Key Insights
The US cold chain supply logistics market, valued at $78.45 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.83% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is driven by several key factors. The increasing demand for perishable goods, including fresh produce, dairy products, and seafood, fuels the need for efficient and reliable cold chain solutions. E-commerce growth significantly contributes, demanding faster delivery times and temperature-controlled transportation for online grocery and pharmaceutical orders. Furthermore, stringent regulatory requirements concerning food safety and product quality are pushing businesses to invest in advanced cold chain infrastructure and technologies, such as real-time monitoring and automated warehousing. Growth in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors, requiring stringent temperature control for vaccines and other sensitive medications, also contributes significantly to market expansion. The market is segmented by service type (storage, transportation, value-added services), temperature type (chilled, frozen, ambient), and application (fruits & vegetables, dairy, fish, meat, processed food, healthcare, bakery). Major players like Lineage Logistics, Americold Logistics, and FedEx are shaping the competitive landscape through strategic acquisitions, technological advancements, and expanding their service offerings. Regional variations exist, with the Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, Southwest, and West regions each contributing to the overall market size, reflecting variations in population density, agricultural output, and industrial activity.
The market's growth is not without challenges. Rising fuel costs and labor shortages present significant headwinds. Moreover, maintaining consistent cold chain integrity throughout the entire supply chain, from farm to consumer, requires substantial investment in technology and infrastructure. Advancements in automation, such as autonomous vehicles and robotics in warehousing, are likely to alleviate some of these challenges, improving efficiency and reducing costs. However, the initial investment in these technologies represents a hurdle for smaller players. Nevertheless, the long-term outlook for the US cold chain supply logistics market remains positive, driven by sustained consumer demand for fresh and temperature-sensitive products coupled with technological innovations to optimize efficiency and reduce operational costs. The continued expansion of e-commerce and the growing focus on food safety and pharmaceutical logistics will further propel market expansion in the coming years.
This comprehensive report provides a detailed analysis of the US cold chain supply logistics market, encompassing market size, segmentation, growth drivers, challenges, and future opportunities. The study period covers 2019-2033, with 2025 as the base and estimated year. Key players such as DB Schenker, Prime Inc., Total Quality Logistics, and others are profiled, providing invaluable insights for stakeholders across the industry.
US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Market Concentration & Innovation
The US cold chain supply logistics market is moderately concentrated, with several large players holding substantial market share. While precise figures remain proprietary, Americold Logistics, Lineage Logistics, and United States Cold Storage are prominent examples, each controlling a significant portion. This concentration stems from the high capital investment needed for infrastructure and the specialized expertise required for maintaining rigorous temperature controls. The market is dynamic, however, with considerable activity shaping its future.
Innovation within the sector is driven by several key factors:
- Technological Advancements: Automation, IoT (Internet of Things) sensors for real-time temperature monitoring and data analytics are boosting efficiency and minimizing waste. The implementation of AI and machine learning is also improving predictive maintenance and route optimization.
- Regulatory Pressures: Increasingly stringent food safety regulations (like the FDA's Food Safety Modernization Act) necessitate advanced technologies for enhanced traceability and quality control, pushing innovation in tracking and monitoring systems.
- Consumer Demand: Growing consumer awareness of food safety and quality, coupled with a preference for fresh and convenient products, fuels the demand for sophisticated cold chain solutions that guarantee product integrity from farm to table.
- Sustainability Initiatives: The industry is facing increasing pressure to reduce its environmental footprint, leading to innovations in energy-efficient refrigeration, sustainable packaging, and optimized transportation routes.
Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) significantly contribute to market consolidation. Recent deals have focused on expanding geographical reach, broadening service offerings, and acquiring cutting-edge technologies. The total value of M&A deals within the period 2019-2024 is estimated at [Insert Estimated Value] Million. Americold Logistics' strategic investment into RSA Cold Chain in May 2023 exemplifies this ongoing consolidation trend. This trend is likely to continue as larger players seek to achieve economies of scale and expand their market dominance.
