South America Material Handling Equipment Tire Market Size & Share 2026-2035

South America Material Handling Equipment Tire Market Size

The South America material handling equipment tire market was estimated at USD 1.58 billion in 2025. The market is expected to grow from USD 1.71 billion in 2026 to USD 2.92 billion in 2035, at a CAGR 6.1% according to latest report published by Global Market Insights Inc.

The tire market for material handling equipment in South America has undergone a period of gradual transformation because of the changing industry, differing customer desires and the increased need for reliable material handling equipment to operate in high-volume environments.
Businesses have started looking closely at how tires affect the operation of equipment such as forklifts, telehandlers, reach stackers, etc., and the ability to keep operations running daily. As a result of this new scrutiny, many equipment owners are working toward finding tires that will last longer, perform well on rough surfaces, and minimize unscheduled downtime, particularly in areas where the working conditions between jobsites can vary dramatically.

As supply chains continue to be more active and countries increase the flow of goods, the demand for tires that support the transference of large/multiples of heavy products over a long distance and many times per day is continuing to increase. At the same time, many users have started to slowly embrace equipment advancements using new materials and technology that will extend tread life and improve stability while operating on an uneven surface.

While pricing remains a critical purchasing consideration; as many customers now think about the overall longer-term value of investing in a tire that will create a safer working environment and minimize their overall maintenance costs over an extended term, cost has less of an influence on the decision to purchase tires.

South America Material Handling Equipment Tire Market Trends

The South America material handling equipment tire industry is undergoing significant evolution, shaped by regional economic dynamics, technological advancements, and shifting operational priorities.

• The South American economies are becoming increasingly industrialized with the expansion of infrastructure and an increase in the number of infrastructure projects will result in additional investment dollars flowing into manufacturing, logistics, and mining. These investments create ongoing demand for both material handling equipment and tire solutions to support construction sites and heavy-duty operations.
• As e-commerce continues to grow throughout South America, the number of warehouses and distribution centers are increasing consequently. As such, the growth in the use of indoor material handling equipment, such as forklifts and pallet jacks, will place a higher demand for tires designed specifically for smooth floors and high-volume use.
• Operators are placing great value on the durability and longevity of a tire that can withstand harsh working conditions as well as minimize downtime. By focusing on durability, these operators are looking for tires with excellent wear and tear resistance, excellent load-bearing capacities, and excellent puncture resistance; all of which will help lower the cost of ownership.
• The growing use of solid and super-elastic tires, primarily in high-stress applications such as productive plants and/or busy warehouses, is becoming increasingly common. This growth is since these tires provide a higher degree of performance than pneumatic tires by being puncture-resistant, stable, and requiring no maintenance, while also ensuring uninterrupted production.

South America Material Handling Equipment Tire Market Analysis

Based on the tire type, the market is divided into pneumatic tires, solid tires, polyurethane tires, and others. The solid tires segment held the largest share, accounting for 49% of the in 2025, generating revenue of USD 772.9 million.

• Solid tires are starting to dominate the material handling equipment segment because of their durability and dependability in the challenging conditions that exist in many industries. Solid tires do not require air pressure like pneumatic (air-filled) tires; therefore, they will not experience a flat tire because of a puncture, deflation, or blow out. These advantages make solid tires ideal for operating in warehouses, ports, construction sites, and factories where sharp objects on the ground, uneven surfaces, and continuous motion are commonplace. Since solid tires can operate without frequent downtime, they can help companies to reduce the time their equipment is not in service and avoid costly and unplanned maintenance.
• Another reason for the rapid growth of solid tires is the increased desire for safe and stable equipment performance.  Solid tires provide a firm, stable base which in turn enhances how effectively loads are handled and reduces the likelihood of equipment tilting while it is in motion. As the priority placed on efficient operations and safety of workers increases, the stability of solid tires will be considered more valuable.
• The longevity of solid tires provides an added benefit for operators who want to minimize the total cost of ownership over time instead of just focusing on the initial purchase price. In addition, as e-commerce continues to expand and delivery times are compressed, more warehouse operations are moving to high-intensity operation models, which are conducive to equipment that operates many hours continuously.  Solid tires are also very low maintenance and can make numerous heavy loads.

Based on the application, the South America material handling equipment tire market is segmented into indoor, outdoor, and severe duty/OTR. In 2025, indoor held a major market share of 50%, generating revenue of USD 787.9 million.

