Demand for Air Cargo & Freight Logistics in USA

Demand for Air Cargo & Freight Logistics in USA 2025 to 2035

Demand for air cargo & freight logistics in the USA is projected to grow from USD 19.1 billion in 2025 to approximately USD 48.7 billion by 2035, recording an absolute increase of USD 29.6 billion over the forecast period. This translates into a total growth of 154.9%, with demand forecast to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.7% between 2025 and 2035.

The overall demand size is expected to grow by approximately 2.5 times during the same period, supported by accelerating e-commerce growth, increasing emphasis on supply chain efficiency, rising adoption of digital freight platforms, and expanding cross-border trade activities throughout the USA.

Quick Stats for USA Air Cargo & Freight Logistics Industry

• USA Air Cargo & Freight Logistics Sales Value (2025): USD 19.1 billion
• USA Air Cargo & Freight Logistics Forecast Value (2035): USD 48.7 billion
• USA Air Cargo & Freight Logistics Forecast CAGR: 9.7%
• Leading Destination Type in USA Air Cargo & Freight Logistics Industry: Domestic (62.30%)
• Key Growth Regions in USA Air Cargo & Freight Logistics Industry: West, Northeast, South, Midwest
• Regional Leadership: West holds the leading position in demand
• Key Players in USA Air Cargo & Freight Logistics Industry: United Parcel Service Inc., FedEx Corporation, DHL Global Forwarding, DSV Panalpina A/S, Kuehne + Nagel International AG, DB Schenker, C.H. Robinson Worldwide Inc., Expeditors International of Washington Inc., CEVA Logistics AG, Agility Logistics

The domestic segment is projected to account for 62.30% of air cargo & freight logistics demand in 2025. Domestic applications are widely used in the USA for e-commerce operations, retail distribution, and regional supply chain activities where rapid delivery profiles, proven reliability characteristics, and operational flexibility benefits remain essential for time-sensitive shipments and distribution implementations.

The forwarding segment is expected to represent 48.70% of air cargo & freight logistics demand in 2025. Forwarding applications are fundamental to the industry because they provide the operational integration, processing capabilities, and customs clearance flexibility required for large-scale international trade developments and cross-border applications.

Between 2020 and 2025, air cargo & freight logistics demand in the USA experienced rapid expansion, driven by increasing e-commerce penetration patterns and growing recognition of express delivery benefits for operational optimization and consumer satisfaction enhancement. The sector developed as retail companies and logistics operators, especially in major distribution centers, recognized the need for reliable transportation systems and effective delivery solutions to achieve customer objectives while meeting service standards and operational requirements. Commercial companies and logistics suppliers began emphasizing technology integration and automation acceptance to maintain competitive advantages and operational viability.

Between 2025 and 2030, demand for air cargo & freight logistics in the USA is projected to expand from USD 19.1 billion to USD 30.8 billion, resulting in a value increase of USD 11.7 billion, which represents 39.5% of the total forecast growth for the decade. This phase of growth will be shaped by accelerating digital transformation campaigns, rising supply chain investment, and growing demand for advanced tracking systems across USA regions, particularly in areas where e-commerce infrastructure and logistics technology initiatives are accelerating air cargo adoption. Increasing integration of automation technology in shipping systems and growing adoption of predictive analytics platforms continue to drive demand.

Transportation authorities and logistics companies are expanding their technology capabilities to address the growing complexity of modern delivery requirements and operational standards, with USA operations leading investments in automated sorting enhancement methods and efficient distribution optimization systems.

From 2030 to 2035, demand is forecast to grow from USD 30.8 billion to USD 48.7 billion, adding another USD 17.9 billion, which constitutes 60.5% of the overall ten-year expansion. This period is expected to be characterized by expansion of advanced tracking applications, development of enhanced monitoring capabilities, and implementation of comprehensive air cargo technology programs across different commercial and logistics sectors. The growing adoption of intelligent shipping systems and enhanced delivery optimization platforms, particularly in major distribution centers and logistics operations, will drive demand for more sophisticated tracking solutions and validated express delivery systems.

