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Study Period | 2020 - 2030 |
Base Year For Estimation | 2024 |
Forecast Data Period | 2025 - 2030 |
Market Size (2025) | USD 19.46 Billion |
Market Size (2030) | USD 29.06 Billion |
CAGR (2025 - 2030) | 8.35 % |
Market Concentration | Low |
Major Players![]() *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
United States Freight Brokerage Market Analysis
The United States Freight Brokerage Market size is estimated at USD 19.46 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 29.06 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 8.35% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
The United States freight brokerage industry is undergoing significant transformation driven by infrastructure modernization and technological advancement. The US Congress's passage of a $1 trillion infrastructure spending bill in November 2021, allocating $550 billion in new federal spending over eight years, has created a robust foundation for industry growth. This investment focuses on critical areas including road and bridge upgrades, highway improvements, and modernization of city transit systems and passenger rail networks. The infrastructure legislation is particularly significant as more than 50% of freight to North America from the United States is transported by trucks, making road infrastructure quality crucial for industry efficiency.
Digital logistics transformation is revolutionizing freight brokerage operations, with companies increasingly adopting automated pricing systems, application programming interface (API) connectivity, and data science solutions. Traditional players are facing strong competition from digital startups, leading established firms to increase their technology investments. For instance, major freight brokers are implementing cloud-based solutions for accounting, payroll, invoicing, and accounts management, while also utilizing artificial intelligence and machine learning for rate generation and market projections in near real-time.
The implementation of the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) has created new opportunities for cross-border freight movement while streamlining supply chains across North America. The agreement has established more uniform standards and procedures for cross-border shipments, facilitating smoother operations for 3PL and freight brokers managing international cargo movement. This development is particularly significant as freight demand continues to grow, with total shipment weight expected to reach 20,940 million metric tons by 2045, of which 14,235 million metric tons is projected to be transported by trucks.
The industry is experiencing significant structural changes in freight capacity management and service delivery. Freight brokers are expanding their service offerings to include specialized solutions such as temperature-controlled logistics, expedited shipping, and custom supply chain solutions. The ongoing shortage of truck drivers has created unique challenges, forcing brokers to develop innovative solutions for capacity optimization and carrier relationship management. This has led to increased adoption of digital freight brokerage platforms and the development of more efficient load optimization technologies, transforming how brokers connect shippers with carriers and manage freight movement across the country.
United States Freight Brokerage Market Trends
Growing Automotive Industry and Manufacturing Sector
The robust growth of the United States automotive industry has emerged as a significant driver for the logistics services market, with the sector demonstrating remarkable resilience and expansion in 2023. The automotive sector recorded impressive sales of approximately 3.12 million cars, while the combined sales of cars and light trucks reached a substantial 15.5 million units, creating extensive demand for reliable freight logistics solutions. This surge in automotive production and sales has intensified the need for specialized transportation management services, particularly in areas such as port-to-port transportation, just-in-time (JIT) deliveries, and just-in-sequence (JIS) deliveries, which require maximum availability and reliability from freight brokers.
The potential revitalization of the American manufacturing sector presents another compelling growth factor, with projections indicating the possibility of adding 1.5 million well-paying jobs to the economy through a manufacturing renaissance. This transformation is particularly driven by innovation and digitization initiatives across the manufacturing landscape. The integration of strict regulatory standards imposed by governments on the automotive industry, coupled with increasing consumer awareness regarding product quality and safety, has further amplified the demand for sophisticated freight management services that can ensure compliance and maintain product integrity throughout the transportation process.
Technological Advancements and Digital Transformation
The freight brokerage market is experiencing significant momentum driven by the rapid adoption of cutting-edge technologies and digital transformation initiatives. This trend is exemplified by strategic partnerships between industry leaders, such as the 2023 investment by Schneider National Inc. in TuSimple, a pioneering self-driving technology company, demonstrating the industry's commitment to autonomous transportation solutions. The collaboration extends beyond traditional logistics companies, incorporating partnerships with technology giants like Nvidia and Amazon, which are helping to reshape the future of freight logistics through innovative solutions and enhanced operational capabilities.
