[Ranking] TOP 25 Cold Chain Logistics / Logistics Companies Q3/2023
Intro
Cold Chain Logistics is a crucial sub-industry within the broader logistics sector, playing a vital role in ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of temperature-sensitive goods.
With the increasing globalization of trade and the rise in demand for perishable products, the cold chain logistics industry has witnessed a significant surge in importance and influence.
The economic magnitude of the industry is staggering, with the global cold chain logistics market expected to reach a value of $447.61 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 12.8% from 2020 to 2027.
Recent trends in the industry include the adoption of advanced technologies like Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and artificial intelligence to enhance supply chain visibility, reduce waste, and improve overall efficiency.
The landscape of cold chain logistics is constantly evolving, driven by factors such as changing consumer preferences, stricter regulations, and the need for sustainable and eco-friendly solutions. This dynamic environment sets the stage for exploring the top companies in the industry.
Ranking
#25 Universal Logistics Holdings, Inc.
Employees: 1.2K
Revenue: 900M$
Website: https://www.universallogistics.com
Description: Universal Logistics Holdings, Inc. is a leading provider of cold chain logistics services in the logistics industry. Headquartered in Warren, United States, the company was founded in 1932. With a workforce of approximately 1.2 thousand employees, Universal Logistics specializes in the transportation and warehousing of temperature-sensitive goods, ensuring their integrity and safety throughout the supply chain. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including refrigerated transportation, cold storage, inventory management, and distribution. Universal Logistics serves various sectors, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare. With an annual revenue of around 900 million dollars, the company has established itself as a trusted partner for businesses requiring reliable and efficient cold chain logistics solutions.
#24 Forward Air Corporation
Employees: 2.5K
Revenue: 1.1B$
Website: https://www.forwardaircorp.com
Description: Forward Air Corporation, headquartered in Greeneville, United States, is a leading player in the Cold Chain Logistics industry. With a strong focus on temperature-controlled transportation and warehousing, the company provides efficient and reliable logistics solutions for perishable goods. Since its establishment in 1981, Forward Air has grown exponentially and currently employs approximately 2,500 professionals. The company has achieved impressive annual revenue of 1.1 billion dollars, positioning itself as a key player in the industry. Forward Air's commitment to maintaining precise temperature control throughout the supply chain ensures the safe and timely delivery of temperature-sensitive products, making it a trusted partner for businesses in need of cold chain logistics services.
#23 Roadrunner Transportation Systems, Inc.
Employees: 2.5K
Revenue: 1.2B$
Website: https://www.rrts.com/
Description: Roadrunner Transportation Systems, Inc. is a leading transportation and logistics company based in Cudahy, United States. Founded in 1984, the company has a strong presence in the Cold Chain Logistics industry. With over 2.5K employees, Roadrunner specializes in temperature-controlled transportation, providing reliable and efficient solutions for the transportation of perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, and other temperature-sensitive products. The company operates a vast network of refrigerated trucks and warehouses, ensuring the integrity and safety of the cargo throughout the supply chain. Roadrunner's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has helped them achieve an annual revenue of 1.2B$, making them a key player in the Cold Chain Logistics industry.
#22 Echo Global Logistics, Inc.
Employees: 4.5K
Revenue: 1.2B$
Website: https://www.echo.com
Description: Echo Global Logistics, Inc. is a leading provider of technology-enabled transportation and supply chain management services. Headquartered in Chicago, United States, the company specializes in cold chain logistics within the broader logistics industry. Founded in 2005, Echo Global Logistics operates primarily in North America and offers a comprehensive suite of services including transportation management, intermodal and truck brokerage, managed transportation, and supply chain consulting. With a workforce of approximately 4,500 employees, the company leverages its advanced technology platform to optimize transportation and provide real-time visibility and control over cold chain operations. Echo Global Logistics generated a revenue of 1.2 billion dollars in the most recent fiscal year, positioning itself as a key player in the cold chain logistics sector.
#21 USA Truck, Inc.
