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    Cargo Shipping Market

    ID: MRFR/CO/2287-HCR
    188 Pages
    Harshita Gorade
    September 2025

    Cargo Shipping Market Research Report Information By Cargo Type (Container Cargo, Bulk Cargo, General Cargo and Liquid Cargo), End-Use Industry (Food, Manufacturing, Oil & Ores, and Electrical & Electronics), And By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, And Rest Of The World) – Market Forecast Till 2030.

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    Cargo Shipping Market Research Report - Global Forecast till 2032 Infographic
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    Cargo Shipping Market Summary

    As per Market Research Future Analysis, the Global Cargo Shipping Market was valued at USD 15.00 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to USD 23.4 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 5.06% from 2024 to 2032. Key drivers include increased market demand, improved port infrastructure, and government support. The market is influenced by international trade growth, technological advancements in shipping, and stricter emission regulations. The Asia-Pacific region leads the market, accounting for USD 6.64 billion in 2022, while North America is expected to grow at the fastest rate. Major players are focusing on R&D and strategic partnerships to enhance their market presence.

    Key Market Trends & Highlights

    The Cargo Shipping market is witnessing significant trends driven by technological advancements and regulatory changes.

    • Market Size in 2023: USD 15.00 billion.
    • Projected Market Size by 2032: USD 23.4 billion.
    • Asia-Pacific market accounted for USD 6.64 billion in 2022.
    • CAGR during 2024-2032: 5.06%.

    Market Size & Forecast

    2023 Market Size USD 15.00 billion
    2024 Market Size USD 15.765 billion
    2032 Market Size USD 23.4 billion
    CAGR (2024-2032) 5.06%

    Major Players

    P Moller – Maersk (Denmark), Panalpina World Transport (Holding) Ltd. (Switzerland), CMA CGM Group (France), MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company S.A. (Switzerland), DB Schenker (Germany).

    Cargo Shipping Market Trends

    International trade will be fueled by industrial and economic growth, which will attribute to the cargo shipping market growth Modern technology and improvements have turned boats and small vessels into robust, long-lasting huge watercraft that can carry bulk products and passengers. Strong industrial and economic expansion has boosted current cargo freight and carrier networks. The sea is used for more than 90% of trade. According to Genesis Freight Services Ltd., eleven corporations controlled 64.8% of the world's liner fleet as of 2015. The percentage of cargo transportation that the top 10 businesses handle is seen in the above graph.

    The expansion of the aviation, road and maritime cargo sectors is being aided by developing nations' economic prosperity, easing the way for commerce. Urbanization has contributed to the enormous rise of the cargo transportation business over the past ten years.

    Over the Forecast Period, Emission Regulations Will Be More Strict. The International Maritime Organization's (IMO) Sulphur Cap regulation's obligatory implementation took effect in January 2020. The rule mandates that ships utilize a mix of fuels to keep sulfur content below 0.5%, a significant decrease from the previous ceiling of 3.5% in effect since 2012. The shipment of goods or containers will have a significantly less environmental impact thanks to a significant reduction in sulfur emissions. Therefore, strict emission restrictions are anticipated to have an impact on the Cargo Shipping market's CAGR.

    Utilizing digital transformation to optimize capacity will support industry growth. A growing number of carriers are collaborating with startups in the shipping sector that concentrate on gathering data on cargo movements and vessels, which can, among other things, enable efficient cargo routing and improved vessel deployment. Startups like Transmetrics, for instance, concentrate on analyzing cargo placement data to precisely forecast cargo levels that might assist carriers in avoiding empty back-haul journeys. As a result, more income from the cargo shipping business is anticipated from the capacity optimization of deployed boats.

    An increase in the demand for cargo shipping transportation. There has been an increase in demand for cargo transportation via rivers. This is explained by the fact that many goods are successfully transported to another location by ships while also being secured. Additionally, cargo shipping is less expensive for delivering products than air and road transportation since they can handle far more cargo than other modes of transportation.

    Eventually, this will result in a expansion of the cargo shipping market revenue.October 2023: Shipping giant Maersk unveils plans to invest in the production of green methanol, a sustainable alternative fuel for cargo ships. This move reflects the growing focus on decarbonization within the shipping industry.

    The global cargo shipping market is poised for transformation as advancements in technology and sustainability practices reshape operational efficiencies and environmental impacts.

