The transportation and warehousing sector added 29,000 jobs, with logistics contributing over 16% of these gains and maintaining a low unemployment rate of 3.3%. Northeast Pennsylvania's logistics industry is booming, driven by e-commerce giants like Amazon and Chewy, and plans for new logistics parks in Midvalley and Upvalley. Automation and upskilling are key focuses as the sector anticipates further growth.
Job Growth in Transportation and Warehousing Sector
The transportation and warehousing sector has seen significant growth, adding 29,000 jobs. This growth highlights the dynamic changes and developments occurring within the industry, driven by expanding logistics operations and increasing demands for efficient supply chain solutions.
Logistics Industry Expansion
Logistics accounted for over 16% of the total job gains within the transportation and warehousing sector. The unemployment rate within logistics stands at a low 3.3%, reflecting strong job stability and demand for workers. Employees in this field work an average of 38.7 hours per week, indicating a robust workload and active sector.
Job Increases Across Key Sub-Sectors
The warehousing and storage sub-sector alone added 9,800 jobs, while couriers and messengers saw a rise of 8,400 jobs. Truck transportation also experienced growth, contributing an additional 1,400 jobs. This broad-based expansion across various sub-sectors within the transportation and warehousing industry underscores a comprehensive growth pattern driven by evolving market demands.
Regional Growth in Northeast Pennsylvania
Northeast Pennsylvania's logistics industry has surged, bolstered by the expansion efforts of e-commerce giants who have established local warehouses. New logistics parks are planned for Midvalley and Upvalley, contributing to the tremendous growth observed in Lackawanna County. The presence of major interstates provides critical access for logistics operations, making the region an attractive hub for the industry.
Amazon and Chewy have established key warehousing operations in the area, capitalizing on the strategic location and infrastructure.
Developers are focusing on the reclamation of mine-scarred land for logistics hubs. This includes plans for a 646,380-square-foot warehouse in Archbald and a 745,200-square-foot facility in Mayfield, all part of the 1.4 million square feet of warehouse space being developed on 87 acres of reclaimed land. Additionally, there is a plan for 20 million square feet of new industrial space, with 2.55 million square feet dedicated to warehouses, and 4.5 million square feet in the Triboro Industrial Park alone.
Future Outlook and Technological Integration
Automation is expected to play a significant role in shaping the workforce within the logistics sector. There is a notable emphasis on upskilling existing employees to meet the demands of an increasingly automated environment. The Upvalley warehousing industry is anticipated to grow further, with five new warehouses planned for Mayfield, Carbondale Township, and Archbald.
Tranco Logistics, celebrating 30 years in 2025, exemplifies the growth and development within the sector. Founded in 1995 as a family-owned operation, the company now operates over 2 million square feet of warehouse space. Co-CEOs Bruce and Byron Trantham focus on reliability, innovation, and customer commitment, investing in technology and sustainability initiatives to enhance their operations and workforce solutions.
The transportation and warehousing sector's growth is a testament to the increasing importance of logistics and supply chain management in today's economy. With ongoing investments and developments, the sector is poised for continued expansion and innovation.