Automotive Logistics Market

Market Overview:

The global automotive logistics market size reached US$ 283.5 Billion in 2023. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 463.3 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 5.44% during 2024-2032. The escalating demand for vehicle distribution in densely populated regions, increasing global trade of vehicles and components, and the integration of autonomous vehicles in logistics operations are some of the major factors propelling the market.

Automotive logistics refers to the systematic management and coordination of various processes involved in the movement, storage, and distribution of vehicles, parts, and related materials within the automotive industry. It encompasses the planning, execution, and optimization of activities to ensure the smooth flow of goods from suppliers to manufacturers, dealerships, and customers. It helps minimize transportation costs, inventory holding costs, and operational expenses. It allows manufacturers to quickly adapt to market demand fluctuations, launching new models or variations with minimal delays. It manages the transportation of vehicles and components across international borders, ensures compliance with customs regulations and optimizes supply chain efficiency.

The escalating demand for vehicle distribution in densely populated regions to overcome traffic congestion is positively influencing the market. Additionally, the rising demand for faster delivery times, real-time tracking, and personalized experiences is encouraging logistics companies to enhance their capabilities in order fulfillment and customer service. Apart from this, the increasing need for strategically located warehouses and efficient inventory management systems is supporting the timely and accurate distribution of vehicles and parts. Furthermore, the rising online vehicle purchases and direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales of automotive parts are driving the need for efficient and flexible logistics solutions to deliver products directly to consumers.

Automotive Logistics Market Trends/Drivers:

Globalization of the automotive industry

Rapid growth in the automotive industry is driving the need for robust logistics networks to support the distribution of vehicles and parts to new markets. Additionally, the adoption of advanced manufacturing techniques, such as additive manufacturing, three-dimensional (3D) printing, and modular assembly, is allowing automotive manufacturers to produce components in different locations and assemble them closer to the end markets. Apart from this, the increasing global trade of vehicles and components is catalyzing the demand for efficient logistics solutions to manage cross-border transportation and customs procedures. Moreover, the evolution of trade agreements and changes in tariff regulations is influencing the cross-border movement of vehicles.

Adoption of advanced technologies

The widespread adoption of digital technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and blockchain to enhance visibility, efficiency, and traceability across the supply chain and reduce lead times. Apart from this, the increasing utilization of big data analytics is enabling better demand forecasting, route optimization, and real-time monitoring of shipments, and leading to improved decision-making. Furthermore, the integration of autonomous vehicles in logistics operations to revolutionize last-mile delivery and warehouse management is strengthening the growth of the market. Moreover, the implementation of robotic process automation in automotive logistics to streamline repetitive tasks like order processing, invoice verification, and documentation is propelling the market growth.

Sustainable practices and environmental concerns

The rising prevalence of various respiratory problems like asthma due to increasing air pollution levels is driving the sales of hybrid and electric vehicles (HEVs). Moreover, various leading companies are increasingly focusing on eco-friendly practices, such as using renewable energy sources and implementing recycling programs, to reduce harmful emissions and promote environmental health. The shift towards electric vehicles is rising the need for new logistics solutions for battery transportation, charging infrastructure development, and recycling processes. Furthermore, governing authorities of various countries are undertaking initiatives to promote the adoption of environment-friendly modes of transport, which is offering a favorable market outlook. They are stringent emission regulations to encourage automotive manufacturers to optimize transportation routes, reduce carbon emissions, and explore alternative fuel options.

Automotive Logistics Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global automotive logistics market, along with forecasts at the global, regional and country levels from 2024-2032. Our report has categorized the market based on type, activity, mode of transport, logistics solution, and distribution.

Breakup by Type:

• Finished Vehicles
• Automotive Parts
   

Automotive parts dominate the market

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the type. This includes finished vehicles and automotive parts. According to the report, automotive parts represented the largest segment as they are usually sourced from various suppliers across different geographical regions. This multi-tiered supply chain complexity is driving the need for efficient logistics networks to ensure seamless coordination and timely delivery of components to assembly plants. Additionally, automobile manufacturers are increasingly utilizing just-in-time production methodologies to optimize costs and reduce inventory. Apart from this, the adoption of efficient logistics management to ensure the transportation and storage of vehicle parts in controlled environments and minimize the risk of damage or non-compliance with regulations is favoring the market growth. Furthermore, leading market players are focusing on global sourcing strategies to gain a competitive edge in the market.

Breakup by Activity:

• Warehousing and Handling
• Transportation and Handling
   

Transportation and handling accounts for the majority of the market share 

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the activity has also been provided in the report. This includes warehousing and handling and transportation and handling. According to the report, transportation and handling hold the largest market share as they facilitate the efficient and timely movement of vehicles and automotive parts. Additionally, the increasing emphasis of automotive manufacturers on just-in-time (JIT) production is offering a favorable market outlook. JIT relies on the prompt and precise delivery of components to assembly lines, which helps minimize inventory stockpiles and associated holding costs. Apart from this, the escalating demand for faster vehicle delivery is encouraging automotive manufacturers to invest in well-optimized transportation networks to ensure vehicles reach dealerships promptly, align with customer expectations, and enhance the overall customer experience. Moreover, the rising complexity of the supply chain of the automotive industry is driving the need for efficient transportation and handling. 

