Japan 3PL Market Expected to Reach USD 102.0 Billion by 2033 - IMARC Group

Japan 3PL Market Statistics, Outlook and Regional Analysis 2025-2033

The Japan 3PL market size was valued at USD 66.7 Billion in 2024, and it is expected to reach USD 102.0 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 4.3% from 2025 to 2033.

The popularity of AI robotics software is driving Japan's 3PL market by enhancing operational efficiency and addressing labor shortages. This innovation transforms logistics, thereby enabling businesses to optimize supply chain processes and meet the growing demand for streamlined and automated third-party logistics services. For instance, in July 2024, Sumitomo Corporation, an integrated trading company based in Japan, formed a partnership with Dexterity Inc. to introduce AI robotics software in the country, aiming to address logistics challenges and enhance efficiency.

Similarly, in December 2024, Kirin Holdings, a beverage company based in Japan, introduced an AI-powered system capable of significantly reducing the workforce needed for product sorting by potentially cutting staff requirements for this task by half. Besides this, the rising consumer demand for fast and cost-effective delivery has led businesses to outsource logistics operations to 3PL providers, who specialize in last-mile delivery, smart logistics, and warehousing. For instance, in January 2023, Geekplus Co., Ltd., an automated guided vehicle (AGV) company in Japan, selected the Boomi AtomSphere platform to power its new smart logistics system. Besides this, the shift towards online shopping, particularly in urban areas, has intensified the need for advanced distribution networks and efficient supply chain management. Additionally, the growing consumer expectations for same-day or next-day delivery have heightened the importance of reliable logistics partners.

Japan 3PL Market Statistics, By Region

The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include Kanto region, Kansai/Kinki region, Central/Chubu region, Kyushu-Okinawa region, Tohoku region, Chugoku region, Hokkaido region, and Shikoku region. The increasing trend of online shopping in urban areas has created a need for advanced distribution networks, which is supporting the market expansion in Japan.

Kanto Region 3PL Market Trends:

In the Kanto region, Tokyo and Yokohama are serving as key logistics centers. The growing trend towards urban micro-warehousing is supporting e-commerce companies like Rakuten and Amazon. Moreover, various companies across this region are investing in providing same-day deliveries. Also, Rakuten opened fulfillment centers in Yokohama to improve delivery efficiency. This will continue to bolster the market in Kanto over the foreseeable future.

Kansai/Kinki Region 3PL Market Trends:

Kansai/Kinki is focusing on the development of cold chain logistics. The growing pharmaceutical sector across the region is supporting the demand for these facilities. Moreover, Kansai airports also provide strategic nodes for refrigerated storage and transport. Also, various companies like Nichirei Logistics have expanded operations in the region to handle perishable goods.

Central/Chubu Region 3PL Market Trends:

In the Central/Chubu region, which includes Nagoya, the focus is on automotive logistics. This is because prominent automobile companies like Toyota are based there. Various key ports across the region, like Nagoya, handle many car exports. Besides this, various companies, like Nippon Express, work closely with automakers to manage inventory and make international shipments more efficient, thereby stimulating the market growth.

Kyushu-Okinawa Region 3PL Market Trends:

In the Kyushu-Okinawa region, the 3PL market focuses on connecting the area and supporting exports to Asia-Pacific. Its location near China and South Korea makes trading activities easier. Moreover, ports like Hakata and Naha play a crucial role in international logistics, especially for consumer electronics. Naha Airport in Okinawa is an important hub for fast deliveries, with companies like ANA Cargo expanding their air freight operations to connect Kyushu with APAC markets.

Tohoku Region 3PL Market Trends:

The Tohoku region's third-party logistics market is expanding, driven by increased e-commerce and manufacturing activities. Sanki Group, for instance, has enhanced its presence in Tohoku by establishing sales offices in Koriyama and reopening offices in Yamagata, aiming to strengthen delivery networks across the six prefectures.

Chugoku Region 3PL Market Trends:

Chugoku, centered around Hiroshima, is growing in eco-friendly logistics. This is because the region is focusing on sustainability and reducing carbon emissions. Various key ports in Hiroshima support green logistics by using electric vehicles. Moreover, many companies like Mitsubishi Logistics run energy-efficient facilities in the area, showing their commitment to sustainable practices.

Hokkaido Region 3PL Market Trends:

The Hokkaido region focuses on logistics for the agriculture industry because of its large farmland. Moreover, various 3PL providers are investing in cold chain logistics to handle products like dairy and crabs. Also, many ports across the region, like Tomakomai, are important for exports. For example, companies like Maruha Nichiro run cold storage and transport services in Hokkaido to meet the demand for fresh products.

Shikoku Region 3PL Market Trends:

Shikoku is smaller and less industrialized, so it focuses on combining shipments to reduce logistics costs. Since the region relies on small industries and agriculture, 3PL companies help by combining shipments from different small producers for easier transport. The Seto Inland Sea routes and ports like Takamatsu make it easier to use different types of transport.

Top Companies Leading in the Japan 3PL Industry

Some of the key players are Alps Logistics Co. Ltd., DHL, Fukuyama Biagi Logistics Inc., Kintetsu World Express Inc., Kokusai Express Co. Ltd, LOGISTEED Ltd., Mitsui-Soko Holdings Co. Ltd., Nichirei Logistics Group Inc. (Nichirei Corporation), Nippon Express Co. Ltd., Sagawa Express Co. Ltd., Sankyu Inc., Yamato Holdings Co. Ltd., Yusen Logistics Co. Ltd. In January 2025, Alps Logistics Co. introduced the "rBox," an automated warehouse, in Japan. Moreover, NYK Group, in February 2024, expanded its logistics operations by acquiring Noel Topco.

Japan 3PL Market Segmentation Coverage

• On the basis of transport, the market has been bifurcated into railways, roadways, waterways, and airways. The rising requirement for flexible, direct, and essential last-mile delivery services is elevating the market in this segment. Besides this, the increasing emphasis on enhancing transportation is expanding the adoption of outsourcing supply chain management.
• Based on the service type, the market has been bifurcated into dedicated contract carriage, domestic transportation management, international transportation management, warehousing and distribution, and value-added logistics services. Dedicated contract carriage refers to the long-term outsourcing of transportation services to a third-party logistics provider. Moreover, domestic transportation management is the process of managing the movement of goods within borders. Besides this, other types of services concentrate on redefining logistics operations.
• On the basis of the end use, the market has been bifurcated into manufacturing, retail, healthcare, automotive, and others. The manufacturing sector's complex supply chains depend on dependable logistics to deliver finished products. Moreover, the e-commerce industry has fueled the demand for last-mile delivery and warehousing, further driving the retail segment growth. Apart from this, 3PL aids in distributing medical supplies, which is augmenting its need in the healthcare sector. It also ensures to manage the supply chain for vehicles.

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