Key Insights

The Central and Eastern European freight and logistics market, valued at €126.85 million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.05% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. The increasing e-commerce penetration across the region is significantly boosting demand for efficient last-mile delivery solutions. Furthermore, the ongoing development of infrastructure, including improved road networks and railway connections, is facilitating smoother and faster goods transportation. Simultaneously, the automotive and manufacturing sectors, key drivers of freight activity, are experiencing moderate growth, contributing positively to market expansion. However, geopolitical uncertainties and potential economic fluctuations could present challenges. While the specific impact of these factors requires constant monitoring, the overall outlook for the market remains positive, driven by long-term growth in e-commerce and manufacturing output.

Growth within specific segments varies. The construction, oil and gas, and quarrying sectors consistently contribute significantly to freight demand, reflecting ongoing infrastructure projects and resource extraction activities. Agriculture, fishing, and forestry also represent important segments, while the manufacturing and automotive sectors are projected to see above-average growth fueled by increased production and export activities. Within the functional segments, freight forwarding and warehousing continue to hold substantial market share, benefiting from the expansion of e-commerce and supply chain complexities. Germany, the United Kingdom, and France represent the largest national markets, driven by their strong economic output and established logistics infrastructure; however, other countries in Central and Eastern Europe, such as Poland and the Netherlands, are showing accelerated growth due to rising industrial activity. Leading players like Rhenus SE & Co, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics, and Deutsche Bahn AG, along with international giants like DSV and Kuehne + Nagel, dominate the landscape, leveraging their extensive networks and technological capabilities. The market is expected to witness increased competition and consolidation in the coming years.

Central and Eastern Europe Freight and Logistics Industry: A Comprehensive Market Report (2019-2033)

This comprehensive report provides a detailed analysis of the Central and Eastern European freight and logistics industry, covering market size, growth drivers, challenges, and key players. The report utilizes data from the historical period (2019-2024), base year (2025), and forecast period (2025-2033) to offer actionable insights for industry stakeholders. The total market size in 2025 is estimated at xx Million, with a projected CAGR of xx% during the forecast period.

Central and Eastern Europe Freight and Logistics Industry Market Concentration & Innovation

This section analyzes the market concentration, innovation drivers, regulatory landscape, and competitive dynamics within the Central and Eastern European freight and logistics sector. The industry exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with several large multinational players holding significant market share. For instance, Deutsche Post DHL and Kuehne + Nagel International AG command a substantial portion of the market, although precise figures vary by segment and country. Smaller, regional players also play a significant role, particularly in specialized niches.

Innovation is driven by factors such as:

• Technological advancements: Automation, AI, and data analytics are transforming logistics operations, increasing efficiency and reducing costs.
• Sustainability initiatives: The growing focus on reducing carbon emissions is promoting the adoption of electric vehicles and sustainable packaging solutions.
• E-commerce boom: The rapid growth of e-commerce continues to fuel demand for efficient last-mile delivery solutions.

Regulatory frameworks vary across countries, impacting operational costs and compliance requirements. Product substitutes, while limited in some segments, include the increasing use of digital freight forwarding platforms and alternative transportation modes. M&A activity remains robust, with deal values exceeding xx Million in recent years, indicating ongoing consolidation in the industry. For example, the merger of [Insert Example M&A Deal if available] significantly impacted market share and competitive landscape.

Central and Eastern Europe Freight and Logistics Industry Industry Trends & Insights

The Central and Eastern European freight and logistics market is experiencing robust growth, driven by several key factors:

• Economic expansion: Steady economic growth across the region, particularly in Poland and Germany, fuels demand for efficient transportation and logistics services.
• Infrastructure development: Ongoing investments in infrastructure, including roads, railways, and ports, are enhancing connectivity and improving logistics efficiency.
• Rising e-commerce penetration: The increasing adoption of online shopping necessitates sophisticated logistics networks to handle the growing volume of deliveries.
• Shifting consumer preferences: Consumers are demanding faster and more reliable delivery services, creating pressure on logistics providers to improve their offerings.

