Autonomous Cranes Market Size, Share, and Growth Forecast for 2025 - 2032

Autonomous Cranes Market Size and Trends

The global autonomous cranes market size is anticipated to rise from US$ 5.27 Bn in 2025 to US$ 17.41 Bn by 2032. It is projected to witness a CAGR of 18.6% from 2025 to 2032.

As per Persistence Market Research (PMR), the market is experiencing significant growth, driven by technological innovations and increasing demand across various industries. Incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in crane operations enhances efficiency and safety, contributing to market growth.

• The revenue for autonomous cranes in ports is set to surpass US$ 6 Bn globally by 2030, with Asia Pacific accounting for over half of this market.

Key Highlights of the Autonomous Cranes Market

• Static cranes dominate the market, with 55% of the total share in 2025 due to greater lifting capacity.
• Building and construction sector stands as the dominant end-use segment with 38% share in 2025 due to rapid infrastructural development.
• Innovations in automation are set to make North America the leading region with 35% of the total share in 2025.
• Infrastructure development and increased investments in automation are projected to boost Asia Pacific as the fastest-growing region.
• Strong emphasis on workplace safety and presence of leading crane manufacturers are likely to propel Europe’s share in the global market.

Global Market Attributes	Key Insights
Autonomous Cranes Market Size (2025E)	US$ 5.27 Bn
Market Value Forecast (2032F)	US$ 17.41 Bn
Projected Growth (CAGR 2025 to 2032)	18.6%
Historical Market Growth (CAGR 2019 to 2024)	11.1%

Historical Growth and Course Ahead

Rising Demand for Efficiency and Safety in Material Handling Boosted Autonomous Crane Integration

The market for autonomous cranes witnessed significant growth from 2019 to 2024 and is poised for remarkable expansion in the future. In 2019, the market was valued at nearly US$ 2.8 Bn, and the surge was driven by increasing adoption of automation across various industries, aiming to enhance efficiency and safety in material handling operations.

The construction sector, in particular, significantly contributed to this growth, integrating autonomous cranes to streamline processes and reduce human intervention. For instance,

• A survey of over 1,000 technology leaders from general contractor construction firms across North America, the U.K., and Australia revealed that 84% of firms have integrated some form of autonomy into their tasks, processes, equipment, or systems.
• Within this group, 35% reported using autonomous heavy equipment, indicating a significant move toward automated machinery in construction operations.

Government Support for Smart Factories to Augment Adoption of Autonomous Cranes

Over the forecast period, the market's upward trajectory will likely continue beyond 2025. Technological developments, rising safety concerns, and high demand for efficient material handling solutions are anticipated to fuel this growth. By 2032, the market is projected to reach US$ 17.41 Bn, underscoring the transformative impact of automation in the crane industry. For example,

• In South Korea, the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry supported the construction of smart factories in 1,240 small and medium enterprises, resulting in an average 27.6% decrease in defective products, a 7.1% acceleration in prototype production, and a 29.2% reduction in costs.

Market Dynamics

Growth Drivers

Adoption of Machine Learning in Cranes to Enhance Load Optimization and Precision

Integration of innovative technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and the Internet of Things (IoT) has significantly enhanced the capabilities of autonomous cranes. For example,

• Konecranes has developed data-driven solutions such as the Predict & Plan system for mobile harbor cranes.
• By analyzing extensive material and parts failure data using various algorithms and predictive models, this tool can predict when specific parts are likely to fail, enabling proactive maintenance and reducing downtime.

Such innovations help improve operational efficiency, precision, and safety in material handling. AI-enabled autonomous cranes can optimize load lifting and placement, reducing human error and increasing productivity.

Market Restraining Factors

Capital-intensive Deployments to Slow Down Widespread Adoption of Automated Cranes

Implementing autonomous crane systems requires substantial capital investment in innovative hardware and software. This high upfront cost can be a significant barrier, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). For instance,

• Large-scale implementations, such as automated container terminals, have seen development costs in the billions.
• A terminal operated with 26 bridge cranes, 130 autonomous vehicles, and 120 rail-mounted gantry cranes had a development cost of US$ 2.15 Bn.