Employees: 3K
Revenue: 1.5B$
Website: https://www.usa-truck.com/
Description: USA Truck, Inc. is a logistics company operating in the Cold Chain Logistics industry. With its headquarters located in Van Buren, United States, the company has been providing transportation and logistics solutions since its establishment in 1983. USA Truck specializes in temperature-controlled transportation, offering a range of services including refrigerated, dedicated, and intermodal solutions. The company's fleet of trucks and trailers are equipped with advanced technologies to ensure the safe and efficient transportation of perishable goods. With a workforce of approximately 3,000 employees, USA Truck generates an annual revenue of 1.5 billion dollars, making it a significant player in the Cold Chain Logistics industry.
#20 Landstar System, Inc.
Employees: 1.2K
Revenue: 1.8B$
Website: https://www.landstar.com
Description: Landstar System, Inc. is a leading provider of logistics services in the Cold Chain Logistics industry. Headquartered in Jacksonville, United States, Landstar operates primarily in North America. The company was founded in 1968 and has a workforce of approximately 1.2 thousand employees. Landstar specializes in offering temperature-controlled transportation and warehousing solutions to ensure the safe and efficient handling of perishable goods. With an annual revenue of 1.8 billion dollars, Landstar has established itself as a key player in the Cold Chain Logistics sector, providing reliable and timely delivery services to meet the unique requirements of the industry.
#19 Werner Enterprises, Inc.
Employees: 0.2K
Revenue: 2.5B$
Website: https://www.werner.com
Description: Werner Enterprises, Inc. is a leading transportation and logistics company specializing in Cold Chain Logistics. Based in Omaha, Nebraska, United States, Werner Enterprises has been in operation since 1956. With a workforce of approximately 200 employees, the company generates an annual revenue of 2.5 billion dollars. Werner Enterprises provides comprehensive logistics solutions for the transportation of temperature-sensitive goods, ensuring the integrity and safety of perishable products throughout the supply chain. Leveraging advanced technology, extensive network coverage, and a dedicated team, Werner Enterprises offers customized cold chain logistics services to meet the unique needs of its customers in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and healthcare.
#18 Estes Express Lines
Employees: 21K
Revenue: 2.5B$
Website: https://www.estes-express.com/
Description: Estes Express Lines is a leading logistics company headquartered in Richmond, United States. With a history dating back to 1931, Estes Express Lines has established itself as a prominent player in the cold chain logistics industry. The company specializes in temperature-controlled transportation and storage solutions, ensuring the safe and efficient movement of perishable goods. Estes Express Lines operates a vast network of refrigerated trucks, warehouses, and distribution centers, allowing them to serve customers across North America. Their team of over 21,000 dedicated employees is committed to delivering exceptional service and maintaining the integrity of the cold chain. With annual revenues of 2.5 billion dollars, Estes Express Lines continues to be a trusted partner for businesses in need of reliable cold chain logistics services.
#17 Penske Logistics
Employees: 14K
Revenue: 3B$
Website: https://www.penskelogistics.com
Description: Penske Logistics, headquartered in Reading, United States, is a leading player in the Cold Chain Logistics industry. With a history dating back to 1998, the company has established itself as a reliable and innovative provider of logistics solutions in the North American market. Employing approximately 14,000 professionals, Penske Logistics operates a vast network of temperature-controlled warehouses and transportation assets to ensure the safe and efficient movement of temperature-sensitive goods. The company's commitment to advanced technology and continuous improvement enables them to optimize supply chain processes, reduce costs, and deliver exceptional service to their clients. With annual revenue of 3 billion dollars, Penske Logistics is a key player in the cold chain logistics sector, serving a diverse range of industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare.
#16 ArcBest Corporation
Employees: 13.4K
Revenue: 3.1B$
Website: https://arcb.com
Description: ArcBest Corporation, headquartered in Fort Smith, United States, is a leading player in the Cold Chain Logistics industry. The company was founded in 1923 and currently employs approximately 13.4 thousand employees. With a revenue of 3.1 billion dollars, ArcBest Corporation offers a wide range of logistics services, specializing in cold chain logistics. They provide temperature-controlled transportation, warehousing, and distribution solutions to ensure the safe and efficient delivery of temperature-sensitive goods, such as pharmaceuticals and perishable food items. ArcBest Corporation leverages its extensive network and state-of-the-art technology to deliver reliable and tailored cold chain logistics solutions to its clients across North America and beyond.
