How many 3PLs are there? (2025 industry statistics)

While exact numbers vary by source and definition, there are approximately 72,937 third-party logistics businesses operating in the United States as of 2024, according to IBISWorld data. Globally, the 3PL market represents a massive $1.19 trillion industry, though pinpointing precise company counts remains challenging due to industry fragmentation and varying classification criteria. The complexity stems from different types of providers—from asset-based carriers to freight brokers—each serving distinct market segments.

Numbers at a glance

• 72,937 third-party logistics businesses in the US
• $1.19 trillion global 3PL market size
• 26,216 active freight brokerages registered
• 90%+ of Fortune 500 companies use at least one 3PL provider
• 8.02% projected annual growth rate through 2034
• 3.9 average number of industries served per 3PL

The challenge of counting 3PL companies

Why exact numbers are difficult to determine

The logistics industry’s fragmented nature makes precise company counts nearly impossible. Unlike regulated industries with mandatory registration databases, 3PLs operate under various business models and regulatory frameworks. Some function as asset-based carriers with their own trucks and warehouses, while others operate as technology-enabled brokers connecting shippers with capacity providers.

Industry fragmentation and definition variations

The term “3PL” encompasses everything from small regional freight brokers to global logistics giants managing complex supply chains. This broad definition creates counting challenges:

• Freight brokers (26,216 FMCSA-registered as of August 2024)
• Contract logistics providers offering warehousing and fulfillment
• Transportation management companies without physical assets
• Integrated logistics providers combining multiple service lines

Regulatory and classification differences

Different countries and regions classify logistics providers using varying criteria. In the US, the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 541614 covers “Process, Physical Distribution, and Logistics Consulting Services,” while freight brokers fall under transportation codes. This regulatory patchwork complicates global counting efforts.

Available 3PL industry statistics and data

US market: 72,937 third-party logistics businesses

IBISWorld’s 2024 data shows 72,937 third-party logistics businesses in the United States, representing a 0.3% increase from 2023. This figure includes companies primarily engaged in logistics consulting, supply chain management, and integrated logistics services. The US market size reached approximately $201.6 billion in 2024, with historical annual growth of 4.8% over the past five years.

Global market size: $1.19 trillion industry

The global 3PL market was valued at $1.19 trillion in 2024, though some estimates suggest lower figures around $470 billion depending on methodology and market definitions. The Asia Pacific region dominates the market, driven by increasing trans-regional trade and logistics infrastructure investments.

Freight broker numbers: 26,216 active registrations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reports 26,216 active freight brokerages as of August 2024. This represents a decline from previous years, with significant industry consolidation occurring throughout 2024. Despite recent closures, the total remains higher than pre-pandemic levels.

Regional breakdowns and variations

North American 3PLs tend to focus on domestic transportation and warehousing, while European providers often emphasize international forwarding and customs services. Asian 3PLs typically integrate manufacturing support with traditional logistics functions, reflecting regional economic structures.

3PL market size and growth projections

Current market valuation

Industry analysts project the global 3PL market will reach $2.57 trillion by 2034, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.02%. This growth reflects increasing outsourcing of logistics functions as companies focus on core competencies while seeking supply chain efficiency.

Market drivers and expansion factors

Several factors drive 3PL market expansion:

• E-commerce growth requiring specialized fulfillment capabilities
• Globalization increasing complexity of international supply chains
• Technology adoption enabling more sophisticated logistics services
• Labor shortages pushing companies to outsource logistics functions
• Sustainability requirements demanding specialized expertise

Types of 3PL providers and how they’re counted

Asset-based vs. non-asset-based providers

Asset-based 3PLs own transportation equipment, warehouses, and other physical infrastructure. These companies typically appear in multiple industry classifications, making counting more complex. Non-asset-based providers rely on technology and relationships to coordinate logistics services without owning physical assets.

Freight brokers vs. full-service 3PLs

Freight brokers focus primarily on transportation arrangement, while full-service 3PLs offer comprehensive supply chain solutions including warehousing, inventory management, and value-added services. The 26,216 FMCSA-registered brokers represent just one segment of the broader 3PL ecosystem.

Specialized vs. comprehensive service providers

Some 3PLs specialize in specific industries (automotive, healthcare, retail) or services (cold storage, hazardous materials), while others offer comprehensive solutions across multiple sectors. On average, 3PLs serve 3.9 different industries, with retail, bulk goods, and dry storage being the most common.

Major 3PL companies and market leaders

Top 10 global 3PL providers

Market share distribution

The 3PL industry remains highly fragmented, with the top 10 providers controlling less than 30% of the global market. This fragmentation creates opportunities for specialized providers and regional players to compete effectively against larger competitors.

Fortune 500 usage statistics

Over 90% of Fortune 500 companies use at least one 3PL provider, representing a significant increase from previous decades. This high adoption rate reflects the strategic value companies place on logistics outsourcing for cost reduction and service improvement.

Industry trends affecting 3PL numbers

Technology-driven market entry

Digital platforms and transportation management systems have lowered barriers to entry, enabling new 3PL companies to launch with minimal physical assets. This trend increases the total number of providers while intensifying competition.

Consolidation vs. new market entrants

While technology enables new entrants, the industry also experiences consolidation as larger players acquire smaller competitors to expand geographic coverage and service capabilities. The 2024 decline in freight broker registrations illustrates this consolidation trend.

E-commerce impact on 3PL growth

E-commerce growth drives demand for specialized fulfillment services, creating opportunities for new 3PL providers focused on last-mile delivery, returns processing, and omnichannel distribution.

Labor and capacity challenges

Driver shortages and warehouse labor constraints push more companies to outsource logistics functions, increasing demand for 3PL services while limiting the number of companies that can successfully operate in the market.

Frequently asked questions

How many 3PL companies are there in the United States?
IBISWorld reports 72,937 third-party logistics businesses in the US as of 2024, with an additional 26,216 registered freight brokers.

What is the global 3PL market size?
The global 3PL market was valued at $1.19 trillion in 2024, projected to reach $2.57 trillion by 2034.

How many freight brokers operate in the US?
As of August 2024, 26,216 freight brokerages are actively registered with the FMCSA.

What percentage of Fortune 500 companies use 3PLs?
Over 90% of Fortune 500 companies use at least one 3PL provider for their logistics operations.

How fast is the 3PL industry growing?
The industry is projected to grow at 8.02% annually through 2034, driven by e-commerce and outsourcing trends.

What’s the difference between asset-based and non-asset-based 3PLs?
Asset-based 3PLs own trucks, warehouses, and equipment, while non-asset-based providers coordinate services through technology and partnerships.

Who are the largest 3PL companies globally?
Major players include Amazon Logistics, DHL Supply Chain, Kuehne + Nagel, DB Schenker, and XPO Logistics.

Why is it difficult to get exact numbers of 3PL companies?
Industry fragmentation, varying definitions, and different regulatory classifications make precise counting challenging across global markets.

Sources & methodology

Extensiv – Third-Party Logistics Benchmark Report — Operational statistics and industry performance metrics

IBISWorld – Third-Party Logistics in the US — US business count and market size data

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration — Freight broker registration statistics

Precedence Research – Third-Party Logistics Market — Global market size and projections

NTT Data – 3PL Study 2024 — Fortune 500 usage statistics and industry trends

Logistics Management – Top 50 3PLs 2024 — Revenue rankings and market leaders