The maintenance and potential need for specialized personnel to manage these novel systems add to the financial burden. Unstable prices of raw materials and limited availability of skilled workers further restrain market growth.

Key Market Opportunities

Rising Workplace Safety Standards to Push Demand for Autonomous Cranes in Hazardous Sectors

Increasing focus on enhancing workplace safety across various industries is a major boost for the market. Autonomous cranes can minimize human involvement in hazardous operations, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.

The safety advantage is driving demand, particularly in sectors such as construction, mining, and marine operations. Global ports are increasingly investing in automation to enhance safety and efficiency.

As technological developments propel the market forward, high initial costs pose challenges. However, the increasing emphasis on workplace safety presents a significant opportunity for market expansion.

• In 2023, Palfinger signed a ten-year contract with Norwegian oil company Aker BP to develop remote-controlled offshore cranes, aiming to enhance safety in offshore operations by reducing human involvement in hazardous tasks.

Autonomous Cranes Market Insights and Trends

Crane Type Insights

Fixed Installation Advantages Make Static Cranes Essential for High-capacity Operations

Static cranes are permanently installed at a specific location and are integral to operations in sectors such as marine and offshore, mining and excavation, and construction. These are set to hold a share of 55% in 2025.

Its design allows for greater lifting capacity at higher elevations, making static cranes indispensable for heavy-duty tasks. The increased adoption of static cranes in these industries can be attributed to their ability to handle substantial loads with enhanced stability and precision.

The preference for static cranes in several applications underscores their importance in operations that demand high lifting capacities and stability. Their fixed nature provides a reliable solution for repetitive tasks in a confined area, contributing to their dominant position in the market.

• In July 2023, Zoomlion introduced a new line of self-erecting tower cranes equipped with AI-powered automation features, aiming for safer and more efficient setup and operation.

Mobile cranes, on the other hand, are projected to witness a CAGR of 14.2% through 2032.

End Use Insights

AI and Machine Learning to Transform Autonomous Cranes, Enhancing Efficiency in Construction

Globally, there has been a significant surge in urbanization, leading to increased construction activities. This growth necessitates efficient and safe material handling solutions, which autonomous cranes provide. The building and construction sector is projected to hold a share of 38% in 2025.

Autonomous cranes minimize human intervention in hazardous tasks, thereby reducing the risk of workplace accidents. For example,

• In 2023, there were 5,283 fatal work injuries in the U.S., equating to a rate of 3.5 fatalities per 100,000 full-time equivalent workers.
• Contact with objects and equipment, which includes incidents involving manual machinery, was the third leading cause of work-related deaths in 2022, accounting for 738 fatalities.
• Manual handling activities, such as lifting, carrying, or moving objects, contribute to around 21% of workplace injuries.

Integrating unique technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in autonomous cranes enhances their operational capabilities, making them more appealing for large-scale construction projects. As construction projects become more complex and timelines more stringent, the reliance on autonomous cranes is set to increase, solidifying this sector's leading position in the market.

Regional Insights and Trends

Automation Investments in North American Ports Spark Labor Disputes Amid Market Growth

The North American autonomous cranes market is experiencing significant growth, driven by innovations in automation and increasing demand for efficient material handling solutions across various industries. The region is projected to generate a share of 35% in 2025 and witness a CAGR of 15.3% through 2032.

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies into crane operations has enhanced automation capabilities, leading to increased adoption in sectors such as construction, logistics, and manufacturing. Autonomous cranes reduce the reliance on manual labor, minimizing human error and enhancing workplace safety. It is particularly beneficial in industries involving hazardous tasks, leading to improved operational efficiency and reduced accident rates.

