Material Handling Equipment - Global Strategic Business Report

The global market for Material Handling Equipment was valued at US$162.9 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US$225.4 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 5.6% from 2024 to 2030. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of market trends, drivers, and forecasts, helping you make informed business decisions. The report includes the most recent global tariff developments and how they impact the Material Handling Equipment market.

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Material Handling Equipment Market - Key Trends and Drivers Summarized

What Are the Key Types of Material Handling Equipment and Their Functions?

Material handling equipment plays an indispensable role in optimizing the movement, storage, and control of materials within various industries. Among the most significant categories, conveyor systems are widely used for transporting goods seamlessly across warehouses and manufacturing floors. These systems are crucial for automating repetitive tasks, reducing manual labor, and ensuring consistency in handling goods. Forklifts are another vital segment, offering versatility across multiple industries. They are designed to lift and transport heavy loads efficiently, ranging from small warehouses to expansive shipping yards. Electric and diesel forklifts cater to distinct needs, with electric models gaining traction for their eco-friendliness and lower maintenance costs. Hoists and cranes, on the other hand, are indispensable for heavy-duty operations, particularly in construction, mining, and manufacturing. They provide the lifting power required for large, cumbersome objects that cannot be handled by conventional equipment. Advanced hoist systems equipped with safety features and ergonomic designs are becoming a standard choice in industrial operations. Additionally, automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) have revolutionized warehousing by integrating robotics and software to store and retrieve goods efficiently. These systems significantly reduce space requirements and improve inventory accuracy. Other types of equipment, including automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and pallet jacks, also play a vital role in addressing specific handling challenges.

Where Are Material Handling Systems Most Widely Applied?

Material handling equipment finds applications across a broad spectrum of industries, with third-party logistics (3PL) providers being one of the largest adopters. 3PL operators rely heavily on efficient equipment to streamline supply chain processes, particularly in managing high-volume storage and distribution tasks. The e-commerce and general merchandise sectors are similarly significant, driven by the rise in online shopping and rapid order fulfillment demands. With the exponential growth of e-commerce platforms, companies are investing in high-speed conveyor systems, automated retrieval units, and robotic handling equipment to meet the challenges of scalability and consumer expectations. In the food and beverage (F&B) manufacturing and retail sectors, hygiene, precision, and speed are critical. Specialized equipment is used to handle perishables while adhering to stringent safety regulations. Similarly, consumer durables, including electronics and appliances, demand reliable material handling solutions to safeguard fragile goods during production and transportation. Beyond these core applications, material handling equipment is widely utilized in construction, automotive, and chemical industries, reflecting its versatility across varied operational needs.

What Trends Are Shaping Material Handling Equipment in Recent Years?

Advancements in automation and digital technologies are reshaping the material handling landscape, introducing smarter, more efficient systems. The integration of IoT and artificial intelligence (AI) into handling equipment is enabling real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and enhanced safety mechanisms. For instance, forklifts are now equipped with telematics to provide data-driven insights on performance and reduce operational downtimes. Similarly, robotic automation, including AS/RS and AGVs, is allowing warehouses to operate with minimal human intervention while achieving unprecedented levels of accuracy and speed. Another critical trend is the shift towards sustainable solutions. With increasing environmental concerns, businesses are opting for eco-friendly material handling equipment such as electric forklifts and battery-operated conveyor systems. These solutions not only reduce carbon footprints but also ensure compliance with global emission standards. Furthermore, the emergence of modular and scalable equipment has gained traction, catering to the dynamic demands of industries that require flexible handling systems for ever-changing operational requirements.

What Factors Are Driving the Growth in the Material Handling Equipment Market?

The growth in the material handling equipment market is driven by several factors that are reshaping industries and enabling businesses to meet evolving demands. Technological innovation, particularly in automation and digitalization, is at the forefront of this transformation. The adoption of AI-powered robotics, IoT-enabled tracking systems, and advanced inventory management software is enabling industries to optimize operations while reducing costs and errors. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce has created a pressing need for rapid, scalable, and accurate handling solutions, making automated equipment indispensable for fulfillment centers. In terms of applications, the expansion of logistics and warehousing facilities is a significant driver. Industries are investing heavily in advanced handling systems to cope with rising global trade and consumer demands for faster delivery. Furthermore, government investments in infrastructure projects, particularly in emerging economies, are boosting the adoption of heavy-duty cranes, hoists, and automated equipment in construction and manufacturing.

