Refrigerated Transport Market Report: Trends, Forecast and Competitive Analysis to 2030

Refrigerated Transport Market Report: Trends, Forecast and Competitive Analysis to 2030

Refrigerated Transport Trends and Forecast

The future of the global refrigerated transport market looks promising with opportunities in the air-blown evaporator, eutectic device, hybrid, and fully electrified markets. The global refrigerated transport market is expected to reach an estimated $191.4 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 6.8% from 2024 to 2030. The major drivers for this market are rising public awareness of the benefits of eating a healthy diet and having a wide range of products available, the increasing number of cold storage facilities, and growth in the pharmaceutical sector.

• Lucintel forecasts that, within the temperature category, multi-temperature is expected to witness the fastest growth over the forecast period due to the increasing demand for multi-temperature transportation solutions to transport a variety of perishable goods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, frozen food, and pharmaceuticals.
• In terms of region, APAC will remain the largest region over the forecast period due to rapid urbanization and rising disposable incomes, growth of organized retail and the rapidly expanding e-commerce industry, as well as, stringent food safety regulations in this region.

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Emerging Trends in the Refrigerated Transport Market

The emerging imperatives of technological advancement, sustainability goals, and changing consumer demands are reflected in the new trends in the refrigerated transport market. These trends are the major drivers of innovation, enabling changes in the transportation and management of perishable goods in global supply chains.

• IoT and Telematics Integration: The application of IoT and telematics in refrigerated transport is growing, enabling real-time monitoring of temperature, humidity conditions, and vehicle performance. Having access to this data provides quick insights to ensure safety standards are met and helps optimize routes and energy use, improving efficiency and reliability.
• Electric and Hybrid Refrigeration Units Adoption: There is a growing shift toward electric and hybrid refrigeration units as part of efforts to reduce carbon emissions and lower operational costs. These units offer better energy efficiency and a smaller environmental footprint compared to conventional diesel-powered systems. As sustainability goals and regulatory requirements evolve, the adoption of electric and hybrid refrigeration units becomes more favorable.
• Use of Alternative Refrigerants: Alternative refrigerants with low global warming potential (GWP) are gaining wider acceptance. These refrigerants help reduce the environmental impact of refrigeration systems and address regulatory pressure, as consumers seek greener solutions in the cold chain.
• Improved Thermal Insulation Technologies: Innovations in thermal insulation materials further enhance the efficiency of refrigerated transport. Advanced insulation technologies maintain consistent temperatures within transport units, reducing energy use and preventing spoilage of perishable products. This leads to cost savings and better-quality delivery.
• Smart Logistics and Automation: Automated technologies and smart logistics are transforming refrigerated transport. Automation in temperature control, inventory management, and route optimization increases operational efficiency and accuracy, reduces human error, and improves overall cold chain management.

The integration of IoT and telematics, the adoption of electric and hybrid refrigeration units, the use of alternative refrigerants, advancements in thermal insulation technologies, and the rise of smart logistics are the key trends shaping the refrigerated transport market. These trends spur innovation, improve efficiency, and support sustainability initiatives to meet the evolving needs of consumers.

Recent Developments in the Refrigerated Transport Market

Recent developments in the refrigerated transport market have made significant strides in technology, sustainability, and infrastructure. These developments contribute to increased efficiency, safety, and reduced environmental impact related to refrigerated logistics.

• Advanced Telematics Integration: The advanced integration of telematics systems in refrigerated transport facilitates real-time tracking and monitoring of temperature and vehicle conditions. This advancement further improves cold chain management, ensures compliance with safety standards, and accelerates responses to any issues arising during transit.
• Growth of Electric Refrigeration Units: The acquisition of electric refrigeration units is growing rapidly as companies seek to improve green initiatives, reduce carbon footprints, and cut business operation costs. These refrigeration units replace traditionally used diesel-powered systems with more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly options that align with global sustainability goals.
• Alternative Refrigerants: There is a clear trend toward using low-GWP alternative refrigerants to reduce the environmental impact of refrigeration systems. This shift has been driven by regulatory pressures and efforts within the industry to lower GHG emissions, promoting more environmentally friendly refrigerant options.
• Advances in the Development of Insulation Materials: Recent innovations in thermal insulation materials have further improved the efficiency of refrigerated transport. Improved insulation technologies help maintain consistent temperatures, reducing energy consumption and product spoilage, lowering costs, and enhancing product quality.
• Expansion of Cold Storage Infrastructure: Increased investments in cold storage infrastructure globally have supported the growth of refrigerated transport. Enhanced infrastructure improves efficiency in the cold chain, reduces food losses, and boosts demand for fresh and perishable commodities in various markets.

Key growth factors driving advancements in the refrigerated transport market include the integration of telematics, the rise of electric refrigeration units, the adoption of alternative refrigerants, improvements in insulation materials, and the expansion of cold storage infrastructure. These developments enhance efficiency, support sustainability, and meet growing market demands.

