Automotive Logistics Market Analysis

Activity Segment Analysis

The transportation & handling segment is projected to hold a commanding 70.5% automotive logistics market share through the forecast period, motivated by the inherent function of these services in conveying automobile parts and finished cars within convoluted worldwide supply chains. The segment incorporates the main logistics functions of loading, unloading, warehousing, and distribution, critical to automobile production functions involving tight timing and coordination. The dominance of the segment is complemented by ongoing innovation in automation and efficiency gains. Nippon Express Co., Ltd., in September 2024, announced the NX Universal Harmonious Work Warehouse project, responding to Japan's challenges of an aging population and dwindling workforce by incorporating leading-edge logistics robots, work-assist machines, and optimized workplace conditions to improve productivity while opening up access to hitherto untapped labor pools. 

Type Segment Analysis

The automobile components segment is anticipated to command around 65% market share by 2035, accounting for the immense complexity and quantity of components needed for contemporary vehicle production, driving persistent demand for specialized transport services. The segment benefits from the increasing complexity of automotive production processes, which demands precise coordination of thousands of discrete components from international suppliers. Businesses are developing expertise in temperature-controlled supply chains, anti-static conditions, and precision support required for these sophisticated components.   In February 2025, Hesai Technology reported increased collaboration with BYD, supplying automotive lidar to over 10 BYD models that will be entering mass production this year. The collaboration illustrates alignment between automotive production and cutting-edge sensor technologies, needing unique supply chain solutions for intricate electronic components, enabling autonomous driving technologies. 

Mode of Transport Segment Analysis

The roadways segment is expected to lead the market until 2035, boosted by the convenience, speed, and affordability of road transport for automotive logistics uses, especially for last-mile delivery and just-in-time production support. Road transport offers the diversity of service necessary to cover various pickup and delivery points, as well as the time precision necessary for automotive manufacturing operations. Strength in this segment is evidenced through successful fleet growth and operational enhancements. In January 2025, UPS announced fourth-quarter 2024 results with consolidated revenues of $25.3 billion, with strategic efforts to advance performance through the emphasis on increasing higher-yielding volume, along with accelerating transformation initiatives targeting about $1 billion in savings. Businesses are investing in electric vehicle fleets and high-tech solutions that retain road transport's flexibility benefits while satisfying environmental performance needs.

Our in-depth analysis of the global automotive logistics market includes the following segments: