The Logistics Trend Map
Be ready for anything to go all the way
The logistics industry is evolving rapidly, influenced by a multitude of trends. Staying ahead in this dynamic environment requires clarity, focus, and informed decision-making.
That’s why The Logistics Trend Map has been created in collaboration with data agency Statista, to act as a comprehensive and interactive guide to the most impactful trends in logistics today.
Explore the 30 trends that impact your business using the map below and read in-depth analysis of the top 10 trends in the downloadable report.
Industry Adoption: Early Stage
Alternative to Fossil Fuel
Transitioning to alternative fuels and technologies across transport modes. (14 of 15 top trends)
Leading Edge Connections
Using advanced technology (5G and 6G) for real-time data processing, AI-driven decision-making and dynamic resource management, optimising logistics operations.
Blockchain
A decentralised digital ledger that enhances transparency, security, and efficiency by enabling real-time tracking and ensuring data integrity across multiple computers without a central authority.
Circular Economy
Adopting practices dealing with reverse logistics and waste reduction, recycling and resource recovery in logistics. (9 of 15 top trends)
Quantum Computing in Data Management
Using quantum mechanics to process information with qubits, enabling faster and more efficient solutions to complex problems compared to classical computing.
Early adopters
Vehicle Electrification
Transitioning to electric vehicles in logistics for cost efficiency and reducing GHG emissions, transforming transport operations. (13 of 15 top trends)
Artificial Intelligence
Using generative AI to automate and optimise processes such as planning, procurement and decision making in logistics. (10 of 15 top trends)
Autonomous Robotics
Automating tasks like picking and sorting in warehouses, using augmented reality (AR) and using robots for complex manual tasks. (12 of 15 top trends)
Decarbonisation
Reducing GHG emissions in logistics through regulations and investments. (11 of 15 top trends)
Decentralised Warehouse Management
Establishing multiple, strategically located warehouse hubs closer to consumers to improve delivery speed, flexibility and resilience in supply chains.
Digital Twins
Creating a virtual replica of a physical object, system, or process, enabling real-time monitoring, simulation and optimisation through data integration and analysis.
Drone Delivery
Using autonomous drones for last-mile delivery to improve efficiency, reduce costs and meet consumer demand for faster deliveries.
Earth Observation Data
Integrating satellite-based data including imagery, radar, GPS, and communication systems, into logistics to enable real-time monitoring of assets and infrastructure.
Edge Computing
Processing data closer to its source by performing computations on local devices or edge servers instead of relying solely on central data centres.
Internet of Things
Real-time tracking, predictive maintenance and inventory management through connected devices such as sensors and asset management. (2 of 15 top trends)
Last-Mile Delivery Innovations
Transforming urban delivery by adopting sustainable and efficient solutions such as cargo bikes, electric vehicles and drones. (7 of 15 top trends)
Smart Ports
Developing smart ports using artificial intelligence, internet of things and automation to enhance efficiency, sustainability and real-time decision-making. (15 of 15 top trends)
Smart Warehouses
Improving handling, storage and retrieval by adopting technologies like Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS), Internet of Things devices and artificial intelligence.
Fully Integrated
Digital Transformation
Automating and digitising logistics operations to enhance efficiency, visibility and data management. (5 of 15 top trends)
Supply Chain Visibility
Utilising real-time tracking and insights to improve efficiency, manage disruptions and enhance decision making across the supply chain. (1 of 15 top trends)
Value Chain Transformation and Vertical Integration
Optimising the entire logistics process, from procurement to distribution, to provide end-to-end solutions that enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction. This trend also involves vertical integration and transformation.
Cyber Security
Strengthening digital defences in logistics to protect against growing cyber threats and ensure operational resilience. (6 of top 15 trends)
Environmental Social Governance (ESG) Initiatives
Integrating ESG practices to align logistics with sustainability goals and satisfying regulatory demands.
Growth of Outsourcing
Increasing reliance on outsourcing logistics functions to external providers for cost reduction, efficiency, and specialised expertise.
Predictive Analytics
Using advanced technologies to forecast demand and optimise supply chain operations, improving efficiency and competitiveness.
Cold Chain Optimisation
Advancing cold chain solutions to efficiently manage perishable goods, reduce food waste and improve market access.
Workforce Development
Investing in workforce training, implementing apprenticeships and upskilling programmes to enhance digital literacy and technological adaptability.
Industry Standards
Supply Chain Diversification
Increasing resilience by adopting multi-sourcing and multi-shoring strategies to reduce reliance on single suppliers or regions. (3 of 15 top trends)
E-Commerce
Adapting logistics to meet rising e-commerce demands through faster delivery services and optimised solutions. (8 of 15 top trends)
Financial Resilience in Logistics
Boosting stability by improving cash flow visibility, managing risks, and using financial forecasting for sustainability. (4 of 15 top trends)
Impact: High
Impact: Significant
Impact: Moderate
Industry Adoption: Early Stage
Early adopters
Fully Integrated
Industry Standards
How the Logistics Trend Map works
The Logistics Trend Map positions trends along two critical dimensions:
- Impact: Measures how significantly a trend forces companies to adapt their operations, strategies, or structures.
- Adoption: Reflects the level of industry integration and the time remaining to take advantage of each trend.
By visualising these dimensions, the Logistics Trend Map empowers businesses to distinguish between emerging opportunities and imminent priorities.
When you filter by industry and region, the top 5 trends most relevant will be highlighted on the map.
Download the full report to see how the trends are ranked by the customers in your region and industry.
Explore the Global Logistics Trends of 2025
Find the trends relevant to you in The Logistics Trend Map
Disclaimer: The content of the The Logistics Trend Map is intended for informational purposes only and does not reflect the views, opinions, or official stance of A.P Moller-Maersk A/S. Any conclusions or interpretations expressed in this report are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the perspectives or policies of A.P Moller-Maersk A/S.