Freight Road Transport in France - Market Size, Industry Analysis, Trends and Forecasts (2025-2029)

Freight Road Transport in France industry analysis

The road freight transport industry in France has demonstrated considerable resilience and adaptability. Despite facing challenges like fluctuating fuel prices and evolving regulatory standards — including stringent emissions requirements — the companies have managed to sustain performance through strategic investments in fleet modernisation and route optimisation. These efforts have helped to control costs and maintain the efficiency of freight movements across France's expansive road network. Over the five years through 2025, the industry's revenue is expected to increase at a compound annual rate of 3.7% to €67.4 billion, with a forecasted revenue decline of 0.9% in 2025.
Currently, the French freight road transport sector is navigating a mature phase while adapting to digital transformation and the ongoing growth in e-commerce. Companies are investing in technology-driven solutions to streamline operations, incorporating innovations like real-time tracking and route optimisation to enhance delivery efficiency. Despite rising operational costs, including those for fuel and maintenance, businesses maintain competitiveness through refined logistics strategies and expanded urban delivery infrastructures to cope with increased online retail demand. The market’s diverse base of established firms and agile SMEs fosters a competitive environment focused on service diversity and adaptability, allowing the industry to respond to evolving consumer needs and economic changes.
The French freight road transport industry is expected to undergo significant changes, driven by environmental and technological advancements. The movement towards electrification is advancing, with investments in electric vehicle fleets and charging infrastructure gaining traction. Meanwhile, autonomous vehicle technologies are emerging, potentially addressing labour shortages and improving operational efficiency. As e-commerce continues to grow, companies are likely to further embrace digitalisation, leveraging AI and data analytics to optimise logistics processes. Over the five years through 2030, revenue is projected to increase at a compound annual rate of 0.8% to €70 billion.

Trends and Insights

• Rising fuel prices limit growth. Total freight rates have increased but not enough to exceed soaring inflation across Europe. Low business confidence and weakened industrial activity have also hindered industry growth.
• International loaded and unloaded freight transport rebounds from 2020 lows. After dropping considerably over 2020 amid stringent pandemic restrictions, international transport picked up, taking market share away from national transport over 2022 and 2023.
• Economies of scope and large contracts impact concentration. Larger companies have the resources and capabilities to offer more services and can better negotiate and win lucrative contracts. Yet, the industry still comprises thousands of small and medium-size businesses operating regionally.