Trucking Industry Trends, Statistics & Outlook 2025

The trucking industry is the backbone of the global economy, responsible for transporting over 70% of all freight in major economies like the United States, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. It connects manufacturers, retailers, and consumers, ensuring the movement of goods across vast supply chains. Without trucking, essential industries—including agriculture, healthcare, construction, and e-commerce—would face significant disruptions.

As we enter 2025, the trucking industry stands at a pivotal moment. After experiencing supply chain disruptions, economic downturns, and fluctuating freight rates, the sector is poised for a period of recovery and transformation. Several factors are converging to shape the future of trucking, including technological innovations, environmental regulations, workforce challenges, and shifting market demands.

Why 2025 is a Transformational Year for Trucking

The trucking industry has faced two years of declining freight volumes, leading to a freight recession that affected profitability and fleet expansion. However, forecasts indicate a rebound in freight demand, with total truck tonnage expected to grow by 1.6% in 2025 and continue upward toward 14 billion tons by 2035 (Source: [2]). Additionally, trucking revenues are projected to surpass $1.46 trillion by the mid-2030s, demonstrating the industry’s resilience and long-term growth potential (Source: [3]).

Beyond economic recovery, 2025 will be a defining year due to regulatory shifts and technological advancements. Governments worldwide are imposing stricter emissions regulations, prompting fleets to adopt electric and alternative fuel vehicles (Source: [5]). At the same time, autonomous trucking technology continues to advance, with pilot programs gaining traction in North America and Europe.

Key Trends Shaping the Trucking Industry in 2025

Several major trends will shape the industry over the next 12 months:

1. Technology & Automation – The continued integration of telematics, AI-driven route optimization, and fleet automation is revolutionizing trucking operations.
2. Sustainability & Green Trucking – Rising fuel costs and emissions regulations are driving the transition to electric and hydrogen-powered trucks (Source: [4]).
3. Workforce Challenges – Driver shortages and technician workforce gaps are pushing companies to adopt higher wages, better working conditions, and automation solutions to improve retention (Source: [7]).
4. Market Shifts & Freight Demand – The e-commerce boom, last-mile delivery expansion, and demand fluctuations will continue to influence the truckload and LTL (Less-than-Truckload) markets.

As we dive deeper into trucking industry trends, forecasts, and statistics, this article will provide the most comprehensive and data-driven insights to help industry professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders navigate the evolving landscape of freight transportation in 2025 and beyond.

Global Trucking Market Overview

The global trucking industry is a critical driver of economic activity, supporting global trade and supply chains across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. In 2025, the market is expected to reach $2.49 trillion, reflecting steady growth despite recent economic slowdowns and challenges in freight demand (Source: [1]).

Following two years of freight volume contraction, the industry is on track for a 1.6% increase in 2025, with projections estimating that truck tonnage will reach nearly 14 billion tons by 2035 (Source: [2]). This rebound signals the beginning of a recovery phase, driven by rising consumer demand, stabilizing freight rates, and supply chain optimizations.

Market Size & Growth Projections

• Global Market Value: The trucking market is expected to grow from $2.28 trillion in 2024 to $2.49 trillion in 2025, representing a 9.4% year-over-year increase (Source: [1]).
• Freight Volume Growth: Following two years of declines, freight volumes are projected to increase by 1.6% in 2025, eventually surpassing 14 billion tons by 2035 (Source: [2]).
• Revenue Forecasts: Total industry revenue is projected to rise, reaching $1.46 trillion by 2035, reflecting the industry's long-term resilience (Source: [3]).

Despite this growth, challenges such as fuel price fluctuations, regulatory pressures, and workforce shortages remain significant concerns. However, investments in electric and autonomous trucking technologies, data-driven logistics, and sustainable fuel alternatives are expected to support continued expansion.

Each region faces unique economic and regulatory factors that will shape its trucking market in 2025:

North America

• Stronger revenue growth is expected, with trucking companies benefiting from stabilizing freight rates after a prolonged period of market volatility (Source: [3]).
• The rise of e-commerce and last-mile delivery services continues to drive demand for smaller trucks and efficient logistics networks.
• Private fleets are expanding their share of freight transport, competing with for-hire carriers, which are still struggling with overcapacity issues (Source: [6]).

