International Freight Forwarding

Global International Freight Forwarding Market to Reach US$141.2 Billion by 2030

The global market for International Freight Forwarding estimated at US$113.7 Billion in the year 2024, is expected to reach US$141.2 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 3.7% over the analysis period 2024-2030. Freight transportation, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is expected to record a 4.9% CAGR and reach US$61.1 Billion by the end of the analysis period. Growth in the Warehousing & distribution segment is estimated at 2.0% CAGR over the analysis period.

The U.S. Market is Estimated at US$31.0 Billion While China is Forecast to Grow at 7.0% CAGR

The International Freight Forwarding market in the U.S. is estimated at US$31.0 Billion in the year 2024. China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$28.7 Billion by the year 2030 trailing a CAGR of 7.0% over the analysis period 2024-2030. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at a CAGR of 1.4% and 2.9% respectively over the analysis period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 2.1% CAGR.

Global International Freight Forwarding Market – Key Trends & Drivers Summarized

Future of International Freight Forwarding: Trends, Challenges, and Market Growth

The international freight forwarding market plays a pivotal role in global trade, ensuring the seamless transportation of goods across borders. As businesses continue to expand their operations globally, the demand for efficient and reliable freight forwarding services has surged. Freight forwarders act as intermediaries between shippers and carriers, facilitating the movement of cargo through various modes, including air, sea, rail, and road. The industry has evolved significantly in response to technological advancements, regulatory changes, and shifting global trade dynamics.

With the increasing complexity of supply chains, freight forwarding companies are leveraging digital platforms, automation, and data analytics to enhance operational efficiency. The adoption of cloud-based logistics management systems, real-time shipment tracking, and blockchain technology has revolutionized the industry, offering greater transparency and security in global shipments. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce has fueled demand for expedited freight services, prompting forwarders to refine their logistics networks and last-mile delivery solutions. The need for sustainability has also influenced market trends, with freight companies adopting greener practices such as carbon-neutral shipping and fuel-efficient transportation methods.

How Are Technological Advancements Reshaping the Freight Forwarding Industry?

Technology has become a driving force in the evolution of international freight forwarding, enabling companies to streamline operations and enhance service reliability. The implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) has optimized route planning, demand forecasting, and risk assessment. AI-driven predictive analytics allow freight forwarders to anticipate disruptions such as port congestion, adverse weather conditions, and geopolitical issues, thereby mitigating potential delays.

Blockchain technology has introduced a new level of transparency and security in freight forwarding. By digitizing documentation processes such as bills of lading and customs declarations, blockchain reduces paperwork, minimizes fraud, and accelerates transactions. Smart contracts, powered by blockchain, ensure compliance and automate payment releases upon successful cargo delivery. Similarly, Internet of Things (IoT) sensors have enhanced cargo tracking, providing real-time data on temperature, humidity, and location, which is particularly beneficial for perishable and high-value shipments.

The integration of cloud-based freight management systems has further improved operational efficiency by centralizing data access and enhancing communication between stakeholders. Freight forwarders are now leveraging transportation management systems (TMS) and warehouse management systems (WMS) to optimize inventory movement, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction. Moreover, the rise of digital freight platforms and online marketplaces has simplified freight booking, enabling shippers to compare rates, track shipments, and manage logistics seamlessly.

What Are the Key Challenges Impacting the International Freight Forwarding Market?

Despite its rapid evolution, the international freight forwarding market faces several challenges that impact its efficiency and profitability. One of the most significant challenges is global supply chain disruptions. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in freight logistics, with port closures, labor shortages, and container imbalances causing unprecedented delays. Even post-pandemic, geopolitical tensions, trade wars, and regulatory uncertainties continue to disrupt global freight movements, requiring forwarders to remain agile and resilient.

Capacity constraints and fluctuating freight rates also pose challenges for forwarders and shippers. The surge in e-commerce and increased global demand for consumer goods have led to shipping container shortages and port congestion, driving up transportation costs. Additionally, labor shortages in key logistics hubs have slowed down cargo processing and customs clearance, leading to inefficiencies in global trade routes.

Regulatory compliance remains a critical challenge, as freight forwarding involves navigating complex international trade laws, customs regulations, and environmental policies. Each country imposes different requirements for import/export documentation, tariffs, and safety standards, making compliance a resource-intensive process. Furthermore, with growing environmental concerns, freight companies are under increasing pressure to reduce carbon emissions and transition to sustainable logistics practices. Compliance with stricter emissions regulations, such as the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) carbon reduction targets, requires significant investment in green technologies and alternative fuels.

What Factors Are Driving the Growth of the International Freight Forwarding Market?

The growth in the international freight forwarding market is driven by several factors, including the expansion of global trade, advancements in logistics technology, and the rising demand for integrated supply chain solutions. One of the key drivers is the rapid increase in cross-border e-commerce. As online shopping continues to surge, businesses are relying on freight forwarders to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of goods across international markets. E-commerce giants and small businesses alike require robust logistics solutions, prompting forwarders to invest in digital capabilities and last-mile delivery optimization.

