C.H. Robinson Global Forwarding continues to gain momentum following a decade of growth and closing out a year of outperforming the market. Since the acquisition of Phoenix International in late 2012, which helped launch C.H. Robinson Global Forwarding, the division has grown more than four-fold, with volume nearly tripling and annual gross profit increasing from approximately $150 million in 2012 to $800 million in 2024.
The latest fourth quarter results show the division isn’t done growing and winning. For Q4 2024, C.H. Robinson reported adjusted gross profit (AGP) was up 10.7% year-over-year, and Global Forwarding played a big part in that growth, reporting a 25.6% increase within the division. Additionally, Global Forwarding was able to achieve that growth without increasing headcount and while simultaneously increasing productivity by 15%. Ocean and air shipments also increased year-over-year in each quarter of 2024, despite some ups and downs in market conditions.
“If our performance looks and feels different today, it’s because it is,” said Mike Short, President of Global Forwarding at C.H. Robinson.
"Our competitive advantages have not only allowed us to grow our market share but also to continue leading into the future. Having been with Robinson for over a decade, I’ve never witnessed the team drive forward with such excellence as they have this past year. We have a lot to be excited about.”
Innovating at faster speed, embracing a new operating model, focusing on disciplined execution, and encompassing a One Robinson approach globally are some of the key drivers of this ongoing success. A culture of continuous improvement has also shed light on past missteps and provided a system for quickly re-directing.
The division also points to the following as some of the key advantages driving growth in Global Forwarding:
Building on strengths
The team manages 6,000 ocean and air shipments daily and handles 1.4 million customs transactions annually. They possess a deep understanding of the intricacies and nuances involved in global freight shipping. And as supply chains become more complex, the division continues to grow and invest in these essential elements that make a global supply chain successful. Furthermore, their experts are strategically positioned across the globe and various industries, including automotive, energy, retail, and healthcare. This ensures that customers receive personalized strategies and execution tailored to their specific business needs.
Strategically growing in key regions
Over the years, the team has pinpointed key regions for ongoing strategic investment, with recent focus on Southeast Asia and Europe. Its global expansion is highlighted by robust relationships with key customers and adeptness in navigating complex supply chain challenges. For example, the company's recent success with a leading global automotive customer in Germany, involved delivering cost-saving solutions through a unique ocean consolidation program. Achievements like this continue to drive strategic organic growth and enhancements in key regions, elevating customer offerings.
Tapping into the entire Robinson network
C.H. Robinson Global Forwarding is further strengthened by its integration with the company’s full suite of solutions and services. Freight doesn’t start and stop at the port or airport, seamless integration into trucking and rail, warehousing, trade policy consulting, 4PL services through C.H. Robinson Managed Solutions™, and the technology that helps support it all means shippers are covered from sourcing to final delivery—both in terms of planning and execution.
"Global supply chains are increasingly disrupted by external forces like geopolitical issues, weather events, and more. Our unique ability to help customers navigate these challenges while keeping their needs and innovation at the center of our work has driven significant growth and market presence, even outside market fluctuations," said Short. "I'm incredibly proud of Robinson’s commitment to customer-centric solutions and operational excellence, which allows us to continually capture market share and lead the industry into the future."