Technological disruptions, such as the adoption of blockchain technology for enhanced supply chain transparency and the use of autonomous vehicles, are transforming industry operations. Competitive dynamics are characterized by intense competition among large multinational companies and smaller, specialized logistics providers. Market penetration rates for advanced technologies remain relatively low but are expected to increase substantially in the coming years.

Dominant Markets & Segments in Central and Eastern Europe Freight and Logistics Industry

Germany and Poland represent the largest national markets within the region, driven by their strong economies and well-developed infrastructure. Within the segment breakdown:

• End User: Manufacturing and Automotive, followed by Distributive Trade, dominate end-user segments due to high production volumes and extensive distribution networks. The Oil and Gas and Quarrying segment is also significant but more geographically concentrated.
• Function: Freight transport accounts for the largest share, reflecting the fundamental role of moving goods across borders and within the region. Warehousing and Freight Forwarding are also major segments.

Key Drivers:

• Germany: Strong industrial base, advanced infrastructure, and strategic location within Europe.
• Poland: Rapid economic growth, significant manufacturing sector, and expanding e-commerce market.
• Manufacturing and Automotive: High production volumes and complex supply chains driving demand for logistics services.
• Distributive Trade: Expanding retail sector and increasing reliance on efficient logistics for product distribution.

These dominant markets and segments are expected to maintain their leadership positions, driven by continued economic growth, infrastructure improvements, and the expanding e-commerce sector.

Central and Eastern Europe Freight and Logistics Industry Product Developments

The industry is witnessing rapid innovation in areas such as automated warehousing systems, real-time tracking technologies, and advanced data analytics platforms. These technological advancements improve efficiency, optimize supply chains, and enhance customer service. The market favors solutions offering greater transparency, traceability, and speed, particularly within the context of rising customer expectations and the demand for sustainable practices. The integration of these technologies is providing competitive advantages to leading providers, enabling them to offer superior services and capture market share.

Report Scope & Segmentation Analysis

This report segments the Central and Eastern European freight and logistics market by:

• End User: Construction, Oil and Gas and Quarrying, Agriculture, Fishing, and Forestry, Manufacturing and Automotive, Distributive Trade, Other End Users (Pharmaceutical and Healthcare). Each segment demonstrates varying growth trajectories based on specific industry dynamics. For example, the Manufacturing and Automotive sector shows strong growth, while the Agriculture, Fishing, and Forestry sector exhibits more moderate growth.

• Country: Germany, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Netherlands, Poland, Rest of Europe. Market size and growth vary considerably across these countries, reflecting economic conditions and infrastructure development.

• Function: Freight Transport, Air Freight Forwarding, Warehousing, Value-added Services, and Other Functions. Growth projections for each function are detailed within the report, indicating the relative importance of each segment. The competitive landscape also differs based on the specific function.

Market size estimates and competitive dynamics are analyzed for each segment, providing detailed market insights.

Key Drivers of Central and Eastern Europe Freight and Logistics Industry Growth

The Central and Eastern European freight and logistics market is propelled by several key drivers:

• Technological advancements: Automation, AI, and data analytics are improving efficiency and reducing costs.
• Economic growth: Strong economic performance in several key countries drives demand for logistics services.
• Infrastructure development: Improvements in transportation networks enhance connectivity and reduce transit times.
• E-commerce expansion: The growing popularity of online shopping fuels demand for efficient last-mile delivery solutions.
• Favorable government policies: Supportive regulations and incentives promote investment and growth within the sector.

