Airfreight Forwarding Market

• In April 2022, DHL Supply Chain formed a strategic alliance with ReverseLogix, a leading cloud-based platform for automating end-to-end reverse logistics in e-commerce. The partnership supports the expansion of e-commerce logistics solutions amid rising retail returns.

• In August 2023, National Airlines and Etihad Cargo signed an Interline Agreement to implement the International Civil Aviation Regulations 23rd (ICAIR23) program for the U.S. Postal Service. This collaboration combines expertise in international freight transportation with a global commercial network, boosting efficiency in the air cargo market.

In this report, the Airfreight Forwarding Market has been segmented by Type, Service Type, End Use Industry and Geography.

Airfreight Forwarding Market, Segmentation by Type

The Airfreight Forwarding Market by type is broadly divided into Full Charter and Split Charter services. These categories cater to varying shipment volumes, cost structures, and operational flexibility across global trade routes. The selection between these types often depends on factors such as cargo size, urgency, and the degree of control required over logistics operations, reflecting the market’s growing emphasis on customized freight solutions.

Full Charter

Full Charter services dominate the airfreight forwarding segment where large-scale shipments or time-critical goods are involved. These charters allow shippers to utilize an entire aircraft, providing flexibility in routing, scheduling, and cargo type. The adoption of full charters is particularly high among global manufacturing and defense sectors due to their need for dedicated transport capacity and stringent delivery timelines.

Split Charter

Split Charter solutions are increasingly being adopted as cost-effective alternatives, enabling multiple clients to share aircraft space. This segment benefits from improved load optimization and reduced per-shipment costs, especially within the retail and e-commerce industries. With the rise of digital freight booking platforms, split charters have witnessed growing traction as a sustainable and agile shipping mode for mid-volume cargoes.

Airfreight Forwarding Market, Segmentation by Service Type

Based on Service Type, the market encompasses a range of value-added logistics offerings that enhance shipment safety, documentation accuracy, and overall customer satisfaction. The growing complexity of global trade has driven companies to integrate multiple service layers such as documentation, warehousing, and labeling to ensure efficient cargo handling and compliance with international trade standards.

Packaging & Labelling

Packaging & Labelling services ensure that goods are safely prepared for long-distance transportation while adhering to international safety standards. The segment’s growth is reinforced by increased demand for eco-friendly and tamper-proof packaging, with over 40% of logistics companies investing in sustainable materials and smart labeling technologies for enhanced traceability.

Documentation & PO Management

Documentation & PO Management remains a critical part of the logistics chain, addressing customs compliance and transaction transparency. Automation in document handling and the use of blockchain for PO tracking are expected to streamline administrative workflows and minimize delays, supporting faster clearance and cost savings.

Charter Services

Charter Services continue to be a vital solution for clients requiring dedicated and time-sensitive freight handling. The segment has seen significant technological integration, with digital booking systems improving capacity visibility and optimizing flight utilization for bulk cargo movements across continents.

Transportation & Warehousing

Transportation & Warehousing represent the backbone of airfreight forwarding, ensuring seamless cargo flow and secure storage. Investments in automated warehouse systems and IoT-enabled fleet monitoring have increased efficiency, helping companies reduce turnaround time and improve cost predictability across key distribution hubs.

Others

The Others category includes specialized logistics functions such as customs brokerage and cargo insurance. These services are essential for risk mitigation and cross-border trade facilitation, especially amid evolving trade policies and global supply chain disruptions.

Airfreight Forwarding Market, Segmentation by End Use Industry

The Airfreight Forwarding Market caters to a diverse range of end-use industries, each with distinct logistical demands. Increasing globalization and e-commerce penetration have heightened the need for fast, reliable, and temperature-controlled freight forwarding solutions across multiple sectors, leading to stronger industry integration and collaborative logistics models.

Retail & FMCG

The Retail & FMCG sector heavily relies on airfreight forwarding for the rapid replenishment of high-demand goods. The increasing adoption of omnichannel retail and just-in-time supply models has spurred logistics firms to enhance route optimization and airspace management, ensuring time-sensitive product delivery.

Manufacturing

Manufacturing industries utilize airfreight forwarding for the transportation of critical components and machinery parts. Growing industrial automation and the shift toward globalized production hubs have driven the need for reliable air cargo solutions that minimize downtime and maintain production continuity.

Consumer Appliances

Consumer Appliances manufacturers benefit from airfreight’s speed and efficiency in managing seasonal surges and international launches. Logistics providers in this segment focus on optimizing load planning and temperature control to protect electronic components during long-haul shipments.

Healthcare

The Healthcare segment represents a fast-growing vertical due to the rising transport of pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and medical devices. With strict regulatory compliance and temperature-sensitive cargo requirements, the integration of real-time tracking and cold-chain technologies has become a critical driver of market growth.