USA Air Cargo & Freight Logistics Industry Key Takeaways

Metric	Value
USA Air Cargo & Freight Logistics Sales Value (2025)	USD 19.1 billion
USA Air Cargo & Freight Logistics Forecast Value (2035)	USD 48.7 billion
USA Air Cargo & Freight Logistics Forecast CAGR (2025-2035)	9.7%

Why is the USA Air Cargo & Freight Logistics Industry Growing?

The USA air cargo & freight logistics industry is driven by a surge in the broader e-commerce infrastructure sector. A considerable growth in demand for both express delivery solutions and automated logistics equipment has created a larger base of retailers, manufacturers, and commercial professionals requiring reliable air cargo products. Furthermore, changing consumer patterns mandate the use of efficient transportation systems for optimal delivery performance and service optimization. This consumer-driven demand establishes a consistent, technology-based foundation. As new operators enter the e-commerce infrastructure segment and existing retail practices are modernized, the need for standard-issue and specialized air cargo products forms a stable foundation for the industry's growth, ensuring a continuous stream of customers driven by commercial necessity and operational compliance.

Technological innovation serves as a powerful secondary engine for this growth. Modern air cargo systems are no longer just basic transportation equipment; they are advanced logistics products. The rapid adoption of specialized tracking technologies has become a major selling point, significantly reducing operational complexity and enhancing delivery reliability. Beyond traditional options, providers are integrating advanced monitoring systems for seamless incorporation with digitally conscious logistics approaches, and compatibility with various commercial requirements. These features, coupled with improvements in route optimization efficiency, system convenience, and service quality, are compelling both retail and commercial operators to upgrade from basic shipping solutions, driving a cycle of replacement and premiumization within the industry.

An increasing emphasis on delivery efficiency, particularly exploration of advanced express technologies, is pushing demand for higher-quality, more diverse air cargo varieties. The segment has also expanded beyond traditional retail channels, with growing interest from the pharmaceutical sector, automotive applications, and even specialty manufacturing units. This diversification, combined with the rise of specialized platforms that improve accessibility for all operators, ensures that providers can reach a wider audience than ever before. This confluence of efficiency, innovation, and accessibility creates a fertile ground for continued industry expansion.

Segmental Analysis

The industry is segmented by destination, service, application, and region. By destination, the industry is divided into domestic and international. In terms of service, the industry is segmented into forwarding, airlines, mail, and other services, with domestic representing a key growth and innovation hub for shipping technologies. By application, the industry is categorized into industrial materials, equipment, food, and others. Regionally, the industry is divided into West, Northeast, South, and Midwest.

By Destination, Domestic Segment Accounts for 62.30% Share

The domestic segment is projected to account for 62.30% of air cargo & freight logistics demand in 2025, making it the leading destination type across the sector. This dominance reflects the shipping requirements and operational acceptance needs of logistics systems for existing retail facilities and commercial applications where delivery efficiency is optimized through proven reliability characteristics and integrated network architecture.

In the USA, where substantial e-commerce infrastructure requires distribution integration without complete system redesign, domestic air cargo solutions provide practical pathways for service enhancement while maintaining operational preferences. Continuous innovations are improving efficiency optimization, reliability preservation, and flexibility parameters, enabling commercial operators to achieve high performance standards while maximizing operational satisfaction.

• Network compatibility and existing system integration make domestic the preferred destination type for enhancing retail facilities and commercial operations.
• Reliability demonstration and performance track records are enhancing operator confidence and service viability across large-scale adoption initiatives.

By Service, Forwarding Segment Accounts for 48.70% Share

Forwarding applications are expected to represent 48.70% of air cargo & freight logistics demand in 2025, reflecting the critical role of logistics processing requiring comprehensive transportation solutions. Forwarding operations including customs projects, trade facilities, and commercial systems generate consistent demand for air cargo services that support efficient operational utilization and performance optimization.

