Bailey Truck and Trailer Trends 2025
The Road Ahead: What to Expect in the Auto-Hauling Industry Next Year
The trucking industry is constantly changing, and the car hauler business is no different. Mergers, technology, and sustainability practices continue to drive the industry. Here are some key trends shaping the car-hauling business in the coming year.
Mergers and Consolidation
The creation of Proficient Auto Logistics sets the stage for additional mergers of car haulers as companies merge to strengthen their market position. The five major auto carriers are merging to form Proficient Auto Logistics, which will operate roughly 1,130 auto transport vehicles and trailers, including 615 company-owned transport vehicles and trailers. This merger is an example of capitalizing on the fragmented car hauler industry and sets the stage for potential growth opportunities through acquisition in 2025.
Growing Demand for Electric Vehicle (EV) Transportation
The popularity of Electric vehicles (EVs) will continue to grow in the next 18 months, and car haulers are adapting to transport them. EVs usually require specialized handling due to their batteries and charging elements. As EV sales rise globally, particularly in regions like China and parts of Europe, more car haulers will be needed. And EVs aren’t just for passenger cars; companies are exploring the use of electric trucks to transport vehicles as they shift to more sustainable practices.
Increased Use of Technology
You can’t escape the changes in technology. But, the artificial intelligence (AI) boom has accelerated the rapid development of new technologies. Here are a few technologies we see expanding in 2025
- GPS Tracking & AI: Real-time tracking systems allow customers and companies to monitor vehicle locations during transit, improving transparency and security.
- AI and Automation: AI-powered tools are used for vehicle inspections and load matching, helping carriers optimize routes and reduce dead miles.
- Autonomous Driving: This technology will take more time than the next 18 months to reach widespread use, but driver-assist technologies are making significant strides in enhancing safety and efficiency in car haulers.
Focus on Sustainability
The globalization of the car hauler industry has led to several companies adopting environmentally friendly strategies. The car hauler market is expected to grow 2.8% a year worldwide for the next eight years. Some companies are aligning with environmentally conscious customers to address environmental concerns. These sustainable practices include adopting fuel-efficient vehicles, electric car carriers, and optimized logistics to reduce carbon emissions. Companies are also exploring eco-friendly solutions such as alternative fuels and energy-efficient trailers.
Specialized Car Transport Services
Maserati, Bentley, BMW, and Jaguar owners will pay a “pretty penny” for their luxury and exotic cars. They will also pay a “pretty penny” to have them delivered with special care. The luxury and exotic car market is estimated to grow 17% annually for the next 8 years. These specialized transports also have a higher profit margin of around 10%-12% compared to your typical passenger car of around 3%-5%. This specialization also extends to EVs and the growing demand for transport services that cater to the special attention needed for these vehicles. Companies offer tailored solutions such as enclosed carriers for added protection and temperature-controlled environments to accommodate these vehicles.
Online Shipping Platforms
The popularity of this technology is growing as consumers increasingly prefer booking services online. Platforms like Easy Auto Ship and SGT Auto Transport allow users to compare prices, read reviews, and book shipments directly through digital interfaces. Some platforms integrate with telematics systems to offer real-time updates on vehicle status during transport.
Regulatory Compliance
The auto transport industry faces periodic changes to safety protocols, emissions standards, and certifications. Whether it’s through the FMCSA’s Safer Act to monitor the maintenance, operational practices, and driver qualifications or the challenges surrounding the ELD mandate, car haulers have to be aware of the changes taking place in the industry. Add in the ever-changing EPA standards for heavy trucks, and staying up-to-date becomes an important part of every car hauler’s job.
Increasing Demand for International Car Shipping
As the world becomes more interconnected, the automotive sector has surged worldwide. Globalization has led to a rise in international car shipping as more people relocate overseas or purchase vehicles from foreign markets. The development of online platforms has also made it easier for individuals to buy vehicles from overseas, and the growth of car subscription services in Europe has led to a boom in the need for auto-hauling services. This trend has expanded the scope of car haulers’ operations beyond the U.S.
If you are interested in auto-hauler trucks or trailers, contact Bailey Truck & Trailer or seach our inventory. Bailey Truck and Trailer: The car hauler experts.
