The forwarder divide: Some are waiting, others are winning
The 2025 Forwarder & Broker Benchmark Survey reveals two clear industry paths. One group is holding back, cutting costs, and waiting for stability. The other is investing in technology to capture market share while other retreat.
The state of freight forwarding in 2026
Freight volumes are shifting, tariffs and compliance pressures are rising, margins are tightening. This environment is forcing every forwarder to answer two strategic questions:
Do we defend, and risk falling behind, or do we prepare to scale?
Our research shows the biggest divide we’ve seen in nine years:
- Shipment volumes over 100K are down 17 percentage points since 2022.
- Smaller forwarders are cutting costs and waiting.
- Larger forwarders are investing in automation and gaining advantage.
The companies investing now will be the ones positioned to win when market conditions improve.
Technology is the critical divider
Sixty-seven percent (67%) of forwarders say technology is fundamental to future growth.
Yet…..
Only 6% say they are currently realising a true technology advantage. The gap is no longer about knowing what to do, it’s about who is taking action.
Why the winners invest during uncertainty
Companies that embrace technology today gain:
| Advantages | Impacts |
|---|---|
| Faster job handling | More jobs per staff member |
| Standardised workflow | Fewer errors, faster onboarding |
| Real-time shipment visibility | Stronger customer experience |
| Automated compliance & documentation | Reduced regulatory risk |
Those who wait risk being outpaced.
Scale faster with a platform designed for forwarders
Descartes forwarder management software helps forwarders scale by streamlining workflows, strengthening compliance and reducing manual work.
- Operational efficiency
- Automate key workflows and remove manual delays. - Stronger margins
- Stabilise profitability even when volumes shift. - Better customer experience
- Give clients real time tracking and updates. - Stronger compliance
- Reduce regulatory risk with accurate, automated filings.