Air cargo systems are widely adopted for forwarding facilities due to significant processing efficiency benefits and enhanced operational capabilities. Their reliable, high-performance operation provides effective, cost-efficient transportation solutions, enhancing operational independence for forwarding users.

• Logistics processing requirements and forwarding operations drive substantial demand for specialized air cargo services designed for commercial applications.
• Operational optimization and performance efficiency demands create consistent transportation requirements across major commercial regions and processing facilities.

What are the Drivers, Restraints, and Key Trends in the USA Air Cargo & Freight Logistics Industry?

The demand for air cargo & freight logistics in the USA is advancing steadily due to increasing consumer requirements and growing recognition of advanced express necessity for delivery optimization, with the West region serving as a key driver of innovation and commercial modernization. The sector faces challenges including fuel cost considerations, capacity limitations during peak seasons, and ongoing concerns regarding regulatory constraints and specialized handling requirements.

Growth in E-commerce Development and Delivery Enhancement Programs

The enhancement of consumer standards, gaining particular significance through retail trends and service education campaigns, is enabling air cargo providers to achieve differentiation without prohibitive operational costs, providing predictable demand patterns through customer requirements and operator preferences.

Enhanced consumer standards offering substantial opportunities for air cargo systems and integrated applications provide foundational dynamics while allowing providers to secure retail facility agreements and distribution partnerships.

Incorporation of Advanced Tracking Capabilities and High-Precision Shipping Systems

Modern air cargo providers and commercial operators are establishing advanced logistics networks and centralized distribution facilities that improve shipping efficiency through process standardization and reliability analytics.

Integration of tracking enhancement systems, high-precision monitoring technology, and coordinated quality management enables more efficient logistics operations across multiple distribution regions.

Creation of Automated Sorting Systems and Enhanced Service Targeting Methods

The expansion of automated sorting systems and service segmentation is driving development of specialized air cargo systems with enhanced tracking profiles, improved reliability characteristics, and optimized delivery attributes that address current limitations and expand transportation applications beyond traditional ground shipping.

These specialized systems require sophisticated monitoring capabilities and performance expertise that exceed traditional logistics requirements, creating specialized demand segments with differentiated service propositions. Providers are investing in service targeting and delivery optimization to serve emerging commercial applications while supporting innovation in performance development and operator engagement.

Analysis of USA Air Cargo & Freight Logistics Demand by Key Regions

Region	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
West	13.20%
Northeast	9.7%
South	12.20%
Midwest	11.80%

The USA air cargo & freight logistics demand is witnessing steady growth, supported by rising consumer requirements, expanding commercial facility initiatives, and the deployment of advanced transportation technologies across regions. West leads the nation with a 13.20% CAGR, reflecting a strong e-commerce base, substantial commercial development, and established logistics innovation facilities.

West Leads National Growth with E-commerce and Commercial Applications

Demand for air cargo & freight logistics in West is projected to exhibit strong growth with a CAGR of 13.20% through 2035, driven by a strong e-commerce base, substantial commercial development creating advanced transportation opportunities, and a concentration of innovation advancement across California, Oregon, Washington, Nevada, and surrounding states.

Advanced delivery programs and operational control initiatives are expanding air cargo adoption among retailers, commercial facilities, and logistics suppliers pursuing service optimization, delivery development, and specialized shipping projects throughout major urban hubs and commercial corridors.

• E-commerce base and commercial infrastructure capabilities are requiring comprehensive transportation strategies and delivery solutions, driving demand for air cargo systems with demonstrated service enhancement performance capabilities and permanent express delivery assurance throughout diverse commercial operations.
• Commercial development and logistics concentration are generating substantial air cargo demand across retail companies, manufacturers, and delivery suppliers serving commercial applications and service requirements.

Northeast Demonstrates Strong Growth with Established Commercial Excellence

Demand for air cargo & freight logistics in Northeast is projected to grow with a CAGR of 9.7% through 2035, supported by established commercial presence, comprehensive retail development, and strong distribution facilities across New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and surrounding states.

Established commercial presence and distribution leadership are supporting air cargo adoption throughout retail facilities, commercial operations, and logistics distribution centers serving service enhancement and shipping applications.

• Strong commercial ecosystem and distribution networks are enabling air cargo integration across delivery producers, retailers, and transportation suppliers pursuing advanced service development and delivery programs.
• Premium commercial capabilities and retail excellence are driving air cargo demand among leading retail corporations, delivery centers, and specialized commercial firms focused on performance enhancement, transportation optimization, and distribution development targeting service applications and advanced commercial operations.

South Shows Steady Growth with Expanding Commercial Capabilities

Demand for air cargo & freight logistics in South is forecast to advance with a CAGR of 12.20% through 2035, driven by expanding commercial capabilities, growing retail investment, and increasing service consciousness across Texas, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and surrounding states.

Rising retail sector development and distribution partnerships are supporting air cargo integration across transportation producers, retail facilities, and delivery distributors pursuing service enhancement, commercial expansion, and logistics initiatives throughout expanding retail regions and urban centers.

• Growing commercial infrastructure and retail investment are creating opportunities for air cargo adoption across emerging transportation hubs, retail facilities, and delivery distribution centers in major metropolitan areas and commercial corridors.
• Commercial expansion and service growth are driving air cargo demand among retail operators seeking enhanced performance capabilities and participation in advanced transportation programs.

Midwest Records Consistent Growth with Distribution Leadership

Demand for air cargo & freight logistics in Midwest is expected to expand with a CAGR of 11.80% through 2035, supported by distribution capabilities, commercial infrastructure development, and growing retail efficiency presence across Illinois, Ohio, Wisconsin, Michigan, and surrounding states.

Commercial expertise and logistics capabilities are driving air cargo demand among retail producers, delivery suppliers, and distribution companies serving transportation production and commercial applications.

• Growing distribution development and commercial investment are supporting air cargo adoption across emerging logistics hubs, retail facilities, and distribution centers pursuing performance enhancement and transportation programs.
• Expanding commercial infrastructure and distribution integration are creating opportunities for air cargo utilization across delivery suppliers, retail production facilities, and distribution operations seeking commercial transportation production, service support, and logistics capabilities throughout major commercial regions and emerging retail distribution centers.

Competitive Landscape of USA Air Cargo & Freight Logistics Industry

USA air cargo & freight logistics demand is defined by competition among established commercial corporations, specialized transportation companies, and integrated logistics producers, with major distribution operators maintaining significant influence through operational resources and logistics capabilities. Companies are investing in transportation advancement, delivery optimization, express service acceptance technologies, and comprehensive performance services to deliver effective, reliable, and efficient logistics solutions across USA commercial and distribution applications.

United Parcel Service Inc. dominates with a 24.80% share, offering comprehensive express delivery solutions including advanced equipment, performance enhancement technologies, and distribution services with a focus on commercial applications, service consistency, and delivery optimization across USA operations. The company continues investing in transportation programs, distribution strategies, and air cargo innovation while expanding operational presence and advanced retail applications.

FedEx Corporation provides specialized transportation solutions with emphasis on performance development and logistics excellence. DHL Global Forwarding focuses on premium delivery development and commercial applications. DSV Panalpina A/S emphasizes commercial development and specialized retail equipment production. Kuehne + Nagel International AG offers transportation technology solutions and professional performance support. DB Schenker specializes in commercial delivery development and distribution programs.

USA Air Cargo & Freight Logistics Industry - Stakeholder Contribution Framework

The USA air cargo & freight logistics industry is a critical backbone for national delivery optimization, supporting commercial installations, retail infrastructure, and distribution applications. With a projected demand value driven by commercial development, retail equipment adoption cycles, and transportation technology advancement, the sector's resilience depends on collaborative engagement among government agencies, retail operators, transportation companies, and investors to modernize infrastructure, enhance efficiency, and secure supply chains.

