This statistic shows the size of the ocean freight market worldwide in 2020 and gives a forecast through 2027. In 2022, it is expected that the ocean freight market will amount to ** million TEUs.

The Sea Freight Forwarding Market Report is Segmented by Service Type (Full-Container-Load, Less-Than-Container-Load), Cargo Type (Dry, Reefer), End-User Industry (Electronics & Semiconductors, Chemicals & Petrochemicals, Food & Beverage, Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare, and More), and Geography (North America, South America, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Middle East and Africa). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

The Maritime Freight Transport Market Report is Segmented by Cargo Type (Containerized Cargo, Dry Bulk Cargo, Liquid Bulk Cargo, General Cargo, Roll-On/Roll-Off Cargo), End-User Industry (Electronics & Semiconductors, Chemicals & Petrochemicals, Food & Beverage, and More), and Geography (North America, South America, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Middle East and Africa). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Maritime Freight Transport market size was USD 385694.5 million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.00% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 154277.80 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.2% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 115708.35 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 88709.74 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.0% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 19284.73 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.4% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 7713.89 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7% from 2024 to 2031.
The Dry Bulk Cargo Type held the highest Maritime Freight Transport market revenue share in 2024.

Market Dynamics of Maritime Freight Transport Market

Key Drivers for Maritime Freight Transport Market

Increased international trade and global supply chain activities to Increase the Demand Globally: Increased international trade and global supply chain activities are driving the Maritime Freight Transport market because shipping is the most cost-effective and efficient method for moving large volumes of goods across continents. As global trade expands, the demand for maritime freight services grows to handle the increased flow of imports and exports. The complexity of global supply chains also requires reliable and scalable transport solutions to connect manufacturers, suppliers, and consumers worldwide. Maritime transport supports diverse cargo types and provides critical infrastructure for international commerce. This surge in trade and supply chain activities stimulates the need for enhanced shipping capacity, modernized port facilities, and advanced logistics solutions, driving market growth and development.

Increasing Investments in modernizing and expanding port facilities to Propel Market Growth: Increasing investments in modernizing and expanding port facilities are driving the Maritime Freight Transport market by enhancing the efficiency and capacity of shipping operations. Upgraded ports improve cargo handling, reduce turnaround times, and facilitate faster loading and unloading processes. Investments in technology, such as automated cranes and advanced logistics systems, streamline operations and reduce operational costs. Expanding port facilities also accommodate larger vessels and increased cargo volumes, supporting higher throughput and boosting overall shipping capacity. These improvements enhance the reliability and competitiveness of maritime transport, attract more shipping lines and trade routes, and support the growing demands of global trade and supply chains, driving the market's growth and development.

Key Restraints for Maritime Freight Transport Market

Growing Risks such as piracy, cargo theft, and geopolitical instability to Limit the Sales: Growing risks such as piracy, cargo theft, and geopolitical instability restrain the Maritime Freight Transport market by creating uncertainties and increasing operational costs. Piracy and theft pose direct threats to vessel safety and cargo security, leading to higher insurance premiums and the need for enhanced security measures. Geopolitical instability, including conflicts and trade disputes, can disrupt shipping routes, delay cargo deliveries, and impact global trade flows. These risks increase operational complexity and costs, potentially affecting profitability and investment in new infrastructure or technologies. As a result, the maritime industry faces challenges in maintaining reliable and cost-effective transport solutions, which can hinder market growth and stability.

Strict environmental regulations and compliances can add extra costs to shipping companies: The shipping industry freight transportation market is greatly influenced by the tighter environmental regulation and compliance requirements. It calls for enormous investments in research and de...

