the Australia Freight Forwarding Market Report is Segmented by Mode of Transport (air Freight Forwarding, Ocean Freight Forwarding, Road Freight Forwarding, and Rail Freight Forwarding), Customer Type (B2C and B2B), Application (industrial and Manufacturing, Retail, Healthcare, Oil and Gas, Food and Beverages and Other Application). the Market Size and Forecast are Provided in Terms of Values (USD) for all the Above Segments.

Global Freight Forwarding market size is expected to reach $267.87 billion by 2029 at 5.6%, segmented as by services, transportation and warehousing, packaging and documentation, insurance, value-added services

In 2024, the freight forwarding market was estimated at *** billion U.S. dollars and is expected to increase in the following years. In 2029, the market is projected to reach the size of almost *** billion U.S. dollars. The leading companies in this field include DHL Supply Chain, Kuehne + Nagel, and Panalpina.

The Report Covers Digital Freight Forwarding Companies in USA and it is segmented by Mode of Transportation (Ocean, Air, and Land) and by Firm Type (SMEs and Large Enterprises and Governments). The market size and forecasts for the US digital freight forwarding market are provided in terms of value (USD billion) for all the above segments.

Freight Forwarding Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global freight forwarding market size reached USD 222.9 billion in 2024, with a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7% expected from 2025 to 2033. This growth trajectory is set to propel the market to a forecasted value of USD 337.9 billion by 2033. The market’s expansion is driven by the surge in international trade volumes, rapid growth in e-commerce, and the increasing complexity of global supply chains, which is compelling businesses to rely more heavily on professional freight forwarding services to ensure efficiency and compliance.

A primary growth factor in the freight forwarding market is the exponential rise in global trade activities, particularly from emerging economies in Asia and Latin America. The liberalization of trade policies, coupled with the proliferation of free trade agreements, has reduced barriers and increased the movement of goods across borders. This dynamic, paired with the growing need for efficient and reliable logistics solutions, has made freight forwarding an indispensable part of the global supply chain. Companies are increasingly outsourcing their logistics requirements to specialized freight forwarders to focus on their core competencies and gain access to advanced logistics technologies, which further accelerates market growth.

Another significant contributor to market expansion is the rapid evolution of e-commerce and omnichannel retailing. The proliferation of online shopping platforms has dramatically increased the demand for fast, flexible, and cost-effective logistics solutions. Freight forwarders are adapting by offering integrated services such as real-time tracking, last-mile delivery, and value-added warehousing, which cater to the unique requirements of e-commerce businesses. Additionally, the rise of cross-border e-commerce has increased the complexity of shipping processes, documentation, and customs compliance, making the expertise of freight forwarders even more critical for timely and secure delivery.

Technological advancements are also playing a pivotal role in shaping the freight forwarding market. The integration of digital platforms, Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, and blockchain technology has revolutionized the way freight forwarders operate. These innovations enable real-time tracking, predictive analytics, and improved transparency throughout the logistics chain. As a result, freight forwarders can offer enhanced visibility, reduce transit times, and optimize route planning, thereby improving overall customer satisfaction. The adoption of these technologies is expected to further drive market growth by increasing operational efficiency and reducing costs.

From a regional perspective, the Asia Pacific region dominates the freight forwarding market, accounting for the largest share due to its robust manufacturing sector, significant export volumes, and the presence of major shipping and logistics hubs. North America and Europe also hold substantial market shares, driven by advanced logistics infrastructure and high adoption of digital freight forwarding solutions. Meanwhile, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are experiencing accelerated growth, fueled by infrastructure development and increased trade activities. The regional diversity in growth drivers and market dynamics underscores the global nature of the freight forwarding industry and its critical role in supporting international commerce.

Service Type Analysis

The freight forwarding market is segmented by service type into transportation, warehousing, value-added services, documentation, and others. Transportation services remain the cornerstone of the market, accounting for the largest revenue share. This dominance is attributed to the fundamental need for moving goods across various geographies, facilitated by an intricate network of carriers and logistics providers. Freight forwarders play a crucial role in optimizing transportati

In recent years, the industry has faced recurring headwinds that have tempered major profit growth. Non-Vessel-Operating Common Carriers (NVOCCs) have seen revenue streams under pressure as major ocean carriers expand direct-to-shipper services, bypassing traditional intermediaries. Rising cargo theft has elevated liability burdens, as NVOCCs remain responsible for shipments at sea despite not handling the goods directly. There’s also heightened scrutiny surrounding fraudulent practices like double brokering, which erodes industry trust and shrinks potential revenue by allowing unauthorized intermediaries to intercept commissions. Because of this, businesses have increased investments in advanced tracking technologies to combat cargo theft and rigorous anti-fraud screening, although these measures introduce higher cost bases and suppress net profitability gains. Increased insurance premiums add to the costs as liability concerns persist. Concurrent market dynamics have presented opportunities and challenges over the past five years. Distressed cargo space availability increased the cost of securing shipboard slots, ultimately boosting gross revenue as rates climbed. Yet, any resulting topline growth has been tempered, as price increases cycle back into elevated payments to carriers. Technological adaptation has become more crucial as supply chain diversification complicates operations, requiring platforms to track movements across multiple carrier-shippers and automate compliance for a wider array of client demands. From 2020 through 2025, industry revenue grew at a CAGR of 7.2% to reach $164.3 billion, capping the period with a 1.4% uptick in 2025. While profit levels recovered from pandemic lows, they failed to advance after 2022 because of persistent cost pressures. Looking ahead, carrier alliances appear set to create additional challenges for NVOCCs, introducing new layers of complexity with altered shipping routes and the potential for higher space rates as maritime companies adjust capacity. These market shifts may squeeze profit since any advantage from expanded options for shippers comes with new demands for sophisticated transportation management systems (TMS) to maintain shipment oversight during schedule and route adjustments. Continued trade tariff disputes and the sector-wide shift toward digitization are sharpening demand for services like Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classification and for implementation of electronic bills of lading (EBLs), which represents another operational commitment for NVOCCs aiming to remain competitive in a digital logistics marketplace. Investments in these upgrades, while necessary, raise concerns about the viability of simultaneously pursuing more ambitious initiatives in sustainability or large-scale workforce expansion. Revenue will expand at a CAGR of 1.5% over the next five years to 2030, reaching $177.1 billion.

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Freight Forwarding Market Size 2025-2029

The freight forwarding market size is forecast to increase by USD 51.62 billion at a CAGR of 4.1% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing international trade, which has led to a rise in demand for efficient and cost-effective logistics solutions. This trend is further bolstered by the adoption of advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in freight forwarding, enabling real-time tracking, predictive analytics, and automation of various processes. However, the market faces challenges in the form of escalating fuel and transportation costs, which can significantly impact the profitability of freight forwarding companies.
To capitalize on the market opportunities and navigate these challenges effectively, companies must focus on optimizing their operations through technology integration, strategic partnerships, and cost management initiatives. Additionally, offering value-added services such as customs clearance, warehousing, and supply chain consulting can help differentiate businesses and attract customers in a highly competitive landscape. Information technology plays a crucial role in streamlining logistics processes, including shipping schedules and documentation, for both freight forwarders, Sea freight, and shippers.

What will be the Size of the Freight Forwarding Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
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In the dynamic world of freight forwarding, meeting shipping requirements is crucial for successful trade in the global market. Information technology plays a pivotal role in streamlining the process, enabling real-time tracking and efficient communication between parties. Negotiating tariffs and adhering to customs regulations are essential aspects of the industry, ensuring the transfer of goods in good condition. Best practices in freight forwarding include thorough documentation, effective communication, and adherence to industry standards.

Navigating the complexities of global trade requires a deep understanding of the latest trends and regulations. By staying informed and adhering to best practices, freight forwarders can ensure the smooth and timely transfer of goods, ultimately contributing to the success of their clients' businesses. Freight forwarders serve as intermediaries between shippers and logistics companies, managing the transportation of goods from their origin to the final destination.

How is this Freight Forwarding Industry segmented?

The freight forwarding industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Mode Of Transportation

  Land freight
  Ocean freight
  Air freight


Application

  Industrial and manufacturing
  Retail and E-commerce
  Food and beverages
  Healthcare
  Others


Service Type

  Transportation and warehousing
  Value-added services


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    UK


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Mode Of Transportation Insights

The land freight segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The land freight segment, encompassing both road and rail transportation, is a crucial component of the global freight forwarding market. This segment plays a pivotal role in facilitating the movement of goods over land, supporting both domestic and international trade.Road freightThe road freight segment is dynamic and vital, involving the transportation of goods via trucks, trailers, and other road vehicles. It serves as a primary mode of transport for a wide range of commodities, including manufactured goods, consumer products, and raw materials. One of the key attributes of road freight forwarding is its flexibility and last-mile connectivity. Road transports ability to reach remote locations and access points unattainable by other modes of transport provides a competitive edge for timely and efficient deliveries.

