Cargo Handling in France - Market Size, Industry Analysis, Trends and Forecasts (2025-2029)

Cargo Handling in France industry analysis

Cargo handlers play a crucial role in facilitating the smooth transfer of goods across various modes of transport. The industry’s role in logistics networks has grown as supply chains have become increasingly complex and globalised, with cargo handlers required to manage the efficient transition of goods between different modes of transport to avoid congestion at ports and terminals.
Revenue is forecast to grow at a compound annual rate of 0.7% over the five years through 2025, reaching €2.2 billion. Pandemic-related restrictions on economic activity and the movement of people and goods across borders spurred a slump in freight volumes in 2020. Underpinned by rising e-commerce activity and a strong initial economic recovery, freight volumes recorded strong renewed growth in the following year, adding to the workload of cargo handlers. Despite a drop-off in freight volumes, revenue continued to grow in 2022, reflecting a shift in freight volumes towards high-value, time-sensitive cargo. Geopolitical tensions accelerated the decline in freight volumes in the following year, which, in addition to subdued business and consumer spending, spurred a drop in the volume of goods handled at ports and terminal facilities. A normalisation in global freight markets spurred renewed growth in volumes in 2024, fuelling demand for cargo services. However, revenue has suffered as cargo volumes have shifted back to low-value bulk transport. Revenue is set to slide by 0.1% in 2025.
Revenue is forecast to climb at a compound annual rate of 1% over the five years through 2030, reaching €2.3 billion. Freight volumes are set to rise in the coming years as global supply chains continue to stabilise. As part of attempts to decarbonise the transport sector, the French government is pursuing a modal shift from road freight transport to rail or maritime. This is set to further cement the industry’s importance in supply chains, as cargo handlers are needed to facilitate the smooth transition of goods from these modes of transport to last-mile solutions.

Trends and Insights

• Europe's cargo handling industry exhibits adaptability to economic fluctuations. European cargo handlers are navigating challenges through strategic planning and diversification. Global economic trends, trade policies and geopolitical events influence the industry's performance, which necessitates agile strategies to sustain growth.
• The cargo handling industry in Europe caters to a wide array of products. This ranges from raw materials to finished goods. Specialised handling services are essential for manufacturing, retail, and e-commerce sectors, reflecting the industry's adaptability to varied cargo requirements.
• Cargo handling in Europe shows high concentration levels. The cargo handling industry in Europe is marked by high concentration, with major players influencing market dynamics.