US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Industry Trends & Insights
The US cold chain supply logistics market is experiencing robust growth, driven by several factors. The estimated Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) for the forecast period (2025-2033) is projected at xx%. This growth is fuelled by:
- E-commerce expansion: The boom in online grocery and food delivery services necessitates robust cold chain infrastructure. Market penetration of online grocery is growing rapidly, further strengthening the demand for cold chain logistics.
- Rising disposable incomes: Increasing disposable incomes, particularly among the middle class, are driving greater consumption of perishable goods.
- Growing demand for convenience: Consumers increasingly prioritize convenience, which is contributing to the rise of ready-to-eat meals and other convenient food products that require effective cold chain management.
- Technological advancements in cold chain management: The adoption of technologies such as blockchain technology for improved traceability and data analytics for enhanced efficiency is improving the overall efficiency of the cold chain.
Competitive dynamics are shaped by factors such as pricing strategies, service quality, and technological capabilities. Larger players leverage their scale to secure contracts and invest in cutting-edge technologies, while smaller companies focus on niche markets or specialized services.
Dominant Markets & Segments in US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market
The US cold chain supply logistics market is geographically diverse, with strong growth anticipated across various regions. The Northeast and West Coast regions are likely to remain dominant due to higher population density and robust food processing and distribution industries.
By Services:
- Storage: This segment dominates, driven by the need to store vast quantities of temperature-sensitive goods. Market size in 2025: xx Million.
- Transportation: This segment is experiencing steady growth, with considerable investments in specialized refrigerated trucking fleets. Market size in 2025: xx Million.
- Value-added services: This segment is experiencing the fastest growth, driven by the increasing demand for customized services. Market size in 2025: xx Million.
By Temperature Type:
- Frozen: This segment holds a significant share due to the large volume of frozen food products requiring transportation and storage.
- Chilled: The chilled segment is growing rapidly due to the rising demand for fresh produce and other chilled goods.
- Ambient: This segment comprises non-temperature sensitive products and plays a supporting role.
By Application:
- Fruits and vegetables: This segment remains a key driver for growth in the overall cold chain market due to its large volume and perishability.
- Dairy products: The dairy segment is a significant contributor due to the temperature sensitivity and perishability of products such as milk and ice cream.
- Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals: This segment is experiencing rapid growth fueled by the increasing demand for temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals.
Key drivers for growth in these segments include:
- Government initiatives promoting food safety: Stringent regulations drive adoption of advanced cold chain technologies.
- Improved infrastructure: Investments in modern cold storage facilities and transportation networks enhance logistics efficiency.
US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Product Developments
The US cold chain market witnesses continuous product innovation, focusing on enhancing efficiency, reducing waste, and improving traceability. Notable advancements include the adoption of temperature-monitoring sensors integrated with IoT platforms, automated guided vehicles (AGVs) for warehouse operations, and the use of blockchain technology to enhance supply chain visibility and transparency. These innovations are gaining traction due to their capacity to minimize product spoilage and improve delivery efficiency, directly aligning with the needs of a market experiencing significant growth.
Report Scope & Segmentation Analysis
This report comprehensively segments the US cold chain supply logistics market based on services (storage, transportation, value-added services), temperature type (chilled, frozen, ambient), and application (fruits and vegetables, dairy products, fish, meat, seafood, processed food, healthcare & pharmaceuticals, bakery and confectionary, other). Each segment's growth projections, market size, and competitive landscape are analyzed in detail. The market is projected to reach xx Million by 2033. The competitive dynamics vary across segments; for instance, the storage segment is characterized by higher concentration, while the value-added services segment demonstrates greater fragmentation.
Key Drivers of US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Growth
Several factors are driving the growth of the US cold chain supply logistics market: e-commerce expansion, especially in grocery delivery services; rising disposable incomes leading to increased consumption of perishable goods; advancements in refrigeration technologies, such as improved insulation and energy-efficient systems; and stringent food safety regulations mandating improved cold chain practices.