The digital transformation of the industry is further accelerated by strategic alliances focused on technological integration, as evidenced by the partnership between Google and JB Hunt. This collaboration aims to leverage Google Cloud's capabilities to expand the JB Hunt 360° logistics platform, incorporating artificial intelligence and machine learning tools for predictive analytics and informed decision-making. Many freight brokerage firms are strengthening their digital marketplace presence by adopting advanced technologies such as automated pricing systems, application programming interface (API) connectivity, and sophisticated data science applications. These technological advancements are fundamentally transforming how freight brokers operate, enabling them to provide more efficient, transparent, and reliable services to their clients.
Cross-Border Trade Expansion
The expansion of cross-border trade between the United States, Canada, and Mexico has become a crucial driver for the freight brokerage market, particularly in the context of the USMCA (formerly NAFTA) framework. The implementation of new regional value content requirements has created a more structured approach to cross-border trade, with specific provisions requiring a 50% regional value content for autos and light vehicles under the net cost method, set to increase to 62.5% over an eight-year transition period. These regulatory frameworks have intensified the need for specialized freight forwarding services that can navigate the complexities of international trade while ensuring compliance with evolving standards.
The strengthening of cross-border trade relationships has led established shippers to seek long-term contracts with brokerage firms and carriers, aiming to secure reliable partnerships for international freight forwarding. This trend has created opportunities for freight brokers who can offer comprehensive solutions for managing complex international supply chains. The focus on regional integration has prompted freight brokerage firms to develop specialized expertise in cross-border logistics, including customs clearance, regulatory compliance, and efficient route optimization for international shipments, making them indispensable partners in facilitating North American trade.
Infrastructure Development and Digital Marketplace Evolution
The continuous development of infrastructure and the evolution of digital marketplaces have emerged as significant drivers in the freight brokerage market. Freight brokerage firms are increasingly investing in sophisticated digital platforms that facilitate seamless connections between shippers and carriers, incorporating advanced features such as real-time tracking, automated documentation, and integrated payment systems. This digital transformation is fundamentally changing how freight brokers operate, enabling them to provide more efficient and transparent services while reducing operational complexities and costs.
The advancement of digital infrastructure has led to the emergence of more sophisticated freight brokerage solutions that leverage internally facing technology and data science applications. These developments are particularly evident in the adoption of automated pricing systems and API connectivity, which enable real-time data exchange and more efficient decision-making processes. The integration of these technological capabilities has allowed freight brokers to offer more value-added services, such as predictive analytics for route optimization, capacity planning, and risk management, making them increasingly essential partners in the modern logistics ecosystem. The expansion of the carrier network and the implementation of freight matching technologies further enhance the efficiency and reliability of these services.
Segment Analysis: By Service
FTL Segment in US Freight Brokerage Market
The Full Truckload (FTL) segment dominates the United States freight brokerage market, commanding approximately 83% market share in 2024. This significant market position is driven by the segment's crucial role in long-haul transportation and cross-border trade between the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The segment's strength is further reinforced by the increasing adoption of digital marketplaces and advanced technologies by FTL freight brokers, enabling automated pricing, API connectivity, and data science capabilities. Major players like C.H. Robinson, XPO Logistics, and Total Quality Logistics have strengthened their digital capabilities to compete effectively in this space, while also focusing on providing value-added logistics services such as real-time tracking and predictive analytics to maintain their market leadership.
![Market Analysis of United States Freight Brokerage Market: Chart for By Service](https://s3.mordorintelligence.com/united-states-freight-brokerage-market/united-states-freight-brokerage-market-US-Freight-Brokerage-Market-Market-Share-by-Service-Segment-2024-1737047919047.webp)
LTL Segment in US Freight Brokerage Market
The Less-than-Truckload (LTL) segment is experiencing robust growth in the US freight brokerage market, with a projected growth rate of approximately 10% from 2024 to 2029. This accelerated growth is primarily attributed to the rising demand for cost-effective shipping solutions for smaller cargo volumes and the increasing adoption of e-commerce. LTL freight brokers are playing an increasingly important role in finding better resources with affordable pricing components, while also facilitating services between shippers and carriers. The segment's growth is further supported by technological advancements in route optimization, load consolidation, and real-time tracking capabilities, enabling more efficient operations and improved customer service levels.