    U.S. Department of Transportation

    Cargo Shipping Market Drivers

    Market Growth Projections

    The Global Cargo Shipping Market Industry is projected to experience steady growth, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.06% anticipated from 2025 to 2035. This growth trajectory suggests a robust demand for cargo shipping services, driven by various factors including increased trade, technological advancements, and evolving consumer preferences. The market's expansion is indicative of the industry's resilience and adaptability in the face of changing global dynamics. As shipping companies align their strategies with market trends, they are likely to capitalize on emerging opportunities, further solidifying their positions in the global logistics landscape.

    Increasing Global Trade Volumes

    The Global Cargo Shipping Market Industry is experiencing a notable surge in trade volumes, driven by the expansion of international markets and consumer demand. In 2024, the market is projected to reach 15.8 USD Billion, reflecting the growing interconnectedness of economies. As countries engage in cross-border trade, the need for efficient cargo shipping solutions becomes paramount. This trend is likely to continue, with the market expected to grow significantly as trade agreements and partnerships are established. The increase in e-commerce and the demand for timely deliveries further amplify the necessity for robust cargo shipping infrastructure.

    Global Infrastructure Development

    Infrastructure development plays a critical role in shaping the Global Cargo Shipping Market Industry. Investments in ports, roads, and rail networks are essential for facilitating efficient cargo movement. Governments and private entities are increasingly recognizing the importance of modernizing infrastructure to support growing trade volumes. Enhanced connectivity and capacity at ports can significantly reduce shipping times and costs, thereby attracting more business to the sector. As global trade expands, the demand for improved infrastructure is likely to rise, creating opportunities for cargo shipping companies to optimize their operations and expand their reach.

    Technological Advancements in Shipping

    Innovations in technology are reshaping the Global Cargo Shipping Market Industry, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing costs. The adoption of automation, artificial intelligence, and data analytics is streamlining logistics processes, allowing for better route optimization and cargo tracking. These advancements not only improve service delivery but also contribute to sustainability efforts by minimizing fuel consumption and emissions. As companies invest in modernizing their fleets and integrating smart technologies, the market is poised for growth. The ongoing digital transformation in shipping logistics is expected to play a crucial role in meeting the evolving demands of global trade.

    Growth of E-commerce and Consumer Demand

    The rise of e-commerce is a significant driver for the Global Cargo Shipping Market Industry, as it fuels demand for efficient logistics and shipping solutions. With consumers increasingly expecting rapid delivery times, shipping companies are compelled to enhance their services. This trend is reflected in the projected market growth, with expectations of reaching 27.1 USD Billion by 2035. The need for reliable cargo shipping options is further amplified by the expansion of online retail platforms, which require robust logistics networks to manage inventory and fulfill orders. As e-commerce continues to thrive, the cargo shipping sector is likely to adapt and innovate to meet these demands.

    Regulatory Changes and Environmental Standards

    The Global Cargo Shipping Market Industry is influenced by evolving regulatory frameworks aimed at enhancing environmental sustainability. Stricter emissions regulations and international agreements are prompting shipping companies to adopt greener practices. Compliance with these regulations often necessitates investments in cleaner technologies and fuels, which can initially increase operational costs. However, these changes are likely to foster innovation and efficiency in the long run. As the industry adapts to these standards, the market is expected to witness a shift towards more sustainable shipping practices, potentially attracting environmentally conscious consumers and businesses.

    Market Segment Insights

    Cargo Shipping Cargo Type Insights

    The Cargo Shipping market segmentation, based on Cargo type, includes Container Cargo, Bulk Cargo, General Cargo and Liquid Cargo. Due to market characteristics, including high container flexibility, it has been predicted that the general cargo category will develop at the fastest CAGR.

    Cargo Shipping End-User Insights

    Based on End-User, the Cargo Shipping market segmentation includes Food, Manufacturing, Oil & Ores, and Electrical & Electronics. In 2022, the market was anticipated to be dominated by the Manufacturing sector. The expansion of this Cargo Shipping market is fueled by factors including the acceleration of economic growth, particularly in developing nations in the Asia Pacific and the Middle East. The Cargo Shipping market is also anticipated to significantly expand in the oil, gas, and ores categories.