Challenges in the US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Sector
The industry faces challenges including the high capital expenditure required for infrastructure development, potential for temperature excursions leading to spoilage and losses, managing the complexities of a geographically vast and diverse market, and the need for skilled labor to operate sophisticated cold chain equipment. The impact of these challenges is estimated to account for xx% of overall market losses in 2025.
Emerging Opportunities in US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market
Emerging opportunities include growing demand for value-added services such as packaging and labeling, expansion into niche markets such as specialized healthcare and pharmaceutical logistics, increased adoption of blockchain for traceability, and development of sustainable cold chain solutions to reduce environmental impact.
Leading Players in the US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Market
- DB Schenker
- Prime Inc
- Total Quality Logistics
- CH Robinson Worldwide
- Americold Logistics
- Burris Logistics
- XPO Logistics
- FedEx
- Stevens Transport
- Expeditors
- Lineage Logistics
- United States Cold Storage
- Covenant Transportation Services
- DHL Supply Chain
- Arc Best
- JB Hunt
Key Developments in US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Industry
- June 2023: Honor Foods (Burris Logistics) acquires Sunny Morning Foods, expanding its presence in the Southeast region. This significantly boosts Burris Logistics' market share within the dairy redistribution segment.
- May 2023: Americold Logistics expands its facility in Barcelona, Spain, increasing capacity for temperature-controlled products in the European market. This strengthens their global presence and competitiveness.
- May 2023: Americold Logistics makes a strategic investment in RSA Cold Chain in Dubai, expanding its footprint in the Middle East. This strategic move broadens their international reach and market diversification.
Strategic Outlook for US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Market
The US cold chain supply logistics market is poised for continued expansion, driven by long-term trends in e-commerce, rising consumer demand, and technological innovations. Strategic players will focus on enhancing their technological capabilities, expanding their service offerings, and pursuing M&A activity to consolidate their market position. Growth will be particularly strong in the value-added services segment and the healthcare/pharmaceutical application areas.
US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Segmentation
-
1. Services
- 1.1. Storage
- 1.2. Transportation
- 1.3. Value-ad
-
2. Temperature Type
- 2.1. Chilled
- 2.2. Frozen
- 2.3. Ambient
-
3. Application
- 3.1. Fruits and Vegetables
- 3.2. Dairy Pr
- 3.3. Fish, Meat, and Seafood
- 3.4. Processed Food
- 3.5. Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals
- 3.6. Bakery and Confectionary
- 3.7. Other Applications
US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. United States
US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
| Aspects | Details |
|---|---|
| Study Period | 2019-2033 |
| Base Year | 2024 |
| Estimated Year | 2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
| Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
| Growth Rate | CAGR of 5.83% from 2019-2033 |
| Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. 4.; PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY GROWTH4.; RISING FRESH PRODUCE IMPORTS FROM MEXICO4.; INCREASING POPULARITY OF FROZEN FOODS
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. 4.; EMISSIONS FROM COLD CHAIN OPERATIONS4.; LABOUR SHORTAGES
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Rising fresh produce imports from Mexico
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Global US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Services
- 5.1.1. Storage
- 5.1.2. Transportation
- 5.1.3. Value-ad
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Temperature Type
- 5.2.1. Chilled
- 5.2.2. Frozen
- 5.2.3. Ambient
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 5.3.1. Fruits and Vegetables
- 5.3.2. Dairy Pr
- 5.3.3. Fish, Meat, and Seafood
- 5.3.4. Processed Food
- 5.3.5. Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals
- 5.3.6. Bakery and Confectionary
- 5.3.7. Other Applications
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.4.1. United States
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Services
- 6. Northeast US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7. Southeast US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8. Midwest US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9. Southwest US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10. West US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11. Competitive Analysis
- 11.1. Global Market Share Analysis 2024
- 11.2. Company Profiles
- 11.2.1 DB Schenker
- 11.2.1.1. Overview
- 11.2.1.2. Products
- 11.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.2 Prime Inc
- 11.2.2.1. Overview
- 11.2.2.2. Products
- 11.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.3 Total Quality Logistics
- 11.2.3.1. Overview
- 11.2.3.2. Products
- 11.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.4 CH Robinson Worldwide
- 11.2.4.1. Overview
- 11.2.4.2. Products
- 11.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.5 Americold Logistics
- 11.2.5.1. Overview
- 11.2.5.2. Products
- 11.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.6 Burris Logistics
- 11.2.6.1. Overview
- 11.2.6.2. Products
- 11.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.7 XPO Logistics
- 11.2.7.1. Overview
- 11.2.7.2. Products
- 11.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.8 FedEx
- 11.2.8.1. Overview
- 11.2.8.2. Products
- 11.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.9 Stevens Transport
- 11.2.9.1. Overview
- 11.2.9.2. Products
- 11.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.10 Expeditors
