Trimble Keeps Shipping Tech Growing Even When Freight Slows

Trimble’s transportation and logistics arm, which helps truckers and freight companies connect data from carriers to shippers, posted solid growth in the last quarter. Even though overall freight demand remains weak, the segment’s recurring revenue hit $508 million, up 7% from a year earlier. CEO Rob Painter highlighted the company’s ability to link carrier systems, navigation tools and fuel‑tax reporting across North America and Europe as a key driver. The firm also announced new big clients, including Proctor & Gamble and a major beverage company, adding confidence that its platform can handle large fleets. Trimble’s earnings beat expectations, with adjusted profit of $1 per share versus analysts’ forecast of 96 cents. The transportation unit kept a healthy operating margin of about 23%, though costs rose after the company sold its mobility business in early 2025.More than nine‑tenths of the unit’s revenue now comes from subscriptions, showing a shift away from one‑time software sales. Management predicts that 2025 growth will come mainly from mapping, Transporeon services and forestry solutions, with strong new customers in both the U. S. and Europe. Looking forward, Trimble expects a modest rebound in freight activity in 2026 as markets stabilize. The company projects total revenue of $3. 81–$3. 91 billion for 2026, a 6%‑9% increase, and anticipates its transportation segment to reach about $565 million in revenue. Despite a cautious view of the freight market, Painter believes Trimble’s recurring‑revenue model will keep it resilient. He stresses that connecting shipper, carrier and logistics data remains a long‑term growth opportunity.