Healthcare Cold Chain Third Party Logistics Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Service (Warehousing & Storage, Packaging Solutions), By Product (Biopharmaceuticals), By Temperature Range, By End Use, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2025 - 2030

Market Size & Trends

The healthcare cold chain third party logistics market size was valued at USD 42.75 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.64% from 2025 to 2030. The growth of the market is due to the rising demand for temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals, stringent regulatory requirements for drug storage and transportation, and the expansion of biologics and vaccine distribution worldwide. In addition, increasing outsourcing of logistics services by pharmaceutical companies is further driving market expansion.

Furthermore, increasing demand for biologics, vaccines, and temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals has significantly expanded the need for reliable cold chain logistics solutions. Biologics, including monoclonal antibodies, gene therapies, and recombinant proteins, require stringent temperature control-typically between 2°C and 8°C, with some requiring ultra-low storage at -70°C or lower-to maintain their efficacy. Moreover, the growing trend toward personalized medicine has further boosted the need for specialized logistics solutions that can ensure product integrity throughout the supply chain.

Opportunity Analysis

Continuous expansion of the pharmaceutical sector and emerging markets in Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East are creating significant growth opportunities for cold chain logistics providers. The increasing trend of pharmaceutical companies outsourcing their logistics operations to 3PL providers allows for cost optimization and operational efficiency. In addition, the rise of cell & gene therapies, which require ultra-cold storage, is creating new opportunities for logistics service providers. Companies that can offer end-to-end cold chain solutions, from warehousing to last-mile delivery, are projected to gain a competitive advantage in this evolving landscape. For instance, in May 2023, DHL invested approximately USD 1.5 million in introducing a temperature-controlled air freight service based in Indianapolis. This service explicitly supports transporting sensitive medical and biopharmaceutical products across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, enhancing the network's robustness in handling life sciences logistics. This initiative is part of DHL's broader strategy to boost cold chain logistics infrastructure, addressing growing needs for biologics and other temperature-sensitive medicines.

Technological Advancements

The market is undergoing a transformation driven by technological innovations. IoT-enabled tracking systems, AI-driven predictive analytics, and blockchain-based supply chain management solutions are enhancing visibility and efficiency across logistics networks. Real-time temperature monitoring ensures compliance with regulatory standards, reducing risks associated with temperature excursions. Moreover, autonomous refrigerated vehicles and drone-based pharmaceutical deliveries are revolutionizing last-mile distribution. These advancements not only improve operational efficiency but also minimize losses associated with spoilage and regulatory non-compliance.

North America leads in IoT-based monitoring and automated warehousing, while Europe is rapidly integrating blockchain for secure cold chain management. Asia-Pacific is emerging as a hub due to its vast geography and high demand for fast deliveries.

Pricing Analysis

The pricing structure in the market is influenced by factors such as service model, transportation mode, and storage requirements, with providers offering flexible solutions tailored to client needs. Dedicated cold storage is a high-cost model ideal for large pharmaceutical manufacturers requiring exclusive temperature-controlled warehousing. Pay-per-use warehousing provides a cost-effective, scalable option for mid-sized pharma companies and distributors, allowing them to access cold storage on demand without long-term commitments. Furthermore, integrated supply chain solutions offer end-to-end logistics, covering storage, transportation, and distribution, making them a preferred choice for companies seeking streamlined and cost-efficient operations.

Market Concentration & Characteristics

The industry is witnessing rapid innovation driven by advancements in real-time monitoring, blockchain-based supply chain security, and AI-driven predictive analytics. IoT-enabled temperature sensors are enhancing shipment tracking, while automated cold storage facilities are improving efficiency.

Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are reshaping the industry, with large logistics providers acquiring specialized cold chain firms to enhance their capabilities. Pharmaceutical companies are also entering strategic partnerships with 3PL providers to strengthen their distribution networks.

Stringent regulations imposed by the FDA, EMA, and WHO mandate strict adherence to temperature-controlled storage and transportation of pharmaceuticals. Compliance with Good Distribution Practices (GDP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) are important, which is also one of the factors driving logistics providers to invest in validated cold chain infrastructure, digital compliance tracking, and risk mitigation strategies.

The rising demand for specialized cold chain logistics services has led companies to expand their offerings, including end-to-end temperature-controlled transportation, real-time shipment monitoring, and last-mile delivery optimization.

Emerging markets in Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East are becoming hotspots for healthcare logistics expansion. Rising pharmaceutical demand, increased vaccine distribution, and improved infrastructure investments are driving growth in these regions. North America and Europe remain dominant due to their advanced regulatory frameworks, high adoption of cold chain technologies, and well-established logistics networks.