The ocean freight segment is a vital part of the global freight forwarding market, enabling the transportation of goods via sea routes on a global scale. This segment includes a variety of services such as booking cargo space, managing documentation, coordinating shipments, and navigating customs procedures, all of which are essential for the smooth operation of international trade.One of the primary advantages of ocean freight forwarding is its cost-effectiveness and efficiency in transporting large volumes of goods over

The ASEAN Freight Forwarding Market is segmented by Mode of Transport (Air and Sea), Service (Freight Transport, Warehousing, and Value-added Services), Country, and End User.

The freight forwarding services industry has faced many challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global supply chains and impacted demand for freight services. The industry had to adapt rapidly to meet changing needs. Reduced passenger flights impacted air freight, while sea freight faced delays due to port closures and container shortages. On the positive side, e-commerce growth has raised demand for logistics and fulfilment services. Freight forwarders have embraced the digital transformation, improving visibility, tracking and efficiency. They have navigated new customs and trade regulations, facilitating the movement of goods. Sustainability and green logistics have gained prominence as consumers and businesses prioritise eco-friendly transport options. Revenue is expected to fall at a compound annual rate of 4.9% over the five years through 2024 to €358 billion, including a contraction of 4.9% in 2024. Ongoing trade tensions and tariff disputes, particularly between major global economies, have disrupted established trade routes and impacted the flow of goods, squeezing profit margins. Revenue is forecast to grow at a compound annual rate of 1.3% over the five years through 2029 to €383 billion. The future of the freight forwarding services industry in Europe looks promising. As global trade rebounds from trade tensions and disrupted global economic activity and supply chains continue to adapt, freight forwarders will play a vital role. Digitalisation will remain a key focus, enhancing efficiency and visibility. Sustainability efforts will gain momentum, leading to greener and more eco-conscious logistics solutions. The industry's ability to address evolving supply chain complexities and meet environmental and efficiency standards will determine its success in the years ahead.

The global freight forwarding market size was $209.14 billion in 2023 and is expected to have grown to $317.33 billion by 2032 with a CAGR of roughly 4.74%.

The global freight forwarding market, valued at $176.02 million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by the expansion of e-commerce, globalization of supply chains, and increasing demand for efficient logistics solutions across diverse sectors. A compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.16% from 2025 to 2033 indicates a significant market expansion. Key growth drivers include the rising need for specialized handling of goods across various industries like healthcare (pharmaceuticals and medical devices), food and beverages (perishable goods requiring temperature control), and oil and gas (heavy and hazardous materials). Furthermore, technological advancements, such as the integration of artificial intelligence and blockchain in supply chain management, are streamlining operations and enhancing transparency, contributing to market growth. The B2B segment currently dominates the market share due to the large-scale logistics requirements of major corporations, however the B2C segment is expected to see substantial growth fueled by the booming e-commerce sector. While the air freight forwarding mode holds a significant share, the growing preference for cost-effective and environmentally friendly options is gradually increasing the market share of ocean freight forwarding. Regional variations in market growth are expected, with North America and Asia Pacific leading the charge, fueled by robust economic activity and extensive infrastructure development. However, several challenges exist, including geopolitical instability, trade wars, fluctuating fuel prices, and evolving environmental regulations. These factors could potentially constrain market growth if not effectively mitigated by freight forwarding companies through strategic planning and adaptive solutions. The competitive landscape is characterized by the presence of both global giants like DHL, FedEx, and Kuehne + Nagel, and regional players. Intense competition necessitates continuous innovation, strategic partnerships, and optimized supply chain solutions to maintain a competitive edge. The market is further segmented by modes of transport (air, ocean, road, rail), customer type (B2B, B2C), and application (industrial, retail, healthcare, oil & gas, food & beverage), providing diverse opportunities for specialized players. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the global freight forwarding market, offering valuable insights into market dynamics, growth drivers, and future trends. With a study period spanning 2019-2033, a base year of 2025, and a forecast period of 2025-2033, this report is an essential resource for businesses operating in the air freight forwarding, ocean freight forwarding, road freight forwarding, and rail freight forwarding sectors. The market is segmented by customer type (B2B, B2C), application (industrial & manufacturing, retail, healthcare, oil & gas, food & beverages, other), and key players including DB Schenker, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics, MGF (Manitoulin Global Forwarding), United Parcel Service, Sinotrans India Private Limited, Dachser, Imerco, FedEx Corp, Nippon Express Co Ltd, Kuehne + Nagel International AG, Uber Freight LLC, CEVA Logistics, DHL Global Forwarding, The Maersk Group, Expeditors International, C H Robinson, Panalpina, Walmart Group, Bollore Logistics, and Dsv Global Transports and Logistics. The report values the market in millions of units. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing Demand From E-commerce Sales. Potential restraints include: Increasing Fuel Costs. Notable trends are: Growth In Cross-Border and Sea Trade Driving the Forwarding Industry.