Europe

• Regulatory changes are accelerating the shift to electric and hydrogen-powered trucks, particularly in countries enforcing stringent emissions reduction targets (Source: [5]).
• Urban restrictions on diesel trucks are reshaping how fleets operate, encouraging the adoption of alternative fuel vehicles and low-emission zones in major cities.
• Government subsidies for electric vehicle adoption and charging infrastructure development are expected to boost the European trucking market.

Asia-Pacific

• Automation and digitization are playing a key role in improving trucking efficiency, with many fleets adopting smart logistics solutions and AI-driven route planning.
• China and Japan are investing heavily in autonomous trucking corridors and automated cargo transport to address driver shortages and operational costs (Source: [4]).
• Infrastructure investments in Southeast Asia are expanding trade routes, leading to higher demand for commercial freight services.

Workforce & Labor Market

The trucking industry's workforce is undergoing significant changes in 2025, as companies navigate challenges related to driver shortages, technician gaps, and efforts to improve gender diversity. With freight demand expected to rebound, the availability of skilled workers is becoming a critical factor in the industry's recovery and long-term sustainability.

The focus for 2025 and beyond is on recruiting and retaining talent, improving working conditions, and expanding diversity initiatives to create a more inclusive workforce.

Women in Trucking

Women have made notable strides in the trucking industry, particularly in corporate and leadership roles. However, their representation in driver and technician positions remains disproportionately low. According to the 2024-25 WIT Index, women account for:

• 28% of C-suite roles (executive leadership) (Source: [7]).
• 34.5% of supervisory positions (middle management) (Source: [7]).
• 29.5% of board of director positions (corporate governance) (Source: [7]).
• 9.5% of truck drivers, highlighting an ongoing gender gap in operational roles (Source: [7]).
• 4% of diesel technicians, one of the lowest female participation rates in the industry (Source: [8]).

To address these disparities, trucking companies and industry organizations are implementing targeted initiatives, including:

• Recruitment campaigns aimed at increasing the number of women in truck driving and maintenance roles.
• Mentorship programs connecting women with experienced industry professionals to foster career growth.
• Company policies focused on safety, flexible scheduling, and family-friendly work environments to attract and retain female drivers.

Organizations like the Women in Trucking Association (WIT) are advocating for gender diversity, safety improvements, and leadership opportunities to make trucking a more inclusive profession. The growing focus on equal pay and career development is expected to boost the presence of women in traditionally male-dominated rolesover the next decade.

Diesel Technician Shortage

The trucking industry is also facing an alarming shortage of diesel technicians, which threatens fleet maintenance and operational efficiency.

• An estimated 200,000 diesel technicians will be needed over the next decade to keep up with fleet maintenance and repair demands (Source: [8]).
• The average age of diesel technicians is increasing, with many nearing retirement, exacerbating the skills gap.

To combat this shortage, companies are investing heavily in technician recruitment and training programs, including:

• Higher wages and sign-on bonuses to attract new talent.
• Partnerships with trade schools and technical colleges to create a pipeline of skilled workers.
• Apprenticeship programs to train new technicians while they gain hands-on experience.
• Increased focus on recruiting women into diesel technician roles, given their underrepresentation in the field(Source: [8]).

Without immediate action, the technician shortage could lead to longer vehicle downtimes, increased operational costs, and reduced industry efficiency.

Driver Shortages & Retention

The truck driver shortage remains a major challenge in 2025, with companies struggling to attract and retain qualified drivers. While the issue has improved slightly compared to previous years, retention remains a critical focus area for fleet operators.

Key driver retention strategies being implemented include:

• Improved pay and benefits – Many companies have increased driver salaries to remain competitive.
• Flexible work schedules – More carriers are adopting regional and dedicated routes to allow drivers to spend more time at home.
• Increased focus on mental health & well-being – Programs are being introduced to address stress, burnout, and overall driver wellness.
• Enhanced safety measures – Companies are implementing better training, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and improved safety protocols to reduce accidents and improve job satisfaction.

With freight volumes expected to rise in 2025, the demand for skilled drivers will remain high. Companies that invest in driver satisfaction, fair compensation, and career development opportunities will be best positioned to retain talent and thrive in the evolving trucking landscape.

