First Mile Delivery Market Size - By Delivery Mode (Truck, Ship, Plane, Rail), Application (Manufacturing, Agriculture, Retail, Pharmaceutical, Automotive), Goods (Perishables, Non-perishables, Hazardous Materials), Sourcing, End User & Forecast, 2024 – 2032

First Mile Delivery Market Size

First Mile Delivery Market size was valued at USD 79.6 billion in 2024 and is estimated to register a CAGR of over 7.5% between 2024 and 2032. The rising initiatives and regional partnerships focused on enhancing logistics and transportation capabilities are driving the market growth. The need for efficient and cost-effective first-mile delivery solutions is increasing due to the rising volume and complexity of international trade.
 

The increase in demand is accompanied by an attempt to improve collaboration and professionalism amongst supply chain and logistics companies, highlighting the significance of efficiency, standards, and safety in the delivery community. For instance, in June 2023, SpiceXpress announced a partnership with Ekart to enhance their first and last-mile delivery services. Under this collaboration, Ekart will handle the initial pickup of cargo shipments and ensure their delivery through last-mile connectivity across all serviceable pin codes in the country.
 

To support the growing e-commerce industry and improve supply chain efficiency, businesses and governments throughout the world are increasing financing for first mile delivery fleets and other logistical resources. The first mile delivery sector is undergoing substantial change due to rapid improvements in technology. Logistics operations are becoming more productive, safe, and efficient owing to developments in telematics, autonomous driving systems, and networking. These technologies are encouraging an innovative and adaptable culture inside the sector and increasing demand for newer distribution models.
 

The first mile delivery market faces significant hurdles. Logistics becomes more difficult when organizations have to navigate several regulatory requirements. The regulatory scenario includes diverse trade tariffs, customs procedures, and environmental restrictions. If not managed appropriately, these requirements can cause delays and higher costs. Inadequate or underdeveloped warehousing and transportation infrastructure makes logistics even more difficult by leading to delays, raising transportation costs, and increasing the possibility of product damage. In the end, this limits operational efficiency and the ability to expand, especially in emerging markets and rural areas.
 

First Mile Delivery Market Trends

The market for first-mile deliveries is changing quickly due to technological breakthroughs and a rising focus on sustainability. In response to evolving consumer demands for faster and more dependable delivery services—including same-day and same-hour options—manufacturers and logistics companies are coming up with innovative solutions.
 

Effective first mile logistics is essential for businesses in a variety of sectors including manufacturing, retail, and healthcare to guarantee that their goods arrive at distribution centers and regional hubs on time. Technological developments, such as automation, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT), which streamline procedures and increase operational effectiveness, are also driving this market's expansion.
 

A number of essential characteristics of first mile delivery systems add to their efficacy and efficiency. Route optimization, which guarantees that items are transported via the most efficient routes, lowering transportation costs and delivery times, is one of the most crucial characteristics. Furthermore, real-time tracking features are frequently included in first mile delivery services, enabling companies to monitor the whereabouts and progress of their items while they are being delivered.
 

Automation is a crucial component that aids in optimizing processes and lowers the likelihood of human error. Lastly, many first mile delivery providers offer flexible scheduling, enabling companies to select delivery windows that work for them and their clients.
 

First Mile Delivery Market Analysis

Based on delivery mode, the market is divided into truck, ship, plane, and rail. The truck segment held a market share of over 40% in 2023, owing to the adaptability, affordability, and cost-effectiveness of these vehicles. Due to their route and destination flexibility, trucks can be used to deliver a variety of goods including perishable goods and industrial equipment over a wide range of distances and terrains. They are adept at navigating both rural and urban areas, efficiently delivering supplies to local hubs or distribution centers. Trucks are suitable for first-mile delivery operations when meeting customer needs and operational objectives through timely and dependable transportation is essential.
 

Companies operating in first mile delivery market are expanding their fleet size with electric trucks to demonstrates a commitment towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions. For instance, in May 2024, Amazon introduced a fleet of electric heavy-duty trucks in California. This initiative is part of the e-commerce giant's broader strategy to decarbonize its transportation operations and promote sustainability across its business. The newly launched electric trucks will be deployed for first-mile deliveries, which involve transporting goods from Amazon's logistics facilities to distribution centers globally.

