Refrigerated Road Transportation Market Size, Share, Growth 2032
Refrigerated Road Transportation Market Size and Forecast (2025 - 2032), By Vehicle Type (Light Commercial Vehicles, Medium Commercial Vehicles, Heavy Commercial Vehicles), By Temperature (Single Temperature, Multi-Temperature), By Application (Chilled Food Products, Frozen Food Products, Pharmaceuticals), By End-User (Food & Beverage, Healthcare, Others), and Geography.
Market Overview:
The global Refrigerated Road Transportation Market is expected to reach a high CAGR of 6.1% over the Forecast Period 2025-2032. The market will grow from USD XX billion in 2024 to USD YY billion by 2032. North America now dominates the market, accounting for the vast majority of worldwide sales. Key criteria include rising demand for fresh and frozen foods, stricter food safety and quality requirements, and developments in refrigeration technology.
The refrigerated road transportation market is expanding rapidly, owing to the increasing demand for temperature-controlled logistics in a variety of industries, including food and drinks, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare. Cold chain logistics is becoming more efficient and reliable thanks to technological advancements in refrigeration units, telematics, and route optimisation.
Market Dynamics:
Market Trend: Integration of IoT and telematics for real-time temperature monitoring and fleet management
The refrigerated road transport business is seeing a substantial increase in the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) and telematics technology. These modern technologies improve the capabilities of refrigerated vehicles, allowing for real-time temperature monitoring, remote diagnostics, and effective fleet management. IoT-enabled sensors can constantly broadcast temperature data, vehicle location, and other important information to central control systems, enabling early identification of anomalies and quick response to potential cold chain breaches. Telematics systems are being used to improve route planning, minimise fuel usage, and increase overall operational efficiency.
For example, AI-powered predictive maintenance algorithms can forecast equipment breakdowns using sensor data, potentially lowering downtime and maintenance costs. The increased desire for transparency and traceability in cold chain logistics, particularly in businesses with severe temperature control requirements such as pharmaceuticals and perishable foods, is driving this trend. Major refrigerated transportation businesses are investing extensively in IoT and telematics capabilities, resulting in a new generation of smart chilled vehicles with improved monitoring, control, and reporting functions.
Market Driver: Increasing demand for fresh and frozen food products in urban areas and emerging markets
The growing demand for fresh and frozen food goods in cities and emerging countries is a major driver of the refrigerated road transportation market. Consumer preferences for convenience meals, urbanisation, and the growth of organised retail are driving the demand for efficient cold chain logistics. According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), global traffic in perishable commodities has expanded by 30% in the last decade, with a sizable share necessitating refrigerated transportation.
In the United States, the Grocery Manufacturers Association reported a 15% year-over-year gain in the frozen food sector in 2023, increasing demand for refrigerated transportation. The COVID-19 epidemic has hastened the trend, with major retailers reporting a 25% increase in online grocery sales, many of which require temperature-controlled delivery. Furthermore, the growth of quick-commerce and last-mile delivery services for perishable items opens up new potential for refrigerated transportation operators. According to worldwide Cold Chain Alliance research, worldwide cold storage capacity increased by 16% between 2018 and 2023, showing significant investment in cold chain infrastructure to meet rising demand for refrigerated transportation.
Market Restraint: High initial investment and operational costs associated with refrigerated vehicles
Despite rising demand for chilled road transport, the high initial investment and operating expenses associated with refrigerated trucks limit industry expansion. Refrigerated trucks and trailers require specialised equipment, such as chilling units, insulation, and temperature monitoring systems, which raises the purchasing price significantly when compared to regular vehicles. According to the North American Council for Freight Efficiency, a new refrigerated trailer might cost between 30 and 50 percent more than a regular dry van trailer. Furthermore, the operational expenses of operating refrigerated vehicles are significantly greater due to increased fuel consumption to power refrigeration equipment, more regular maintenance requirements, and the need for specialised driver training.
According to the International Institute of Refrigeration, refrigerated automobiles consume up to 25% more energy than their non-refrigerated equivalents. These limitations can limit the availability of refrigerated transportation services, especially for smaller logistics companies or in areas with less developed cold chain infrastructure. The requirement for constant investment in refrigeration technology to fulfil changing environmental rules and energy efficiency standards increases the financial strain on operators. Cost concerns may drive industry consolidation, affecting competition and service availability in specific areas.
Segment Overview:
Heavy commercial vehicles dominate the vehicle type segment, driven by their capacity to transport large volumes of temperature-sensitive goods over long distances.
