Perishable Goods Transportation Market

Perishable Goods Transportation Market Size and Share:

The global perishable goods transportation market size was valued at USD 20.2 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 32.0 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.3% during 2025-2033.  Asia-Pacific currently dominates the market, holding a significant market share of over 35.0% in 2024. The growing demand for processed foods, the rising acceptance of natural and plant-based diets, and the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technology are among the main factors fueling the perishable goods transportation market share.

The market for perishable goods transportation is driven by increasing global demand for fresh and frozen food, advancements in cold chain logistics, and the rise of e-commerce grocery deliveries. Growing urbanization and changing consumer preferences for fresh produce, dairy, meat, and seafood require efficient temperature-controlled transportation. Stringent food safety regulations mandate strict monitoring and compliance, boosting investments in refrigerated logistics. Technological innovations, such as IoT-based tracking, GPS, and AI-driven logistics, improve supply chain efficiency and reduce spoilage. Additionally, expanding international trade and globalization increase the need for seamless perishable goods transport. The growth of quick-commerce, meal-kit services, and online food delivery further accelerates the demand for reliable and efficient cold chain solutions worldwide.

The market for perishable goods transportation in the United States is driven by rising demand for fresh and frozen food, expanding e-commerce grocery sales, and advancements in cold chain logistics. The growth of retail chains, meal-kit services, and online food delivery further boosts demand. Technological innovations, including IoT tracking, GPS, and AI-driven logistics, enhance efficiency and reduce spoilage. Additionally, strong domestic agricultural production and international trade partnerships increase the need for reliable perishable goods transportation across states and borders, supporting continued market expansion. For instance, in December 2023, Energous Corporation, a pioneer in RF-based wireless power network technologies, and Identiv, Inc., a worldwide leader in digital security and identification for the Internet of Things (IoT), have collaborated to introduce real-time asset tracking to logistics and supply chain applications. This partnership seeks to wirelessly energize Identiv’s ID-Pixels tags utilizing Energous’ PowerBridge technology, facilitating precise and dependable sensor readings applicable across the supply chain, including within cold chain logistics. The collaborative solution seeks to provide more dependable, uniform power than single-use batteries and charging wires for the numerous IoT sensors utilized in the logistics sector, leading to reduced maintenance, decreased expenses, and quicker installation times, while also ensuring enhanced accuracy, safety, and user-friendliness.

Perishable Goods Transportation Market Trends:

Rising Consumer Demand for Fresh and Frozen Food

The increasing preference for fresh produce, dairy, meat, seafood, and frozen food is a key driver of the market. For instance, in March 2024, Rhenus announced an investment in a state-of-the-art temperature-regulated perishables facility for managing fresh goods at the company's base in London Heathrow. Packed with sophisticated security and storage features, the launch is part of a plan to offer customers improved perishables logistics options. Consumers seek healthier food options, organic products, and ready-to-eat meals, leading to a growing need for efficient cold chain logistics. The expansion of supermarkets, hypermarkets, and e-commerce grocery platforms has further increased demand for timely and temperature-controlled transportation. Additionally, globalization and urbanization have enabled the import and export of perishable goods, necessitating advanced logistics solutions to maintain quality, extend shelf life, and prevent food spoilage during transit.

Advancements in Cold Chain Logistics

Technological advancements in refrigeration, temperature monitoring, and packaging are crucial for ensuring the safe transportation of perishable goods which is further creating a positive perishable goods transportation market outlook. Cold chain solutions such as refrigerated trucks, containers, and warehouses help maintain optimal storage conditions. IoT-enabled tracking, real-time monitoring, and AI-driven logistics improve efficiency, reducing spoilage and operational costs. Innovations in packaging materials, such as vacuum-sealed and insulated containers, also enhance food preservation. These advancements ensure compliance with stringent food safety regulations, support global trade and enable businesses to meet the growing demand for high-quality perishable goods with minimal wastage. For instance, in January 2025, RealCold, a prominent cold chain service provider, announced the implementation of Blue Yonder Warehouse Management to modernize its warehouse operations to satisfy the varied requirements of its clients and the growing demands of the industry. The project will be carried out by Netlogistik, a partner of Blue Yonder.

