USD 295.3 billion
Cold Chain Logistics Market Size, Share, and Growth Analysis
Cold Chain Logistics Market By Type (Refrigerated Transport, Railways), By Temperature Type (Frozen, Chilled), By Technology (Dry Ice, Gel Packs), By Process, By Application, By Region - Industry Forecast 2025-2032
Report ID:
SQMIG45M2009 |
Region:
Global |
Published Date: April, 2025
Pages:
197
|Tables:
91
|Figures:
78
Format -
Cold Chain Logistics Market Insights
Cold Chain Logistics Market size was valued at USD 295.3 billion in 2023 and is poised to grow from USD 335.46 billion in 2024 to USD 930.4 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 13.6% during the forecast period (2025-2032).
The cold chain logistics market involves regulated transportation and storage of temperature-sensitive commodities, including chemicals, medications, and perishable food products. So, it is kept preserved to sustain the quality of those commodities during and after delivery to their point of use. Due to increased globalization, demands for frozen and fresh commodities are rising all around the world, and this is highly expanding the scope of the sector of cold chain logistics. Improvements in refrigeration technology, stricter regulations, and growth in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries are some of the factors driving the growth of the market. Moreover, the growth in internet-based grocery ordering and e-commerce has meant enhanced demand for effective cold chain logistics solutions. Firms are investing heavily in advanced logistics methods and technology, such as one-to-one distribution with effortless temperature control to support timely distribution, due to consumer demands for increased delivery speed of fresh and frozen goods. Sustainability is increasingly a key element in the market, and many suppliers are reviewing eco-friendly packaging and energy-efficient shipping options to reduce their carbon footprint. Moreover, the possibility of using Internet of Things technology for monitoring enhances the overall view and traceability of the supply chain and even supports proactive management of temperature-sensitive products and the tracking of shipments in real-time. In general, cold chain logistics is regarded as an innovative and a standards-related sector with high emphasis on the safety and integrity of the product throughout the supply chain.
US Cold Chain Logistics Market is poised to grow at sustainable CAGR for the next forecast year.
Market snapshot - 2025-2032
Global Market Size
Largest Segment
Refrigerated Warehouses
Fastest Growth
Refrigerated Transportation
Growth Rate
13.6% CAGR
Global Cold Chain Logistics Market ($ Bn)
Country Share for North America Region (%)
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Cold Chain Logistics Market Segments Analysis
Global Cold Chain Logistics Market is segmented by Type, Temperature Type, Technology, Process, Application and region. Based on Type, the market is segmented into Refrigerated Transport, Railways, Airways, Roadways, Waterways and Refrigerated Warehouse. Based on Temperature Type, the market is segmented into Frozen and Chilled. Based on Technology, the market is segmented into Dry Ice, Gel Packs, Eutectic Plates, Liquid Nitrogen and Quilts. Based on Process, the market is segmented into Pre-Cooling Facilities, Cold Storage, Refrigerated Carriers, Packaging and Information Management System. Based on Application, the market is segmented into Pharmaceuticals, Dairy and frozen desserts, Fruits and vegetables, Bakery and confectionery, Process food and Others. Based on region, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Middle East & Africa.
Analysis by Type
With a growth in demand for packaged food items across the globe, refrigerated warehouses would retain a major share of the cold chain logistics market in the near future. Fast growth in demand for frozen and chilled food options has become a significant cause with increased demand for convenience and ready-to-eat food consumption. This is particularly the case in cities, where people's busy lives force them to look for fast food and easy eating places. Therefore, to ensure that these products are treated and stored under best conditions so that they can stay fresh and safe for consumption, it is therefore expected that the increasing demand of frozen food product will significantly increase the need for refrigerated warehouses.