Service Insights

The transportation segment captured the highest market share in 2024. The growth is mainly due to the rising global trade of temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals, including biologics and vaccines, which require stringent cold chain logistics. Furthermore, the expansion of cross-border pharmaceutical distribution coupled with increasing outsourcing of logistics by pharmaceutical companies is growing investments in specialized refrigerated transport fleets.

The monitoring & visibility solutions segment is projected to experience the fastest growth due to the increasing need for real-time tracking, compliance, and risk mitigation in cold chain logistics. The adoption of advanced technologies ensures product integrity, minimizes spoilage, and enhances supply chain transparency.

Product Insights

The biopharmaceuticals segment dominated the industry in 2024. The segment’s growth is mainly driven by increasing global demand for biologics, including monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, and gene therapies, which require precise temperature control to maintain efficacy. The surge in chronic disease treatments, personalized medicine, and cell & gene therapy advancements has boosted the need for specialized cold chain solutions, including ultra-low temperature storage and secure transportation.

The pharmaceuticals segment is expected to experience a considerable growth rate during the forecast period. The growth is due to an increasing production and distribution of temperature-sensitive drugs, such as insulin, vaccines, and specialty medications for chronic conditions. The rise in demand for generics and biosimilars, coupled with the expansion of pharmaceutical exports to emerging markets, is creating a strong need for efficient cold chain logistics solutions.

End Use Insights

The pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical companies segment dominated the industry in 2024. These are the primary users of cold chain logistics services for transporting temperature-sensitive drugs, vaccines, and biologics. Increasing R&D investments, expansion of biologics production facilities, and stringent regulatory compliance requirements are driving the demand for secure and efficient cold chain logistics solutions.

The medical device companies segment is expected to witness the fastest growth in the coming years due to the increasing need for temperature-controlled transportation of diagnostic kits, implants, and sensitive electronic medical equipment. The rising adoption of in-vitro diagnostics (IVD), blood storage solutions, and temperature-sensitive surgical products is fueling demand for specialized cold chain logistics services.

Temperature Range

The frozen segment dominated the industry in 2024. The segment’s growth is due to the high volume of biologics, vaccines, and specialty pharmaceuticals that require storage temperatures between -20°C and -80°C. The increasing adoption of frozen storage for cell-based therapies, blood plasma, and insulin has further strengthened the demand for reliable cold chain solutions.

The cryogenic segment is expected to experience the fastest growth rate during the forecast period. The growth is due to rising demand for cell & gene therapies, regenerative medicines, and mRNA-based vaccines, which require ultra-low temperatures below -150°C. The increasing investments in cryogenic storage tanks, liquid nitrogen-based transport systems, and ultra-low temperature freezers are supporting this segment’s expansion.

Regional Insights

North America accounted for the largest market share of 33.1% in 2024 due to its advanced pharmaceutical industry and well regulatory framework. The region has seen significant investments in temperature-controlled warehouses, IoT-enabled tracking systems, and AI-driven route optimization. The rising demand for biologics, gene therapies, and personalized medicine has further strengthened its cold chain infrastructure.

U.S. Healthcare Cold Chain Third Party Logistics Market Trends

The healthcare cold chain third party logistics market in the U.S. is driven by the country’s highly developed regulatory landscape (FDA, GDP, GMP) that mandates strict cold chain compliance. In addition, rising pharmaceutical exports and increased outsourcing of logistics operations to specialized 3PL providers are further accelerating the market growth.

Europe Healthcare Cold Chain Third Party Logistics Market Trends

The healthcare cold chain third party logistics market in Europe is experiencing growth. The region has witnessed a surge in investments in GDP-compliant cold storage facilities and last-mile delivery solutions. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) enforces strict guidelines, compelling logistics providers to adopt real-time temperature monitoring and risk mitigation strategies.

The UK healthcare cold chain third party logistics market held a significant share in 2024. The country’s market growth is due to its robust pharmaceutical supply chain, with high demand for cold chain logistics due to its strong biotech and vaccine production industry. The impact of Brexit has led to increased complexities in cross-border pharmaceutical trade, making efficient cold chain management essential.

The healthcare cold chain third party logistics market in France is driven due to the country’s growing biologics and vaccine production sector. The government’s focus on domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing and R&D investments is increasing the demand for specialized cold chain services.

Germany healthcare cold chain third party logistics market is anticipated to grow significantly over the forecast period. The country’s logistics firms are increasingly adopting automation, AI-driven supply chain analytics, and IoT-based monitoring to enhance efficiency. Sustainability is a major focus, with investments in hydrogen-powered refrigerated trucks and green warehousing solutions.