#15 Expeditors International Of Washington, Inc.
Employees: 18.7K
Revenue: 3.5B$
Website: https://www.expeditors.com
Description: Expeditors International Of Washington, Inc. is a global logistics company specializing in Cold Chain Logistics. Based in Seattle, United States, the company was founded in 1979. With a workforce of approximately 18.7 thousand employees, Expeditors International operates in the North American market. The company generates an estimated revenue of 3.5 billion USD. Expeditors International is known for its expertise in managing the transportation and distribution of temperature-sensitive goods, ensuring the integrity and safety of the cold supply chain. Through its comprehensive network and advanced technology solutions, the company offers end-to-end logistics services, including warehousing, customs brokerage, and freight forwarding, to various industries, including pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and healthcare.
#14 Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.
Employees: 22K
Revenue: 4.1B$
Website: https://www.odfl.com
Description: Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. is a leading logistics company specializing in Cold Chain Logistics. Headquartered in Thomasville, United States, the company was founded in 1934. With a workforce of approximately 22,000 employees, Old Dominion Freight Line operates a vast network of transportation services for temperature-sensitive goods throughout North America. The company provides reliable and efficient refrigerated transportation solutions to ensure the integrity and safety of perishable products. Old Dominion Freight Line is known for its state-of-the-art cold storage facilities, advanced tracking systems, and skilled professionals who are committed to delivering exceptional service. With a revenue of 4.1 billion dollars, the company continues to be a trusted partner for businesses in the cold chain logistics industry.
#13 SAIA Inc.
Employees: 10.0K
Revenue: 4.2B$
Website: https://www.saia.com
Description: SAIA Inc. is a leading provider of Cold Chain Logistics services in the logistics industry. Headquartered in Atlanta, United States, the company was founded in 1924. With a workforce of approximately 10,000 employees, SAIA Inc. operates a robust network of cold storage and transportation facilities across North America. The company specializes in the safe and efficient transportation of temperature-sensitive goods, including perishable food items, pharmaceuticals, and other temperature-controlled products. SAIA Inc. leverages advanced technologies and state-of-the-art equipment to maintain precise temperature controls throughout the entire cold chain, ensuring the integrity and freshness of the products. With annual revenue of 4.2 billion dollars, SAIA Inc. is recognized for its commitment to quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction in the cold chain logistics industry.
#12 Hub Group, Inc.
Employees: 2.5K
Revenue: 4.2B$
Website: https://www.hubgroup.com
Description: Headquartered in Oak Brook, United States, Hub Group, Inc. is a leading player in the Cold Chain Logistics industry. Founded in 1971, the company has established itself as a key provider of logistics services, specializing in temperature-controlled transportation and warehousing solutions. With a workforce of approximately 2,500 employees, Hub Group operates a vast network of facilities and assets, enabling efficient and reliable distribution of goods across various regions. The company's dedication to innovation and technology, combined with their extensive industry expertise, allows them to offer customized supply chain solutions to meet the unique requirements of their clients. Hub Group's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility sets them apart in the industry, making them a trusted partner for businesses in need of efficient and sustainable cold chain logistics services.
#11 Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings Inc.
Employees: 29K
Revenue: 5.1B$
Website: https://www.knight-swift.com/
Description: Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings Inc. is a leading player in the Cold Chain Logistics industry. Headquartered in Phoenix, United States, the company operates primarily in North America. Established in 2017, Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings Inc. has grown to become a major force in the industry, with a workforce of approximately 29,000 employees. The company generates significant revenue, amounting to 5.1 billion US dollars. Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings Inc. specializes in providing temperature-controlled transportation and logistics services, ensuring the safe and efficient transport of perishable goods. With their extensive fleet and dedicated team, they offer reliable solutions to meet the unique requirements of the cold chain industry.
#10 YRC Worldwide Inc.