Sustainability has also emerged as a key growth factor, with businesses seeking greener alternatives to traditional equipment. The increasing adoption of electric forklifts, recyclable material systems, and energy-efficient technologies is in line with global sustainability goals. Lastly, the growing focus on workforce safety and operational efficiency has prompted industries to adopt equipment with advanced safety features and ergonomic designs, ensuring a safer and more productive environment. Together, these factors are driving the material handling equipment market toward a future defined by innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled efficiency.

Report Scope

The report analyzes the Material Handling Equipment market, presented in terms of units. The analysis covers the key segments and geographic regions outlined below.

Segments: Segment (Conveyor Systems, Forklifts, Hoists & Cranes, Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems, Other Segments); Application (Third-Party Logistics Application, eCommerce & General Merchandise Application, F&B Manufacturing & Retail Application, Consumer Durables Application, Other Applications).

Geographic Regions/Countries: World; USA; Canada; Japan; China; Europe; France; Germany; Italy; UK; Spain; Russia; Rest of Europe; Asia-Pacific; Australia; India; South Korea; Rest of Asia-Pacific; Latin America; Argentina; Brazil; Mexico; Rest of Latin America; Middle East; Iran; Israel; Saudi Arabia; UAE; Rest of Middle East; Africa.

Key Insights:

• Market Growth: Understand the significant growth trajectory of the Conveyor Systems segment, which is expected to reach US$93.4 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of a 5.3%. The Forklifts segment is also set to grow at 5.8% CAGR over the analysis period.
• Regional Analysis: Gain insights into the U.S. market, valued at $38.8 Billion in 2024, and China, forecasted to grow at an impressive 7.3% CAGR to reach $42.3 Billion by 2030. Discover growth trends in other key regions, including Japan, Canada, Germany, and the Asia-Pacific.

Why You Should Buy This Report:

• Detailed Market Analysis: Access a thorough analysis of the Global Material Handling Equipment Market, covering all major geographic regions and market segments.
• Competitive Insights: Get an overview of the competitive landscape, including the market presence of major players across different geographies.
• Future Trends and Drivers: Understand the key trends and drivers shaping the future of the Global Material Handling Equipment Market.
• Actionable Insights: Benefit from actionable insights that can help you identify new revenue opportunities and make strategic business decisions.

Key Questions Answered:

• How is the Global Material Handling Equipment Market expected to evolve by 2030?
• What are the main drivers and restraints affecting the market?
• Which market segments will grow the most over the forecast period?
• How will market shares for different regions and segments change by 2030?
• Who are the leading players in the market, and what are their prospects?

Report Features:

• Comprehensive Market Data: Independent analysis of annual sales and market forecasts in US$ Million from 2024 to 2030.
• In-Depth Regional Analysis: Detailed insights into key markets, including the U.S., China, Japan, Canada, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, and Africa.
• Company Profiles: Coverage of players such as ABB Ltd., ABP Maschinenbau GmbH, Abresch Constructie- & Machinebouw, Acco Material Handling Solutions, Accutek Packaging Equipment Companies, Inc. and more.
• Complimentary Updates: Receive free report updates for one year to keep you informed of the latest market developments.

Some of the 409 companies featured in this Material Handling Equipment market report include:

• ABB Ltd.
• ABP Maschinenbau GmbH
• Abresch Constructie- & Machinebouw
• Acco Material Handling Solutions
• Accutek Packaging Equipment Companies, Inc.
• Ace Industries, Inc.
• Acecn Machinery International Co., Ltd.
• Acero Solutions
• ACI Elevation
• Action Construction Equipment Ltd. (ACE)

Tariff Impact Analysis: Key Insights for 2025

Global tariff negotiations across 180+ countries are reshaping supply chains, costs, and competitiveness. This report reflects the latest developments as of April 2025 and incorporates forward-looking insights into the market outlook.

The analysts continuously track trade developments worldwide, drawing insights from leading global economists and over 200 industry and policy institutions, including think tanks, trade organizations, and national economic advisory bodies. This intelligence is integrated into forecasting models to provide timely, data-driven analysis of emerging risks and opportunities.

What’s Included in This Edition:

• Tariff-adjusted market forecasts by region and segment
• Analysis of cost and supply chain implications by sourcing and trade exposure
• Strategic insights into geographic shifts

Buyers receive a free July 2025 update with:

• Finalized tariff impacts and new trade agreement effects
• Updated projections reflecting global sourcing and cost shifts
• Expanded country-specific coverage across the industry