Remaining Segments in Service Segmentation
The other services segment in the US freight brokerage market encompasses specialized services such as intermodal freight transport, expedited shipping, and custom logistics solutions. This segment plays a vital role in providing flexible and tailored solutions for unique shipping requirements that don't fit traditional FTL or LTL categories. The segment's significance is particularly evident in cross-border trade operations, where specialized handling and documentation expertise are essential. These services are increasingly important for industries requiring specialized transportation solutions, such as temperature-controlled logistics, oversized cargo handling, and time-critical shipments.
Segment Analysis: By End User
Manufacturing and Automotive Segment in US Freight Brokerage Market
The manufacturing and automotive segment dominates the United States freight brokerage market, holding approximately 34% market share in 2024. This significant market position is driven by the booming automotive industry's demand for reliable logistics services, particularly in port-to-port transportation and just-in-time deliveries. The segment's strength is further reinforced by strict regulatory standards in the automotive industry and the growing adoption of electric vehicles, which require specialized transportation solutions. The incorporation of technological advancements and connected devices in the automotive industry has created additional opportunities for freight brokers, who must adapt their services to meet these evolving needs. The segment's robust performance is also supported by the ongoing transformation in US manufacturing, with major corporations making significant investments in domestic production facilities, such as semiconductor manufacturing complexes and electric vehicle battery plants.
Construction Segment in US Freight Brokerage Market
The construction segment is emerging as the fastest-growing sector in the US freight brokerage market, with a projected growth rate of approximately 10% from 2024 to 2029. This remarkable growth is primarily driven by the implementation of the USD 1 trillion infrastructure spending bill, which allocates substantial funding for road and bridge upgrades, highway improvements, and modernization of city transit systems. The segment's expansion is further supported by the ongoing development of industrial spaces, particularly warehouses, due to the e-commerce boom and retailers' need for additional storage capacity. The construction sector's growth is also influenced by the increasing demand for sustainable and low-carbon building materials, creating new opportunities for specialized freight transportation services. The segment's robust growth trajectory is reinforced by the continuous development of healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and other essential infrastructure projects across the country.
Remaining Segments in US Freight Brokerage Market End User Segmentation
The remaining segments in the market include distributive trade, oil and gas, mining and quarrying, agriculture, fishing and forestry, and other end users, each contributing uniquely to the market dynamics. The distributive trade segment plays a crucial role in supporting retail and wholesale operations, particularly in the e-commerce sector. The oil and gas, mining, and quarrying segment demands specialized transportation brokerage solutions for heavy equipment and materials. The agriculture, fishing, and forestry segment requires temperature-controlled and time-sensitive freight management services for perishable goods. Other end users, including telecommunications and pharmaceutical industries, contribute to the market's diversity by demanding specialized shipping brokerage services tailored to their unique requirements and compliance standards.
United States Freight Brokerage Industry Segmentation
Top Companies in United States Freight Brokerage Market
The freight brokerage landscape is experiencing rapid technological transformation as established players and new entrants compete through digital innovation. Companies are heavily investing in proprietary transportation management systems and digital freight matching platforms to automate operations and improve efficiency. Strategic partnerships with technology providers, particularly cloud services and AI companies, have become increasingly common to enhance capabilities in predictive analytics and real-time visibility. Market leaders are expanding their service portfolios through acquisitions of tech-enabled logistics firms and niche players in specialized segments. Operational agility is being achieved through the development of mobile applications, automated booking systems, and integrated carrier networks. The industry is seeing a shift towards providing end-to-end supply chain solutions, with companies developing specialized offerings for different industry verticals like automotive, retail, and manufacturing.
Consolidation Drives Market Evolution and Growth
The United States freight brokerage market exhibits a moderately fragmented structure with a mix of large regional players, global logistics providers, and small to medium-sized local operators. The market is notably top-heavy, with the leading firms accounting for a significant portion of total gross revenues, led by established players like C.H. Robinson, XPO Logistics, and Hub Group. Traditional freight brokers are facing increasing competition from digital-native companies like Uber Freight and Convoy, who are disrupting the market with technology-driven solutions and transparent pricing models.