Growth of E-commerce and Online Food Delivery

The rise of e-commerce grocery platforms and online food delivery services has significantly increased perishable goods transportation demand. For instance, in January 2025, Zomato subtly started to launch a 15-minute food delivery service, intensifying competition in the rapidly changing quick food delivery market. The new functionality, now offered on the Zomato app, puts the company in competition with rivals such as Swiggy's Bolt, Magicpin, and Zepto. Consumers now expect faster and fresher deliveries, prompting retailers and logistics companies to invest in temperature-controlled transportation. The popularity of meal-kit services, frozen food subscriptions, and quick-commerce grocery models has accelerated the need for reliable cold chain logistics. Businesses are adopting innovative solutions such as refrigerated lockers, drone deliveries, and AI-based route optimization to ensure timely and efficient delivery. As online shopping continues to expand, the demand for advanced perishable goods transportation solutions will keep growing.

Perishable Goods Transportation Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global perishable goods transportation market, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on type, and transportation mode.

Analysis by Type:

• MPS (Meat, Poultry, and Seafood)
• Dairy and Frozen Desserts
• Vegetables and Fruits
• Bakery and Confectionery

MPS (Meat, Poultry, and Seafood) stand as the largest type in 2024, holding around 37.8% of the market due to their high demand, strict temperature control requirements, and global trade volume. These products have a short shelf life and require specialized cold chain logistics, including refrigerated trucks, air freight, and advanced storage solutions. Rising consumer demand for fresh and frozen proteins, increasing international seafood exports, and stringent food safety regulations further drive the need for efficient transportation. Additionally, expanding e-commerce and food delivery services contribute to the growing reliance on temperature-sensitive logistics, ensuring MPS remains the dominant segment in perishable goods transportation.

 Analysis by Transportation Mode:

• Roadways
• Seaways
• Others

Roadways leads the market with around 48.3% of the market share in 2024 due to their flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and extensive reach. Trucks and refrigerated vehicles enable direct deliveries from producers to retailers, reducing transit time and maintaining product freshness. Unlike air or sea transport, roadways offer last-mile connectivity, making them ideal for short to medium-distance transportation. The growing demand for fresh food, expansion of grocery e-commerce, and advancements in cold chain technology further boost road transport. Additionally, improved highway networks and refrigerated trucking fleets ensure efficient temperature-controlled logistics, making roadways the preferred choice for perishable goods transportation across urban and rural areas.

Regional Analysis:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa

In 2024, Asia-Pacific accounted for the largest market share of over 35.0%. Asia-Pacific experiences growing perishable goods transportation adoption due to rising natural and plant-based diets, leading to increased demand for fresh fruits, vegetables, and alternative protein sources. For instance, in 2020, India had around 500 Million vegetarians and around 5 Million being strict vegans. Expanding health-conscious consumer preferences fuel higher transportation volumes of perishable plant-based products, requiring temperature-controlled logistics. Perishable goods transportation companies invest in specialized cold storage and reefer fleets to cater to plant-based food distribution. Rising urbanization drives demand for fresh and minimally processed natural food, necessitating advanced transportation networks. Logistics providers optimize transportation routes to reduce transit time for plant-based perishables, maintaining nutritional integrity. Foodservice operators expand plant-based menu offerings, heightening reliance on efficient perishable goods transportation. Growing consumer preference for organic and natural food amplifies the need for strict temperature control during transportation. Supermarkets and specialty stores increase plant-based product assortments, driving higher logistical requirements. Health-focused dietary trends push for stringent handling protocols in perishable goods transportation. Perishable food startups prioritize eco-friendly packaging and optimized cold chain logistics to cater to plant-based food demands.