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 global marine freight shipping industry, valued at $381.69 million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by the expansion of global trade, increasing e-commerce activities, and the rising demand for faster and more efficient logistics solutions. The industry's Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.33% from 2025 to 2033 indicates a steady upward trajectory. Key growth drivers include the ongoing expansion of global supply chains, the increasing adoption of containerization for improved efficiency and security, and the continued development of specialized shipping services like reefer containers for perishable goods. Technological advancements, such as improved vessel tracking and management systems, are also contributing to increased efficiency and reduced operational costs. However, the industry faces challenges including fluctuating fuel prices, geopolitical instability impacting trade routes, and environmental regulations aimed at reducing carbon emissions. The segmentation of the market into containerized (general and reefer) and non-containerized shipping reflects the diversity of cargo types and shipping needs. Major players such as Maersk, MSC, CMA-CGM, and COSCO, dominate the market, leveraging their extensive vessel fleets, global network reach, and technological capabilities. Regional growth is expected to vary, with Asia-Pacific likely experiencing significant growth fueled by rapid economic development and manufacturing expansion in countries like China and India. North America and Europe are also anticipated to contribute substantially to market expansion, reflecting the large volume of goods traded within and across these regions. The continued evolution of the industry is likely to be shaped by ongoing technological innovation, shifts in global trade patterns, and the need for greater sustainability practices. The competitive landscape is fiercely contested, with major players constantly vying for market share through fleet expansion, route optimization, and technological investments. The industry's focus is shifting towards enhanced sustainability initiatives to meet growing environmental concerns. This includes the adoption of fuel-efficient vessels, alternative fuels, and decarbonization strategies. Strategic alliances and mergers and acquisitions are expected to further shape the industry’s competitive dynamics. The increasing integration of digital technologies, including blockchain and IoT, is anticipated to improve supply chain transparency, traceability, and overall efficiency. The forecast period of 2025-2033 presents significant opportunities for growth, but navigating the challenges related to geopolitical uncertainties, fluctuating fuel prices, and sustainability pressures will be crucial for sustained success within the global marine freight shipping industry. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the global marine freight shipping industry, covering the period from 2019 to 2033. With a base year of 2025 and an estimated year of 2025, this report forecasts market trends and growth opportunities until 2033, analyzing historical data from 2019-2024. The report leverages high-search-volume keywords such as container shipping, global shipping, maritime freight, ocean freight, shipping logistics, and sea freight, to ensure maximum visibility in search engine results. The report explores key industry players like Maersk, CMA CGM, and MSC, examining their market share, strategies, and impact on industry dynamics. Note: I cannot provide direct hyperlinks to company websites as I am an AI and do not have access to real-time information, including website URLs. Recent developments include: August 2023: Apeejay Shipping Ltd (ASL) announced the acquisition of a Japanese-built vessel with a deadweight capacity of 76,812 MT. The vessel adds significant strength to the Kolkata-based company's fleet, now totaling 10 vessels and boasting a combined deadweight tonnage (dwt) of 671,332 MT., October 2022: Lomar Shipping, a maritime subsidiary of Libra Group, has acquired the Bremen, Germany-based Carl Büttner Holding GmbH & Co. KG. The acquisition of the 166-year-old shipowner and manager known for its technical management expertise and strong maritime legacy is Lomar's most recent step to further diversify and grow its fleet.. Key drivers for this market are: 4., Increasing global trade4.; Demand for cost-effective transportation. Potential restraints include: 4., Increasing regulations affecting the growth of the market4.; Surge in fuel costs affecting the market. Notable trends are: Containerization is Evolving as a Trend.

The Europe Sea Freight Forwarding Market report segments the industry into End User (Automotive, Chemicals, FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods), Retail (Hypermarket, Supermarket, Convenience Stores, and more.), Type (Full Container Type, Less than Container Load, and more.), and Country.

Global Ocean Freight Forwarder market size 2021 was recorded $82.74 Billion whereas by the end of 2025 it will reach $100.954 Billion. According to the author, by 2033 Ocean Freight Forwarder market size will become $150.295. Ocean Freight Forwarder market will be growing at a CAGR of 5.1% during 2025 to 2033.

Ocean Freight Market Outlook

As per the latest research, the global ocean freight market size in 2024 is valued at USD 82.7 billion, reflecting robust growth across international trade lanes. The market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 4.9% from 2025 to 2033, reaching a forecasted value of USD 128.1 billion by the end of the period. The primary growth driver for the ocean freight market is the surging volume of global trade, underpinned by expanding manufacturing bases, the proliferation of e-commerce, and strategic investments in port infrastructure across emerging economies.

A key growth factor for the ocean freight market is the increasing globalization of supply chains. As businesses seek cost efficiencies and access to raw materials and finished goods from diverse geographies, ocean freight remains the most economical and scalable mode for bulk transportation. The rise in demand for consumer goods, automotive components, and industrial machinery, particularly from Asia Pacific and Latin America, is fueling the need for reliable and large-capacity shipping solutions. Additionally, global economic recovery post-pandemic has led to higher trade volumes, which in turn is boosting the demand for ocean freight services across major trade routes.

Another significant driver is the rapid technological advancements in the shipping industry. The adoption of digital freight platforms, blockchain for transparent documentation, and automation in port operations are streamlining the entire ocean freight process. These innovations are reducing transit times, minimizing paperwork, and enhancing real-time cargo tracking, thereby improving overall service reliability. Furthermore, the integration of green shipping practices and investments in fuel-efficient vessels are attracting environmentally conscious shippers, giving rise to a new competitive dimension in the market.

The ocean freight market is also benefiting from the expansion of the e-commerce sector. The surge in cross-border online retail has created a steady flow of small and medium-sized shipments, increasing the relevance of less-than-container load (LCL) services. Retailers and manufacturers are leveraging ocean freight to optimize inventory management and meet the growing expectations for timely deliveries. The trend toward nearshoring and regionalization of supply chains is also contributing to the diversification of shipping routes, further supporting market growth.