The industry is experiencing substantial consolidation through mergers and acquisitions, as larger players seek to expand their geographic footprint and technological capabilities. Traditional brokers are acquiring tech startups to enhance their digital capabilities, while technology companies are purchasing established brokers to gain market access and industry expertise. This consolidation trend is reshaping the competitive landscape, with companies focusing on building comprehensive logistics platforms that combine traditional brokerage expertise with modern technology solutions.
Technology and Service Innovation Drive Success
Success in the logistics brokerage market increasingly depends on the ability to leverage freight technology while maintaining strong carrier relationships. Incumbent players must focus on developing proprietary digital platforms, implementing advanced analytics capabilities, and offering value-added services to maintain their market position. The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning for predictive pricing and capacity matching has become crucial for competitive advantage. Companies need to balance technological automation with personalized service offerings to meet diverse customer needs across different industry segments.
Market contenders can gain ground by focusing on specialized niches, developing innovative service models, and building strong regional networks. The industry's future success factors include the ability to provide real-time visibility, optimize carrier networks, and offer flexible pricing models. Companies must also address potential regulatory changes regarding transparency and carrier relationships, while managing the risk of disintermediation from digital freight brokerage platforms. The concentration of end-users in key industries like manufacturing, retail, and automotive requires brokers to develop industry-specific expertise and tailored solutions, while maintaining adaptability to changing market conditions.
United States Freight Brokerage Market Leaders
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CH Robinson
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Total Quality Logistics
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XPO Logistics Inc.
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Echo Global Logistics
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Worldwide Express
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
![US Freight Brokerage Market Concentration](https://mordorintelligence.com/images_db/RD_Images/1561949607149_brok_mar_conc.png)
United States Freight Brokerage Market News
- August 2023: Digital logistics provider and freight brokerage Convoy unveiled an offering for just-in-time (JIT) trucking, with a pledge of delivery within 15 minutes of the set arrival time. Convoy spotted an opening for a more flexible service that gives shippers the ability to scale up and down in response to fast-changing conditions. Its new JIT service leverages a network of over 400,000 trucks and the IT infrastructure to find matching carriers to meet specific shipper requirements.
- February 2023: Echo Global Logistics Inc. (Echo), one of the leading providers of technology-enabled transportation and supply chain management services, launched EchoInsure+, a new and integrated, full-coverage cargo insurance product offered exclusively to Echo’s clients. By partnering with insurance group Falvey, EchoInsure+ offers an easy way for clients to access best-in-class protection for their LTL shipments through EchoShip, Echo's proprietary online shipping platform, and Echo’s representatives.
United States Freight Brokerage Market Report - Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
- 1.1 Study Deliverables
- 1.2 Study Assumptions
- 1.3 Scope of the Study
2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
- 2.1 Analysis Methodology
- 2.2 Research Phases
3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
4. MARKET OVERVIEW
- 4.1 Current Market Scenario
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4.2 Market Dynamics
- 4.2.1 Drivers
- 4.2.1.1 Growing Construction Across the Country
- 4.2.1.2 The Growing Number of Freight Brokers Across the Country
- 4.2.2 Restraints
- 4.2.2.1 Rerouting of Cargo and Other Factors
- 4.2.2.2 Reducing Freight Imports Across the Country
- 4.2.3 Opportunities
- 4.2.3.1 Growing Demand From the Oil and Gas Industry
- 4.2.3.2 Technological Advancements in Freight Brokerage Systems and Logistics
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4.3 Industry Attractiveness - Porter's Five Forces Analysis
- 4.3.1 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- 4.3.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers/Consumers
- 4.3.3 Threat of New Entrants
- 4.3.4 Threat of Substitute Products
- 4.3.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry
- 4.4 Industry Value Chain Analysis
- 4.5 US Logistics Industry (Overview, Trends, R&D, Key Statistics, etc.)
- 4.6 Key Government Regulations and Initiatives
- 4.7 Insights on Freight Rates
- 4.8 Technology Snapshot (Digital Freight Brokerage, IoT, etc.)
- 4.9 Qualitative and Quantitative Insights on the US Customs Clearance Sector
- 4.10 Impact of COVID-19 on the Market
5. MARKET SEGMENTATION (Market Size By Value)
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5.1 By Service
- 5.1.1 LTL
- 5.1.2 FTL
- 5.1.3 Other Services
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5.2 By End User
- 5.2.1 Manufacturing and Automotive
- 5.2.2 Oil and Gas, Mining, and Quarrying
- 5.2.3 Agriculture, Fishing, and Forestry
- 5.2.4 Construction
- 5.2.5 Distributive Trade (Wholesale and Retail Segments, FMCG included)
- 5.2.6 Other End Users (Telecommunications, Pharmaceuticals, etc.)
