Transportation Pulse Report 2025:

The 2025 edition of the annual Transportation Pulse Report marks the fifth anniversary of this comprehensive research endeavour, providing valuable insights into the evolving transportation industry. The report synthesises survey responses from 105 supply chain and logistics executives based in Europe and the US, capturing their expectations and strategic priorities for the year ahead. In addition, the findings are shaped by insights captured in video interviews with several shipper and carrier executives from companies such as Beiersdorf, C.H. Robinson, and Shell at the Transporeon Summit 2024.

Key findings:

1. Economic impact and market conditions:

   The transportation market in 2025 is expected to be challenging, characterised by volatility and dynamic changes. Despite this, there is a sense of cautious optimism, especially among carriers, driven by anticipated market improvements and technological advancements. Economic conditions will play a significant role, with the US forecasted to experience moderate GDP growth, while Europe faces more subdued economic prospects due to weaker manufacturing outputs and geopolitical tensions.
   
    

2. Technological advancements:

   Carriers and 3PLs are bullish on the impact of Artificial Intelligence and digital transportation platforms, viewing these technologies as key enablers for market expansion and enhanced connectivity with shippers. The ongoing digitisation and automation of transportation processes are highlighted as critical areas for improvement, with many companies still low on the digitisation curve.

    

3. Geopolitical and regulatory influences:

   Geopolitical events – including the Russia-Ukraine war and potential US-China tariff tensions – are significant concerns for shippers, influencing their strategic focus for 2025. Environmental regulations, particularly in Europe, are driving sustainability initiatives, further complicating the compliance landscape for logistics operations.

    

4. Strategic priorities:

   Cost reduction remains a top priority for shippers, who are preparing for rising transportation costs and regulatory pressures. This includes identifying and eliminating manual, paper-based processes and becoming more data-driven in decision making. Carriers and 3PLs are focusing on market expansion, leveraging new technologies and strategic partnerships to drive growth amid improving market conditions.

Recommendations for 2025:

• Define clear outcomes:
  Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) related to cost, service and sustainability to guide strategic actions and investments.
   

• Identify inefficiencies:
  Conduct thorough assessments of transportation management processes to identify areas of inefficiency and prioritise investments in technology and process improvements.
   

• Leverage data and analytics:
  Utilise real-time data, business intelligence and AI-driven analytics to make informed decisions and adapt to changing market conditions.
   
• Foster collaboration:
  Build cross-functional teams of employees and partners focused on continuous improvement and innovation to drive collective progress.
   

• Start small, scale fast:
  Begin with low-risk, quick-to-deploy applications of new technologies, learn from these experiences and scale successful initiatives.

In conclusion, the transportation industry is at a critical juncture where proactive actions and strategic investments are essential. The report underscores the importance of transitioning from planning to execution, urging industry stakeholders to "quit talking and begin doing" to navigate the complexities and opportunities in 2025.

For more detailed information, survey results and testimonials, download the full Transportation Pulse 2025 report in English. Access the comprehensive insights and strategic recommendations that will help you navigate the transportation landscape in the coming year.

Read the full report here