Furthermore, during the projection period, the refrigerated transportation category is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR. This growth is due to the continuously strict focus on the safe transportation of products and items sensitive to temperature in various sectors. Global trade expansion and increasing customer demand for freshness has led to an increasing need for refrigerated transportation techniques such as refrigerated cargo ships, railcars, trucks, and air freight. With such development, it is not only easy to transport such perishable goods but helps e-commerce develop as it ensures that customers get fresh products on schedule with high standards, meeting stringent legal requirements.
Analysis by Application
In the year 2023, the market in the food and beverages sector was taken up by nearly 77.0% of the entire market, which further solidifies it as the main industry in the cold chain sector. It is this industry that finds the use of cold chain logistics in order to keep perishables such as fruits, vegetables, dairy, and meats fresh and of quality. The rising customer preferences towards convenience and safety are forcing the demand for cold chain solutions. The segment is growing at a CAGR of 18.7% and will grow strongly during the forecast period. This growth is further going to be supported with advances made in supply chain management and refrigeration technology that would ensure the food products are delivered and held in the best possible conditions.
The pharmaceuticals category is predicted to register high growth over the forecasting period, with an estimated compound annual growth rate of 20.8%. The central driver of this growth is the critical importance of maintaining the safety and integrity of pharmaceutical products; many require strict temperature control both in storage and during transportation. As health concerns around the world continue to shift, the demand for temperature-sensitive products-vaccines and biologics among them-will continue growing. Development of cold chain logistics by the pharmaceutical companies proves the necessity for separate storage systems along with the monitoring technologies required to limit the risks. As the regulatory requirements get stricter, demand will continue to rise for reliable cold chain services in the market, propelling growth in this particular sector.
Global Cold Chain Logistics Market By Type
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Cold Chain Logistics Market Regional Insights
North America accounted for the largest share of 34% and above in the overall share in 2023 as the largest market holder of cold chain logistics. As the region holds an enormous growth potential for companies with long-term investments, such dominance is anticipated to sustain itself in the projection period. The growth of a modern infrastructure, very high penetration of leading-edge technologies, and an increasingly quality-aware and freshness-conscious consumer base in terms of food items and medications are some of the other significant contributors to this growth. The implementation of connected devices coupled with the extensive spread of IoT technology further adds to more efficient operations through real-time monitoring and improved supply chain efficiency. North America is well poised to be at the number one position in the cold chain industry as companies are aggressive in their quest for sustainability and statutory compliance.
Asia-Pacific is anticipated to grow at the fastest pace within the cold chain logistics market as it is predicted to have a compound yearly growth rate of 21.1% over the course of the forecast period. This fast-paced development is attributed to large-scale investments in logistics infrastructure by the government, which are meant to achieve heightened supply chain efficiency and satisfy the ever-growing demand for temperature-sensitive items. Innovation and operational effectiveness of the industry are further stimulated by high penetration levels of warehouse management systems. Increasing demand for premium perishable products, driven by urbanization and the growth of the middle class, makes it essential to provide sophisticated cold chain solutions. The region offers enormous growth opportunities in Asia Pacific, as this region not only assimilates new technologies but is also the largest player in the global cold chain logistics market.
Global Cold Chain Logistics Market By Geography
- Largest
- Fastest
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Cold Chain Logistics Market Dynamics
Cold Chain Logistics Market Drivers
Increasing Demand for Perishable Goods
- Rising global population and increased preferences from customers are triggering the demand for more perishable goods, fresh fruit, dairy products, and medicines. To sustain freshness and efficacy, companies need to invest in efficient cold chain logistics as customers are focusing more than ever on the quality and safety of their products. Innovation and development that fuel increased demand support overall growth of the cold chain logistics market.
Developments in Technology
- These technological advancements-from blockchain and IoT to sophisticated monitoring systems-aid in revolutionizing cold chain logistics. Solutions such as these ensure regulatory compliance through real-time tracking and control of temperature-sensitive commodities. Data analytics and automation further enhance operational efficiency through lowered costs and wastage. Businesses are ready to gain the full impact of the competitive advantage in the cold chain if they can employ these innovations to improve the efficiency and transparency of their supply chains.
