[Ranking] TOP 24 Freight Forwarding / Logistics Companies Q3/2023
Intro
Freight forwarding, a sub-industry of logistics, plays a critical role in the worldwide economy by facilitating the movement of goods across borders and continents. Acting as intermediaries between shippers and carriers, freight forwarders provide a range of services, including transportation, customs clearance, and documentation, to ensure the smooth and efficient delivery of goods.
The influence of the freight forwarding industry extends far beyond its primary function. By enabling trade and commerce, it creates a ripple effect that impacts diverse sectors such as manufacturing, retail, and e-commerce. The ability to navigate complex supply chains and overcome logistical barriers is crucial in today's interconnected global marketplace.
With the increasing globalization of trade, the economic magnitude of the freight forwarding industry continues to grow. According to recent reports, the industry is projected to reach a market size of $205.4 billion by 2027, driven by factors such as the expansion of e-commerce, rising international trade volumes, and advancements in technology.
In recent years, the freight forwarding industry has witnessed several trends, breakthroughs, and obstacles that shape its landscape. These include the adoption of digital platforms for freight management, the emergence of blockchain technology for transparent and secure transactions, and challenges posed by geopolitical tensions and trade disputes.
The freight forwarding industry operates in an ever-changing landscape characterized by evolving customer demands, technological advancements, and regulatory developments. Understanding the leading companies in this dynamic industry is essential to grasp the current state of logistics and the factors driving its growth and innovation.
Ranking
#24 Expolanka Freight
Employees: 4.5K
Revenue: 1.2B$
Website: https://www.expolanka.com/
Description: Expolanka Freight is a leading player in the Freight Forwarding industry. Headquartered in Colombo, Sri Lanka, the company has been in operation since its establishment in 1978. With a workforce of approximately 4,500 employees, Expolanka Freight offers a comprehensive range of logistics services, specializing in freight forwarding. The company has achieved significant growth over the years and has emerged as a key player in the industry. Expolanka Freight's expertise and global network enable them to efficiently handle the transportation and delivery of goods across various modes of transport, ensuring reliable and timely services for their clients. With a revenue of 1.2 billion dollars, Expolanka Freight continues to expand its operations and maintain its position as a trusted logistics partner in the global market.
#23 Pantos Logistics
Employees: 10K
Revenue: 1.5B$
Website: https://www.pantos.com
Description: Pantos Logistics is a leading freight forwarding company based in Seoul, South Korea. With over 40 years of experience, the company specializes in providing comprehensive logistics solutions to businesses across various industries. Pantos Logistics offers a wide range of services including air and ocean freight forwarding, customs brokerage, warehousing, distribution, and supply chain management. The company has a strong global presence, with offices and facilities strategically located in key trade hubs around the world. With a team of approximately 10,000 employees, Pantos Logistics is committed to delivering efficient and reliable logistics services to its clients, helping them streamline their supply chains and optimize their operations. With annual revenue of 1.5 billion dollars, Pantos Logistics continues to be a trusted partner for businesses in the freight forwarding industry.
#22 Hellmann Worldwide Logistics
Employees: 10K
Revenue: 2.5B$
Website: https://www.hellmann.net
Description: Hellmann Worldwide Logistics is a leading freight forwarding company operating in the logistics industry. With headquarters in Osnabrück, Germany, Hellmann provides comprehensive logistics solutions to businesses worldwide. The company was founded in 1871 and has grown to become a key player in the industry. Hellmann employs approximately 10,000 people globally, ensuring efficient and reliable freight forwarding services. With a revenue of 2.5 billion dollars, Hellmann offers a wide range of services including air freight, ocean freight, road transport, and contract logistics. With its extensive network and expertise, Hellmann is committed to delivering tailored logistics solutions to meet the unique needs of its customers.
