Sales of returnable transport packaging in North America are expected to be valued at USD 28.53 billion in 2023 and USD 42.11 billion by 2033. Over the forecast period, demand for returnable transport packaging in North America is predicted to rise at a CAGR of 4.0%. The North America returnable transport packaging business was valued at USD 27.69 billion at the end of 2022. It is set to exhibit a y-o-y growth of 2.9% in 2023.
Pallets, with their versatile applications in the retail and the food & beverage sectors, are expected to lead North America. On the other hand, drums and IBCs are poised to secure significant value share during the assessment period.
The United States is poised to garner a substantial value share, generating 87%. This can be attributed to its outstanding GDP, rapid growth of several end-use industries such as food & beverage, support for trade, and strong regulatory measures. Canada is also anticipated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.
| Attributes | Key Insights |
|---|---|
| Based Value (2022) | USD 27.69 billion |
| Estimated North America RTP Sales Value (2023F) | USD 28.53 billion |
| Projected North America Returnable Transport Packaging Revenue (2033E) | USD 42.11 billion |
| Value-based CAGR (2023 to 2033) | 4.0% |
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Returnable transport packaging (RTP) is gaining immense popularity across sectors such as food & beverage, pharmaceutical, and chemical. This is because it can be used multiple times, thereby reducing overall cost and plastic waste.
Key features of RTP include robust construction, ease of cleaning and maintenance, and standardized dimensions for compatibility with automated handling systems. This enables companies to transport goods efficiently, streamline operations, and reduce packaging-related costs.
Returnable transport packaging encompasses durable and reusable packaging solutions such as plastic pallets, drums, containers, crates, and pails. The growing adoption of returnable transport packaging in North America due to its sustainable and cost-effective advantages is expected to boost growth.
North America witnessed a CAGR of 2.0% during the historical period, with overall returnable transport packaging revenue totaling USD 27.69 billion in 2022. From 2023 to 2033, sales of returnable transport packaging are likely to surge at a 4.0% CAGR.
| Historical CAGR (2018 to 2022) | 2.0% |
|---|---|
| Forecast CAGR (2023 to 2033) | 4.0% |
Returnable transport packaging solutions such as pallets, crates, drums, and pails are becoming a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to disposable packaging. Demand for returnable transport packaging in North America is expected to be driven by several factors. These include the rising demand for sustainable packaging solutions and reduced environmental impact & cost savings of RTP.
Thanks to the economic and environmental benefits of returnable transport packaging, it is widely used across sectors such as petrochemicals, chemical, automotive, and food & beverage. The growing adoption across these sectors will likely fuel sales and boost the total revenue.
The emergence of advanced materials and innovative designs has allowed RTP to cater to a wide range of products, from food & beverages and automotive components to perishable goods. Manufacturers are also inclined toward providing customized packaging solutions to expand their customer base.
Rising awareness about the benefits of sustainable packaging and regulations promoting the circular economy will also create opportunities for returnable transport packaging manufacturers. Hence, a steady growth projection has been predicted for the target business.
| Particular | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| H1 | 2.2% (2022 to 2032) |
| H2 | 2.0% (2022 to 2032) |
| H1 | 4.1% (2023 to 2033) |
| H2 | 3.9% (2023 to 2033) |
Key Dynamics
EV Business’s Expansion in North America to Elevate RTP Demand
The growing demand for electric vehicles (EVs) in North America is prompting car manufacturers to emphasize their social and environmental responsibilities. This includes the adoption of reusable packaging, such as RTP solutions for transporting large battery supplies.
Despite an 8% decline in new vehicle sales in 2022, EV sales surged by 65%, as reported by Kelley Blue Book. To sustain this momentum, projections suggest that around 25% of all new car sales in the United States could be electric by the end of 2025.
To adapt to this ongoing shift, automotive companies are prioritizing sustainability, with a focus on incorporating reusable containers in EV battery manufacturing. Reusable packaging not only reduces waste but also promotes responsible and eco-friendly practices, safeguarding the durability of machinery and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) components.
EV components, such as lithium-ion batteries, electric motors, and sensitive electronics, require specialized and secure packaging during transportation to prevent damage or contamination. Consequently, returnable transport packaging (RTP) is gaining traction among electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers due to its inherent reusability.
RTP offers a durable and customizable solution that not only ensures the safe transit of electric vehicle components but also minimizes waste and contributes to a circular economy. As a result, their demand is expected to rise significantly across North America during the forecast period.
Rising Chemical Demand Fueling Sales of RTP in North America
Returnable transport packaging (RTP) products are witnessing a rising demand from the chemical business in North America. This is primarily due to their practicality, sustainability, and cost-efficiency. The chemical sector deals with a wide array of hazardous materials and consequently requires packaging solutions such as RTP products since they offer the durability and strength necessary to contain chemicals of several types.
North America’s chemical sector is poised to witness lucrative growth in the estimated period. For instance, according to the American Chemistry Council, chemical production in the United States is expected to increase by around 1.5% in 2024, while investments are anticipated to expand by about 5% through 2026.
Chemical exports from Canada are predicted to rise by around 8% in 2024. This increasing production and export of chemicals in North America is expected to propel RTP demand during the forecast period.
The chemical sector is becoming increasingly conscious of environmental concerns and regulatory requirements pertaining to storage and transportation. RTP products often align with these concerns as they are reusable and contribute to sustainability by minimizing single-use packaging waste.
RTPs are designed to meet different safety regulations related to the transportation of hazardous materials. They have become an integral part of the chemical supply chain in North America, fostering not only the efficient and safe transportation of chemical products but also the business’s sustainability goals.
Adoption of Smart Technology Revolutionizing RTP Tracking
Returnable transport packaging manufacturers in North America are increasingly implementing smart technologies such as RFID in their products. This trend has been driven by several factors, including reduced costs and a growing need to improve tracking efficiency and minimize environmental impact.
Smart technologies help manufacturers track their products throughout the supply chain, which leads to the improvement of delivery times and reduces product issues. Several manufacturers have been integrating smart technology and establishing strategic partnerships with key stakeholders to develop innovative tracking solutions.
For instance, in April 2023, Thielmann announced a partnership with NXTGN and BASF for the development of Tracingo, a solution for the tracking, level measurement, and location analysis of Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBC). Such developments are expected to bode well for the target business.
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The section provides highlights of the returnable transport packaging business across prominent countries in North America. Out of all the countries profiled, the United States will likely dominate North America, thriving at a 3.7% CAGR through 2033. Canada is anticipated to witness a CAGR of 6.0% during the assessment period.
| Countries | Value (CAGR) |
|---|---|
| United States | 3.7% |
| Canada | 6.0% |
The United returnable transport packaging business is projected to generate an additional opportunity of USD 9,791 million in 2023. Over the forecast period, demand for returnable transport packaging in the United States is set to thrive at a CAGR of 3.7%.
Several factors are expected to spur sales growth in the United States. These include the booming packaging sector, growing demand for sustainable packaging, and robust growth of pharmaceutical and food & beverage businesses.
The United States, a well-developed packaging giant, observes a state-wide variation in customer behavioral patterns and packaging developments. The United States-based packaging businesses are primarily concerned with improving the end-user experience. This is putting returnable transport packaging into the spotlight.
Both consumers and businesses across the United States are becoming aware of the drawbacks of using disposable packaging. As a result, they are shifting their preference toward eco-friendly packaging, such as returnable transport packaging. This will likely boost sales of returnable transport packaging solutions in the United States.
Key manufacturers across the United States are looking to expand their businesses, which they operate domestically. They are focusing on using rigid and flexible packaging. This is expected to create new opportunities for returnable transport packaging companies.
It is estimated that the total plastic resin production in the United States was around 40 to 45 million tons in 2021. The rising production of plastic resins across the United States is mainly driven by the consistent demand for manufacturing a wide range of flexible and rigid plastic packaging solutions.
As per the latest analysis, Canada is set to register robust growth during the forecast period. Sales of returnable transport packaging in Canada are projected to rise at a CAGR of 6.0% through 2033. This is attributable to the on rising demand for sustainable packaging.
Returnable transport packaging can be used multiple times, resulting in significant cost savings and reduced packaging waste. As a result, RTP solutions are becoming ideal alternatives to disposable packaging in countries such as Canada.
The government in Canada is also enforcing several regulations to reduce packaging waste. This is expected to create a high demand for returnable transport packaging solutions during the forecast period and boost Canada’s returnable transport packaging business growth.
The section below shows the pallets segment witnessing a healthy CAGR of 4.2% during the forecast period. Based on end-use, the food and beverage segment is expected to hold a prominent value share, thriving at a CAGR of 3.2% between 2023 and 2033.
| Product Type | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| Pallets | 4.2% |
| IBC | 3.0% |
| Pails | 4.2% |
| Jerry Cans | 4.1% |
Pallets are the most sought-after returnable transport packaging (RTP) in North America due to their versatility, widespread use, and adaptability to multiple sectors. They have become the preferred choice for transporting goods efficiently and securely.
As per the latest report, the pallet segment dominates North America, representing more than 65% of the total share. It is predicted to exhibit a CAGR of 4.2%, expanding 1.5 times the current value during the forecast period.
The growing popularity of wooden pallets is another key factor expected to boost the target segment. These sustainable packaging solutions play a pivotal role in facilitating the efficient transportation of goods across sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and agriculture.
| End-use | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| Petrochemicals & Lubricants | 5.8% |
| Industrial Chemicals | 5.0% |
| Paints, Inks & Dyes | 2.5% |
| Automotive | 4.1% |
| Food & Beverage | 3.2% |
| Pharmaceuticals | 2.9% |
As per the analysis of the North America returnable transport packaging business, the food & beverages segment is projected to hold 21.9% of the share in the estimated year. The segment will likely thrive at a CAGR of 3.2%, creating an additional opportunity of USD 53 million during the forecast period. This is attributable to the rising demand for sustainable packaging from the food & beverage sector.
Returnable transport packaging solutions such as crates, IBCs, and pallets have become ideal for transporting food and beverage products. This is due to their multiple benefits.
For instance, intermediate bulk containers are known for their sturdiness, hygiene, and ability to handle pressure during transportation through long distances. As a result, they are being increasingly used in the food & beverage business for transporting a wide variety of products.
Leading manufacturers of returnable transport packaging solutions in North America are focusing on introducing novel sustainable packaging solutions. They are also adopting strategies such as acquisitions, mergers, partnerships, alliances, and collaborations to expand their footprint.
Recent Developments in North America Returnable Transport Packaging Business-
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Estimated Value (2023) | USD 28.53 billion |
| Projected Value (2033) | USD 42.11 billion |
| Anticipated Growth Rate (2023 to 2033) | 4.0% CAGR |
| Historical Data | 2018 to 2022 |
| Forecast Period | 2023 to 2033 |
| Quantitative Units | Revenue in Value USD billion, Volume in 000’ Units, and CAGR from 2023 to 2033 |
| Report Coverage | Revenue Forecast, Volume Forecast, Company Ranking, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, Trends and Pricing Analysis |
| Segments Covered | Product Type, Capacity, End-use, Country |
| Key Companies Profiled | Greif, Inc.; Mauser Packaging Solutions; Brambles Limited; SCHÜTZ GmbH & Co. KGaA; DS Smith plc; Schoeller Allibert; THIELMANN; Snyder Industries LLC; M & M Industries, Inc; GELG USA; Time Technoplast Ltd; Skolnik Industries, Inc; ILC Dover, LP; PolyPail, Inc.; Specialty Crate Factory |
Total revenue is set to reach USD 28.53 billion in 2023.
Sales in North America are expected to total USD 42.11 billion in 2033.
The target business exhibited a 2.0% CAGR from 2018 to 2022.
Returnable transport packaging demand is set to rise at 4.0% through 2033.
Drums, rigid IBCs, crates, and pails are a handful of examples.
| Estimated Size, 2025 | USD 27.1 billion |
| Projected Size, 2035 | USD 46.3 billion |
| Value-based CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 5.5% |
| Estimated Size, 2025 | USD 115.6 billion |
|---|---|
| Projected Size, 2035 | USD 181.2 billion |
| Value-based CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 4.6% |
| Market Estimated Size (2023E) | USD 462.9 million |
|---|---|
| Projected Market Valuation (2033F) | USD 694.8 million |
| Value-based CAGR (2023 to 2033) | 4.1% |
| Market Size Value (2023) | USD 891 million |
|---|---|
| Market Size Value (2033) | USD 1,403.6 million |
| Market CAGR (2023 to 2033) | 4.6% |
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Returnable Transport Packaging Industry Analysis in North America
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