The Heavy Commercial Vehicles (HCV) segment dominates the refrigerated road transportation industry. These vehicles, which include huge trucks and semi-trailers, have the ability to deliver enormous volumes of temperature-controlled commodities across great distances. HCVs' adaptability and cost-effectiveness for intercity and interstate transportation of perishable goods have resulted in widespread use across a variety of industries.
Recent advances in HCV refrigeration technology have strengthened its market dominance. For example, the introduction of hybrid and electric refrigeration equipment has increased energy efficiency while lowering environmental effects. A study published in the International Journal of Refrigeration found that new-generation electric refrigeration systems for HCVs consume 30% less fuel and emit 25% less CO2 than traditional diesel-powered units.
The food and beverage industry is generating substantial expansion in the HCV refrigerated transportation market. According to a survey from the American Trucking Associations, refrigerated truck tonnage for food goods increased by 18% between 2020 and 2023. The rising demand for frozen and chilled foods, combined with the rise of food retail chains and e-commerce platforms, has had a significant role in the increased use of refrigerated HCV.
Regional Outlook:
North America leads the global refrigerated road transportation market, driven by a well-established cold chain infrastructure and high consumption of perishable goods.
North America now dominates the global refrigerated road transport business, accounting for the vast majority of revenue. Several factors contribute to this supremacy, including the region's strong cold chain logistics network, high consumption of fresh and frozen goods, and strict restrictions governing the shipping of temperature-sensitive products.
The United States, in particular, makes a significant contribution to the region's market leadership. The country's enormous highway network, as well as large-scale food production and distribution systems, have contributed to a thriving refrigerated transportation business. According to the USDA, the value of temperature-controlled freight transport in the United States will exceed $20 billion in 2023, representing a 3.5% annual growth rate over the previous five years.
Recent developments in the North American market have strengthened its position. For example, the Food Safety Modernisation Act (FSMA) in the United States enforced stricter temperature control and monitoring regulations for food transportation, resulting in increased investment in advanced refrigerated trucks and systems. The Food and Drug Administration said that between 2020 and 2023, compliance with FSMA rules resulted in a 30% rise in the usage of real-time temperature monitoring systems in refrigerated trucks.
Key statistics highlight North America's market supremacy. According to a Global Cold Chain Alliance survey, 85% of food retailers in the United States and Canada use refrigerated road transport for at least 70% of their perishable goods deliveries. Furthermore, a research published in the Journal of Food Protection found that installing modern temperature control systems in refrigerated trucks resulted in a 40% decrease in food rotting incidences during transit over a three-year period.
The Canadian market has also made substantial contributions to the region's growth, with Statistics Canada reporting a 25% increase in the value of temperature-controlled freight transit over the last five years. The country's desire to increase its food export market, particularly for fresh fruit and meat goods, has been a major driver of investment in refrigerated transportation infrastructure.
Competitive Intelligence:
The refrigerated road transportation market is characterised by fierce competition among prominent companies, who prioritise technical innovation, fleet modernisation, and growing service offerings. Leading corporations are spending considerably on modern refrigeration systems, telematics, and sustainable transportation solutions to obtain a competitive advantage.
C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. has a considerable market share thanks to its extensive network of temperature-controlled carriers and modern technological platforms. In its 2023 financial report, the corporation stated that its refrigerated transportation segment grew by 10% year on year. United Parcel Service (UPS) follows closely, with its UPS Temperature True service gaining ground in the pharmaceutical and healthcare logistics industries.
FedEx Corporation has improved its position by making strategic acquisitions and investing in specialised cold chain solutions. The company's temperature-controlled shipping services showed a 15% revenue rise in the most recent fiscal year, owing mostly to development in the healthcare and life sciences sectors.
Ryder System, Inc. has focused on creating comprehensive cold chain logistics solutions such as refrigerated fleet management and dedicated transportation services. In 2023, the company claimed an 8% increase in its refrigerated transportation business, with last-mile delivery services for grocery and food service customers accounting for a major amount of the development.
KLLM Transport Services, LLC has increased its market share by focussing on long-haul refrigerated transportation and investing in energy-efficient refrigeration equipment. The company reported a 12% rise in refrigerated freight volume in 2023, mostly in the frozen food and produce industries.
Recent industry developments, such as the 2022 combination of refrigerated carriers Stevens Transport and Frozen Food Express, have shifted the competitive environment. This consolidation trend is likely to continue, perhaps leading to higher market concentration and operational efficiencies.
