Europe Port Equipment Tire Market Size - By Tire, By Tire Size, By Sales Channel, By Application, Growth Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Europe Port Equipment Tire Market Size

The Europe port equipment tire market was valued at USD 357.1 million in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.5% between 2025 and 2034.
 

The tire sector of port equipment is growing considerably due to the modernization activities of ports and the increase in cargo traffic at European ports. According to the European Sea Ports Organisation (ESPO) Port Investments Study 2024, European ports will need in total close to USD 86 billion in the next decade which will primarily focus on ESG (Environmental, Sustainability, and Governance criteria) Port Investments. 
 

The decrease in emissions by the European Union is increasing the research and development of hybrid and electric port equipment which fuel consumption reduction of by 35%. This change towards sustainable port ways is affecting the demand for tires greatly as manufacturers need to provide customized tire solutions designed for electric and hybrid port equipment. 
 

According to Eurostat, in the second quarter of 2024, within the EU Rotterdam retained the top position as the most active port with 100.3 million tonnes gross weight of goods processed. Antwerp-Bruges came second with 64.7 and Hamburg accounted for 24.7 million tonnes. This remarkable level of cargo handling activity drives the need for specially designed port equipment tires for heavy-duty construction machines.
 

Strategic European ports are now increasingly incorporating port automation. In accordance with Eurostats, by 2025 over 60% of the Western European ports’ fleet will incorporate telematics alongside AI optimization systems. This growing paradigm shift is fueling the development for high-performance tires designed to withstand the demands of Automated and Semi-Automated port equipment with lower maintenance needs and longer life spans.
 

Europe Port Equipment Tire Market Trends

• As European ports double down on sustainability, the port equipment tire industry is rapidly evolving to meet demand for environmentally friendly and durable tire options. Further aiding the efforts is the emission reduction policy put into place by the European Union. Subsequently, several manufacturers are turning their attention toward developing more fuel-efficient eco-friendly tire compounds and designs, which significantly lower rolling resistance.
   
• With increased carbon-neutral policies from port operators, UK is expected to shift towards low carbon options during the port equipment buying phase, with 40% anticipating electric or hybrid adoption by 2028. This shift in policy creates a marketing opportunity for specialized tires designed to electric port equipment that enhance weight distribution and heat dissipation.
   
• Rotterdam led EU ports in liquid bulk cargo in Q2 2024, followed by Antwerp-Bruges, Marseille, Trieste, and Gdansk. Trieste posted the strongest growth, up 15.1% year-over-year compared to Q2 last year. Gdansk and Antwerp-Bruges also achieved quarterly growth of 3.2% and 2.5% respectively. The growing volumes of cargo handling are increasing the need for robust port equipment tires with high operational performance.
   
• In April 2024, Continental acquired EMT for Commercial Vehicle and Specialty Tires. EMT specializes in manufacturing tire molds for commercial vehicles as well as other specialty tires. The company specializes in the steel mold milling industry. With this acquisition, Continental fills the gaps in its portfolio regarding mold fabrication technologies.
   
• The application of the Internet of Things (IoT) and telematics on port equipment tires is emerging, as it enables monitoring of tire parameters in real-time. This includes measuring performance, pressure, temperature, and wear. These newer technologies assist port operators in scheduling maintenance proactively, decreasing downtime and operational costs along with extending the tires’ usable life.
   

Trump Administration Tariffs

• The tariffs set by the Trump administration may increase the costs for Europe producers by potentially disrupting supply chains and creating barriers to accessing crucial raw materials needed for tire manufacturing. 
• Import tariffs on rubber and steel will most certainly affect European telehandler tire competition pricing and strategy. 
   
• Differing environmental policies or frameworks within Eurozone countries eco-policies impact the region’s unified counterpart which alters tire manufacturing costs and conditions for market entry. 
   
• European port equipment tire market is experiencing development as production is increasingly localized through the establishment of facilities closer to end markets to reduce imports dependence.
   

Europe Port Equipment Tire Market Analysis

Based on tire, the Europe port equipment tire market is segmented into radial, solid, bias, and others. In 2024, the radial segment held a market revenue of over USD 150 million and is expected to cross USD 200 million by 2034.
 

• Solid tires have remained the leaders of the port equipment tire market because of their unrivaled burst puncture resistance, operational longevity, and capability of bearing heavy loads for long periods of time in harsh port conditions. These tires are especially popular for equipment used within container terminals and for bulk handling where sharp objects and rough surfaces are a daily threat.
   
