PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1887244
PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1887244
The global road haulage market remains a cornerstone of international trade and logistics, ensuring the movement of goods across local, regional, and cross-border networks. According to the latest industry assessment, the market was valued at USD 3,616.99 billion in 2024 and is projected to increase to USD 3,651.35 billion in 2025, eventually reaching USD 5,046.97 billion by 2032. This growth trajectory reflects rising e-commerce activity, expanding supply chains, and increasing demand for efficient freight transportation. In 2024, Asia Pacific dominated the global market with a 53.09% share, driven by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and a strong logistics infrastructure.
Road haulage-covering the transport of goods using trucks, vans, and lorries-serves as a critical link in supply chains by providing flexible and direct delivery options. Whether short-distance or long-haul, road transport remains essential for manufacturing, retail, e-commerce, mining, and agriculture. The market is transitioning toward sustainability with growing adoption of electric and autonomous vehicles, although high initial investment costs continue to pose a challenge for many operators.
Market Overview
The industry outlook reflects steady expansion supported by global trade, rising consumer expectations, and technological adoption. The Full Load (FTL) segment emerged as the leading service type in 2024, while large logistics providers including DHL, XPO Logistics, DB Schenker, and UPS continued to hold dominant positions. Increasing fleet modernization, digital freight management, and automation technologies are shaping future competitiveness.
The rise of e-commerce has been one of the most transformative drivers. In Q3 2024, U.S. retail e-commerce sales reached USD 300.1 billion, marking a 7.4% year-on-year growth, emphasizing the increasing need for reliable last-mile and regional transportation.
Market Dynamics
Drivers
Globalization and supply chain expansion are major drivers of road haulage demand. The U.S. freight network alone covered over four million miles of roads in 2021, highlighting the scale of infrastructure required to support national and international logistics. As companies expand sourcing and distribution networks across borders, the need for dependable road freight solutions intensifies.
Restraints
A significant restraint in the market is the high initial equipment cost, particularly for advanced and electric fleets. Custom-designed trucks, specialized trailer systems, and modern telematics tools raise capital expenditure, limiting accessibility for small and medium enterprises. Additionally, maintenance expenses and labor shortages add operational pressure.
Opportunities
The accelerating e-commerce boom offers strong growth potential. In Q3 2024, e-commerce accounted for 16.2% of total retail sales in the U.S., indicating major reliance on road transport for fulfillment and last-mile distribution. As consumer expectations for fast delivery increase, road haulage providers are investing in efficiency, tracking systems, and optimized route planning.
Challenges
The industry continues to face a global driver shortage, which raises wages and affects timely deliveries. In July 2024, the International Road Transport Union (IRU) reported that 48% of European companies expect greater difficulty filling driver positions, limiting service capacity and overall market expansion.
Asia Pacific led the market in 2024 with a value of USD 1,920.38 billion, supported by strong manufacturing bases and expanding e-commerce in China, India, and Japan. China's market is projected to reach USD 954.18 billion in 2025, while India is estimated at USD 383.39 billion.
Europe is anticipated to reach USD 857.74 billion in 2025, influenced by sustainability targets and increasing adoption of electric fleets. North America follows closely with an expected USD 734.94 billion in 2025, driven by B2B e-commerce, cross-border trade, and logistics modernization.
Competitive Landscape
Key industry leaders-DHL, DB Schenker, UPS, FedEx, and Kuehne + Nagel-continue to expand capabilities through digital freight systems, EV fleet integration, acquisitions, and route optimization tools. DHL's 2025 acquisition of Inmar Supply Chain Solutions further strengthened its presence in North America's reverse logistics market.
Segmentation By Service Type
By Distance
By End-user Industry
By Cargo Type
By Route
By Vehicle Type
By Region