In the current landscape, Ocean Freight Visibility has emerged as a crucial aspect of the shipping industry. As global trade volumes increase, the need for real-time tracking and transparency in ocean freight operations has become paramount. Enhanced visibility allows shippers to monitor their cargo throughout the entire journey, from origin to destination, ensuring timely deliveries and reducing the risk of delays. This capability is particularly important in managing complex supply chains, where multiple stakeholders are involved. By leveraging advanced technologies such as IoT and blockchain, companies can achieve greater accuracy in tracking shipments, optimizing routes, and improving overall service reliability. As a result, ocean freight visibility is becoming a key differentiator for service providers aiming to enhance customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

From a regional perspective, Asia Pacific remains the dominant force in the ocean freight market, driven by its status as the worldÂ’s factory and the presence of some of the busiest ports globally. North America and Europe continue to represent major consumption centers, with robust import and export activities. Meanwhile, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are emerging as important trade corridors, supported by investments in port modernization and free trade agreements. These regional dynamics collectively shape the competitive landscape and growth trajectory of the global ocean freight industry.

The industry has significantly changed because of heightened geopolitical risks, technological evolution and supply chain vulnerabilities. The 2023-2024 droughts in the Panama Canal forced much of the industry to shift route activity to longer pathways, with South Africa as a significant alternative. These changes have brought additional operational costs, such as increased fuel consumption, offsetting some of the industry’s gains from raised freight rates. Attacks in the Red Sea have also increased insurance premiums, prompting companies to expand staff training to reduce claims and secure favorable coverage. Cybersecurity concerns have intensified. The expanded adoption of digital and operational technologies exposed new vulnerabilities, prompting carriers to invest in advanced cybersecurity tools. Cruise lines have adopted AI features into customer experience platforms to diversify revenue in an increasingly competitive market. Despite innovative strategies and increased revenue opportunities, profitability has not kept pace. Over the last five years to 2025, industry revenue grew at a CAGR of 16.1% to reach $60.4 billion, with a 4.1% increase expected in 2025 alone. Yet, profit have tightened appreciably, pressured by persistent operational and regulatory cost increases. Looking toward 2030, the operating environment will continue to transform. Major carriers are restructuring alliances to better compete and improve efficiency, a move expected to trigger heightened rivalry and administrative costs that will be reflected in future contract rates. Stricter emission standards loom, motivating larger vessels and cruise lines to invest in dual-fuel engine retrofits to meet new requirements, which carries significant capital implications. Labor trends remain challenging: officer shortages and the rise of unregulated “shadow fleets” strain capacity and pressure wages, while regulatory drills are becoming a regular feature to ensure compliance with US inspection regimes. Altogether, these factors suggest stable but slow revenue growth, with the industry forecast to rise at a CAGR of 1.8% from 2025 to 2030, landing at $66.0 billion.

Between 2020 and 2028, the global container shipping market is forecast to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of some ** percent. While the market was sized at some **** billion U.S. dollars in 2020, it is expected to reach the value of around ***** billion U.S. dollars in 2028.

Ocean Freight and Air Freight Market size was valued at USD 238.9 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 342.22 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period 2026-2032.Increasing international trade activities are expected to drive demand for both ocean and air freight services. The World Trade Organization reported that global merchandise trade volume grew by 3.5% in 2023, and this trend is projected to continue through 2030.

Market Size and Growth: The global ocean freight shipping services market was valued at $209.8 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $369.5 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 6.9%. The market is driven by factors such as increasing global trade, demand for efficient cargo transportation, and growing e-commerce. Key trends include the adoption of digital technologies, automation of processes, and the transition to greener and more sustainable shipping practices. Segmentation and Competition: The market is segmented based on container size (>30ft, ≤30ft) and application (food transport, industrial product transport, consumer goods transport, etc.). Major players in the market include Maersk, MSC, CMA-CGM, Hapag-Lloyd, COSCO, and Ocean Network Express. Competition is intense, with players focusing on providing reliable and efficient services, optimizing capacity utilization, and adopting cost-effective measures to gain market share. Regional markets also exhibit varying dynamics, with Asia Pacific accounting for the largest share due to its high volume of global trade.

Get key insights on Market Research Intellect's Ocean Freight And Air Freight Market Report: valued at USD 500 billion in 2024, set to grow steadily to USD 800 billion by 2033, recording a CAGR of 6.0%.Examine opportunities driven by end-user demand, R&D progress, and competitive strategies.

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.