Breakup by Mode of Transport:

• Roadways
• Airways
• Maritime
• Railway
   

Railway dominates the market

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the mode of transport. This includes roadways, airways, maritime and railway. According to the report, railway represents the largest market segment as it excels in transporting large quantities of vehicles or automotive parts over long distances. This bulk transportation capability provides cost-efficiency for manufacturers seeking to move substantial volumes in a single shipment. Additionally, it is integrated with other modes of transportation, such as trucks and ships, forming intermodal connections that allow seamless movement of vehicles and parts across different geographical regions. Apart from this, various railway networks and terminals are generally strategically located near major manufacturing hubs and distribution centers. Furthermore, utilizing railway for long-distance transportation helps alleviate road congestion and offers faster delivery of goods. Moreover, rail cars have ample space to accommodate multiple vehicles and large automotive components.

Breakup by Logistics Solution:

• Inbound Logistics
• Outbound Logistics
• Reverse Logistics
• Aftermarket Logistics
   

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the logistics solution. This includes inbound logistics, outbound logistics, reverse logistics and aftermarket logistics.

Inbound logistics manages the movement of raw materials and components from suppliers to manufacturing facilities. It focuses on optimizing supply chain processes, reducing lead times, and ensuring a steady flow of inputs for vehicle production.

Outbound logistics handles the distribution of finished vehicles from manufacturing plants to dealerships and end customers. It involves coordinating transportation, storage, and delivery to ensure the timely availability of vehicles in desired locations, which contributes to customer satisfaction.

Reverse logistics deals with the return of products, such as recalled vehicles or defective parts, from customers or dealerships to manufacturers. Reverse logistics helps efficiently handle returns, minimize waste, and manage repairs or recycling processes in an environmentally responsible manner.

Aftermarket logistics encompasses the distribution of spare parts, accessories, and maintenance components to dealerships, repair centers, and end customers. It ensures a steady supply of replacement parts, supporting vehicle maintenance and customer service while optimizing inventory management.

Breakup by Distribution:

• Domestic
• International
   

Domestic holds the largest share in the market

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the distribution has also been provided in the report. This includes domestic and international. According to the report, domestic accounted for the largest market share as automotive companies need extensive domestic distribution networks to cover vast geographical areas within a country. Additionally, domestic distribution focuses on the final stage of the supply chain, which ensures efficient and timely delivery of vehicles and parts to dealerships and end customers. Apart from this, these distribution networks are established in close proximity to major urban centers and customer bases, which aids in reducing delivery times and enhancing responsiveness to market demands. Furthermore, they support dealerships by maintaining an updated inventory of vehicles and spare parts. Moreover, effective domestic distribution allows manufacturers to synchronize new product launches across different regions.

Breakup by Region:

• 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
   

Asia Pacific exhibits a clear dominance, accounting for the largest automotive logistics market share

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, Asia Pacific accounted for the largest market share as many international manufacturers have established production facilities in the region, resulting in extensive inbound and outbound logistics activities that drive the demand for logistics services. Additionally, the geographical proximity of Asia Pacific countries to other major markets facilitates international trade and cross-border logistics, making it an essential node in global automotive logistics networks. Apart from this, governing authorities in the region are continuously investing in improving transportation infrastructure, including ports, railways, and road networks, to enhance the efficiency of logistics operations. Moreover, the adoption of innovative logistics solutions strengthens the position of Asia Pacific in the global automotive logistics landscape.

Competitive Landscape:

Companies are actively engaged in various strategic initiatives to meet the evolving demands of the digital retail landscape. Additionally, they are adopting environment friendly practices by utilizing electric vehicles, optimizing transportation routes to minimize emissions, and implementing eco-friendly packaging. These companies are integrating technology solutions, such as the Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and tracking systems, to provide real-time visibility into shipments, streamline operations, and enhance supply chain efficiency. Moreover, various automotive logistics companies are focusing on the development of supply chains for automotive manufacturers, ensuring a seamless flow of materials, components, and finished vehicles from suppliers to manufacturing plants and then to dealerships or end customers.

The report has provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the market. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the key players in the market include:

• BLG Logistics Group AG & Co. KG
• Bollore Logistics (Bolloré SE)
• C.H. Robinson Worldwide Inc.
• CEVA Logistics (CMA CGM)
• CFR Rinkens LLC
• Dachser Group SE & Co. KG
• Deutsche Post DHL Group
• DSV A/S
• Hellmann Worldwide Logistics SE & Co. KG
• Kerry Logistics Network Ltd. (SF Express Co. Ltd.)
• Kuehne + Nagel International AG
• Neovia Logistics Services LLC
• Nippon Express Co. Ltd.
• Penske Logistics Inc. (Penske Truck Leasing Co. L.P.)
• Ryder System Inc.

Recent Developments:

• In September 2021, Ryder System Inc. announced a partnership w ith autonomous trucking company Embark to create a nationwide network of transfer points.
• In July 2023, Nippon Express Co. Ltd. launched "e-NX Quote" and "e-NX Visibility" digital forwarding services to enable online quotations and tracking.

Automotive Logistics Market Report Scope:

Key Questions Answered in This Report:

• How has the global automotive logistics market performed so far, and how will it perform in the coming years?
• What are the drivers, restraints, and opportunities in the global automotive logistics market?
• What is the impact of each driver, restraint, and opportunity on the global automotive logistics market?
• What are the key regional markets?
• Which countries represent the most attractive automotive logistics market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the type?
• Which is the most attractive type in the automotive logistics market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the activity?
• Which is the most attractive activity in the automotive logistics market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the mode of transport?
• Which is the most attractive mode of transport in the automotive logistics market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the logistics solution?
• Which is the most attractive logistics solution in the automotive logistics market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the distribution?
• Which is the most attractive distribution in the automotive logistics market?
• What is the competitive structure of the global automotive logistics market?
• Who are the key players/companies in the global automotive logistics market?

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 automotive logistics market from 2018-2032.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global automotive logistics 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 assist 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 automotive logistics 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.