• There is growing demand for the radial tire segment as a result of new technologies improving fuel economy and traction for port equipment. Radial tires have also become more popular for port equipment to be speed which requires higher equipment usage comfort, such as terminal tractors and reach stackers.
   
• In January 2024, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company launched the GP-3E tire line to add to the Goodyear Off-the-Road (OTR) portfolio. The GP-3E line is a general purpose OTR tire offered in several sizing options that feature specially formulated tread compounds engineered to support longer wear and advanced abrasion resistance for various type of underfoot conditions, thus port use.
   
• Bias tires have been preserved in the market for specialized port applications where low price and sturdy sidewalls take precedence over speed. These tires still serve a specific segment of port equipment operating at slower speeds, but needs exceptional stability and enhanced load bearing capacity.

Based on sales channel, the Europe port equipment tire market is divided into OEM and aftermarket. The aftermarket segment held a major market share of around 67% in 2024 and is expected to grow significantly over the forcast period.
 

• The aftermarket sector retains its commanding position due to the intensive operational and usage requirements port equipment tires undergo. Port operators tend to sustain strategic associations with suppliers to guarantee prompt replacements and optimize operational uptime.
   
• In October 2024, Magna Tyres Group announced an exclusive deal with one of Norway’s largest tyre distributors, Norgesdekk. This strategic partnership will have Norgesdekk as the sole distributor of Magna Tyres in Norway, improving the availability of Magna Tyres in the country and bolstering aftermarket service capabilities on port equipment tires.
   
• The OEM segment is witnessing positive growth as a result of a rising new port equipment acquisition hit across Europe. Tire manufacturers are forming distinct targeted OEM alliances with tire Brands to secure long-term sponsorship deals and create market presence on port equipment which is very competitive.
   
• As port operators heighten their emphasis on operational efficiency and sustainability, both channels OEM and aftermarket are experiencing an increased need for premium tire products with higher durability, lower rolling resistance, and improved energy efficiency, which, despite the greater costs upfront, leads to more savings over time.
   

Based on tire size, the Europe port equipment tire market is segmented into below 25 inches, 25-40 inches, and above 40 Inches. 25-40 inches segment dominated the market and accounted for over USD 220 million in 2024.
 

• The segment of tires 25-45 inches in size retains dominance in market share owing to their use in port reach stackers, empty container handlers, and heavy duty forklifts. This size range provides ports’ sophisticated machinery an adequate balance between fuel efficiency, operational efficiency, and tow capacity.
   
• Yokohama Off-Highway Tires launched two new deep tread L-5 Galaxy radial wheel loader/dozer tires in November 2023. The new tires serve construction, quarry, and mining operators as aggressive all-rounders in hard rock and slurry conditions. The company stated that both all steel Galaxy LDSR 500 and Galaxy LDSR 510 radial L-5s are equipped with extra-deep tread cut resistant tread rubber depth, reinforced sidewalls high turn-up constructions, extended wear cap cemented to the shoulder region cum 45° wedge-shaped shoulders, and hefty two-star load ratings. 
   
• This above 40 inches segment, especially in ship-to-shore cranes and large container handlers, are seeing notable growth. These oversized tires are specifically designed to provide support for extreme loads while offering unparalleled stability during critical container lifting and positioning operations.
   
• The below 25 inches segment covers niche port equipment applications, like small forklifts and terminal tractors. These manufacturers is now specializing their smaller tires with the addition of new rubber, noting expectations on tread wear and slip resistance improvement for durable port environments.
   
• The operational requirements of different sizes of port equipment are increasingly being catered to by tire manufacturers through the development of port specific compounds and construction methods. These advances are progressively increasing the life of the tires and the operational costs for port operators.
   

Based on application, the Europe port equipment tire market is segmented into container handling, bulk handling, ship handling. Container handling segment dominated the market and accounted for over USD 200 million in 2024.
 

• The container handling segment has maintained its dominant stance due to the growth of containerized cargo in major European ports. A reach stacker, straddle carrier, and rubber-tired gantry cranes are examples of container handling equipment which need bespoke tires for these terminals.
   
• For example, in March 2025, Konecranes received an order from CSP Iberian Valencia Terminal for seven hybrid RTG cranes. These cranes utilize advanced hybrid drive technologies that significantly reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions. Furthermore, these cranes improve use and terminal safety through the integration of Active Load Control (ALC), Gantry Collision Prevention, and Truck Lift Prevention systems. Equipment of this nature requires specially designed tires tailored to hybrid propulsion systems.
   
• The bulk handling segment accounts is gaining share due to ports dealing with dry bulk commodities like coal, grains, and minerals. Tires for equipment used in bulk handling have to be highly resistant to abrasive materials as well as provide good slip resistance on rough bulk terminal.
   