Challenges in the Central and Eastern Europe Freight and Logistics Industry Sector

The industry faces challenges including:

• Infrastructure gaps: In some areas, inadequate infrastructure hinders efficient logistics operations.
• Geopolitical risks: Political instability and regional conflicts can disrupt supply chains and increase operational costs.
• Driver shortages: A shortage of skilled drivers impacts transportation capacity and delivery times.
• Increased competition: Intense competition from both established and new entrants puts pressure on profit margins.
• Fluctuating fuel prices: Oil price volatility affects transportation costs and profitability.

Emerging Opportunities in Central and Eastern Europe Freight and Logistics Industry

Emerging opportunities include:

• Sustainable logistics: Growing demand for environmentally friendly transportation and logistics solutions.
• Digitalization: Implementation of advanced technologies, such as blockchain and AI, to enhance efficiency and transparency.
• Last-mile delivery optimization: Development of innovative solutions to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of last-mile delivery.
• Cross-border e-commerce growth: Expansion of e-commerce across national borders presents significant opportunities for logistics providers.

Leading Players in the Central and Eastern Europe Freight and Logistics Industry Market

• Rhenus SE & Co
• Hellmann Worldwide Logistics
• XPO Logistics
• Deutsche Bahn AG
• DSV A/S
• Kuehne + Nagel International AG
• Freja Logistics
• UPS Europe NV
• Dachser SE
• Arvato
• FEIGE Logistik
• Bollore Holding SA
• BLG Logistics Group
• Deutsche Post DHL

Key Developments in Central and Eastern Europe Freight and Logistics Industry Industry

• August 2022: DB Schenker launched its first charter flight between Europe and South America, establishing a new route connecting the Netherlands to Brazil with US stopovers. This expands their reach into South American markets.

• September 2022: IKEA Industry, Volvo Trucks, and Raben Group partnered on zero-emission heavy goods transport in Poland, signifying a move towards sustainable logistics practices within the region.

Strategic Outlook for Central and Eastern Europe Freight and Logistics Industry Market

The Central and Eastern European freight and logistics market is poised for continued growth, driven by strong economic fundamentals, infrastructure investments, and technological advancements. The increasing adoption of sustainable practices and the rise of e-commerce will create significant opportunities for logistics providers. Companies that embrace innovation, invest in technology, and adapt to changing consumer preferences will be best positioned to succeed in this dynamic market.

Central and Eastern Europe Freight and Logistics Industry Segmentation

• 1. Function
  • 1.1. Freight Transport
    • 1.1.1. Road
    • 1.1.2. Rail
    • 1.1.3. Sea and Inland
    • 1.1.4. Air
  • 1.2. Freight Forwarding
  • 1.3. Warehousing
  • 1.4. Value-added Services and Other Functions
• 2. End User
  • 2.1. Construction
  • 2.2. Oil and Gas and Quarrying
  • 2.3. Agriculture, Fishing, and Forestry
  • 2.4. Manufacturing and Automotive
  • 2.5. Distributive Trade
  • 2.6. Other End Users (Pharmaceutical and Healthcare)

Central and Eastern Europe Freight and Logistics Industry Segmentation By Geography

• 1. North America
  • 1.1. United States
  • 1.2. Canada
  • 1.3. Mexico
• 2. South America
  • 2.1. Brazil
  • 2.2. Argentina
  • 2.3. Rest of South America
• 3. Europe
  • 3.1. United Kingdom
  • 3.2. Germany
  • 3.3. France
  • 3.4. Italy
  • 3.5. Spain
  • 3.6. Russia
  • 3.7. Benelux
  • 3.8. Nordics
  • 3.9. Rest of Europe
• 4. Middle East & Africa
  • 4.1. Turkey
  • 4.2. Israel
  • 4.3. GCC
  • 4.4. North Africa
  • 4.5. South Africa
  • 4.6. Rest of Middle East & Africa
• 5. Asia Pacific
  • 5.1. China
  • 5.2. India
  • 5.3. Japan
  • 5.4. South Korea
  • 5.5. ASEAN
  • 5.6. Oceania
  • 5.7. Rest of Asia Pacific