Forklift Trucks Market Forecast
The forklift trucks market is expected to witness significant growth in the upcoming years. According to a recent report by Mordor Intelligence, the market value is anticipated to soar from
$71.85 billion in 2025 to
$88.07 billion by 2030, marking a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of
4.16%. A variety of factors are fueling this growth, notably the rise in warehouse automation and the robust expansion of e-commerce.
Key Drivers of Market Growth
1. Increased Investment in Warehouse Automation
One of the primary drivers of this growth is the heavy investments being made in warehouse automation. As companies strive to enhance efficiency and productivity, more operations are being automated, which necessitates the adoption of advanced material handling equipment such as forklifts. This trend is vital, particularly as companies aim to keep up with growing consumer demand for quick and efficient delivery services.
2. Shift Towards Electric and Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Forklifts
Another pivotal shift in the market is moving from internal combustion engine (ICE) forklifts to electric and hydrogen fuel-cell forklifts. This transition is not just eco-friendly; it also represents a significant transformation in power-train technologies, charging infrastructures, and after-sales services. Lithium-ion batteries are increasingly being utilized for their efficiency, granting multi-shift capabilities without regular swaps, while hydrogen models are gaining traction in regions that favor rapid refueling.
3. Stringent Emission Standards in Asia-Pacific
Particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, stricter emission regulations are catalyzing the transition to electric forklifts. China's Stage VI emission standards are now applicable to non-road machinery, compelling many logistics centres and factories to retire traditional engine models. Manufacturers in China who focus on electric forklift production are benefiting from governmental incentives. Meanwhile, international players in the market are modifying their operations by localizing battery production and swift charging stations, thus expediting the adoption of electric forklifts.
Growth in E-commerce Warehousing in North America
The rapid expansion of e-commerce is also a significant factor in forklift truck market growth, particularly in North America, with a strong focus on the U.S. and Canada. The surging demand for autonomous forklifts, which can integrate with sophisticated warehouse management systems to streamline operations, is a direct result of the online retail boom. Even as overall economic growth may face slowdowns, the need for innovative materials handling solutions continues to rise through elevated warehouse construction.
European Market Insights on Lithium-ion Forklifts
Similarly, in Europe, cold-chain operators are increasingly adopting lithium-ion forklifts, particularly in food and beverage sectors, due to these batteries' ability to maintain high performance in lower temperatures and their fast charging times. As the regulatory environment tightens, the preference for lithium-ion solutions grows. Operators benefit from enhanced uptime and reduced battery maintenance costs, while manufacturers offering battery leasing options are seeing increased profit margins.
Breakdown of Market Segments
Mordor’s market analysis segments the forklift truck business by various parameters, including:
- - Power-train Type: Internal Combustion Engine (ICE), Electric, Lead-acid, Lithium-ion, Hydrogen Fuel-cell Vehicles (HFCV)
- - Vehicle Class: Various class categories featuring electric rider and narrow-aisle trucks
- - Load Capacity: Ranging from under 5 tons to over 15 tons
- - End-user Industry: Including manufacturing, logistics, construction, retail, and food & beverage
Conclusion
The forklift trucks market is evolving rapidly, driven by technological advancements and environmental considerations alongside the increased efficiency demanded by e-commerce. To gain more insights into the market segmentation and forecast, follow the
Mordor Intelligence report.
Market participants like Toyota Industries Corp., KION Group AG, and Mitsubishi Logisnext Co. Ltd are positioning themselves strategically to capture growing demands in various regions across the globe. With the digital age firmly upon us, the forklift trucks market is set for substantial transformations and growth over the next several years.