In 2024, Sinotrans was ranked the world's leading ocean freight forwarder, with almost *** million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of ocean freight. Kuehne + Nagel ranked second with *** million TEUs. Kuehne + Nagel in the spotlight Headquartered in Switzerland, Kuehne + Nagel was founded in **** in Bremen, Germany. At the present time, Kuehne + Nagel Group has offices in more than *** countries and employs approximately 80**** people. In the fiscal year 2024, the company generated roughly **** billion Swiss francs from its worldwide operations, and in the fiscal year 2023,over *** billion Swiss francs from its operations in Asia Pacific. Between the fiscal year of 2013 and 2024, the operational expenses of Kuehne + Nagel increased somewhat continuously, reaching just over *** billion Swiss francs in 2024. The ocean freight market Between 1990 and 2023, the seaborne trade transport volume tripled, reaching nearly ** billion metric tons. In 2024, *** million metric tons of international seaborne trade were transported by container ships. As of June 2025, Liberia possessed the largest merchant fleet by operator domicile globally, with *** million tons deadweight.

Global Ocean Freight and Air Freight Market is segmented by Application (Shipping_ Global Trade_ Supply Chain), Type (Logistics_Transport), and Geography (North America_ LATAM_ West Europe_Central & Eastern Europe_ Northern Europe_ Southern Europe_ East Asia_ Southeast Asia_ South Asia_ Central Asia_ Oceania_ MEA)

The global ocean freight forwarding market is projected to reach a valuation of approximately USD 210 billion by 2033, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.5% from 2025 to 2033.

The global ocean freight forwarding market, valued at $75.21 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by the expanding global trade, e-commerce boom, and increasing demand for efficient and reliable logistics solutions. The market's Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.19% from 2025 to 2033 indicates a steady upward trajectory. Key growth drivers include the rising volume of international trade, particularly within Asia-Pacific and North America, the ongoing digitalization of supply chains with advancements in technology such as blockchain and AI for improved tracking and optimization, and the increasing need for specialized services like temperature-controlled shipping for pharmaceuticals and perishable goods. The Full Container Load (FCL) segment currently dominates the market due to cost-effectiveness for large shipments, but the Less-than-Container Load (LCL) segment is expected to witness significant growth fueled by the rise of smaller businesses engaging in international trade. Challenges, however, include geopolitical instability, fluctuating fuel prices, and port congestion that can disrupt supply chains and increase operational costs. Major players like DB Schenker, DHL, Kuehne + Nagel, and others are constantly innovating to address these challenges and enhance their service offerings, further shaping the competitive landscape. The geographical distribution of the market shows a significant concentration in Asia-Pacific and North America, reflecting these regions' dominant roles in global trade. Europe also holds a substantial market share, while other regions like South America, the Middle East, and Africa are expected to exhibit moderate growth, driven by infrastructure development and economic expansion. The market segmentation by service type (FCL, LCL, others) provides opportunities for specialized service providers to cater to specific needs. Competitive pressures are intense, with companies focusing on strategic alliances, technology investments, and expansion into new markets to maintain a strong position in this dynamic sector. The forecast period of 2025-2033 presents a promising outlook for the ocean freight forwarding market, with opportunities for growth and innovation across various segments and regions. Ocean Freight Forwarding Market: A Comprehensive Analysis (2019-2033) This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the global ocean freight forwarding market, offering invaluable insights for stakeholders seeking to understand its dynamics, trends, and future prospects. Covering the period from 2019 to 2033, with a base year of 2025, this study meticulously examines market size, growth drivers, challenges, and key players, providing crucial data for strategic decision-making. The report utilizes a robust methodology, incorporating both historical data (2019-2024) and future projections (2025-2033), to offer a precise and reliable forecast for the market's trajectory. This report is essential for businesses involved in ocean freight, shipping logistics, container transportation, and global trade. Recent developments include: October 2022: Sea/ announces the acquisition of Chinsay, a technology business with locations in Singapore and a Stockholm headquarters. By uniting the two businesses, the sector as a whole will get access to an improved digital charter party ecosystem with over 450 active broker users and a total annualized volume of 34,000 fixtures., June 2022: AP Moller - Maersk (Maersk) announced the completion of its acquisition of Senator International, a world-renowned transportation company. By adding tailored domestic, international, and cross-border logistics to Maersk's North American landside logistics capabilities for business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) distribution models, the strategic and highly complementary acquisition will benefit the clients.. Key drivers for this market are: Growing Events in E-commerce Sector, Increasing Demand for Qualified Event Logistics Services. Potential restraints include: High Labour Cost, High Pricing. Notable trends are: Rising Cross Broder E-Commerce is driving the Market.

Global Ocean freight and Air freight market size 2025 was XX Million. Ocean freight and Air freight Industry compound annual growth rate (CAGR) will be XX% from 2025 till 2033.