Based on application, the first mile delivery market is categorized into manufacturing, agriculture, retail, pharmaceutical, automotive, and others. The manufacturing segment held the largest market share in 2023, due to an urgent demand for dependable & effective transportation of goods, components, and raw materials. For manufacturing operations to satisfy customer requests and production schedules, a smooth supply chain is essential. By ensuring that materials are delivered to production facilities on time, first mile delivery minimizes inventory costs and supports just-in-time manufacturing processes.
 

As they can move heavy loads over short to medium distances and provide flexibility and accessibility to both urban and rural locations, trucks and other ground transportation modes are preferred. Due to its focus on supply chain efficiency and dependability, the manufacturing sector dominates the first mile delivery industry.
 

North America dominated the global first mile delivery market with a major share of over 35% in 2023. The region is home to a sizable and heterogeneous consumer market that demands prompt & effective delivery services due to the dominance of online retailers such as Amazon and Walmart. To satisfy customer needs, these businesses have made significant investments in logistics networks with strong first-mile delivery capabilities.
 

Secondly, the infrastructure network in North America is well developed, with a large number of roads and transit networks that facilitate effective first mile logistical operations. Furthermore, the region's robust technological developments in automation, AI, and the Internet of Things (IoT) have improved the effectiveness and dependability of first-mile delivery market.
 

In Asia Pacific, the need for effective logistics and delivery services is expanding as the e-commerce industry and urbanization rise. Leading the way in infrastructure and technological investments are countries including China, Japan, and India. Due to the region's vast population and growing middle class, first mile delivery solutions must become faster and more dependable to live up to customer expectations.
 

Due to its strong transportation network and strict regulations, Europe accounts for a sizeable portion of the worldwide first mile delivery business. Countries including Germany, the UK, and France are spearheading the adoption of logistics technologies and environment-friendly delivery options. The region has made advancements in electric cars and other fuels for first-mile delivery operations due to its focus on environmental sustainability and effective urban logistics. In addition, a robust retail industry and rising customer demand for prompt and transparent delivery services are driving the Europe market.
 

First Mile Delivery Market Share

DHL and FedEx held significant market share of over 25% in 2023. DHL maintains its leadership position in the first mile delivery industry through its extensive global network, advanced logistics capabilities, and a focus on innovation and sustainability. The company leverages its expertise in supply chain management, offering tailored solutions for industries such as retail, automotive, and healthcare. DHL continuously invests in technologies like automation, data analytics, and telematics to optimize operations and enhance visibility throughout the first mile journey.
 

FedEx sustains its competitive edge in the first mile delivery market by capitalizing on its extensive transportation network, technologies, and a customer-centric approach. The company offers a comprehensive suite of first mile services, ranging from traditional ground transportation to specialized solutions for high-value, time-sensitive, and temperature-controlled shipments.
 

First Mile Delivery Market Companies

Major players operating in the first mile delivery industry are:

• Ceva Logistics
• Deutsche Post DHL Group
• Expeditors International of Washington, Inc.
• FedEx Corporation
• Geodis
• J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc.
• Kuehne + Nagel International AG
• Ryder System, Inc.
• United Parcel Service, Inc. (UPS)
• XPO Logistics, Inc.
   

First Mile Delivery Industry News

• In May 2024, DHL has launched a virtual cargo airline in Brazil to enhance its supply chain services. This initiative involves a USD 100 million investment to create an air haul operation in collaboration with a local startup airline, Levu Air Cargo. The new service aims to provide a more reliable and efficient alternative to traditional commercial airlines and trucking for domestic distribution. It is expected to support high-value goods sectors like automotive and healthcare, significantly improving logistics for DHL's customers in Brazil.
   
• In August 2023, Volvo Trucks has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with DSV Air & Sea Singapore to introduce the first electric truck, a Volvo FL Electric, into the Singapore market. This initiative is part of DSV's commitment to reducing CO2 emissions and advancing sustainable supply chains. The Volvo FL Electric truck is specifically designed for urban transportation, addressing challenges like heavy traffic, narrow alleys, and frequent stops, making it ideal for city deliveries.
   

The first mile delivery market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue (USD Million) and fleet size (Units) from 2021 to 2032, for the following segments:

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Market, By Delivery mode

• Truck
• Ship
• Plane
• Rail

Market, By Application

• Manufacturing
• Agriculture
• Retail
• Pharmaceutical
• Automotive
• Others

Market, By Goods

• Perishables
• Non-perishables
• Hazardous Materials

Market, By Sourcing

• Inhouse
• Outsource

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • UK
  • Germany
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Nordics
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • ANZ
  • Southeast Asia
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
  • Rest of Latin America
• MEA
  • South Africa
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Rest of MEA