6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
- 6.1 Overview (Market Concentration, Major Players)
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6.2 Company Profiles
- 6.2.1 CH Robinson
- 6.2.2 Total Quality Logistics
- 6.2.3 XPO Logistics Inc.
- 6.2.4 Echo Global Logistics
- 6.2.5 Worldwide Express
- 6.2.6 Coyote Logistics
- 6.2.7 Landstar System Inc.
- 6.2.8 Schneider
- 6.2.9 SunteckTTS
- 6.2.10 GlobalTranz
- 6.2.11 J.B. Hunt Transport Inc.
- 6.2.12 Hub Group
- 6.2.13 BNSF Logistics LLC
- 6.2.14 KAG Logistics Inc.
- 6.2.15 Uber Freight*
- *List Not Exhaustive
- 6.3 Other Companies
7. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE TRENDS
8. APPENDIX
United States Freight Brokerage Industry Segmentation
Freight brokerage companies facilitate the shipment and delivery of goods across geographical borders for individuals and organizations. Freight brokers provide a service by linking customers with shippers and trucking companies.
The report provides a comprehensive background analysis of the United States freight brokerage market, covering the current market trends, restraints, technological updates, and detailed information on various segments and the competitive landscape of the industry. Additionally, the COVID-19 impact has been incorporated and considered during the study.
The report covers freight brokerage companies, and the market is segmented by service (less than truckload (LTL), full truckload (FTL), and other services) and end user (manufacturing and automotive, oil and gas, mining, and quarrying, agriculture, fishing and forestry, construction, distributive trade (wholesale and retail segments, FMCG included) and other end users (telecommunications, pharmaceutical, etc.)).
The report offers market sizes and forecasts in value (USD) for all the above segments.
By Service | LTL |
FTL | |
Other Services | |
By End User | Manufacturing and Automotive |
Oil and Gas, Mining, and Quarrying | |
Agriculture, Fishing, and Forestry | |
Construction | |
Distributive Trade (Wholesale and Retail Segments, FMCG included) | |
Other End Users (Telecommunications, Pharmaceuticals, etc.) |
United States Freight Brokerage Market Research Faqs
How big is the United States Freight Brokerage Market?
The United States Freight Brokerage Market size is expected to reach USD 19.46 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 8.35% to reach USD 29.06 billion by 2030.
What is the current United States Freight Brokerage Market size?
In 2025, the United States Freight Brokerage Market size is expected to reach USD 19.46 billion.
Who are the key players in United States Freight Brokerage Market?
CH Robinson, Total Quality Logistics, XPO Logistics Inc., Echo Global Logistics and Worldwide Express are the major companies operating in the United States Freight Brokerage Market.
What years does this United States Freight Brokerage Market cover, and what was the market size in 2024?
In 2024, the United States Freight Brokerage Market size was estimated at USD 17.84 billion. The report covers the United States Freight Brokerage Market historical market size for years: 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the United States Freight Brokerage Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
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United States Freight Brokerage Market Research
Mordor Intelligence provides comprehensive insights into the freight brokerage industry. We leverage our extensive expertise in logistics services and transportation management analysis. Our research covers the evolving landscape of 3PL and 4PL providers, freight forwarding operations, and emerging digital logistics solutions. The report, available for easy download as a PDF, offers a detailed analysis of carrier network developments, freight technology adoption, and logistics platform innovations across the United States.
Stakeholders benefit from our thorough examination of freight capacity utilization, load board dynamics, and freight matching systems. The report explores digital freight brokerage trends, transportation brokerage operations, and supply chain brokerage solutions, while analyzing improvements in logistics brokerage efficiency. Our research covers freight management strategies, truck brokerage operations, and freight exchange mechanisms. This offers valuable insights for businesses involved in cargo brokerage, load brokerage, and shipping brokerage services. The comprehensive analysis includes emerging freight logistics trends and technological advancements shaping the industry's future.