    Some of the reasons driving the expansion of this category include a rise in exports from the United States and increased demand in nations like China and India due to the high production levels of conventional fuel automobiles.

    Get more detailed insights about Cargo Shipping Market Research Report - Global Forecast till 2032

    Regional Insights

    By Region, the study provides market insights into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Rest of the World. Asia Pacific Cargo Shipping market accounted for USD 6.64 billion in 2022 and is expected to exhibit a significant CAGR growth during the study period.The Asia-Pacific area is regarded as a center for the production of automobiles. Regionally and ly, China held the greatest Cargo Shipping market share for cargo transportation.

    However, the escalation of tariffs between China and the U.S. is anticipated to substantially influence the Cargo Shipping delivered ly, reorganizing the supply chain, and diverting trade flow, raising costs for consumers and manufacturers. The Asia-Pacific cargo shipping industry is expanding as a result of the rising use of outsourced logistics services in the area. Additionally, a rise in disposable incomes is anticipated to fuel an increase in the demand for imported raw materials and completed goods, supporting seaborne commerce in rising nations and fueling the Cargo Shipping market expansion.

    Further, the major countries studied in the market report are The U.S., Canada, Germany, France, the U.K., Italy, Spain, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil.

    Figure 3: CARGO SHIPPING MARKET SHARE BY REGION 2022 (%)CARGO SHIPPING MARKET SHARE BY REGION 2022 Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, Market Research Future Database and Analyst Review

    Europe Cargo Shipping market is also anticipated to have strong growth due to port call optimization and significant infrastructure investment, which have sped up the loading and unloading of cargo in nations like the U.K., Spain, and Germany. The Cargo Shipping market in Germany had the biggest market share, while the Cargo Shipping market in the U.K. had the quickest growth rate on Europe's continent. Manufacturers could soon be able to acquire an increasing number of bulk orders thanks to rising investments and finance for logistics, which will expand the cargo shipping industry.

    Moreover, UK Cargo Shipping market held the largest market share, and the Germany Cargo Shipping market was the fastest growing market in the region.

    North America Cargo Shipping Market is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR from 2022 to 2030. Following the Panama Canal expansion in 2017, the East Coast's liner shipping connectivity index in North American ports has grown. Some of the nation's major oil and natural gas producers and consumers are located in this area, which also exports goods to practically the whole nation. The area contributes 8% of all container port activity.

    Furthermore, the deal between the United States, Mexico, and Canada, which will replace the North American Free Trade Agreement, would lessen some of the uncertainties surrounding trade policy and promote trade growth. Moreover, US Cargo Shipping market held the largest market share, and the Canada Cargo Shipping market was the fastest growing market in the region.

    Key Players and Competitive Insights

    Major market players are investing a lot of money in R&D to expand their product portfolios, which will spur further market growth for the Cargo Shipping industry. With significant industry changes, including new product releases, contractual agreements, mergers and acquisitions, increased investments, and collaboration with other organizations, market participants are also undertaking various strategic activities to expand their presence. To grow and remain in a market that is becoming increasingly competitive, the Cargo Shipping industry competitors must provide affordable products.

    Manufacturing locally to cut operational costs is one of the main business tactics used by the Cargo Shipping industry to serve customers and increase the market sector. The Cargo Shipping industry has recently given medicine some of the most important advantages. The Cargo Shipping market major player such P Moller – Maersk (Denmark), Panalpina World Transport (Holding) Ltd. (Switzerland), CMA CGM Group (France), MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company S.A. (Switzerland), DB Schenker (Germany), and others are working on expanding the market demand by investing in research and development activities.

    Maersk Group, a Danish commercial conglomerate, owns Maersk Line, a Danish multinational container shipping corporation and its largest operating subsidiary. One of the leading Cargo Shipping market players, Maersk Line, introduced its new AC1 service, which links Asia and Latin America's West Coast, in May 2016. This new service will optimize the network from Asia to Central America. The A.C. network will gain a third loop due to the deep network.

    This new service is anticipated to give Maersk Line's clients faster transit times, resulting in more port coverage on some corridors while retaining the network's stability in the Cargo Shipping market context.

    Chinese container shipping and transportation business COSCO SHIPPING Lines Co., Ltd. Its main firm is China's state-owned COSCO Shipping, a division of COSCO Shipping Holdings. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to create a new alliance was signed by COSCO Container Lines in April 2016, in addition to CMA CGM, Evergreen Line, and Orient Overseas Container Line. During the projected period, which ends in 2028, the recently formed alliance delivers superior and competitive goods combined with extensive service networks worldwide.