• Indoor tires are gaining increasing popularity for use with material handling equipment. An increasing number of modern warehouses and logistics operations utilize controlled indoor environments as their primary means of operation.
• As warehouses continue to expand and transition to smoother floors, narrower aisles, and faster product movement, indoor tires are a natural fit for today's warehouse and logistics environments. Indoor tires provide a superior level of traction, predictability of movement, and very low rolling resistance; thus, equipment can be used more effectively and in a more controlled manner on similar surfaces.
• Another reason for the growing use of indoor tires is the growth in electric and compact machines that are often used in indoor workspaces. These machines require tires that are quiet, do not leave any scuff marks on flooring, and will perform consistently over extended periods of time. Indoor tires readily meet these requirements, making them the tire of choice for those companies that value cleanliness, reduced vibration, and a nice working environment.
• Indoor tires are also appealing due to their extended service life in indoor environments. Since indoor environments tend to produce less wear on tires, these tires last longer and need to be replaced less frequently than their outdoor counterparts, thus providing operators with cost-saving benefits.
• With e-commerce, retail distribution, and manufacturing operations being pushed to run at maximum speed, companies are looking for tires that can provide support for continuous productivity but do not require frequent maintenance. As businesses continue to implement more sophisticated warehouse designs and increasing levels of automation, there will continue to be an increased demand for tires that are reliable.

Based on the distribution channel, the South America material handling equipment tire market is segmented into direct and indirect sales. In 2025, indirect sales dominate the market with highest market share.

• The European forklift market is dominated by indirect sales because a large proportion of Europe has established dealer and distributor networks for many years with a high level of local coverage, quick service availability, and strong relationships with small and mid-sized purchasers. Particularly in Western Europe, the traditional automobile industry is composed of very large dealer networks that focus on sales, repairs, parts, and customer service so they are often the first choice for companies that need local expertise and quick operational support.
• The networks also provide a better match for many different regional requirements, discrepancies in infrastructure, and service intensive customers which contributes to the overall strength of indirect sales in established or mature markets.
• The Direct sales channel is experiencing rapid growth because large fleet customers increasingly desire to engage directly with the manufacturer to receive tailored solutions, integrate digital solutions, and develop longer-term service agreements. Similarly, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are expanding their direct sales channels to provide more support for advanced technologies such as electric fleets, automation-ready equipment, and connected systems.
• The continued digital transformation is facilitating hybrid sales models including online platforms, and OEM-managed service networks enabling manufacturers to create closer relationships with customers and respond more quickly to technical needs. With the accelerating rate of automation, electrification, and smart logistics, an increasing number of enterprises are moving toward direct relationships and partnerships with OEMs which will drive further growth in the direct channel.

South America Material Handling Equipment Tire Market

In 2025, Brazil dominated the South America material handling equipment tire market, accounting for around 52% share and generating around USD 819.3 million revenue in the same year.

• Brazil leads the material handling equipment tire market because it contains the largest industrial and logistics base in Latin America. Brazil has established itself as the largest producer of lots of industrial equipment (manufacturing, agribusiness, retail distribution, and ports), and consequently operates more warehouses, factories, and fleets of material handling equipment than any other country in the region. As a result, the demand for tires used on forklifts, loaders, etc., is high and more consistent across these different types of operations and applications than in other countries in South America.
• The continued growth of e‑commerce and urban logistics in Brazil is contributing to the increased demand for modern, well-designed warehouses, where businesses want tires that will provide higher levels of uptime and safety while operating in the warehouse. The size of its business operations in Brazil and its developed supply chains create an environment that currently makes it the most competitive country for tire manufacturers in Latin America.
• Chile, Colombia, and Peru are all developing growth markets as they mature their logistics networks and expand their industrial bases. Chile is benefiting from its strong mining sector and organized port systems, which creates a demand for durable, high-performance tires. Colombia is benefiting from its booming warehousing and last-mile delivery industries that are being driven by increased consumption in urban areas.
• Peru is continuing to invest in its construction, mining, and export/imports industries, increasing the amount of material handling equipment used in those sectors. Although these three markets are smaller than Brazil, they are all experiencing better business conditions, increased use of equipment, and becoming more accustomed to using modern technology.

