Trimble Inc. (Nasdaq: TRMB) has published the annual Transportation Pulse Report by Transporeon, indicating key developments that will influence the transportation and logistics sector in 2025. The report is based on a survey conducted among members of Indago’s supply chain research community and over 100 executives from Transporeon’s shipper and carrier customers in Europe and North America.
Survey respondents identified economic conditions (56%), geopolitical events (50%) and environmental regulations (36%) as the top three factors that will shape the industry in 2025. Economic struggles in the manufacturing sector, global inflation, slow growth and regional conflicts contribute to ongoing uncertainty and risk in the market. There is a divide in optimism between carriers and shippers regarding the upcoming transportation market: while 75% of carriers and 3PLs express strong optimism due to increased freight demand and rates, only 38% of shippers feel confident about 2025, in light of projected higher rates and tighter capacity.
When asked about their top priorities for 2025, respondents emphasized profitability, with cost reduction identified as the top priority by 61% of all respondents, notably 76% of shippers. For carriers and 3PLs, market expansion ranked as a higher focus with 58% highlighting it, likely reflecting the intent to leverage potential market improvements. Supply chain digitization was noted by 51% of respondents, with European respondents (59%) showing a higher inclination than their U.S. counterparts (39%). Sustainability initiatives garnered 44% of the votes, underscoring their increasing significance in the industry, especially among European executives who prioritize sustainability due to stringent regulations and emissions standards.
A notable gap exists between digitization interest and actual implementation. A majority of respondents (54%) anticipate automating only 25% or less of their transportation processes by the end of 2025, and only 10% expect to exceed 75% automation. This gap indicates potential for growth in adopting technologies such as AI, machine learning, and process automation. While AI is ranked as the fourth biggest trend industry-wide, it is the second most significant trend for carriers and 3PLs, possibly linked to their focus on market expansion and improved freight matching capabilities.
Philipp Pfister, chief customer experience officer at Transporeon, stated, “This year’s survey reflects a broader concern for the global economy and geopolitics beyond transportation and logistics. Carriers and 3PLs especially see opportunities for technological innovation and growth, balancing optimism with caution. While digitization won’t be the answer to everything, companies recognize the benefits and aim to use digital tools to control costs, better manage customer expectations and further sustainability practices.”
The full report is available at: https://publications.transporeon.com/pulse-report-2025
