In 2023, the loaded international cross-trade road freight transport volume in the UK stood at 1.25 million vehicle-kilometers. The forecast from 2024 to 2028 projects a significant decline in volume, with a decrease from 1.08 million vehicle-kilometers in 2024 to 0.47 million vehicle-kilometers by 2028. The year-on-year percentage variations between 2024 and 2028 indicate a persistent downward trend, with an average compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of -16.47% over these five years, suggesting a challenging environment for the sector.
Future trends to watch for include the impact of economic fluctuations on road freight demand, advancements in logistics technology potentially optimizing routes, and policy changes post-Brexit that could affect cross-border trade regulations. Additionally, sustainability initiatives may drive shifts towards more eco-friendly transport alternatives, influencing freight volumes.