North American ports are increasingly investing in automation to enhance operational efficiency. However, this shift has sparked debates between port authorities and labor unions. For example,

• In October 2024, the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) went on strike, expressing concerns over job security due to implementing semi-automated cranes. The dispute was temporarily resolved with a substantial pay raise, but discussions about the balance between automation and labor continued.

Infrastructure Boom and Megaprojects to Propel Asia Pacific through 2032

Asia Pacific is experiencing rapid growth in the autonomous cranes market, driven by significant infrastructure development, technological innovations, and increased investments in automation across various industries. Rapid urbanization and government-backed megaprojects in countries like China, India, and Southeast Asian nations are fuelling the demand for advanced construction machinery, including autonomous cranes.

• Revenues from autonomous cranes in ports are projected to exceed US$ 6 Bn globally by 2030, with Asia Pacific projected to command more than half of this market share.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies into crane operations enhances efficiency and safety, making them more appealing to industries such as construction, mining, and logistics.

Europe’s Focus on Precision and Efficiency to Fuel Demand for Autonomous Cranes

The European autonomous cranes market is experiencing notable growth, driven by innovations in automation, a strong emphasis on workplace safety, and the presence of leading crane manufacturers. Local manufacturers are at the forefront of integrating advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and the Internet of Things (IoT) into crane operations. Such innovations enhance efficiency, precision, and safety in material handling.

The region’s market is poised for continued growth and is supported by technological advances and a strong emphasis on safety and environmental considerations. As industries increasingly adopt automation to enhance efficiency and comply with stringent regulations, demand for autonomous cranes is expected to rise. For example,

• In 2023, a consortium of European firms initiated a project to create AI-driven autonomous cranes to enhance operational efficiency in port logistics.

Autonomous Cranes Market Competitive Landscape

The autonomous cranes market is highly competitive, with key players focusing on technological developments, strategic partnerships, and geographic expansion. Leading companies dominate the industry through continuous research and development investments as well as automation-driven solutions.

Key companies also leverage AI, IoT, and cloud-based monitoring to enhance crane efficiency and safety. Moreover, increasing demand for automated lifting solutions in construction, ports, and mining is prompting mergers, acquisitions, and joint ventures. The presence of regional and global players intensifies competition, making innovation and customization key differentiators for market success.

Key Industry Developments

• In October 2023, PALFINGER signed a partnership deal with Oplift and Aker BP to create five autonomous offshore cranes for Aker BP's operations, representing a notable development in automation and efficiency within offshore crane technology for the energy sector.
• In September 2023, MacGregor introduced an autonomous container loading and unloading solution comprising an automated crane operating system and a novel container supply chain software, the Voyage and Container Optimization Platform (VCOP).

Autonomous Cranes Market Report Scope

Report Attributes	Details
Historical Data/Actuals	2019 - 2024
Forecast Period	2025 - 2032
Market Analysis Units	Value: US$ Bn/Mn, Volume: As applicable
Geographical Coverage	North America Europe East Asia South Asia and Oceania Middle East and Africa Latin America
Segmental Coverage	Crane Type End Use Region
Competitive Analysis	Liebherr Group Konecranes Manitowoc Zoomlion Tadano Ltd. XCMG Terex Corporation SANY Group Palfinger AG Cargotec Komatsu Ltd  AIDrivers Ltd  Schneider Electric  SMIE
Report Highlights	Market Forecast and Trends Competitive Intelligence & Share Analysis Growth Factors and Challenges Strategic Growth Initiatives Pricing Analysis & Technology Roadmap Future Opportunities and Revenue Pockets Industry Market Analysis Tools
Customization and Pricing	Available upon request

Autonomous Cranes Market Segmentation

By Crane Type

• Static Crane
• Mobile Crane

By End Use

• Building and Construction
• Marine and Offshore
• Mining and Excavation

By Region

• North America
• Europe
• East Asia
• South Asia and Oceania
• Middle East and Africa
• Latin America

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