Strategic Growth Opportunities for Refrigerated Transport Market

The various applications depicted growth opportunities for strategic development in the refrigerated transport market. Growth opportunities are driven by advancements in technology, demand for perishable commodities, and changing industry needs.

• E-commerce and Online Grocery Delivery Expansion: This trend is creating significant opportunities for refrigerated transportation as e-commerce, particularly online grocery deliveries, grows. Companies are investing in sophisticated cold-chain solutions to ensure the safe and efficient delivery of perishable goods, meeting the rising consumer demand for fresh food.
• Pharmaceutical Logistics: Vaccines and temperature-sensitive medicines are a cornerstone of the pharmaceutical industry, requiring competent refrigerated transportation. With the increasing demand for advanced healthcare solutions, the need for high-quality cold chain solutions to maintain the integrity and efficiency of pharmaceutical products is further encouraged.
• Sustainable Technologies in Refrigeration: The growing adoption of sustainable refrigeration technologies presents additional growth opportunities. These include electrical and hybrid units, as well as alternative refrigerants. Companies are shifting to more environmentally friendly options that reduce environmental impact while also meeting regulatory requirements.
• Integrating Smart Logistics Solutions: The integration of smart logistics with automation technologies opens up new growth opportunities in refrigerated transport. Automatic temperature control, inventory management, and route optimization systems improve efficiency and accuracy, providing a competitive edge in today’s fast-changing market.
• Regional Cold Chain Infrastructure Development: Investments in regional cold chain infrastructure, particularly in emerging markets, continue to offer growth opportunities. Improvements in cold storage facilities and transportation networks enable the efficient handling of perishable goods, meeting the increased demand for fresh products in developing regions.

Other strategic growth opportunities in the refrigerated transportation market include the expansion of e-commerce and online grocery delivery, advancements in pharmaceutical logistics, adoption of sustainable refrigeration technologies, integration of smart logistics solutions, and development of regional cold chain infrastructure. These opportunities drive market growth by offering innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of industries and consumers.

Refrigerated Transport Market Driver and Challenges

The refrigerated transport market is influenced by drivers and challenges that include technological advancements, regulatory and economic considerations, and market dynamics.

The factors responsible for driving the refrigerated transport market include:

• Technological Advancements: The pace of innovation in technologies related to refrigerated transport is increasing, including advanced telematics, electric refrigeration units, and smart logistics solutions. These technologies enhance efficiency, improve safety, and support sustainability efforts, making refrigerated transport more effective and reliable.
• Rising Demand for Perishable Goods: Factors such as increasing consumer demand for fresh and perishable products, influenced by trends in e-commerce and changing dietary preferences, are boosting growth in the refrigerated transport market. Corporations are investing in sophisticated cold chain solutions to meet the growing demand and ensure safe product delivery.
• Sustainability Focus: Growing concerns about reducing carbon footprints and minimizing environmental impact are major factors driving the adoption of sustainable refrigeration technologies. These include electric and hybrid refrigeration units, alternative refrigerants, and energy-efficient solutions that align with global sustainability goals and regulatory requirements, fostering market growth.
• Regulatory Pressures: Stringent regulations related to food safety and environmental issues in many nations influence the refrigerated transport market. These regulations push companies to invest in advanced technologies, driving innovation and development in the industry.
• Growth of Cold Chain Infrastructure: Investments in cold chain infrastructure, such as cold storage facilities and transportation networks, are driving the growth of refrigerated transport. Improved infrastructure promotes efficiency, reduces food waste, and increases demand for perishable products.

Challenges in the refrigerated transport market include:

• High Initial Costs: The high investment required to set up advanced refrigerated transport technologies and infrastructure acts as a barrier. The cost of equipment and technology can be prohibitive, especially for small enterprises.
• Complexity of Integration: Integrating new technology into an existing cold chain operation is challenging. Ensuring compatibility with current systems and training staff to handle advanced solutions requires careful planning and investment.
• Regulatory Compliance: Understanding the diverse regulatory requirements in different regions can be difficult. Varying standards on food safety and environmental regulations necessitate efficient operations at a reasonable cost.

The refrigerated transport market is shaped by key drivers: technological advancements, rising demand for perishable goods, sustainability efforts, regulatory pressures, and the expansion of cold chain infrastructure. To enable further growth and innovation in this sector, overcoming challenges such as high initial costs, integration complexity, and regulatory compliance is critical. In this evolving landscape, success will depend on balancing these factors effectively.