The Digital Freight Forwarder Market report segments the industry into Mode Of Transport (Land, Sea, Air) and Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East & Africa, South America). Get five years of historical data alongside five-year market forecasts.

Asia Pacific Sea Freight Logistics Market Report Forecast and Industry Trends, and It is Segmented by Type (FCL, LCL) and Country (Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam). The Report Offers Market Size and Forecast Values (USD) for all the Above Segments.

The report covers Global Air Freight Forwarder Market Share and is segmented by service (airlines, mail, and other services), destination (domestic and international), Geography (North America, Europe , Asia-Pacific , Middle East & Africa , South America). The report offers the market sizes and forecasts for the Air Freight Forwarding Market in value (USD) for all the above segments.

The global freight forwarding market, valued at $557.04 million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by the expansion of global trade, e-commerce proliferation, and the increasing need for efficient supply chain management. The Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.47% from 2025 to 2033 indicates a steadily increasing market size. Key growth drivers include the rising demand for specialized logistics solutions, technological advancements in transportation management systems (TMS) and warehouse management systems (WMS), and the ongoing shift towards sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation methods. Furthermore, the increasing complexity of global supply chains necessitates the expertise of freight forwarders in navigating customs regulations, managing documentation, and mitigating risks. Competition is fierce, with major players like Kuehne + Nagel, DB Schenker, DHL Global Forwarding, and Maersk Group vying for market share. However, opportunities exist for smaller, specialized companies focusing on niche segments or regional markets. The market's growth is also influenced by factors such as fluctuating fuel prices, geopolitical instability, and potential disruptions to global trade routes. Growth will likely be uneven across different regions, with developed economies experiencing moderate growth and emerging markets showing more significant expansion. The overall trend points towards a continued reliance on freight forwarding services as businesses seek to optimize their supply chains for efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The forecast period from 2025 to 2033 presents significant opportunities for growth. Market segmentation, though not explicitly detailed in the provided data, will likely reveal further insights into growth patterns across various modes of transport (air, sea, road, rail), cargo types, and industry verticals. This segmentation analysis would be crucial for identifying high-growth areas and tailoring strategies to cater to specific customer needs. The continued adoption of digital technologies within the logistics sector will remain a significant factor shaping the competitive landscape. Companies that successfully integrate technology, improve data analytics capabilities, and offer comprehensive supply chain solutions are expected to gain a competitive edge. Careful consideration of regulatory changes and evolving sustainability standards will also be paramount for future success in the freight forwarding industry. Recent developments include: June 2023: Kuehne+Nagel, a global logistics company, marked an agreement to acquire Morgan Cargo, a leading South African, United Kingdom, and Kenyan freight forwarder specializing in transporting and handling perishable goods. The acquisition strengthens the company's perishables logistics service offering while enhancing connectivity for customers to and from South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Kenya, which includes state-of-the-art cold chain facilities.April 2023: DHL Global Forwarding signed an MoU with Turkish Cargo to extend its operations to SMARTIST, a cargo facility for Turkish Cargo at the Istanbul airport. This agreement enhances the company's operation efficiencies and further boosts Istanbul's ability to emerge as a global logistics hub.. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing Demand From E-commerce Sales. Potential restraints include: Increasing Demand From E-commerce Sales. Notable trends are: Growth In Cross-Border and Sea Trade Driving the Forwarding Industry.

The Freight Forwarding Market size is expected to reach a valuation of USD 324.5 million in 2033 growing at a CAGR of 5.2%. The Freight Forwarding market research report classifies market by share, trend, demand, forecast and based on segmentation.