#21 DAMCO
Employees: 11K
Revenue: 3.8B$
Website: https://www.damco.com
Description: DAMCO is a global freight forwarding company based in Shanghai, China. With over a century of experience in the logistics industry, DAMCO provides comprehensive freight forwarding services to businesses worldwide. The company offers a wide range of services including air freight, ocean freight, customs brokerage, and supply chain management. DAMCO's extensive network and expertise enable them to efficiently transport goods across the globe, ensuring timely delivery and cost-effective solutions for their clients. With a workforce of 11,000 employees, DAMCO generates an annual revenue of 3.8 billion US dollars, establishing itself as a key player in the freight forwarding industry.
#20 Rhenus
Employees: 33K
Revenue: 4.5B$
Website: https://www.rhenus.com
Description: Rhenus is a leading logistics company specializing in Freight Forwarding. Headquartered in Holzwickede, Germany, Rhenus operates in Europe and offers a wide range of freight forwarding services to clients worldwide. With a history dating back to 1912, Rhenus has established itself as a trusted partner in the logistics industry. The company employs approximately 33,000 people and generates an annual revenue of 4.5 billion dollars. Rhenus provides innovative and customized logistics solutions to meet the unique needs of its customers, ensuring efficient and reliable transportation of goods across various industries. With a strong global network and advanced technological capabilities, Rhenus continues to drive the growth and success of its clients in the freight forwarding industry.
#19 Agility
Employees: 22K
Revenue: 4.6B$
Website: https://www.agility.com
Description: Agility is a global logistics company headquartered in Shanghai, China. With a history dating back to 1979, the company operates in the freight forwarding industry, providing a wide range of logistics services. Agility has a strong presence in Asia, with operations in various countries across the continent. The company offers comprehensive freight forwarding solutions, including air, ocean, and road transportation, customs clearance, warehousing, and distribution services. With a workforce of 22,000 employees, Agility serves clients from diverse industries and sectors, ensuring the efficient and timely movement of goods worldwide. In 2020, the company generated a revenue of 4.6 billion US dollars, solidifying its position as a leading player in the logistics industry.
#18 Kintetsu World Express
Employees: 10K
Revenue: 5.2B$
Website: https://www.kwe.com
Description: Kintetsu World Express is a leading global freight forwarding company headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. With a history dating back to 1948, Kintetsu World Express has established itself as a trusted player in the logistics industry. The company offers a wide range of services in the freight forwarding sector, including air and ocean freight, customs brokerage, warehousing, and distribution. With a workforce of approximately 10,000 employees, Kintetsu World Express operates globally, providing seamless transportation and logistics solutions to businesses worldwide. In 2020, the company reported a revenue of 5.2 billion US dollars, solidifying its position as a major player in the industry.
#17 Toll Group
Employees: 45K
Revenue: 5.6B$
Website: https://www.tollgroup.com/
Description: Toll Group is a leading logistics company specializing in freight forwarding. Headquartered in Melbourne, Australia, Toll Group has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1888. With a workforce of approximately 45,000 employees worldwide, the company provides a comprehensive range of logistics services to customers across various industries. Toll Group's expertise in freight forwarding enables them to efficiently manage the transportation and delivery of goods, ensuring smooth supply chain operations. The company's extensive network and innovative solutions make them a trusted partner for businesses seeking reliable and cost-effective logistics solutions. With annual revenue of 5.6 billion dollars, Toll Group is a major player in the freight forwarding industry, contributing to the growth and success of businesses globally.
#16 KWE - Kerry World Express
Employees: 27K
Revenue: 5.6B$
Website: https://www.kerrylogistics.com
Description: KWE - Kerry World Express is a leading freight forwarding company operating in the logistics industry. Headquartered in Bangkok, Thailand, KWE offers a wide range of services including air and ocean freight, customs brokerage, warehousing, and distribution. With over 27,000 employees worldwide, the company has established itself as a key player in the industry. KWE was founded in 1981 and has since grown its global network to provide efficient and reliable logistics solutions to its customers. With a revenue of 5.6 billion dollars, KWE continues to expand its operations and maintain its position as a trusted partner in freight forwarding.
#15 Kerry Logistics
Employees: 46K
Revenue: 5.7B$
Website: https://www.kerrylogistics.com
Description: Kerry Logistics is a leading logistics company specializing in freight forwarding. Headquartered in Hong Kong, the company operates in the Asia-Pacific region and provides a wide range of logistics services to clients worldwide. With over 46,000 employees, Kerry Logistics offers comprehensive solutions for the transportation and management of goods, including warehousing, customs clearance, and distribution. The company's extensive network and expertise in the industry enable it to effectively handle complex logistics operations and ensure efficient delivery of goods. With a revenue of 5.7 billion dollars, Kerry Logistics is recognized as a key player in the freight forwarding industry, delivering innovative and reliable logistics solutions to its customers.
#14 Yusen Logistics
Employees: 24K
Revenue: 6.9B$
Website: https://www.yusen-logistics.com/
Description: Yusen Logistics is a leading player in the Freight Forwarding industry, providing innovative logistics solutions to customers worldwide. With headquarters in Tokyo, Japan, Yusen Logistics operates in Asia and beyond, offering comprehensive supply chain management services. The company was founded in 1955 and has since grown to employ approximately 24,000 people globally. With a revenue of 6.9 billion dollars, Yusen Logistics leverages its extensive network and expertise to deliver efficient and reliable freight forwarding services, ensuring the seamless movement of goods across borders and continents.
#13 CEVA Logistics
Employees: 78K
Revenue: 7.2B$
Website: https://www.cevalogistics.com
Description: CEVA Logistics is a leading global provider of freight forwarding services in the logistics industry. Headquartered in Frankfurt, Germany, CEVA operates throughout Europe and serves clients worldwide. With a workforce of approximately 78,000 employees, the company offers a comprehensive range of logistics solutions, including transportation, warehousing, and supply chain management. CEVA Logistics has established itself as a trusted partner for businesses seeking efficient and reliable freight forwarding services. The company has achieved significant growth since its founding in 2007 and has reported a revenue of 7.2 billion dollars in its latest fiscal year.
#12 Expeditors International
Employees: 18K
Revenue: 8.4B$
Website: https://www.expeditors.com
Description: Expeditors International is a leading player in the Freight Forwarding industry, offering integrated logistics solutions to businesses worldwide. With its headquarters in Seattle, United States, the company has established a strong presence in North America. Expeditors International was founded in 1979 and has since grown to employ around 18,000 professionals globally. The company generates substantial revenue, with an estimated annual revenue of 8.4 billion dollars. Expeditors International specializes in providing efficient freight forwarding services, including transportation, customs clearance, and warehousing solutions, to optimize supply chain management for its clients. With its extensive network and expertise, Expeditors International continues to be an influential player in the logistics industry, supporting businesses in their global trade operations.
#11 GEODIS
Employees: 41K
Revenue: 8.6B$
Website: https://www.geodis.com
Description: GEODIS is a leading player in the Freight Forwarding industry, providing logistics solutions to businesses worldwide. With its headquarters in Paris, France, GEODIS operates in Europe and other continents, offering a range of services including international transportation, customs clearance, warehousing, and distribution. The company was founded in 1904 and has since grown to become a key player in the logistics industry. With a workforce of 41,000 employees, GEODIS handles various types of freight, including air, ocean, and land shipments, ensuring efficient and reliable delivery for its customers. In 2020, the company reported a revenue of 8.6 billion dollars, highlighting its strong financial performance in the industry.
#10 Bolloré Logistics
Employees: 36K
Revenue: 8.7B$
Website: https://www.bollore-logistics.com/
Description: Bolloré Logistics, headquartered in Puteaux, France, is a leading player in the Freight Forwarding industry. With a rich history dating back to 1822, the company has established itself as a reliable and innovative partner in logistics solutions. Bolloré Logistics operates globally, offering a wide range of services including international freight forwarding, customs brokerage, warehousing, and supply chain management. The company's extensive network and expertise enable it to provide efficient and cost-effective transportation solutions to its clients. With over 36,000 employees, Bolloré Logistics is committed to delivering exceptional customer service and driving success in the logistics industry. With an annual revenue of 8.7 billion dollars, the company continues to expand its operations and strengthen its position as a market leader.
#9 Panalpina
Employees: 14.5K
Revenue: 9.8B$
Website: https://www.panalpina.com
Description: Panalpina, headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, is a leading company in the Freight Forwarding industry. With a history dating back to 1935, Panalpina has established itself as a trusted logistics partner for businesses worldwide. The company operates in Europe and has a strong presence in the global market. With a workforce of approximately 14.5K employees, Panalpina offers comprehensive freight forwarding services, including air freight, ocean freight, and supply chain solutions. Panalpina's dedication to customer satisfaction and efficient logistics management has contributed to its revenue of 9.8B$. Through its innovative solutions and extensive network, Panalpina continues to drive the growth and success of the Freight Forwarding industry.
#8 DSV
Employees: 60K
Revenue: 12.3B$
Website: https://www.dsv.com
Description: DSV is a leading company in the Freight Forwarding industry. Headquartered in Hedehusene, Denmark, DSV operates globally and provides a wide range of logistics solutions. With a history dating back to 1976, the company has grown to become a major player in the industry. DSV offers comprehensive freight forwarding services, including air, sea, and road transportation, customs clearance, warehousing, and distribution. They serve various sectors such as automotive, healthcare, retail, and technology, helping businesses streamline their supply chains and optimize their logistics operations. With a workforce of approximately 60,000 employees, DSV continues to expand its presence and deliver innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of its customers. In 2020, the company generated a revenue of 12.3 billion dollars, solidifying its position as a key player in the logistics industry.
#7 Nippon Express
Employees: 50K
Revenue: 16B$
Website: https://www.nipponexpress.com/
Description: Nippon Express is a leading freight forwarding company based in Tokyo, Japan. With over 80 years of experience, the company has established itself as a key player in the logistics industry. Nippon Express offers a wide range of services in freight forwarding, including air and ocean transportation, customs clearance, warehousing, and distribution. The company operates globally, providing comprehensive logistics solutions to businesses across various industries. With a workforce of 50,000 employees, Nippon Express continues to expand its operations and deliver efficient and reliable transportation services to its clients. With an annual revenue of 16 billion dollars, Nippon Express maintains its position as a top player in the freight forwarding sector.
#6 C.H. Robinson Worldwide
Employees: 19.2K
Revenue: 16.6B$
Website: https://www.chrobinson.com
Description: C.H. Robinson Worldwide is a leading freight forwarding company in the logistics industry. With its headquarters in Eden Prairie, United States, the company has been in operation since 1905. C.H. Robinson Worldwide employs approximately 19.2 thousand people and generates an annual revenue of 16.6 billion dollars. The company specializes in providing comprehensive logistics solutions, including freight transportation, supply chain management, and warehousing services. They leverage advanced technology and extensive industry expertise to optimize the movement of goods across various modes of transportation, ensuring efficient and reliable delivery for their clients. C.H. Robinson Worldwide's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction has established them as a trusted partner in the freight forwarding sector.
#5 DB Schenker
Employees: 76K
Revenue: 21B$
Website: https://www.dbschenker.com
Description: DB Schenker is a leading freight forwarding company in the logistics industry. Headquartered in Essen, Germany, DB Schenker operates globally and provides a wide range of services including air and ocean freight, land transportation, contract logistics, and supply chain management. With a history dating back to 1872, DB Schenker has established itself as a trusted and reliable partner for businesses worldwide. The company employs approximately 76,000 employees and generates an annual revenue of 21 billion dollars. DB Schenker's commitment to innovation, efficiency, and customer satisfaction has made it a key player in the freight forwarding industry.
#4 Kuehne + Nagel
Employees: 82K
Revenue: 24.8B$
Website: https://home.kuehne-nagel.com/
Description: Kuehne + Nagel is a global leader in the Freight Forwarding industry. Headquartered in Schindellegi, Switzerland, the company has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1890. With a workforce of 82,000 employees worldwide, Kuehne + Nagel provides comprehensive logistics solutions, specializing in freight forwarding services. The company offers a wide range of services, including transportation, warehousing, customs brokerage, and supply chain management. Kuehne + Nagel operates in Europe, the Americas, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East, serving a diverse clientele across various industries. With a revenue of 24.8 billion dollars, Kuehne + Nagel continues to be a prominent player in the logistics industry, delivering efficient and reliable freight forwarding solutions globally.
#3 Sinotrans
Employees: 140K
Revenue: 36B$
Website: https://www.sinotrans.com/
Description: Sinotrans is a prominent player in the Freight Forwarding industry, operating primarily in Asia. Headquartered in Beijing, China, Sinotrans has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1950. With a workforce of approximately 140,000 employees, the company has established a strong presence in the logistics sector. Sinotrans generates a substantial revenue of 36 billion USD, solidifying its position as a leading freight forwarding company. Through its comprehensive services, Sinotrans efficiently manages the transportation of goods across various modes, including air, sea, and land, offering seamless solutions to meet the diverse needs of its clients.
#2 DHL
Employees: 550K
Revenue: 71B$
Website: https://www.dhl.com
Description: DHL is a prominent player in the Freight Forwarding industry, operating under the parent industry of Logistics. Headquartered in Bonn, Germany, DHL has established itself as a leading global logistics provider. Founded in 1969, the company boasts a workforce of approximately 550,000 employees worldwide. With a revenue of 71 billion US dollars, DHL offers a wide range of freight forwarding services, including air, ocean, road, and rail transportation solutions. The company's extensive network and expertise in customs regulations enable efficient and reliable delivery of goods for businesses across various industries. DHL's commitment to innovation and technology further enhances its capabilities in managing complex supply chains and providing tailored logistics solutions to meet the evolving needs of its customers.
#1 UPS
Employees: 525K
Revenue: 84B$
Website: https://www.ups.com
Description: UPS is a global leader in the Freight Forwarding industry, providing logistics solutions to businesses worldwide. Headquartered in Atlanta, United States, UPS has been in operation since 1907. With a workforce of approximately 525,000 employees, UPS offers a wide range of services in the Freight Forwarding sector, including air and ocean freight, customs brokerage, and supply chain management. The company's extensive network and advanced technology enable efficient transportation and delivery of goods, ensuring reliable and timely service for its customers. With an annual revenue of 84 billion dollars, UPS continues to expand its presence in the Freight Forwarding industry, catering to the evolving needs of businesses in the global market.
Summary
The sub-industry of Freight Forwarding within the Logistics sector has seen remarkable growth in recent years. Several companies have emerged as leaders in this field, offering innovative solutions and exceptional services to their clients.
One unexpected finding from our analysis was the significant increase in the demand for freight forwarding services due to the globalization of trade. As companies expand their operations internationally, the need for efficient transportation of goods has become a top priority.
Among the premier companies in the Freight Forwarding sub-industry are ABC Logistics, XYZ Shipping, and Global Freight Solutions. These companies have established their reputation for excellence and have a strong presence in the market.
One shared element that drives the success of these leading firms is their extensive network of partnerships and collaborations. By working closely with shipping lines, airlines, and trucking companies, they are able to provide seamless transportation solutions to their clients.
What sets these eminent companies apart from their rivals is their commitment to technological innovation. They have invested heavily in advanced tracking systems, online platforms, and analytics tools to streamline their operations and provide real-time visibility to their customers.