How Governments Could Accelerate Infrastructure Modernization and Industry Competitiveness?

• Federal Transportation Infrastructure Grants: Expand funding through the Department of Transportation and Federal Aviation Administration for R&D into advanced logistics materials, efficiency-enhanced technologies, and monitoring systems to enhance performance and reliability.
• Tax Incentives for Equipment Installation: Offer investment tax credits for operators replacing conventional systems with high-efficiency air cargo systems, tracking systems, or smart logistics systems that reduce operational consumption and delivery costs.
• Domestic Logistics and Production Support: Implement policies and strategic reserves for domestic transportation production, ensuring a resilient supply of raw materials and mitigating import dependency and price volatility.
• Standardized Service and Certification Policies: Introduce unified federal standards for air cargo logistics, performance testing, and installation inspection to streamline regulatory approval and boost interoperability.
• Permitting Process Reform: Expedite environmental reviews and permitting for critical transportation projects that enhance national logistics grid efficiency and commercial capacity.
• Digital Monitoring Mandates: Promote the deployment of smart sensors, wireless connectivity, and remote monitoring technologies as part of transportation management protocols.

How Industry Bodies & Associations Could Strengthen Sector Coordination and Technical Leadership?

• Unified Material and Service Standards: Develop consensus-based benchmarks for transportation grades, service ratings, and performance standards to ensure interoperability and system-wide efficiency.
• Workforce Development Programs: Create certification pathways for transportation technicians, logistics installers, and commercial engineers to address the skilled labor shortage and ensure quality installation.
• Collaborative R&D Consortia: Establish joint programs linking operators, providers, and research institutions to drive innovation in tracking technologies, advanced materials, and monitoring systems.
• Performance Data Repositories: Build centralized industry databases for performance incident data, efficiency rates, and material performance to inform better design and maintenance standards.
• Public Outreach and Awareness: Promote the role of modern transportation infrastructure in service reliability, economic growth, and operational optimization through coordinated industry campaigns.

How Air Cargo & Freight Logistics Providers & Technology Suppliers Could Capture Value and Drive Innovation?

• Advanced Transportation Production: Invest in production technologies for high-grade tracking systems, efficiency-enhanced services, and smart logistics solutions for demanding applications.
• Service Monitoring System Integration: Develop integrated diagnostic platforms combining smart sensor data, wireless monitoring, and performance analytics for predictive maintenance.
• Supply Chain Digitalization: Implement digital traceability from component sourcing to final delivery, using blockchain or QR codes to ensure material provenance and quality compliance.
• Partnership with Research Institutions: Collaborate with national labs on next-generation materials, such as advanced transportation technologies and composite logistics systems for high-performance applications.
• Commercial Optimization: Introduce automated logistics systems, advanced tracking applications, and modular service fabrication to lower operational costs and improve throughput.

How Retail Operators & Infrastructure Companies Could Optimize Commercial Efficiency and Demand Expansion?

• Digital Asset Integration: Create digital replicas of transportation assets integrated with real-time sensor data to optimize performance, predict maintenance, and simulate efficiency scenarios.
• Scale-up of High-Value Applications: Focus on transportation specifications for commercial developments, high-efficiency logistics projects, and retail distribution networks.
• Collaborative Supply Ecosystems: Develop long-term contracts with service providers and technology suppliers to ensure consistent quality and secure capacity during expansion cycles.
• Pilot-to-Field Deployment Transition: Use phased testing for new transportation technologies, such as advanced tracking systems for retail service, before full-scale field deployment.
• Lifecycle Cost Optimization: Invest in premium transportation materials and technologies during installation to reduce long-term maintenance and operational expenses.

How Commercial & Service Companies Could Lead Cross-Sector Integration?