Trucking Equipment & Production Forecasts

The trucking equipment market is undergoing a shift in 2025, as manufacturers and fleets adjust to changing regulations, economic conditions, and evolving fleet demands. While the industry is experiencing a freight demand recovery, the production outlook for heavy-duty (Class 8) and medium-duty (Class 5-7) trucks is expected to contract due to regulatory pressures, overcapacity, and high inventory levels.

Class 8 Truck Market Trends

Class 8 trucks, the backbone of long-haul freight transportation, are facing a production slowdown in 2025 as fleets scale back new orders in response to market conditions.

• Production is expected to decline in 2025 due to:
  • Slowing freight demand recovery, reducing the need for large fleet expansions.
  • Pre-buy activity ahead of 2027 EPA emissions standards, shifting purchasing decisions toward 2026 (Source: [9]).
  • High truck inventory levels, meaning many fleets already have excess capacity.

Despite the slowdown in new truck orders, demand for zero-emission Class 8 trucks is increasing, driven by:

• New emissions regulations, particularly in California and other states adopting CARB regulations.
• Fleet electrification incentives, encouraging large carriers to invest in electric and hydrogen-powered trucks.
• Infrastructure expansion for charging and alternative fuels, making adoption more feasible.

While diesel-powered Class 8 trucks will continue to dominate the industry in 2025, fleet managers are strategically planning purchases around upcoming emissions rules, leading to fluctuations in production cycles.

Medium-Duty Truck Market (Class 5-7)

The Class 5-7 truck segment, commonly used for regional distribution, last-mile delivery, and vocational applications, is also expected to see production declines in early 2025 due to slower fleet investment.

• Key factors influencing the medium-duty truck market:
  • High existing inventory levels, delaying new purchases.
  • Fleet operators adopting a “wait-and-see” approach to upcoming regulatory changes.
  • Ongoing electrification efforts, shifting investment toward alternative fuel vehicles instead of traditional diesel trucks.

However, demand for electric and alternative fuel medium-duty trucks is growing, particularly in urban and regional markets, where regulations favor zero-emission vehicles.

Companies operating in e-commerce and last-mile logistics are expected to drive medium-duty electric truck adoption, as major retailers and logistics firms push for lower emissions in their supply chains.

What This Means for the Industry in 2025

• Short-Term Slowdown – Truck manufacturers will scale back production in response to fleet investment slowdowns, but long-term demand will remain strong.
• Regulatory-Driven Purchases – Fleets will time their vehicle purchases to comply with new emissions ruleswhile avoiding unnecessary spending in the short term.
• Electrification Continues – The push for electric Class 5-7 and Class 8 trucks will grow, particularly in urban and regional markets, despite high upfront costs.

As trucking companies plan their fleet strategies, balancing regulatory compliance, economic conditions, and emerging technology will be key to long-term profitability and sustainability.

Challenges & Opportunities

The trucking industry in 2025 is at a crossroads, balancing a gradual economic recovery with persistent challenges that continue to impact profitability, operations, and sustainability. While freight demand is expected to rebound, uncertainties in fuel prices, supply chain stability, and regulatory pressures remain concerns. However, significant opportunities exist in sustainability investments, technological innovations, and the expansion of e-commerce-driven logistics.

Challenges

1. Freight Recession Recovery: How Quickly Will the Industry Bounce Back?

The trucking industry faced two consecutive years of freight volume declines leading into 2025. While forecasts indicate a 1.6% freight volume increase (Source: [2]), market conditions remain fragile due to:

• Overcapacity in the for-hire trucking sector, where too many trucks and not enough freight have pushed down rates.
• Sluggish consumer demand and retail inventory adjustments, leading to weaker-than-expected freight movements.
• High interest rates affecting fleet investments, making it more expensive for carriers to expand or upgrade their fleets.

While the long-term outlook is positive, the pace of recovery in 2025 will depend on economic stabilization, particularly in consumer spending, retail activity, and industrial production.

2. Fuel Price Volatility: Managing Operational Costs Amid Fluctuations

Fuel remains one of the largest expenses for trucking companies, and price volatility continues to disrupt financial planning. In 2024, diesel prices saw significant fluctuations due to geopolitical tensions, refinery shutdowns, and shifting OPEC+ production levels.

