Global Cargo Handling Equipment Market 2025-2035

Cargo Handling Equipment Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report by Equipment Type (Industrial Trucks, Tow Tractors, Conveying Equipment, Stacker, Port Cranes, and Others (Pallet Jacks, and Loaders), by Propulsion Type (Diesel, and Electric), and by Application (Air, Road & Rail, and Marine) Forecast Period (2025-2035)

Industry Overview

Cargo handling equipment market was valued at $8.0 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $14.7 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period (2025–2035). The cargo handling equipment market has witnessed immense growth over the last few years, fueled by the increasing demand for efficient handling of products in numerous industries. As more countries are participating in global trade, by is a necessity for advanced and reliable technology to support logistics operations. Many market players are constantly developing innovative ideas to offer technologically oriented solutions that increase production and reduce costs. An extensive variety of equipment types, such as forklifts, cranes, conveyor systems, and automated guided vehicles (AGVs), defines the industry.

Market Dynamics

Impact of Increased Import and Export Operations on the Cargo Handling Equipment Market

Increased import and export operations are likely to drive the cargo-handling equipment market forward. Import and export operations are on the rise due to international trade that allows for the movement of goods and services among various regions or countries. Cargo handling equipment facilitates import and export operations by increasing efficiency, promoting safety, speeding up handling rates, optimizing capacity utilization, and supporting various types of cargo, hence making international trade operations smoother.

• In November 2023, as per the International Trade Administration, an American government agency, in 2022, US exports of goods and services to the UK increased by 21.5% compared to 2021 to $157.1 billion. Thus, rising import and export operations are propelling the growth of the cargo-handling equipment market.

Market Segmentation

• Based on the equipment type, the market is segmented into industrial trucks, tow tractors, conveying equipment, stackers, port cranes, and others (pallet jacks and loaders).
• Based on the propulsion type, the market is segmented into diesel and electric.
• Based on the application, the market is segmented into air, road & rail, and marine.

Diesel Segment Accounts for Largest Share by Propulsion Type

The diesel segment holds the largest market share of the cargo handling equipment market. In spite of the international drive towards cleaner port operations, diesel-driven container handling equipment remains the largest market segment, particularly in areas with poorly developed electrification networks. Diesel's high reliability, long working distance, and capability to tackle heavy workload make it a mainstay in heavy-volume port operations, mainly in developing nations where energy infrastructure is poor.

Regional Outlook

The global cargo handling equipment market is further divided by region, including North America (the US and Canada), Europe (the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, and the Rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (India, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand, ASEAN Countries, and the Rest of Asia-Pacific), and the Rest of the World (the Middle East & Africa, and Latin America).

Asia-Pacific Controls the Cargo Handling Equipment Industry

Asia-Pacific dominates the global cargo handling market, with the developing economies around the globe, such as China and India, where most of the containers are imported and exported due to the huge demand for raw materials and final goods. One of the prominent nations in the Asia-Pacific region is China, whose major industrial activities are being backed by its expanding economy. Additionally, India is a key player in the Asia-Pacific region as the nation's expanding economy drives a lucrative port business, with Mumbai Port providing India's main entry for imports and exports. The development of new ports, the establishment of special economic zones, and the growth of manufacturing are all expected to boost demand for container handling equipment in India.

Market Players Outlook

The major companies operating in the global cargo handling equipment market include Cargotec Corp., Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., Konecranes Plc, SANY HEAVY INDUSTRY CO., Ltd., and Toyota Industries Corp., among others. Market players are leveraging collaborations, partnerships, mergers, and acquisition plans for business growth and new product development to sustain their market position. Launching new cargo handling equipment market flavors and seeking innovative usage opportunities to match evolving consumer preferences. Establishing strategic alliances to extend distribution networks and enhance product portfolios. Expansion in emerging markets, particularly in Asia-Pacific and Latin America, to take advantage of the increasing demand for cargo handling equipment.

Recent Developments

• In November 2024, ZPMC handed over three STS cranes to Hateco Hai Phong International Container Terminal (HHIT) in Vietnam, which marks the first-ever collaboration between ZPMC and HHIT. The cranes are part of a project that comprises five STS cranes, which are intended for two new deep-water berths at Lach Huyen port. These berths, which together measure 900 meters long, will receive container ships of up to 18,000 TEU. The project began in July 2022 and is anticipated to boost Northern Vietnam's trade with European and US markets. APM Terminals is financing and providing technical assistance to the project.
• In July 2024, SANY signed a contract with APM Terminals (APMT) to deliver 28 units of all-electric container handling equipment for the new APMT Suape terminal in Brazil. They are two remotely operated ship-to-shore cranes, seven remote-controlled rubber-tired gantry cranes, two electric reach stackers, two electric empty container handlers, an electric forklift, and 14 electric terminal tractors. The contract was signed on 25th April in The Hague, and also covers a worldwide port crane supply framework, representing a strategic move by SANY in Latin America.
• In February 2024, Taylor Group acquired CVS Ferrari for an undisclosed value. The move is to expand the Taylor Group's global presence and bring together the respective strengths of the two organizations to facilitate entry into new markets, product development, and enhanced service and support capabilities. CVS Ferrari is an Italian machinery producer of high-grade mobile container handling and heavy freight handling equipment, such as reach stackers and high-capacity forklifts.
• In May 2023, Toyota Material Handling introduced three new electric forklift models. These forklift models include the side-entry end rider for smooth cross-warehouse operation, the multi-functional center rider featuring three functions in one, and the high-torque industrial tow tractor for towing heavy loads easily and efficiently. All three models feature AC drive motors for smooth, quiet operation, adjustable controls for operator comfort, and optional features such as cold storage conditioning and PIN code access for improved customization and security.

The Report Covers

• Market value data analysis of 2024 and forecast to 2035.
• Annualized market revenues ($ million) for each market segment.
• Country-wise analysis of major geographical regions.
• Key companies operating in the global cargo handling equipment market. Based on the availability of data, information related to new products and relevant news is also available in the report.
• Analysis of business strategies by identifying the key market segments positioned for strong growth in the future.
• Analysis of market-entry and market expansion strategies.
• Competitive strategies by identifying ‘who-stands-where’ in the market.

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