Employees: 29K
Revenue: 5.2B$
Website: https://www.yrcw.com
Description: YRC Worldwide Inc. is a leading provider of Cold Chain Logistics services in the transportation industry. Headquartered in Overland Park, United States, the company has been operating since 1924. With a workforce of approximately 29,000 employees, YRC Worldwide specializes in offering temperature-controlled transportation and storage solutions for perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, and other products requiring a controlled environment. The company's extensive network and advanced logistics capabilities enable efficient and reliable delivery of goods across North America. YRC Worldwide's dedication to quality and customer satisfaction has contributed to its annual revenue of 5.2 billion U.S. dollars, making it a trusted and preferred choice for Cold Chain Logistics services.
#9 Ceva Logistics
Employees: 78K
Revenue: 7.2B$
Website: https://www.cevalogistics.com/
Description: Ceva Logistics is a prominent player in the Cold Chain Logistics industry. Headquartered in Houston, United States, the company has been operating since its establishment in 1946. With a workforce of approximately 78,000 employees, Ceva Logistics specializes in providing efficient and reliable logistics solutions for the transportation and storage of temperature-sensitive goods. The company's comprehensive range of services includes warehousing, transportation management, customs brokerage, and supply chain solutions. Ceva Logistics has achieved significant success in the industry, generating an impressive revenue of 7.2 billion dollars. Through its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, Ceva Logistics continues to be a leading provider of cold chain logistics services worldwide.
#8 Ryder System, Inc.
Employees: 39K
Revenue: 8.4B$
Website: https://www.ryder.com
Description: Ryder System, Inc. is a leading provider of transportation and supply chain management solutions in the cold chain logistics industry. Headquartered in Miami, Florida, Ryder operates in North America and offers a comprehensive range of services including temperature-controlled transportation, warehousing, and distribution. With a history dating back to 1933, the company has established itself as a trusted partner for businesses in various sectors such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare. Ryder's fleet of vehicles equipped with advanced refrigeration technology ensures the safe and efficient transportation of perishable goods. The company's commitment to sustainability is evident through its use of alternative fuels and implementation of eco-friendly practices in its operations. With approximately 39,000 employees, Ryder generates annual revenue of 8.4 billion dollars, making it a key player in the cold chain logistics industry.
#7 J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc.
Employees: 30K
Revenue: 9.7B$
Website: https://www.jbhunt.com
Description: J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. is a leading player in the Cold Chain Logistics industry, specializing in transportation and logistics solutions. Headquartered in Lowell, United States, the company operates primarily in North America. Established in 1961, J.B. Hunt has grown to become a prominent name in the industry, with a workforce of approximately 30,000 employees. The company generates significant revenue, with annual earnings of around 9.7 billion dollars. J.B. Hunt offers a wide range of services, including refrigerated transportation, intermodal freight, and final mile delivery. With its extensive network and advanced technologies, the company ensures the safe and efficient transport of temperature-sensitive goods, serving clients across various sectors such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare.
#6 XPO Logistics, Inc.
Employees: 100K
Revenue: 10B$
Website: https://www.xpo.com
Description: XPO Logistics, Inc. is a global provider of transportation and logistics services, specializing in cold chain logistics. Headquartered in Greenwich, United States, the company operates in North America and other regions around the world. XPO Logistics offers a wide range of services in the cold chain industry, including temperature-controlled warehousing, transportation, and supply chain management. With a workforce of approximately 100,000 employees, the company leverages its extensive network and technological capabilities to ensure the safe and efficient transport of perishable goods. XPO Logistics has achieved significant growth since its founding in 1989 and continues to be a leading player in the cold chain logistics industry.
#5 C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc.
Employees: 20K
Revenue: 15B$
Website: https://www.chrobinson.com/
Description: C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. is a leading logistics company operating in the Cold Chain Logistics industry. Headquartered in Eden Prairie, United States, the company was founded in 1905. With a workforce of approximately 20,000 employees, C.H. Robinson provides comprehensive transportation and logistics solutions to customers in the cold chain industry. The company offers a range of services, including temperature-controlled transportation, warehousing, and supply chain management. C.H. Robinson leverages its extensive network and expertise to ensure the safe and efficient transportation of perishable goods, such as food and pharmaceuticals, across various locations. With an annual revenue of 15 billion U.S. dollars, C.H. Robinson has established itself as a key player in the cold chain logistics sector.
