The Freight Forwarding Market Report is Segmented by Mode of Transport (Air Freight Forwarding, Ocean Freight Forwarding, and More), by Enterprise Size (Small & Medium Enterprises, and More), by Forwarder Model (Traditional Asset-Light Forwarders, and More), by End-User Industry (Industrial and Manufacturing, and More) and Geography (North America, Europe, and More). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

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.

Freight Forwarding Market size is growing with a CAGR of 5.0% in the prediction period and it crosses USD 260.41 bn by 2032 from USD 184.94 Bn in 2022

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.

In 2021, Asia Pacific overtook Europe as the largest market for global freight forwarding, with a share of 34.9 percent. International trade is one of the main drivers of growth in the freight forwarding market.

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

The Sea Freight Logistics Market Report Forecast and Industry Trends, and It is Segmented by Type (FCL, LCL, and Other Types) and Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle-East and Africa, and South America). The Report Offers the Market Size in Value (USD) for all the Above Mentioned Segments.

This statistic illustrates the leading global freight forwarding companies in 2020, by market share. In that year, DHL Logistics had a market share of *** percent. DSV Panalpina is in the top five global freight forwarding market.

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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 global sea freight forwarding market size reached USD 83.4 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 107.4 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 2.77% during 2025-2033. The growing number of global and domestic trade activities, increasing demand for safe and fast delivery cargo, and rising cross-border e-commerce activities represent some of the key factors driving the market.

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global sea freight forwarding market report, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country level from 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on type, services, and vertical.

Freight Forwarding Market size was valued at USD 181.92 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 221.68 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 2.76% during the forecast period 2026-2032.

Freight Forwarding Market: Definition/ Overview

Freight forwarding is a logistics service that organizes and oversees the transportation of goods from one location to another on behalf of shippers. Acting as intermediaries, freight forwarders handle complex processes including customs clearance, cargo insurance, warehousing, and choosing efficient routes and carriers. This service is essential for businesses that require cross-border shipping but lack the resources or expertise to navigate regulatory, logistical, and operational challenges independently.

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.

The global freight forwarding market size was worth more than USD 216.47 billion in 2024 and is poised to witness a CAGR of more than 4.6%, crossing USD 388.43 billion revenue by 2037. B2B segment is forecast to capture 56% share by 2037, due to B2B clients' reliance on complex supply chain networks and the adoption of tech-driven solutions.

In 2021, the total market size of freight forwarding market in the United States reached over 145 billion U.S. dollars. Until 2020, this market experienced a downward trend that was worsened by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

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 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 North America Freight Forwarding Market would witness market growth of 4.6% CAGR during the forecast period (2025-2032). The US market dominated the North America Freight Forwarding Market by Country in 2024, and would continue to be a dominant market till 2032; thereby, achieving a market valu

Global Freight Forwarding market size 2025 is $209.9 Billion whereas according out published study it will reach to $315.354 Billion by 2033. Freight Forwarding market will be growing at a CAGR of 5.22% during 2025 to 2033.

Learn more about Market Research Intellect's Sea Freight Forwarding Market Report, valued at USD 160 billion in 2024, and set to grow to USD 240 billion by 2033 with a CAGR of 5.5% (2026-2033).

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.