Key Regional Takeaways:
 

North America Perishable Goods Transportation Market Analysis

The perishable goods transportation market in North America is driven by rising consumer demand for fresh and frozen food, the growth of e-commerce grocery deliveries, and advancements in cold chain logistics. Increased urbanization and changing dietary preferences have boosted the need for efficient temperature-controlled transportation. Additionally, stringent food safety regulations by the FDA and USDA require strict monitoring of perishable goods, driving investments in refrigerated transport solutions. The expansion of retail chains, restaurants, and meal-kit services further fuels demand. Technological advancements, such as IoT-enabled tracking, GPS, and AI-driven logistics, enhance efficiency and reduce spoilage. Lastly, cross-border trade, especially between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, supports market growth by increasing the volume of perishable goods transportation.

United States Perishable Goods Transportation Market Analysis

In 2024, the United States accounted for over 87.80% of the perishable goods transportation market in North America. The United States experiences increasing perishable goods transportation adoption due to growing Internet of Things (IoT) technology integration, enhancing real-time tracking, temperature monitoring, and predictive analytics. For instance, by the end of 2024, the number of IoT devices across the globe is expected to exceed 17 Billion, with 5.4 Billion In North America alone. IoT-enabled sensors ensure food safety and reduce spoilage risks, making cold chain logistics more efficient. Companies leverage IoT for automated route optimization, minimizing delays and maintaining optimal conditions. Demand for fresh produce, dairy, and seafood transportation rises, requiring advanced fleet management solutions powered by IoT connectivity. Smart warehouses equipped with IoT facilitate inventory tracking and quality control, streamlining perishable goods transportation. Rising consumer preference for farm-to-table deliveries amplifies IoT-driven advancements in refrigeration and packaging solutions. Logistics firms utilize IoT for remote diagnostics, reducing maintenance downtime and improving operational efficiency. IoT enhances supply chain transparency, fostering trust among stakeholders. Growth in urban grocery deliveries escalates demand for perishable goods transportation, emphasizing IoT-enabled real-time monitoring. Fleet electrification efforts combined with IoT technology further optimize perishable goods logistics. Increased regulatory compliance for food safety standards drives IoT-powered solutions for cold chain validation.

Europe Perishable Goods Transportation Market Analysis

Europe sees rising perishable goods transportation adoption due to increasing initiatives to reduce carbon footprint and promote green transportation, encouraging sustainable logistics solutions. For instance, the EU has a set target for 2030 of a 55 % net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Fleet operators transition to eco-friendly refrigeration systems, cutting emissions while ensuring optimal temperature control for perishable goods. Demand for low-emission vehicles in perishable goods transportation strengthens investment in electric and hybrid trucks. Cold chain logistics companies deploy energy-efficient warehouses and transport facilities to align with carbon reduction goals. Growing regulatory support for green transportation solutions accelerates adoption of sustainable perishable goods logistics. Companies optimize transportation networks to minimize energy consumption and enhance fuel efficiency in perishable goods transportation. Adoption of smart route planning reduces vehicle emissions, supporting environmental sustainability. Green logistics strategies integrate alternative fuels and eco-conscious packaging to enhance perishable goods transportation. Expansion of urban food delivery services boosts perishable goods transportation with low-carbon solutions. Sustainable refrigeration technology innovation reduces greenhouse gas emissions in perishable logistics. Increased consumer awareness of sustainability strengthens demand for green perishable goods transportation.

Latin America Perishable Goods Transportation Market Analysis

Latin America experiences increasing perishable goods transportation adoption due to rising processed food demand driven by growing disposable income. According to reports, Latin America's total disposable income is expected to grow by nearly 60% from 2021 to 2040. Consumers seek convenient, ready-to-eat perishable products, intensifying demand for efficient cold chain logistics. Urbanization fuels expansion of supermarkets and hypermarkets, amplifying perishable goods transportation needs. Growth in middle-class consumers boosts spending on frozen and refrigerated food, increasing reliance on temperature-controlled logistics. Foodservice providers enhance distribution networks to meet rising processed food consumption, strengthening perishable goods transportation. Manufacturers expand production of perishable processed food, requiring improved logistics infrastructure. Increased consumer preference for frozen meals and dairy escalates demand for advanced refrigeration technologies in perishable goods transportation.