#4 Kuehne + Nagel International AG
Employees: 78K
Revenue: 25.7B$
Website: https://home.kuehne-nagel.com/
Description: Kuehne + Nagel International AG is a leading global logistics company specializing in Cold Chain Logistics. With its headquarters in Schindellegi, Switzerland, the company operates in Europe. Founded in 1890, Kuehne + Nagel has a workforce of approximately 78,000 employees. The company generates an estimated revenue of 25.7 billion US dollars. Kuehne + Nagel offers a comprehensive range of services in the Cold Chain Logistics industry, including temperature-controlled transportation, warehousing, and distribution for perishable goods such as pharmaceuticals, food, and beverages. Through its extensive global network and advanced technologies, Kuehne + Nagel ensures the safe and efficient handling of temperature-sensitive products, maintaining the integrity of the cold chain throughout the entire logistics process.
#3 Deutsche Post AG
Employees: 550K
Revenue: 66B$
Website: https://www.dpdhl.com/
Description: Deutsche Post AG, headquartered in Bonn, Germany, is a major player in the Cold Chain Logistics industry. Founded in 1995, the company has grown to employ approximately 550,000 people worldwide. With a revenue of 66 billion dollars, Deutsche Post AG offers a wide range of logistics services, including cold chain solutions. Their expertise in temperature-controlled transportation and storage enables them to deliver perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, and other sensitive products in a controlled environment. Through their extensive network and advanced technologies, Deutsche Post AG ensures the safe and efficient transport of cold chain products, contributing to the global supply chain in the logistics industry.
#2 FedEx Corporation
Employees: 550K
Revenue: 69B$
Website: https://www.fedex.com
Description: FedEx Corporation, headquartered in Memphis, United States, is a major player in the Cold Chain Logistics industry. With a history dating back to 1971, the company has grown to employ approximately 550,000 people worldwide. FedEx operates a vast network of logistics services, including transportation, e-commerce, and business services, making it a prominent name in the industry. The company's website, https://www.fedex.com, provides customers with information and tools to track shipments, access supply chain solutions, and manage international trade. With annual revenue of around 69 billion dollars, FedEx is a leading provider of cold chain logistics services, ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of temperature-sensitive goods across continents.
#1 United Parcel Service, Inc.
Employees: 500K
Revenue: 84B$
Website: https://www.ups.com
Description: United Parcel Service, Inc. (UPS) is a leading global provider of logistics and transportation solutions in the Cold Chain Logistics industry. Headquartered in Atlanta, United States, UPS was founded in 1907. With a workforce of 500K employees, UPS operates a vast network of facilities and vehicles to offer a comprehensive range of supply chain management services, including temperature-controlled transportation, warehousing, and distribution. The company leverages advanced technology and expertise to ensure the safe and reliable delivery of temperature-sensitive goods, such as pharmaceuticals, biologics, and perishable foods, across the globe. UPS is committed to meeting the unique requirements of the Cold Chain Logistics industry, providing innovative solutions to support the efficient and secure movement of temperature-sensitive products.
Summary
The top companies in the sub-industry of Cold Chain Logistics have been ranked based on their performance and achievements. These companies have demonstrated exceptional growth and success in the logistics sector.
One unexpected finding is the significant increase in demand for cold chain logistics services due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The need for temperature-controlled storage and transportation of vaccines and pharmaceuticals has skyrocketed, leading to a surge in business for these top companies.
Among the premier companies in this sub-industry are Company A, Company B, and Company C. These companies have established themselves as leaders in providing efficient and reliable cold chain logistics solutions.
One shared element driving the prosperity of these leading firms is their investment in state-of-the-art infrastructure. They have built modern warehouses and equipped them with advanced temperature monitoring and control systems, ensuring the integrity of the cold chain throughout the logistics process.
What sets these eminent companies apart from their industry rivals is their focus on innovation and technological advancements. They have implemented cutting-edge tracking and tracing systems, allowing real-time visibility of goods in transit. Additionally, they have embraced sustainable practices by adopting electric vehicles and optimizing routes to minimize environmental impact.