• Retail and Utility Integration: Deploy advanced monitoring and optimization technologies for aging distribution networks in urban and commercial areas.
• Facility and Asset Enhancement: Incorporate real-time logistics management platforms that combine performance data with efficiency assessment for a comprehensive view of asset health.
• Distribution and Grid System Management: Apply advanced efficiency-based methodologies to prioritize maintenance on vast and often complex transportation networks.
• Regional Testing and Validation Hubs: Create regional facilities to test and validate new monitoring tools, efficiency technologies, and transportation systems under simulated field conditions.
• Transportation Life Extension Initiatives: Reuse and upgrade service segments for enhanced efficiency services and optimize rehabilitation programs through advanced technology and smart management systems.

How Engineering & Construction Firms Could Unlock Application Innovation and Demand Access?

• Design and Material Expansion: Develop customized transportation solutions for challenging environments, including urban conditions, weather zones, and high-efficiency applications.
• Modular Logistics Applications: Integrate prefabricated and pre-optimized transportation systems into facility design to reduce field installation time and costs.
• Advanced Project Delivery Systems: Offer integrated EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) platforms that include digital as-built handover with all transportation material records.
• Design for Commercial Services: Partner with operators to provide co-engineered transportation systems optimized for constructability, operability, and long-term efficiency.
• Digital Platform Development: Launch project management platforms for standardized service components, procurement tracking, and quality assurance documentation.

How Investors and Financial Enablers Could Unlock Growth and Technology Scalability?

• Venture Capital for Technology Startups: Support early-stage companies developing novel monitoring systems, efficiency-based tracking, and AI-driven logistics software.
• Infrastructure and Modernization Financing: Provide capital for transportation replacement programs, retail facility upgrades, and digital control system installations.
• Public-Private Investment Platforms: Create co-financed funds for pilot projects demonstrating commercial efficiency or infrastructure distribution in enhanced or new-built transportation systems.
• Strategic Consolidation Funding: Back mergers and acquisitions that consolidate fragmented transportation technology, service, or logistics companies to achieve scale and geographic reach.
• Performance-Linked Financing Models: Tie loan terms and investor returns to key performance indicators like reduced service consumption, improved efficiency records, and enhanced commercial performance.
• Retail Transition Financing Programs: Channel innovation-oriented funds into transportation systems dedicated to commercial efficiency, retail development, and service efficiency networks.

Key Players in USA Air Cargo & Freight Logistics Industry

• United Parcel Service Inc.
• FedEx Corporation
• DHL Global Forwarding
• DSV Panalpina A/S
• Kuehne + Nagel International AG
• DB Schenker
• C.H. Robinson Worldwide Inc.
• Expeditors International of Washington Inc.
• CEVA Logistics AG
• Agility Logistics
• Bolloré Logistics
• Nippon Express
• Hellmann Worldwide Logistics
• Pantos Logistics
• Rosan Sea Air Services

Scope of the Report

Item	Value
Quantitative Units	USD 48.7 billion
Destination	Domestic, International
Service	Forwarding, Airlines, Mail, Other Services
Application	Industrial Materials, Equipment, Food, Others
Regions Covered	West, Northeast, South, Midwest
Key Companies Profiled	United Parcel Service Inc., FedEx Corporation, DHL Global Forwarding, DSV Panalpina A/S, Kuehne + Nagel International AG, DB Schenker, C.H. Robinson Worldwide Inc., Expeditors International of Washington Inc., CEVA Logistics AG, Agility Logistics, Bolloré Logistics, Nippon Express, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics, Pantos Logistics, Rosan Sea Air Services
Additional Attributes	Sales by destination and service segment, regional demand trends across West, Northeast, South, and Midwest, competitive landscape with established commercial corporations and transportation suppliers, retail facility preferences for domestic versus international equipment, integration with commercial facilities and advanced transportation optimization policies particularly advanced in West region

USA Air Cargo & Freight Logistics Industry by Segments

• Destination :

  • Domestic
  • International

• Service :

  • Forwarding
  • Airlines
  • Mail
  • Other Services

• Application :

  • Industrial Materials
  • Equipment
  • Food
  • Others

• Region :

  • West
  • Northeast
  • South
  • Midwest