Cold Chain Logistics Market Restraints
Expensive Infrastructure
- Quite a huge investment in specific infrastructure such as transportation vehicles and temperature-controlled storage would be required to establish and maintain an effective cold chain logistics system. Such high upfront investment will not draw small companies and development of players will also be negatively impacted by such big investments. Further, cost of running operations and maintaining it will restrict utilization of resources for low-margin entities. This financial constraint confines the prospect of expanding the market, mainly in developing countries.
Challenges Regarding Regulatory Compliance
- Temperature-sensitive products such as in the food and pharmaceutical industries require strict regulations and standards to ensure they are safe and effective. This may require some quite advanced procedures, which might be time-consuming and exert considerable hindrance to companies. Failure to comply may result in severe fines, product recalls, and reputational losses. Companies must incur expenses in compliance procedures whenever the rules are changed, divesting the firm's resources allocated to development plans and potentially harming market expansion.
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Cold Chain Logistics Market Competitive Landscape
Companies and new startups to make up the cold chain logistics competitive landscape, each competing for market share in efficiency and innovation. To better their services, giant corporations, such as DHL Supply Chain, Americold Logistics, and XPO Logistics, leverage innovative technologies and vast networks. A new rivalry is being initiated with new entrants into the business, taking more focus on sustainability projects and niche markets. Partnerships and acquisitions are quite common as companies seek to deepen their competencies and the reach of their global presence.
Top Players in Cold Chain Logistics Market
- AmeriCold Logistics LLC (United States)
- Lineage Logistics Holdings, LLC (United States)
- Nichirei Corporation (Japan)
- Swire Group (China)
- Burris Logistics (United States)
- United Parcel Service, Inc. (United States)
- DHL International GmbH (Germany)
- FedEx Corporation (United States)
- Kloosterboer (Netherlands)
- MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company S.A. (Switzerland)
- C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. (United States)
- NewCold Advanced Cold Logistics (Netherlands)
- SSI SCHAEFER (Germany)
- Interstate Cold Storage, Inc. (United States)
Cold Chain Logistics Market Recent Developments
- January 2024: The top temperature-controlled logistics firm in the UAE, LogX, was acquired by GreenDome Holdings through its subsidiary Elite Co., a well-known logistics investment vehicle owned by big-time players in the regional industry. With this multi-million-dollar deal, GDH marks yet another milestone as it secures its market stronghold and expands its offerings.
- December 2023: AVG Logistics acquired over 50 cold chain trucks and increased its overall fleet size to 275 to improve fleet operations. This enhanced AVG's serviceability. The largest MNC FMCG firm in India has secured a long-term deal for dry and frozen items.
- October 2023: Mitsui & Co., Ltd. agreed to invest in PT. Pangan Lestari. One of Indonesia's leading cold-chain logistics and food distribution companies, this investment further improved the class of operations with PL's expertise and experience in cold-chain logistics and food distribution.
Cold Chain Logistics Key Market Trends
- Initiatives toward Sustainability: Sustainability is the new hotspot in the world of cold chain logistics as businesses seek to go greener and reduce their footprint on the environment. This comes about through using eco-friendly packaging, energy-efficient refrigeration technology, and streamlined transportation routes in a way that reduces carbon emissions. Sustainable practices are taking greater importance for businesses owing to the rapidly environmentally conscious clients. Beyond improving reputation, this new trend responds to growing pressures from the legislature to have ecologically aware business practices.
- Implementation of Advanced Technologies: The dynamics of cold chain logistics are changing with the implementation of advanced technology, such as AI, machine learning, and IoT. These technologies enable predictive analytics for demand forecasting, better inventory controls, and real-time monitoring of supply chain conditions. Promoting innovation in the industry, growth in smart logistics solution solutions therefore brings in more productivity and reduces waste. This would impact cold chain logistics in the future as companies are now scouting for improvements in operational efficiency.
Cold Chain Logistics Market SkyQuest Analysis
SkyQuest's ABIRAW (Advanced Business Intelligence, Research & Analysis Wing) is our Business Information Services team that Collects, Collates, Correlates, and Analyses the Data collected by means of Primary Exploratory Research backed by robust Secondary Desk research.
As per SkyQuest analysis, the demand for cold chain logistics is expected to grow highly in the next years due to increases in demand for perishable goods, innovative technology, and increased emphasis on sustainability. However, despite a number of challenges, including infrastructure cost and regulatory compliance, it has a vast potential, especially in North America and Asia Pacific. The cold chain business will become of paramount importance to ensure safe and qualitative temperature-sensitive products within the global supply chain as businesses become innovative and adapt to the changing expectations of customers. Businesses with visions to thrive in this changing environment will need to explore cutting-edge technologies and environmentally responsible procedures.
| Report Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Market size value in 2023 | USD 295.3 billion |
| Market size value in 2032 | USD 930.4 billion |
| Growth Rate | 13.6% |
| Base year | 2024 |
| Forecast period | 2025-2032 |
| Forecast Unit (Value) | USD Billion |
| Segments covered |
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| Regions covered | North America (US, Canada), Europe (Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe), Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, Rest of Asia-Pacific), Latin America (Brazil, Rest of Latin America), Middle East & Africa (South Africa, GCC Countries, Rest of MEA) |
| Companies covered |
|
| Customization scope | Free report customization with purchase. Customization includes:-
|
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Table Of Content
Executive Summary
Market overview
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Market Overview
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Data Table on Market Overview
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Cold Chain Logistics Market Characteristics
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Market by Geography
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Market Segmentation
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Incremental Growth
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Data Table on Incremental Growth
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Vendor Market Positioning
Parent Market Analysis
Market overview
Market size
- Market Dynamics
- Exhibit: Impact analysis of DROC, 2021
- Drivers
- Opportunities
- Restraints
- Challenges
- Exhibit: Impact analysis of DROC, 2021
- SWOT Analysis
KEY MARKET INSIGHTS
- Technology Analysis
- (Exhibit: Data Table: Name of technology and details)
- Pricing Analysis
- (Exhibit: Data Table: Name of technology and pricing details)
- Supply Chain Analysis
- (Exhibit: Detailed Supply Chain Presentation)
- Value Chain Analysis
- (Exhibit: Detailed Value Chain Presentation)
- Ecosystem Of the Market
- Exhibit: Parent Market Ecosystem Market Analysis
- Exhibit: Market Characteristics of Parent Market
- IP Analysis
- (Exhibit: Data Table: Name of product/technology, patents filed, inventor/company name, acquiring firm)
- Trade Analysis
- (Exhibit: Data Table: Import and Export data details)
- Startup Analysis
- (Exhibit: Data Table: Emerging startups details)
- Raw Material Analysis
- (Exhibit: Data Table: Mapping of key raw materials)
- Innovation Matrix
- (Exhibit: Positioning Matrix: Mapping of new and existing technologies)
- Pipeline product Analysis
- (Exhibit: Data Table: Name of companies and pipeline products, regional mapping)
- Macroeconomic Indicators
COVID IMPACT
- Introduction
- Impact On Economy—scenario Assessment
- Exhibit: Data on GDP - Year-over-year growth 2016-2022 (%)
- Revised Market Size
- Exhibit: Data Table on Cold Chain Logistics Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Impact Of COVID On Key Segments
- Exhibit: Data Table on Segment Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- COVID Strategies By Company
- Exhibit: Analysis on key strategies adopted by companies
MARKET DYNAMICS & OUTLOOK
- Market Dynamics
- Exhibit: Impact analysis of DROC, 2021
- Drivers
- Opportunities
- Restraints
- Challenges
- Exhibit: Impact analysis of DROC, 2021
- Regulatory Landscape
- Exhibit: Data Table on regulation from different region
- SWOT Analysis
- Porters Analysis
- Competitive rivalry
- Exhibit: Competitive rivalry Impact of key factors, 2021
- Threat of substitute products
- Exhibit: Threat of Substitute Products Impact of key factors, 2021
- Bargaining power of buyers
- Exhibit: buyers bargaining power Impact of key factors, 2021
- Threat of new entrants
- Exhibit: Threat of new entrants Impact of key factors, 2021
- Bargaining power of suppliers
- Exhibit: Threat of suppliers bargaining power Impact of key factors, 2021
- Competitive rivalry
- Skyquest special insights on future disruptions
- Political Impact