    Key Companies in the Cargo Shipping Market market include

    Industry Developments

      • September 2020 – The CMA CGM Group sent one of its biggest container ships, the CMA CGM BRAZIL, to the U.S. East Coast to work on the weekly Columbus JAX route.

      • August 2020 – HMM disclosed that it had sold the CMA CGM Group a 49% ownership in the TTI Algeciras (Total Port International Algeciras), a container terminal in Spain.

      • May 2021 – To maintain service continuity and streamline impacted operations, MSC is collaborating with blockchain platform WAVE to promote wider use of its (charges connected to loading products) in India.

    Future Outlook

    Cargo Shipping Market Future Outlook

    The Global Cargo Shipping Market is projected to grow at a 5.06% CAGR from 2024 to 2035, driven by technological advancements, increasing trade volumes, and sustainability initiatives.

    New opportunities lie in:

    • Invest in automation technologies to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs.
    • Develop eco-friendly shipping solutions to meet regulatory demands and consumer preferences.
    • Expand into emerging markets to capitalize on rising demand for cargo services.

    By 2035, the market is expected to be robust, reflecting substantial growth and innovation.

    Market Segmentation

    Cargo Shipping End User Outlook

    • Food
    • Manufacturing
    • Oil & Ores
    • Electrical & Electronics

    Cargo Shipping Regional Outlook

    North America
    • US
    • Canada

    Cargo Shipping Cargo Type Outlook

    • Container Cargo
    • Bulk Cargo
    • General Cargo
    • Liquid Product

    Report Scope

    Attribute/Metric Details
    Market Size 2023 USD 15.00 billion
    Market Size 2024 USD 15.77 billion
    Market Size 2032 USD 23.4 billion
    Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) 5.06% (2024-2032)
    Base Year 2023
    Market Forecast Period 2024-2032
    Historical Data 2018 & 2021
    Market Forecast Units Value (USD Billion)
    Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Market Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
    Segments Covered Cargo Type, End User, and Region
    Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World
    Countries Covered The U.S, Canada, Germany, France, the U.K., Italy, Spain, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil
    Key Companies Profiled P Moller – Maersk (Denmark), Panalpina World Transport (Holding) Ltd. (Switzerland), CMA CGM Group (France), MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company S.A. (Switzerland), DB Schenker (Germany).
    Key Market Opportunities   Increased market demand, and the constant government support
    Key Market Dynamics Free trade agreements and the establishment of new ports Growing imports and exports of liquid, dry, general, and container cargo trade ·

    Market Highlights

    Author
    Harshita Gorade
    Research Analyst

    Harshita Post graduate MBA in Business Administration from Welingkar Institute, Mumbai and 5 years of experience in the field of product market research. As a Research Analyst, I have cross-domain experience in packaging, and industrial Automation & Equipment. I am currently looking after the research process of packaging, logistics & transportation, and industrial automation & equipment at Market Research Future Reports. My responsibilities at the organization involve handling syndicate and custom reports as well as responding to client inquiries, and organize, co-ordinate with a group of 5 to 6 persons to manage all workflows.

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    FAQs

    What size is the market for cargo shipping?

    In 2023, the market for cargo shipping was estimated to be worth USD 15.00 billion.

    What is the market's rate of growth for cargo shipping?

    Throughout the forecast period of 2024-2030, the market for cargo shipping is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 5.06%.

    In the market for cargo shipping, which Region had the biggest market share?

    The greatest portion of the worldwide market was in Asia Pacific.

    Who are the major companies in the market for cargo shipping?

    P Moller-Maersk (Denmark), Panalpina World Transport (Holding) Ltd. (Switzerland), CMA CGM Group (France), MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company S.A. (Switzerland), and DB Schenker are the major competitors in the cargo shipping business (Germany).

    Which Cargo type led the Cargo Shipping market?

    The General Cargo Shipping category dominated the market in 2023.

    Which End-User had the largest market share in the Cargo Shipping market?

    Manufacturing had the largest share in the cargo shipping market.

    Cargo Shipping Market Research Report - Global Forecast till 2032 Infographic
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