Looking ahead, prominent competitors are focussing on growing their presence in emerging areas, particularly Asia-Pacific and Latin America, where rapid urbanisation and shifting consumer tastes are boosting demand for refrigerated transportation services. Furthermore, partnerships with technology providers to develop innovative cold chain solutions, as well as collaborations with food producers and retailers to improve supply chain efficiency, are becoming increasingly vital for preserving a competitive advantage.
Analyst Opinion:
The refrigerated road transport market is expected to develop and evolve significantly in the future years, owing to advances in refrigeration technology, rising demand for perishable goods, and the growing relevance of cold chain integrity in a variety of industries. The transition to sustainable refrigeration systems, as well as the integration of digital technology, are projected to transform the market landscape.
The development of self-driving refrigerated cars for long-distance transportation is an emerging trend worth watching. While still in its early stages, self-driving technology combined with modern refrigeration systems has the potential to revolutionise cold chain operations. Early prototypes have shown the potential for increased fuel efficiency, shorter transit times, and more consistent temperature regulation.
Another area of innovation is the research of alternative refrigerants and cooling systems to lessen the environmental impact of refrigerated transportation. Natural refrigerants like CO2 and ammonia are gaining popularity due to their low global warming potential. Furthermore, research into thermoelectric cooling and phase change materials for temperature control holds promise for developing more energy-efficient and ecologically friendly chilled cars.
Major Players:
-
C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc.
-
United Parcel Service, Inc. (UPS)
-
FedEx Corporation
-
Ryder System, Inc.
-
KLLM Transport Services, LLC
-
Americold Logistics, LLC
-
Lineage Logistics Holdings, LLC
-
Burris Logistics
-
Covenant Logistics Group, Inc.
-
Prime Inc.
Key Developments:
-
In October 2024, C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. announced a new AI-powered temperature prediction and control system for its refrigerated fleet, promising to prevent temperature excursions by up to 40% during transportation.
-
UPS established a strategic cooperation with a prominent electric vehicle manufacturer in August 2024 to develop and deploy an electric chilled delivery van fleet for last-mile deliveries of temperature-sensitive items in urban areas.
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. Market Definitions & Study Assumptions
1.2. Market Research Scope and Segment
1.3. Research Methodology
2. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
2.1. Market Overview & Insights
2.2. Segment Outlook
2.3. Region Outlook
3. COMPETITIVE INTELLIGENCE
3.1. Companies Financial Position
3.2. Company Benchmarking—Key Players
3.3. Market Share Analysis -- Key Companies
3.4. Recent Companies Key Activities
3.5. Pricing Analysis
3.6. SWOT Analysis
4. COMPANY PROFILES (Key Companies List by Country) (Premium)
5. COMPANY PROFILES
5.1. C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc.
5.2. United Parcel Service, Inc. (UPS)
5.3. FedEx Corporation
5.4. Ryder System, Inc.
5.5. KLLM Transport Services, LLC
5.6. Americold Logistics, LLC
5.7. Lineage Logistics Holdings LLC
5.8. Burris Logistics
5.9. Covenant Logistics Group, Inc.
5.10. Prime Inc. (*LIST NOT EXHAUSTIVE)
6. MARKET DYNAMICS
6.1. Market Trends
6.1.1. Integration of IoT and telematics for real-time temperature monitoring and fleet management
6.1.2. Development of autonomous refrigeration vehicles for long-haul transportation
6.1.3. Exploration of alternative refrigerants and cooling technologies
6.2. Market Drivers
6.2.1. Increasing demand for fresh and frozen food products in urban areas and emerging markets
6.2.2. Stringent regulations on food safety and quality
6.2.3. Technological advancements in refrigeration systems
6.3. Market Restraints
6.3.1. High initial investment and operational costs associated with refrigerated vehicles
6.3.2. Environmental concerns related to refrigerant emissions