• Ship handling equipment such as terminal tractors and handlers requires tires designed for frequent turns and continuous movement. Specialized compounds, as well as tread designs, are being developed that reduce heat build-up during intense ship loading and unloading operations.
   
• In 2024, Michelin Group planned on focusing their goals on producing sustainablity by 2030 and 2050 for ports and container tracks while assisting with ship handling operations. Redesigning the whole system will allocate focus onto the environment which will increase eco freindly use across all port equipement. 

Western Europe dominated the Europe port equipment tire market with a major share of over 39% in 2024 and Germany leads the market in Western division and it is expected that sales in terms of shipment will go above 25,000 Units by 2034.
 

• Germany retains power over the Western European market due to its well-established infrastructural ports such as the Port of Hamburg which acts as the fulcrum of European trade. Furthermore, German port operators are the earliest adopters of port equipment technologies which boosts the need for high-performance tires for automata and semi automata systems.
   
• The Netherlands has maintained a noteworthy portion of the market because of the Port of Rotterdam which is the largest port in Europe. Furthermore, Dutch port operators have focused their efforts on sustainable port equipment which is demanding eco-friendly tire solutions which aids sustainability and operational efficiency.
   
• Belgium’s market for port equipment tires is growing steadily owing to Port Antwerp accepting great volumes of containers and liquid bulks. Port operators in Belgium are looking to enhance productivity which increases the demand for tires with low rolling resistance and for durability.
   
• French ports are suffering from a lack of innovative next generation port equipment and are currently overhauling their out dated systems which opens a market gap for innovative tire products. The emphasis on greening the ports is causing French port to embrace specialized tires designed for the hybrid and electric port machines used at most major French ports.
   

The UK port equipment tire market in Northern Europe is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• The operational efficiency and sustainability in the UK market is always at focus. Major ports like Felixstowe, Southampton and London Gateway are already spearheading the adoption of advanced port equipment technologies. Because modernization is underway, there is a further need for specialized tires built for partially and fully automated ports.
   
• In May 2023, YOKOHAMA successfully acquired Trelleborg AB's (TWS), a Swedish Off-highway tire (OHT) manufacturer for agricultural and industrial machinery. Starting Q2 2023, TWS will be incorporated into YOKOHAMA's consolidated accounts and its financial impact is currently being evaluated. This purchase enhances YOKOHAMA's strategic stance in the imported off-the-road tire industry from Northern Europe.
   
• Swedish ports are experiencing persistent growth in container and bulk handling business which is also increasing the need for port equipment tires that operate optimally in cold climates. Tire manufacturers are designing specific blend materials and tread patterns to suit the harsh Nordic operating regions.
   
• Norwegian port operators are becoming increasingly proactive towards eco-sustainability which creates green tire application for commercial vessels in line with their carbon footprint degrading ambitions. The country’s developed maritime branches keep steady demand for specialized ship handler equipment tires.
   

The Spain port equipment tire market in the Southern Europe is anticipated to witness lucrative growth between 2025 and 2034.
 

• The Spanish ports of Valencia, Barcelona, and Algeciras are witnessing robust increases in container handling activities which increases the need for high-performance tires that can withstand intensive terminal operations. The Spanish port operators are automating increasing adapting the automation technologies for autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles, which creates demand for specialized tires.
   
• The Italian ports are updating their infrastructures, particularly in the north where the concentration of container handling activities takes place. These developments create a need for technologically sophisticated port servicing tires which improves efficiency and protects the environment.
   
• The Greek port operators are modernizing their aging fleets and equipment which provides an opportunity for tire manufacturers to provide affordable solutions that offer a good combination of cost and quality. The privatization of other major Greek ports has fast tracked infrastructure investments which increases the need for specialized port servicing tires.
   

The Poland port equipment tire market in Eastern Europe is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• The Polish ports of Gdansk and Gdynia have been expanding their container servicing capabilities which, in turn, increases the need for specialized terminal operation tires. There is a growing emphasis on efficiency and management improvements by the Polish port operators which provides opportunities for tire technology featuring reduced maintenance needs, longer service life, and low upkeep. 
   
• Growth in bulk servicing activities at Romanian ports on the Black Sea is driving demand for specialized tires in the region that can endure harsh operational environments. Installation of modern port technologies is advancing, stimulating the market for port equipment tires. 
   
• The Czech Republic, although landlocked, still has a considerable volume of dry port activities, requiring specialized handling equipment and tires. There are expanding intermodal transport networks which opens doors for terminal tractor designed tires for the producers.
   