List of Refrigerated Transport Companies

Companies in the market compete on the basis of product quality offered. Major players in this market focus on expanding their manufacturing facilities, R&D investments, infrastructural development, and leverage integration opportunities across the value chain. With these strategies refrigerated transport companies cater increasing demand, ensure competitive effectiveness, develop innovative products & technologies, reduce production costs, and expand their customer base. Some of the refrigerated transport companies profiled in this report include-

• Daiken Industries
• Ingersoll Rand
• Utility Trailer Manufacturing
• Singamas Container
• Hyundai
• United Technologies Corporation
• China International Shipping Containers
• Schmitz Cargobull
• Tata Motors

Refrigerated Transport by Segment

The study includes a forecast for the global refrigerated transport by mode of transportation, temperature, technology, and region.

Refrigerated Transport Market by Mode of Transportation [Analysis by Value from 2018 to 2030]:

• LCV
• MHCV
• HCV

Refrigerated Transport Market by Temperature [Analysis by Value from 2018 to 2030]:

• Single temperature
• Multi-temperature

Refrigerated Transport Market by Technology [Analysis by Value from 2018 to 2030]:

• Air-blown Evaporator
• Eutectic Device
• Hybrid
• Fully Electrified

Refrigerated Transport Market by Region [Analysis by Value from 2018 to 2030]:

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• The Rest of the World

Country Wise Outlook for the Refrigerated Transport Market

The refrigerated transport market is undergoing rapid change as it adapts to the increasing demand for fresh and perishable goods driven by advancements in technology and shifting consumer preferences. Inhabitants of the United States, China, Germany, India, and Japan have seen developments that point toward a trend of achieving efficiency, sustainability, and technological sophistication in refrigerated logistics.

• United States: Recent developments in refrigerated transport in the U.S. include the adoption of more advanced telematics and IoT technologies, which will further enhance efficiency in cold chain management through real-time monitoring of temperature and vehicle performance. Additionally, there is growing interest in electric and hybrid refrigeration units to reduce carbon emissions and operational costs.
• China: There has been significant growth in refrigerated transport in China, driven by the rise of e-commerce and increasing demand for fresh food products. Key developments include investments in cold storage infrastructure and the adoption of energy-efficient refrigeration technologies. The Chinese government also supports this growth through policies aimed at improving food safety and reducing food waste.
• Germany: Germany is a leading adopter of new refrigerated transport solutions, including advanced thermal insulation materials and energy-efficient refrigeration systems. The country places a high emphasis on sustainability, with increasing use of alternative refrigerants and eco-friendly technologies. Germany's focus on stringent food safety standards is driving the adoption of sophisticated monitoring systems to ensure compliance.
• India: The Indian refrigerated transport market is growing rapidly, driven by rising demand from the food and pharmaceutical sectors. Recent developments include more affordable refrigeration technologies and improvements in cold chain logistics infrastructure. Investments in training and technology have further enhanced the efficiency of refrigerated transportation operations, addressing major issues related to temperature control and logistics.
• Japan: Refrigerated transportation development in Japan is focused on energy efficiency and intelligent transportation. Notable developments include high-efficiency refrigeration units and advanced monitoring systems. Hydrogen-powered refrigeration systems are also increasingly adopted in Japan, reflecting the current trend of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainability.

Features of the Global Refrigerated Transport Market

Market Size Estimates: Refrigerated transport market size estimation in terms of value ($B).

Trend and Forecast Analysis: Market trends (2018 to 2023) and forecast (2024 to 2030) by various segments and regions.

Segmentation Analysis: Refrigerated transport market size by mode of transportation, temperature, technology, and region in terms of value ($B).

Regional Analysis: Refrigerated transport market breakdown by North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World.

Growth Opportunities: Analysis of growth opportunities in different mode of transportation, temperature, technology, and regions for the refrigerated transport market.

Strategic Analysis: This includes M&A, new product development, and competitive landscape of the refrigerated transport market.

Analysis of competitive intensity of the industry based on Porter’s Five Forces model.

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This report answers following 11 key questions:

Q.1. What are some of the most promising, high-growth opportunities for the refrigerated transport market by mode of transportation (LCV, MHCV, and HCV), temperature (single temperature and multi-temperature), technology (air-blown evaporator, eutectic device, hybrid, and fully electrified), and region (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World)?

Q.2. Which segments will grow at a faster pace and why?

Q.3. Which region will grow at a faster pace and why?

Q.4. What are the key factors affecting market dynamics? What are the key challenges and business risks in this market?

Q.5. What are the business risks and competitive threats in this market?

Q.6. What are the emerging trends in this market and the reasons behind them?

Q.7. What are some of the changing demands of customers in the market?

Q.8. What are the new developments in the market? Which companies are leading these developments?

Q.9. Who are the major players in this market? What strategic initiatives are key players pursuing for business growth?

Q.10. What are some of the competing products in this market and how big of a threat do they pose for loss of market share by material or product substitution?

Q.11. What M&A activity has occurred in the last 5 years and what has its impact been on the industry?