Technological innovation is another crucial driver of market growth. The adoption of AI-powered analytics, blockchain-based documentation, and IoT-enabled tracking systems has enhanced supply chain visibility, efficiency, and security. Automated freight booking platforms and cloud-based logistics management solutions have streamlined operations, reducing manual errors and improving shipment tracking accuracy. The growing emphasis on digital transformation has enabled freight forwarders to optimize their networks, reduce operational costs, and enhance service offerings.

Sustainability initiatives are also shaping market expansion, as businesses and governments push for greener logistics solutions. Freight forwarders are increasingly adopting carbon-neutral shipping programs, electric vehicles, and fuel-efficient vessels to minimize environmental impact. Companies investing in sustainable logistics practices gain a competitive edge by aligning with regulatory requirements and consumer preferences for eco-friendly supply chain solutions.

Additionally, the growing complexity of global trade regulations and customs procedures has increased demand for third-party logistics (3PL) providers and freight forwarders with expertise in regulatory compliance. Businesses are outsourcing logistics operations to experienced forwarders who can navigate international trade barriers, optimize routes, and ensure smooth customs clearance. With ongoing advancements and increasing globalization, the international freight forwarding market is poised for sustained growth, driven by innovation, demand for efficiency, and evolving trade dynamics.

SCOPE OF STUDY:

The report analyzes the International Freight Forwarding market in terms of units by the following Segments, and Geographic Regions/Countries:

Segments:
Services (Freight transportation, Warehousing & distribution, Customs brokerage, Freight consolidation, value-added services); Customer (B2B, B2C); End-User (Manufacturing, E-commerce & retail, Automotive, Healthcare & pharmaceuticals, Oil & Gas, Food & Beverages, Consumer goods, Others)

Geographic Regions/Countries:
World; United States; Canada; Japan; China; Europe (France; Germany; Italy; United Kingdom; Spain; Russia; and Rest of Europe); Asia-Pacific (Australia; India; South Korea; and Rest of Asia-Pacific); Latin America (Argentina; Brazil; Mexico; and Rest of Latin America); Middle East (Iran; Israel; Saudi Arabia; United Arab Emirates; and Rest of Middle East); and Africa.

Select Competitors (Total 34 Featured) -

• Agility Logistics
• Bolloré Logistics
• C.H. Robinson Worldwide
• CEVA Logistics
• CJ Logistics
• Dachser
• Damco (part of A.P. Moller-Maersk)
• DB Cargo Logistics
• DB Schenker
• DHL Supply Chain & Global Forwarding
• Dimerco Express Group
• DSV A/S
• Expeditors International
• FedEx Logistics
• GEODIS
• Hellmann Worldwide Logistics
• Kerry Logistics Network
• Kintetsu World Express
• Kuehne + Nagel
• LX Pantos
• Mainfreight
• Nippon Express
• NNR Global Logistics
• Panalpina (now part of DSV)
• Pilot Freight Services
• Scan Global Logistics
• Sinotrans Limited
• Toll Group
• UPS Supply Chain Solutions
• Yusen Logistics

TARIFF IMPACT FACTOR

Our new release incorporates impact of tariffs on geographical markets as we predict a shift in competitiveness of companies based on HQ country, manufacturing base, exports and imports (finished goods and OEM). This intricate and multifaceted market reality will impact competitors by artificially increasing the COGS, reducing profitability, reconfiguring supply chains, amongst other micro and macro market dynamics.

We are diligently following expert opinions of leading Chief Economists (14,949), Think Tanks (62), Trade & Industry bodies (171) worldwide, as they assess impact and address new market realities for their ecosystems. Experts and economists from every major country are tracked for their opinions on tariffs and how they will impact their countries.

We expect this chaos to play out over the next 2-3 months and a new world order is established with more clarity. We are tracking these developments on a real time basis.

As we release this report, U.S. Trade Representatives are pushing their counterparts in 183 countries for an early closure to bilateral tariff negotiations. Most of the major trading partners also have initiated trade agreements with other key trading nations, outside of those in the works with the United States. We are tracking such secondary fallouts as supply chains shift.

To our valued clients, we say, we have your back. We will present a simplified market reassessment by incorporating these changes!

APRIL 2025: NEGOTIATION PHASE

Our April release addresses the impact of tariffs on the overall global market and presents market adjustments by geography. Our trajectories are based on historic data and evolving market impacting factors.

JULY 2025 FINAL TARIFF RESET

Complimentary Update: Our clients will also receive a complimentary update in July after a final reset is announced between nations. The final updated version incorporates clearly defined Tariff Impact Analyses.

Reciprocal and Bilateral Trade & Tariff Impact Analyses:

USA
CHINA
MEXICO
CANADA
EU
JAPAN
INDIA
176 OTHER COUNTRIES.

Leading Economists - Our knowledge base tracks 14,949 economists including a select group of most influential Chief Economists of nations, think tanks, trade and industry bodies, big enterprises, and domain experts who are sharing views on the fallout of this unprecedented paradigm shift in the global econometric landscape. Most of our 16,491+ reports have incorporated this two-stage release schedule based on milestones.

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