Others

The Others segment includes sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and defense. These industries depend on specialized logistics services capable of handling oversized and high-value shipments, emphasizing security and precision delivery as top operational priorities.

Airfreight Forwarding Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Airfreight Forwarding Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

North America

North America remains a dominant hub for airfreight forwarding, driven by strong trade volumes, advanced logistics infrastructure, and the presence of major cargo carriers. The U.S. and Canada collectively account for a significant share of global freight movement, with automation and digital logistics systems boosting efficiency and reducing operational costs.

Europe

Europe continues to experience steady growth, propelled by cross-border e-commerce expansion and modernization of airport cargo facilities. The region’s regulatory emphasis on sustainability and green logistics is also fostering the development of energy-efficient air cargo solutions and multimodal connectivity.

Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific represents the fastest-growing region, accounting for a substantial portion of global air cargo traffic. Major economies like China, Japan, and India are enhancing trade corridors and expanding air freight networks, supported by government-backed infrastructure investments and increasing export-oriented manufacturing.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa region serves as a strategic transit hub connecting Asia and Europe. Key markets such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia have become focal points for cargo transshipment due to expanding airport capacities and trade zone developments, supporting regional logistics integration.

Latin America

Latin America is emerging as a promising market, driven by growing agricultural exports, automotive production, and pharmaceutical distribution. Although infrastructure challenges persist, ongoing investments in air cargo modernization are expected to boost operational efficiency and regional trade competitiveness.

In recent years, air freight forwarding has seen notable market trends driven by several factors. One prominent trend is the increasing demand for faster delivery times, particularly in industries such as e-commerce and pharmaceuticals, propelling the growth of expedited air freight services. Another trend is the rise of digitalization and automation within the industry, streamlining operations, enhancing efficiency, and improving customer experiences.

Additionally, environmental concerns have led to a greater emphasis on sustainability, prompting initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and adopt eco-friendly practices in air cargo transportation. Moreover, geopolitical uncertainties and trade tensions have influenced shifting global trade patterns, impacting the flow of goods and reshaping routes and networks for air freight forwarding companies. Overall, the industry is witnessing a dynamic landscape characterized by evolving customer expectations, technological advancements, sustainability initiatives, and geopolitical dynamics.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Airfreight Forwarding Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Airfreight Forwarding Market is witnessing intensifying competition as logistics providers prioritize innovation, network expansion, and strategic collaboration with airlines, shippers, and e-commerce platforms. Nearly 63% of the market share is dominated by global forwarding leaders, while smaller firms focus on regional, cost-efficient, and specialized freight solutions. Strategic partnerships and merger activities are strengthening service networks and fueling sustainable growth.

Market Structure and Concentration
The market demonstrates moderate consolidation, with around 65% of volumes managed by top-tier freight forwarders. Larger firms pursue advanced strategies in integrated supply chains, digital booking, and express cargo, while smaller companies serve niche segments such as perishables and pharmaceuticals. Rising merger activity and cross-industry collaboration are intensifying concentration and supporting consistent growth.

Brand and Channel Strategies
Close to 56% of forwarding services are managed through direct contracts with global enterprises, while online freight platforms and regional agents handle the rest. Branding strategies emphasize speed, reliability, and cost optimization. Strong partnerships with airlines, digital collaboration platforms, and e-commerce providers are boosting visibility and driving steady growth worldwide.

Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements
More than 52% of forwarders invest in R&D and digital innovation to enhance real-time tracking, predictive analytics, and AI-driven logistics management. Technological advancements in IoT, blockchain, and automation are reshaping efficiency and transparency in airfreight forwarding. Strategic collaboration with technology providers and logistics ecosystems is ensuring sustainable growth across trade networks.

Regional Momentum and Expansion
Asia Pacific accounts for nearly 47% of the airfreight forwarding market, supported by strong e-commerce growth and high export volumes. North America demonstrates steady growth with digital-driven strategies, while Europe shows expansion through integrated logistics hubs. Regional partnerships and localized service facilities are strengthening competitiveness in global supply chains.

Future Outlook
The airfreight forwarding industry is projected to maintain robust growth, with over 61% of stakeholders anticipating stronger consolidation. Rising merger initiatives, continuous service innovation, and broader collaboration with airlines and digital logistics platforms will define competitiveness. Long-term expansion into automated, sustainable, and AI-powered freight forwarding ensures a progressive future outlook for this market.

Key players in Airfreight Forwarding Market include :

• Kuehne + Nagel
• DHL Global Forwarding / DHL Supply Chain & Global Forwarding
• DSV (including DSV Panalpina)
• DB Schenker
• Sinotrans
• Nippon Express
• Expeditors International
• UPS Supply Chain Solutions
• CEVA Logistics
• AWOT Global Logistics Group
• KLN Logistics
• Panalpina (as part of merged operations with DSV / DHL)
• C.H. Robinson
• FedEx Logistics
• Agility Logistics

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Market Share Analysis
• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis