The new year will see an increase in strategic mergers and acquisitions in the transportation sector, according to consulting firm PwC.

“Easing interest rates and a modest rebound in freight volumes are enabling buyers to revisit deals that were paused earlier in the cycle,” PwC said in a report. “With greater financing flexibility, competition for quality assets is expected to intensify.” 

The report said dealmaking in transportation and logistics accelerated in the second half of 2025 and that 2026 will be shaped by “strategic repositioning.” Activity remains high in pharmaceutical and healthcare logistics, dedicated transport, temperature-controlled logistics, and reverse logistics—areas tied to recurring volumes and mission-critical supply chains.

Digital platforms that enhance visibility, routing, and capacity utilization are commanding premium valuations. M&A activity is especially strong among software-enabled third-party logistics (3PLs), freight marketplaces, and automation providers that help offset labor costs and improve service.

Through Nov. 30, North American deal value in the transportation and logistics sector reached $128.8 billion, surpassing Europe and Asia/Australia for the first time since 2021.