The freight forwarding industry is a vital component of the global trade ecosystem, enabling the smooth movement of goods across borders and continents. As supply chains become more complex and trade volumes continue to grow, industry leaders are leading the way in innovation, embracing digital technologies, and prioritizing sustainability to meet evolving demands.

Here’s a look at the top 10 freight forwarders by gross logistics revenue for 2024, based on the latest data from Armstrong & Associates:

• DHL Supply Chain & Global Forwarding (Germany) — $33.87 billion
• Kuehne + Nagel (Switzerland) — $31.66 billion
• DSV (Denmark) — $22.32 billion
• DB Schenker (Germany) — $21.12 billion
• C.H. Robinson (USA) — $16.75 billion
• Nippon Express (Japan) — $15.93 billion
• CEVA Logistics (France) — $15.10 billion
• Sinotrans (China) — $14.34 billion
• GEODIS (France) — $12.50 billion
• Expeditors (USA) — $9.30 billion

Looking Ahead

The freight forwarding industry is set for a period of rapid evolution. As global trade continues to shift amid geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties, companies are increasingly investing in digital technologies—such as automation, data analytics, and blockchain—to enhance transparency, efficiency, and agility within supply chains.

Technological innovation will remain a key differentiator, enabling firms to respond faster to disruptions and better serve evolving customer demands. Additionally, e-commerce logistics is expected to expand, driven by consumer preferences for faster delivery options and omnichannel retail strategies.

Despite ongoing challenges like supply chain volatility and fluctuating demand, industry leaders that embrace technological advancements and adapt to changing market conditions will be best positioned to thrive. The future of logistics will favor those who prioritize agility, innovation, and operational excellence.