Asia Pacific Healthcare Cold Chain Third Party Logistics Market Trends

The healthcare cold chain third party logistics market in Asia Pacific is projected to grow at the highest CAGR over the forecast period. The growth of the market is due to rising pharmaceutical manufacturing, vaccine exports, and increasing demand for biologics. The region is witnessing massive investments in temperature-controlled warehouses, IoT-based tracking systems, and express cold chain transportation.

China healthcare cold chain third party logistics market is expected to grow over the forecast period. The country is rapidly expanding its cold storage and refrigerated transport infrastructure to meet rising demand. Government regulations on pharmaceutical cold chain compliance are becoming stricter further driving the investments in GDP-certified logistics solutions.

The healthcare cold chain third party logistics market in Japan is witnessing significant growth over the forecast period. The country has advanced regulatory compliance, high-tech logistics solutions, and an increasing demand for regenerative medicine. The country has one of the most sophisticated cold chain infrastructures, with extensive use of robotic cold storage, AI-driven logistics management, and RFID-based tracking.

India healthcare cold chain third party logistics market is witnessing considerable growth due to increasing government support. The government’s "Make in India" initiative is accelerating the development of domestic cold chain infrastructure. The growth of online pharmacy platforms and e-commerce-driven drug deliveries is increasing the need for last-mile cold chain solutions.

Latin America Healthcare Cold Chain Third Party Logistics Market Trends

The healthcare cold chain third party logistics market in Latin America is projected to grow over the forecast period. The growth in the region is due to rising vaccine distribution, increasing pharmaceutical imports, and expanding healthcare access. Countries like Brazil and Mexico are leading investments in cold storage and refrigerated transportation. Challenges such as infrastructure gaps, regulatory variations, and high logistics costs are pushing providers to adopt cost-effective, region-specific cold chain strategies.

Brazil healthcare cold chain third party logistics market is expected to grow over the forecast period.The country has a rapidly expanding biologics and vaccine distribution network, necessitating better cold chain storage and compliance-driven logistics solutions. Regulatory reforms and increased pharmaceutical trade agreements are enhancing international logistics operations.

Key Healthcare Cold Chain Third Party Logistics Company Insights

Key players in the market are actively enhancing their service offerings to meet the growing demand for temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical products. Companies such as Cardinal Health, DHL Group, Agility, are investing in advanced technologies like IoT-enabled tracking systems, real-time temperature monitoring, and automated warehousing solutions. These innovations aim to ensure the integrity and safety of healthcare products during transit. For instance, in October 2024, UPS acquired Frigo-Trans and its sister company BPL. This strategic initiative aims to enhance UPS Healthcare's end-to-end temperature-controlled and time-critical transportation solutions, addressing the growing demands of the pharmaceutical and biotech industries.

Recent Developments

• In February 2024, DHL announced to invest UD 200 million to expand its life sciences and healthcare logistics capabilities in the U.S. This strategic initiative includes constructing five new state-of-the-art warehouse facilities in Pennsylvania and North Carolina.The new state-of-the-art facilities would enhance the company’s ability to provide end-to-end temperature-controlled storage and distribution, particularly for high-growth segments like cryogenic and frozen biologics.

• In October 2024, UPS announced to expand its healthcare logistics business through internal growth and strategic acquisitions to enhance profitability. The company aims to reduce reliance on volatile sectors by strengthening its presence in healthcare logistics.

• In September 2023, Kuehne+Nagel announced to expand its Chicago facility further adding a new GxP-compliant area to strengthen its healthcare logistics capabilities.

Healthcare Cold Chain Third Party Logistics Market Report Scope

Global Healthcare Cold Chain Third Party Logistics Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at the global, regional, and country levels, and provides an analysis of the latest trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global healthcare cold chain third party logistics market report on the basis of service, product, temperature range, end use, and region.

• Services Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Transportation

    • Air Freight

    • Sea Freight

    • Overland

  • Warehousing & Storage

  • Packaging Solutions

  • Monitoring & Visibility Solutions

  • Inventory Management

  • Others

• Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Biopharmaceuticals

  • Pharmaceuticals

  • Medical Device

  • Others

• Temperature Range Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Frozen

  • Ultra-frozen/Deep-Frozen

  • Cryogenic

• End Use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Pharmaceutical & Biopharmaceutical Companies

  • Medical Device Companies

  • Others

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • UK

    • Germany

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

    • Denmark

    • Sweden

    • Norway

  • Asia Pacific

    • Japan

    • China

    • India

    • South Korea

    • Australia

    • Thailand

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

    • Argentina

  • Middle East & Africa

    • South Africa

    • Saudi Arabia

    • UAE

    • Kuwait