The Freight And Logistics Market report segments the industry into End User Industry (Agriculture, Fishing, and Forestry, Construction, Manufacturing, and more), Logistics Function (Courier, Express, and Parcel (CEP), Freight Forwarding, and more), and Region (Africa, Asia Pacific, and more). The report covers market value and volume analysis and more.

The global freight forwarding market, valued at $405.8 million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by the expanding e-commerce sector, increasing globalization, and the rising demand for efficient supply chain solutions across diverse industries. The market's Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.5% from 2025 to 2033 indicates a significant expansion in market size. Key growth drivers include the increasing reliance on just-in-time inventory management strategies across manufacturing and retail, the ongoing expansion of global trade routes, and technological advancements such as blockchain and AI improving logistics and transparency. The diverse applications of freight forwarding across agriculture, automotive, beverage, electronics, and other sectors further fuel market growth. Ocean freight is expected to remain the dominant mode of transport, although air freight will likely see substantial growth, driven by the need for faster delivery of high-value goods and perishable items. However, challenges such as geopolitical instability, fluctuating fuel prices, and port congestion pose potential restraints to market growth. Segmentation analysis reveals a varied landscape, with significant regional differences in market share. North America and Europe are currently major contributors, due to well-established infrastructure and high consumer spending. However, rapid industrialization and economic growth in Asia-Pacific are projected to drive substantial market expansion in this region over the forecast period. The competitive landscape is dominated by established players such as Kuehne + Nagel, DHL Group, and DB Schenker, who leverage their extensive networks and technological capabilities to maintain a strong market presence. The continued emergence of smaller, specialized freight forwarders focusing on niche markets and specific regional expertise will likely introduce increased competition in the years to come. This dynamic interplay of drivers, restraints, and competitive forces will shape the future trajectory of the global freight forwarding market.

Market Size and Growth: The global freight forwarding services market is projected to reach XXX million USD by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of XX% from 2025 to 2033. The growth is attributed to factors such as the increasing volumes of global trade, robust demand for e-commerce, and the growing adoption of multi-modal freight forwarding. The market is dominated by companies like Sinotrans, Kuhne + Nagel, and DHL Global Forwarding. Market Drivers and Trends: Key drivers of the market include the expanding global supply chain, the advancements in technology and automation, and the growing focus on sustainability. Increasing cross-border collaborations, the rise of emerging markets, and the demand for specialized services are also contributing to market growth. Notable trends include the adoption of blockchain technology for enhanced transparency, the integration of IoT devices for real-time tracking, and the shift towards green logistics practices.

Until the pandemic, the economic conditions for the sector were largely positive, although an economic slowdown had already set in in 2019. Nevertheless, competition within and outside the industry intensified, as did attempts by many larger industry customers in particular to drive down prices. As a result of the pandemic, industry sales initially declined. However, demand for freight forwarding services increased significantly again from autumn 2020, as many industrial companies began to restock their warehouses with raw materials and supplier parts at the same time, often purchasing logistics services externally. The rise in toll costs for lorries since December 2023 is forcing freight forwarding companies to increase their prices for freight forwarding services. This is likely to have a negative impact on demand for freight forwarding services. In the current year, the industry should benefit from the recovery in the consumer and business climate, meaning that turnover growth of 0.1% to 111.6 billion euros is expected for the current year. Over the past five years, the average annual growth in turnover has been 2.2%.The most important factors for the industry are the volume of freight transport in a given year and the challenges posed by certain logistics chains, as the willingness of potential industry customers to place orders with a freight forwarder depends largely on this. E-commerce has become increasingly important for the industry during the pandemic. Since 2021, freight forwarders have also benefited from the recovery in industrial production volumes, which is why more goods are being transported. However, demand for transport services has been dampened by the significant increase in the price of crude oil compared to autumn 2020, as fuel prices and therefore transport prices have also risen significantly as a result. By 2030, the sector should be able to grow again thanks to the industry's recovery from the effects of the Ukraine conflict and the expected continued boom in e-commerce, although the economic turmoil resulting from the Ukraine conflict is likely to dampen economic momentum in the medium term. An average annual increase in industry turnover of 2% is expected, meaning that it will probably reach 123.4 billion euros in 2030. According to IBISWorld forecasts, the pressure on freight forwarders' margins from individual large industry customers will continue to increase in the future and contribute to a reduction in the number of market participants. The number of people employed in the industry is also likely to fall.