Middle East and Africa Perishable Goods Transportation Market Analysis

Middle East and Africa witness increasing perishable goods transportation adoption due to rising electric vehicle (EV) integration, promoting sustainable and efficient logistics. According to the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, there are approximately 8,000 electric vehicles registered in the country. Logistics companies invest in EV fleets for temperature-controlled perishable goods transportation, reducing carbon emissions. Expanding urban centres require eco-friendly refrigeration solutions for perishable food transportation. Government policies support fleet electrification, accelerating EV adoption in perishable goods logistics. Cold chain service providers integrate electric-powered refrigeration units, improving sustainability in perishable goods transportation. Increasing fuel cost volatility encourages adoption of EVs for cost-effective perishable goods transportation. Expanding retail networks drive demand for sustainable temperature-controlled distribution.

Competitive Landscape:

The perishable goods transportation market is highly competitive, with key players focusing on advanced cold chain solutions, technological innovations, and global expansion. Leading companies include DHL, FedEx, Kuehne + Nagel, Americold, and Lineage Logistics, which offer temperature-controlled storage and transportation. Emerging players invest in IoT tracking, AI-driven logistics, and automation to enhance efficiency. The rise of e-commerce and online grocery deliveries intensifies competition, prompting logistics providers to improve last-mile delivery services. Additionally, increasing regulations on food safety and sustainability push companies to adopt eco-friendly packaging and energy-efficient refrigeration systems, shaping the market’s future dynamics and growth strategies.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the perishable goods transportation market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• A.P. Møller – Mærsk A/S
• Africa Express Line Limited
• Bay & Bay Transportation
• C.H. Robinson Worldwide Inc
• CMA CGM Group (MERIT France SAS)
• DB Schenker
• Deutsche Post AG
• FST Logistics Inc
• Hapag-Lloyd AG
• Hellmann Worldwide Logistics SE and Co. KG
• K Line Logistics Ltd (Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha Ltd)
• Kuehne + Nagel International AG
• Orient Overseas Container Line Limited
• VersaCold Logistics Services

Latest News and Developments:

• December 2024: Maersk introduced a fleet of refrigerated containers with IoT sensors for real-time monitoring of perishable goods. This technology enhances efficiency and safety in transporting temperature-sensitive products. By maintaining optimal conditions, the initiative ensures product integrity throughout the supply chain.
• November 2024: DHL expanded its cold chain logistics with temperature-controlled warehouses and transport solutions. This initiative meets the rising demand for efficient perishable goods transportation. Industries like pharmaceuticals and fresh food benefit from improved storage and distribution reliability.
• October 2024: XPO Logistics launched electric refrigerated trucks to support sustainable perishable goods transportation. These vehicles reduce carbon emissions while maintaining precise temperature controls. The initiative aligns with the company’s sustainability goals and enhances eco-friendly logistics.
• September 2024: Kuehne + Nagel introduced a blockchain-powered digital platform for perishable goods tracking. It enhances transparency by allowing real-time monitoring of shipments. This reduces spoilage risks and ensures product quality across the supply chain.
• September 2024: The Rhenus Group has launched Rhenus Fresh in Spain, offering temperature-controlled transport for perishables. This service provides door-to-door maritime and air logistics for fresh and frozen goods. Rhenus aims to meet growing demand while enhancing efficiency and sustainability in Spain’s supply chain.

Perishable Goods Transportation Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the perishable goods transportation market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global perishable goods transportation market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's Five Forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the perishable goods transportation industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.