In 2025, carriers will need to:

• Diversify fuel sourcing and consider alternative fuels like renewable diesel and hydrogen.
• Invest in fuel efficiency programs, including improved routing, driver training, and aerodynamic truck designs.
• Adopt electric trucks where feasible, though the high initial costs remain a barrier for many fleets.

With fuel prices expected to remain unstable, trucking companies must implement cost-saving measures to stay competitive.

3. Supply Chain Resilience: Avoiding Disruptions from Geopolitical Risks & Natural Disasters

The supply chain disruptions seen in recent years—driven by COVID-19, global trade conflicts, and extreme weather events, have forced companies to rethink risk management strategies.

In 2025, the industry must adapt to:

• Geopolitical instability (e.g., trade restrictions, sanctions, and global conflicts) affecting cross-border trucking and fuel costs.
• Port congestion and labor strikes, particularly in major international shipping hubs.
• Climate-related disruptions, including hurricanes, wildfires, and winter storms that impact truck routes.

Building supply chain resilience will require:

• Stronger contingency planning, including diversified supplier relationships.
• Investments in predictive analytics, using AI and data modeling to anticipate disruptions.
• Onshoring and regionalized supply chains, reducing dependence on distant manufacturing hubs.

Opportunities

1. Sustainability Investments: Growing Demand for Green Trucking Solutions

Environmental sustainability is becoming a core priority for fleet operators, with regulatory mandates and corporate sustainability goals driving the shift to green trucking solutions.

Key opportunities in 2025 include:

• Electric Truck Adoption – With government incentives and advancements in battery technology, electric trucks are becoming more viable for short- and medium-haul applications.
• Alternative Fuels – The rise of hydrogen, renewable diesel, and natural gas-powered trucks is offering low-emission alternatives to traditional diesel engines.
• Aerodynamic and Lightweight Innovations – Manufacturers are developing fuel-efficient truck designs that reduce drag and enhance energy savings.

Regulatory pressure is accelerating the transition, making early adoption of sustainability solutions a competitive advantage for fleets looking to reduce costs and comply with new emissions standards.

2. E-Commerce Expansion: Continued Growth in Last-Mile Delivery Services

The e-commerce sector continues to fuel demand for last-mile delivery services, particularly in urban areas where consumer expectations for fast shipping are reshaping logistics.

• Online retail sales are projected to grow, leading to increased demand for delivery trucks and urban logistics hubs.
• Micro-fulfillment centers and AI-powered inventory management are optimizing delivery networks.
• New delivery models such as autonomous delivery vans, drones, and electric cargo bikes are emerging to meet sustainability targets and reduce urban congestion.

Fleet operators that invest in route optimization software, real-time tracking, and e-commerce-specific logistics solutions will gain a competitive edge in the fast-evolving delivery landscape.

References:

1. IBISWorld. (2025). Global trucking market size and outlook 2025. Retrieved from www.ibisworld.com
2. American Trucking Associations. (2025). ATA freight forecast 2025-2035. Retrieved from www.trucking.org
3. FreightWaves. (2025). North America trucking market trends and freight rate stabilization. Retrieved from www.freightwaves.com
4. European Commission. (2025). EU regulations driving shift to alternative fuel trucks. Retrieved from ec.europa.eu/transport
5. Mordor Intelligence. (2025). Asia-Pacific trucking industry: Market growth and automation trends. Retrieved from www.mordorintelligence.com
6. Women in Trucking Association. (2025). Women in trucking workforce representation report. Retrieved from www.womenintrucking.org
7. TechForce Foundation. (2025). Diesel technician shortage and labor market impact. Retrieved from techforce.org
8. American Transportation Research Institute. (2025). Driver retention and workforce challenges in trucking. Retrieved from truckingresearch.org
9. U.S. Energy Information Administration. (2025). Fuel price volatility and impact on trucking industry. Retrieved from www.eia.gov
10. McKinsey & Company. (2025). Autonomous trucking expansion: Market trends in North America and Europe. Retrieved from www.mckinsey.com
11. BloombergNEF. (2025). Electric trucking and fleet electrification: The road ahead. Retrieved from www.bloombergnef.com