Europe Port Equipment Tire Market Share

• Top 7 companies of Europe port equipment tire industry are Michelin, Bridgestone, Continental, Yokohama Off-Highway Tires, Goodyear, Nokian Tyres, BKT, collectively hold around 75% of the market in 2024.
• Michelin concentrates on developing sustainable tire solutions which strengthened the company's position in the market aligning with Europe’s ports’ decarbonization goals. The company’s premium products have a heightened focus on reduced rolling resistance and an increased lifespan which aids in lower operational costs and a greener footprint for the port operators.
   
• Bridgestone’s strategic collaborations with leading port equipment manufacturers, as well as continuous port equipment tire technology innovations, preserve its competitive edge and industry leadership. The firm significantly funds research and development to improve the environmental footprint and tire life, reinforcing their market leadership and durable product offerings across multiple port sectors.
   
• Continental's competitive stance in the specialized segments of port equipment tires has been elevated by strategic acquisitions and investments in technology. The company stands out as an innovative leader in the increasingly tech-oriented port ecosystem focusing on the incorporation of digital systems such as tire pressure monitors and predictive maintenance tools.
   
• Yokohama Rubber Company has enhanced its presence in the European market through specific port equipment use targeted acquisitions and product portfolio expansions. The company's specialized compounds and innovative tread designs capture the attention of port operators who desire superior performance in harsh operational conditions. 
   
• Goodyear pursues a market-dominant strategy with multiple price point/core performance segment offerings, therefore, it can accommodate European customers from different geographies. Tires with enhanced wear resistance and traction produced by the company attract operators who need these features in demanding conditions.
   

Europe Port Equipment Tire Market Companies

Major players operating in the Europe port equipment tire industry include:

• Apollo Tyres
• BKT
• Bridgestone
• Continental
• Goodyear
• Michelin
• Mitas
• Nokian Tyres
• Trelleborg Wheel Systems
• Yokohama Off-Highway Tires
   

Major producers are concentrating on developing port-specific tires to meet the distinct needs. Innovations in tire design focus on improved rubber materials with better cut and puncture resistance, traction with new tread patterns on various port surfaces, and reinforced sidewalls that withstand ultra heavy loaded container handling.
 

Sustainability is increasingly gaining attention in the market, with manufacturers adapting processes to be greener and formulating tires that incorporate reclaimed and renewable materials. These efforts contribute to the carbon reduction targets set by European ports while simultaneously complying with regulatory bandwidths concerning ecological footprint and waste tire management.
 

Europe Port Equipment Tire Industry News

• In November of 2024, Techking fitted out a SANY fleet with a substantial quantity of tires. This illustrates our dedication to aiding the industry surmount the challenge of adopting new energy technologies. Furthermore, Techking proactively implemented OE matching for new equipment coupled with SANY to guarantee clean energy compliance alongside optimal tire performance and durability servicing their vehicles for.
   
• In October 2024, Magna launched M-STACKER which is a new premium tyre for reach stackers, container handlers, and heavy forklifts. M-STACKER will replace the Magna MB01 and MB01+ tyres. M-STACKER will feature improvements to enhance the durability and performance of port operations.
   
• In February 2023, Apollo Tyres signed a distribution contract with CEVA Logistics for the distribution of tyres to customers in France. CEVA Logistics was integrated into Apollo’s supply chain in May and they have been able to reduce average lead times to less than 4 days so the partnership has greatly enhanced real-time order systems and delivery interface for customer satisfaction.
   
• In January 2023, Bridgestone and Allianz Partners co-joined to create new value propositions centered around their core capabilities of tyres and insurance and offered ancillary services. Their first offering is a tyre insurance programme for Bridgestone’s current and prospective truck and bus fleet customers.
   

The Europe port equipment tire market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue ($Mn/Bn) and shipment (Units) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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Market, By Tire

• Radial
• Solid
• Bias
• Others

Market, By Tire Size

• Below 25 inches
• 25-40 inches
• Above 40 inches

Market, By Sales Channel

• OEM
• Aftermarket

Market, By Application

• Container handling
• Bulk handling
• Ship handling

The above information is provided for the following regional divisions and countries:

• Western Europe
  • Germany
  • Austria
  • France
  • Switzerland
  • Belgium
  • Luxembourg
  • Netherlands
  • Portugal
• Eastern Europe
  • Poland
  • Romania
  • Czech Republic
  • Slovenia
  • Hungary
  • Bulgaria
• Northern Europe
  • UK
  • Denmark
  • Sweden
  • Finland
  • Norway
• Southern Europe
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Greece