- Economic impact
- Social Impact
- Technical Impact
- Environmental Impact
- Legal Impact
Market Size by Region
- Chart on Market share by geography 2021-2027 (%)
- Data Table on Market share by geography 2021-2027(%)
- North America
- Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
- Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
- USA
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Canada
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Europe
- Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
- Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
- Germany
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Spain
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- France
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- UK
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Rest of Europe
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Asia Pacific
- Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
- Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
- China
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- India
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Japan
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- South Korea
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Latin America
- Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
- Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
- Brazil
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Rest of South America
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Middle East & Africa (MEA)
- Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
- Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
- GCC Countries
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- South Africa
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Rest of MEA
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
KEY COMPANY PROFILES
- Competitive Landscape
- Total number of companies covered
- Exhibit: companies covered in the report, 2021
- Top companies market positioning
- Exhibit: company positioning matrix, 2021
- Top companies market Share
- Exhibit: Pie chart analysis on company market share, 2021(%)
- Total number of companies covered
Methodology
For the Cold Chain Logistics Market, our research methodology involved a mixture of primary and secondary data sources. Key steps involved in the research process are listed below:
1. Information Procurement: This stage involved the procurement of Market data or related information via primary and secondary sources. The various secondary sources used included various company websites, annual reports, trade databases, and paid databases such as Hoover's, Bloomberg Business, Factiva, and Avention. Our team did 45 primary interactions Globally which included several stakeholders such as manufacturers, customers, key opinion leaders, etc. Overall, information procurement was one of the most extensive stages in our research process.
2. Information Analysis: This step involved triangulation of data through bottom-up and top-down approaches to estimate and validate the total size and future estimate of the Cold Chain Logistics Market.
3. Report Formulation: The final step entailed the placement of data points in appropriate Market spaces in an attempt to deduce viable conclusions.
4. Validation & Publishing: Validation is the most important step in the process. Validation & re-validation via an intricately designed process helped us finalize data points to be used for final calculations. The final Market estimates and forecasts were then aligned and sent to our panel of industry experts for validation of data. Once the validation was done the report was sent to our Quality Assurance team to ensure adherence to style guides, consistency & design.
Analyst Support
Customization Options
With the given market data, our dedicated team of analysts can offer you the following customization options are available for the Cold Chain Logistics Market:
Product Analysis: Product matrix, which offers a detailed comparison of the product portfolio of companies.
Regional Analysis: Further analysis of the Cold Chain Logistics Market for additional countries.
Competitive Analysis: Detailed analysis and profiling of additional Market players & comparative analysis of competitive products.
Go to Market Strategy: Find the high-growth channels to invest your marketing efforts and increase your customer base.
Innovation Mapping: Identify racial solutions and innovation, connected to deep ecosystems of innovators, start-ups, academics, and strategic partners.
Category Intelligence: Customized intelligence that is relevant to their supply Markets will enable them to make smarter sourcing decisions and improve their category management.
Public Company Transcript Analysis: To improve the investment performance by generating new alpha and making better-informed decisions.
Social Media Listening: To analyze the conversations and trends happening not just around your brand, but around your industry as a whole, and use those insights to make better Marketing decisions.
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