South America Material Handling Equipment Tire Market Share

Michelin is leading with 16% market share. Michelin, Trelleborg Wheel Systems, Bridgestone Corporation, BKT (Balkrishna Industries), Continental AG Handling collectively hold around 53% indicating moderately fragmented market concentration. These prominent players are proactively involved in strategic endeavors, such as mergers & acquisitions, facility expansions & collaborations, to expand their product portfolios, extend their reach to a broad customer base, and strengthen their market position.

• Michelin is a global tire manufacturing giant renowned for its innovation, quality, and extensive product range across various segments. In South America, their strong brand recognition, premium product offerings for diverse industrial and logistics applications, and robust distribution network secure their leading position. They cater to a wide array of material handling equipment, providing durable and high-performance tire solutions that meet the region's demanding operational needs.
• Trelleborg Wheel Systems specializes in off-highway tires and complete wheel solutions, offering highly robust and application-specific tires for industrial vehicles. In South America, their focused approach on niche segments like port handling, heavy-duty industrial vehicles, and waste management, coupled with a reputation for high-performance and durable products, makes them a key player. They provide tailored solutions optimized for operational efficiency and longevity.
• Bridgestone Corporation stands as a global leader in tires and rubber products, recognized for its technological prowess and diverse portfolio. In South America, their strong manufacturing footprint, expansive distribution channels, and a comprehensive range of robust tires for forklifts and industrial vehicles ensure a dominant market share. Their reputation for reliability and consistent performance makes them a preferred choice across various material handling operations.

South America Material Handling Equipment Tire Market Companies

Major players operating in the South America Material handling equipment tire industry are:

• Michelin

• Bridgestone Corporation
• Continental AG
• Titan International
• Rinaldi S.A.
• Trelleborg Wheel Systems
• BKT (Balkrishna Industries Limited)
• Yokohama Off-Highway Tires
• Nokian Heavy Tyres
• Maxam Tire International
• GRI (Global Rubber Industries)
• Techking Tires Ltd.
• Prinx Chengshan
• Galaxy Tire
• Double Coin Holdings

BKT is an Indian multinational tire manufacturer specializing in off-highway (OTR) and industrial tires, offering a comprehensive product range. In South America, their competitive pricing, expanding product portfolio specifically designed for rugged conditions, and growing distribution network have allowed them to capture significant market share. They are a strong contender, especially in mining, agriculture, and heavy industrial material handling sectors.

Continental AG is a German multinational automotive and tire manufacturer, providing advanced tire technologies for a multitude of segments. In South America, Continental's emphasis on innovative, high-performance industrial tires, coupled with strong OEM partnerships and a focus on solutions for demanding environments and port operations, solidifies their influential market presence. Their advanced products cater to evolving market needs, including automation.

South America Material Handling Equipment Tire Industry News

• In June 2025, Goodyear and Sorocap inaugurated a new Truck Center in Barueri, São Paulo, featuring four-ton lifts, alignment systems, and tire recapping services. This expansion strengthens Goodyear's aftermarket service network in Brazil's heavy-cargo corridor and supports its retreading business across the region.
• In January 2025, Bridgestone announced production capacity reduction and workforce optimization at its Argentina and Brazil tire manufacturing plants as part of restructuring efforts. This helps the company improve operational efficiency, reduce fixed costs, and target profitability in Latin America by Q4 2025.
• In October 2024, Goodyear reported that its plants in Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Peru achieved 100% renewable electricity procurement through hydropower and I-REC certificates. This advancement helps the company meet its 2030 renewable electricity target, reduce carbon footprint, and comply with emerging sustainability regulations in South America.

The South America material handling equipment tire market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue (USD Million) and volume (Thousand Units) from 2022 to 2035, for the following segments:

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Market, By Tire Type

• Pneumatic tires
  • Cushion pneumatic
  • Standard pneumatic
• Solid tires
  • Press-on solid
  • Standard solid
  • Resilient solid
• Polyurethane tires
• Others

Market, Equipment Type

• Forklift
• Conveyor systems
• Industrial carts/tuggers
• Reach stackers
• Pallet jacks
• Order pickers
• Others

Market, By Application

• Indoor
• Outdoor
• Severe duty/OTR

Market, By End-Use

• Warehousing & distribution
• Manufacturing
• Construction
• Retail & e-commerce
• Ports & shipping
• Mining & extraction
• Others

Market, By Distribution Channel

• Direct sales
  • Direct OEM
  • Direct aftermarket
• Indirect sales
  • Indirect OEM
  • Indirect aftermarket

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• Brazil
• Argentina
• Chile
• Colombia
• Peru