6.4. Market Opportunities
6.5. Porter's Five Forces Analysis
6.5.1. Threat of New Entrants
6.5.2. Bargaining Power of Buyers/Consumers
6.5.3. Bargaining Power of Suppliers
6.5.4. Threat of Substitute Products
6.5.5. Intensity of Competitive Rivalry
6.6. Supply Chain Analysis
6.7. Value Chain Analysis
6.8. Trade Analysis
6.9. Pricing Analysis
6.10. Regulatory Analysis
6.11. Patent Analysis
6.12. SWOT Analysis
6.13. PESTLE Analysis
7. BY VEHICLE TYPE (MARKET SIZE/VALUE (US$ Mn), SHARE (%), MARKET FORECAST (%), YOY GROWTH (%) -- 2025-2032)
7.1. Light Commercial Vehicles
7.1.1. Vans
7.1.2. Pickup Trucks
7.2. Medium Commercial Vehicles
7.2.1. Box Trucks
7.2.2. Straight Trucks
7.3. Heavy Commercial Vehicles
7.3.1. Semi-Trailers
7.3.2. Full Trailers
8. BY TEMPERATURE (MARKET SIZE/VALUE (US$ Mn), SHARE (%), MARKET FORECAST (%), YOY GROWTH (%) -- 2025-2032)
8.1. Single Temperature
8.1.1. Frozen
8.1.2. Chilled
8.2. Multi-Temperature
8.2.1. Dual Comparison
8.2.2. Multi-Compartment
9. BY APPLICATION (MARKET SIZE/VALUE (US$ Mn), SHARE (%), MARKET FORECAST (%), YOY GROWTH (%) -- 2025-2032)
9.1. Chilled Food Products
9.1.1. Dairy Products
9.1.2. Fresh Produce
9.1.3. Meat and seafood
9.2. Frozen Food Products
9.2.1. Frozen Meals
9.2.2. Ice Cream & Frozen Desserts
9.2.3. Frozen Meat & Seafood
9.3. Pharmaceuticals
9.3.1. Vaccines
9.3.2. Biologics
9.3.3. Clinical Trial Materials
10. BY END-USER (MARKET SIZE/VALUE (US$ Mn), SHARE (%), MARKET FORECAST (%), YOY GROWTH (%) -- 2025-2032)
10.1. Food & Beverage
10.1.1. Retail Chains
10.1.2. Food Service Providers
10.1.3. Food Manufacturers
10.2. Healthcare
10.2.1. Hospitals & Clinics
10.2.2. Pharmaceutical Companies
10.2.3. Biotech Companies
10.3. Others
10.3.1. Chemical Industry
10.3.2. Floral Industry
11. REGION (MARKET SIZE/VALUE (US$ Mn), SHARE (%), MARKET FORECAST (%), YOY GROWTH (%) -- 2025-2032)
11.1. North America
11.1.1. United States
11.1.2. Canada
11.1.3. Mexico
11.2. South America
11.2.1. Brazil
11.2.2. Argentina
11.2.3. Rest of South America
11.3. Europe
11.3.1. Germany
11.3.2. United Kingdom
11.3.3. France
11.3.4. Italy
11.3.5. Spain
11.3.6. Russia
11.3.7. Rest of Europe
11.4. Asia-Pacific
11.4.1. China
11.4.2. Japan
11.4.3. India
11.4.4. Australia
11.4.5. South Korea
11.4.6. Rest of Asia-Pacific
11.5. Middle-East
11.5.1. UAE
11.5.2. Saudi Arabia
11.5.3. Turkey
11.5.4. Rest of Middle East
11.6. Africa
11.6.1. South Africa
11.6.2. Egypt
11.6.3. Rest of Africa
*NOTE: All the regions mentioned in the scope will be provided with (MARKET SIZE/VALUE (US$ Mn), SHARE (%), MARKET FORECAST (%, YOY GROWTH (%) -- 2025-2032)
By Vehicle Type:
-
Light Commercial Vehicles
-
Medium Commercial Vehicles
-
Heavy Commercial Vehicles
By Temperature:
-
Single Temperature
-
Multi-Temperature
By Application:
-
Chilled Food Products
-
Frozen Food Products
-
Pharmaceuticals
By End-User:
-
Food and Beverage
-
Healthcare
-
Others
By Region:
-
North America
-
Europe
-
Asia-Pacific
-
Latin America
-
Middle East & Africa
Frequently Asked Questions
We at Aurorawave Intellects Market Report gives total market analysis that suit our customer business need and permit decision maker to run organizations without any problem. We have accomplished greatness in giving start to finish market research arrangements. Our detachment of industry specialists accumulate key data and get ready substance that lines up with our customer's business/specialty.
We at aurorawaveintellects.com offer mainly 3 types of licenses:
• Single User: Research Report copy can be distributed to a single user only
• Multi User: Research Report distribution is restricted up to 5 users.
• Corporate License :Research Report can be distributed across the company.
Based on the nature of the topic or research, the formats vary. The different formats of the report are as following:
• Word Document
• PPT
Following modes are available for making the payment:
• Online Payment (Visa Card, Master Card, Stripe)
• Razorpay
• Net Banking
• Bank Wire Transfer
Our customer service and research specialist team are available by phone and by email. Customer service hours are 24X7 Indian Standard Time (IST). You may reach us at:
• Email: info@aurorawaveintellects.com
• United Kingdom: ++91 7382742511