The report titled “Trailer and Cargo Container Tracking – 12th Edition” has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com’s offerings, providing an in-depth analysis of the market for remote tracking systems used in cargo carrying units. This market has been rapidly expanding due to technological advancements and growing demand for enhanced supply chain visibility.
In 2023, the global shipments of remote tracking systems equipped with cellular or satellite communication capabilities for cargo units reached an impressive 4 million units. These systems are anticipated to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.2%, reaching 6.6 million units by 2028. Additionally, the installed base of tracking systems is expected to expand at a CAGR of 15.0%, increasing from 11.1 million units at the end of 2023 to 22.4 million units by 2028. This substantial growth reflects the increasing adoption of digital solutions to enhance the efficiency and security of global supply chains.
Market Segmentation and Trends
Trailer Tracking
Trailer tracking represents the largest segment in terms of installed units, accounting for 45.8% of the total installed base of tracking devices in 2023. This segment’s dominance can be attributed to the high demand for real-time monitoring and enhanced logistics management within the road transport sector.
Intermodal Container Tracking
The second-largest segment, intermodal container tracking, comprises 40.6% of the installed base. With millions of containers traversing the globe via sea, rail, and road, the need for robust tracking solutions in this segment is paramount. The increasing integration of IoT technologies in containers further supports this growth.
Other Cargo Types
While trailer and container tracking dominate, other categories such as rail freight wagons, airfreight Unit Load Devices (ULDs), and pallets represent smaller segments. However, these areas are poised for significant growth as innovative solutions like smart labels and compact devices are introduced, making tracking more accessible and cost-effective.
The market for tracking devices and real-time data loggers used in general cargo applications is expected to experience rapid growth. With declining prices and advancements in technology, such solutions are becoming increasingly viable for broader adoption across diverse industries.
Growth in Active Devices and Shipments
The number of active tracking devices in use globally is forecasted to rise sharply from 2.5 million in 2023 to 7.9 million by the end of 2028. Concurrently, annual device shipments are projected to grow from 8.8 million units in 2023 to an astounding 31.5 million units by 2028. This exponential growth highlights the expanding adoption of tracking technologies across various sectors of the logistics industry.
In terms of revenue, the market for tracking solutions for cargo units was valued at €2.1 billion in 2023. This figure is projected to grow at a CAGR of 10.2%, reaching €3.5 billion by 2028. The consistent demand for tracking solutions underscores the critical role these systems play in modern logistics and supply chain management.
Key Players in the Market
The market for trailer, container, rail freight wagon, ULD, pallet, and general cargo tracking solutions is highly competitive, with numerous players catering to different segments. Companies often specialize in a particular application, such as trailer tracking, but also deploy devices across various asset types to meet customer requirements.
Leading Providers
- ORBCOMM: The largest provider of tracking devices, ORBCOMM boasts an installed base of nearly 1.6 million units across trailers and containers by the end of 2023.
- Nexxiot: Holding the second position, Nexxiot’s installed base reached approximately 1.0 million units, covering containers and rail freight wagons.
- SkyBitz: Ranking third, SkyBitz primarily focuses on trailer tracking, with an installed base of around 750,000 units.
Other Notable Players
Several other companies have made significant contributions to the market:
- Trailer Telematics Solutions: Spireon, Samsara, BlackBerry, CalAmp, Motive, IdemTelematics, Powerfleet, Phillips Connect, Schmitz Cargobull, FleetPulse, SCALAR, TGI, EROAD, Axscend, Add Secure, and Krone.
- Container Tracking Providers: Envotech, ZillionSource, Globe Tracker, Traxens, Giesecke+Devrient, and Sensolus.
- Rail Industry Telematics: DOT Telematik and Systemtechnik, Amsted Rail, Siemens, SAVVY Telematic Systems, Cognid Telematik, Cargomon Systems, and Intermodal Telematics.
- General Cargo Solutions: Sensitech, DeltaTrak, Tive, Controlant, Roambee, Frigga (Dewav Electronic Technology), Copeland, and On Asset Intelligence. Sensos and Trackonomy also offer innovative smart label solutions.
Maersk, a leader in shipping, has equipped its fleet of 360,000 reefer containers with advanced tracking devices, showcasing the growing importance of real-time data in container logistics.
Approximately 30 million intermodal containers, 15.7 million trailers, 5.5 million rail freight wagons, and 1.0 million airfreight ULDs are in use globally today. However, the penetration rate of tracking devices in these units is only about 20%, indicating substantial room for growth. The ongoing trend toward digital transformation in logistics, driven by the need for increased visibility and security, is expected to accelerate this adoption.
Recent global disruptions, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the Red Sea crisis, have highlighted the critical need for real-time shipment data. These events have propelled the demand for advanced tracking solutions that enhance supply chain resilience and reliability. Additionally, advancements in IoT communication technologies have enabled solution providers to develop cost-effective and scalable tracking systems tailored to the needs of fleet owners, transport companies, shippers, and other stakeholders.
Read more: 2025 Trailer & Cargo Tracking Report 22M Connected Units by 2028