expected CAGR for the Global Less Than Truckload Market from 2025 to 2035 is 2.57%.
Which region holds the largest market share in the Global Less Than Truckload Market in 2024?
North America holds the largest market share in the Global Less Than Truckload Market, valued at 45.5 USD Billion in 2024.
What will be the market size of the Less Than Truckload segment in Europe by 2035?
The market size for the Less Than Truckload segment in Europe is expected to reach 30.0 USD Billion by 2035.
Who are the key players in the Global Less Than Truckload Market?
Major players include Estes Express Lines, R+L Carriers, and FedEx Freight among others.
What segment of the Global Less Than Truckload Market is expected to have the highest value in 2024?
The Standard Less Than Truckload segment is expected to have the highest value, projected at 40.0 USD Billion in 2024.
What is the expected market value of Expedited Less Than Truckload by 2035?
The Expedited Less Than Truckload market is expected to be valued at 40.0 USD Billion by 2035.
What are the projected growth rates for the Less Than Truckload Market in the APAC region?
The Less Than Truckload Market in the APAC region is anticipated to grow from 15.0 USD Billion in 2024 to 20.0 USD Billion by 2035.
What key trends are expected to influence the Global Less Than Truckload Market by 2035?
Emerging trends include increased demand for logistics efficiency and technological innovations in freight forwarding.
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Customer Strories
“I am very pleased with how market segments have been defined in a relevant way for my purposes (such as "Portable Freezers & refrigerators" and "last-mile"). In general the report is well structured. Thanks very much for your efforts.”
Victoria Milne
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