- 11.2.10.1. Overview
- 11.2.10.2. Products
- 11.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.11 Lineage Logistics
- 11.2.11.1. Overview
- 11.2.11.2. Products
- 11.2.11.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.11.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.11.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.12 United States Cold Storage
- 11.2.12.1. Overview
- 11.2.12.2. Products
- 11.2.12.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.12.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.12.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.13 Covenant Transportation Services**List Not Exhaustive
- 11.2.13.1. Overview
- 11.2.13.2. Products
- 11.2.13.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.13.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.13.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.14 DHL Supply Chain
- 11.2.14.1. Overview
- 11.2.14.2. Products
- 11.2.14.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.14.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.14.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.15 Arc Best
- 11.2.15.1. Overview
- 11.2.15.2. Products
- 11.2.15.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.15.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.15.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.16 JB Hunt
- 11.2.16.1. Overview
- 11.2.16.2. Products
- 11.2.16.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.16.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.16.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.1 DB Schenker
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Global US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Region 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: United states US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 3: United states US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 4: United States US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue (Million), by Services 2024 & 2032
- Figure 5: United States US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue Share (%), by Services 2024 & 2032
- Figure 6: United States US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue (Million), by Temperature Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 7: United States US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue Share (%), by Temperature Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 8: United States US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue (Million), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 9: United States US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue Share (%), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 10: United States US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 11: United States US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
List of Tables
- Table 1: Global US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Global US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Services 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Global US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Temperature Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Global US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Global US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Global US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Northeast US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Southeast US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Midwest US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Southwest US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: West US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Global US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Services 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Global US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Temperature Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Global US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Global US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 5.83%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market?
Key companies in the market include DB Schenker, Prime Inc, Total Quality Logistics, CH Robinson Worldwide, Americold Logistics, Burris Logistics, XPO Logistics, FedEx, Stevens Transport, Expeditors, Lineage Logistics, United States Cold Storage, Covenant Transportation Services**List Not Exhaustive, DHL Supply Chain, Arc Best, JB Hunt.
3. What are the main segments of the US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market?
The market segments include Services, Temperature Type, Application.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 78.45 Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
4.; PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY GROWTH4.; RISING FRESH PRODUCE IMPORTS FROM MEXICO4.; INCREASING POPULARITY OF FROZEN FOODS.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Rising fresh produce imports from Mexico.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
4.; EMISSIONS FROM COLD CHAIN OPERATIONS4.; LABOUR SHORTAGES.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
June 2023: Honor Foods, the Burris Logistics food service redistribution company, purchased Sunny Morning Foods, a food service redistributor with dairy expertise located in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Sunny Morning Foods strengthens the company’s portfolio and broadens its position as a preferred food service redistributor in the Mid-Atlantic, New England, and now Southeast regions.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 3800, USD 4500, and USD 5800 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the US Cold Chain Supply Logistics Market?
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Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database
Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)
Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations
Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence
