The freight forwarding industry in India is the key player in connecting businesses to global markets. As trade volumes and diverse shipping needs are increasing, the demand for freight forwarding services in India has been higher than ever. 

A well-established freight forwarding company not only simplifies complex logistics processes but also ensures timely delivery of shipments. Selecting the right partner from the top freight forwarding companies in India is essential to avoid delays, reduce shipping costs, and meet customer expectations. 

In this blog, we’ll explore the best freight companies in India, their working process, and factors to consider when choosing one.

What Does Freight Forwarding Mean?

The freight forwarding refers to the process of transporting goods from their origin to their destination through a freight company. This can involve shipping by road, air, or sea, depending on factors like cost, distance, and urgency. Freight shipping companies take responsibility for ensuring the safe and timely delivery of cargo.

Freight forwarders are specialists who manage and coordinate every step of this process for businesses. They handle tasks such as transportation arrangements, documentation, customs clearance, insurance, and shipment tracking. Many freight forwarding companies in India also provide additional services like storage, warehousing, and negotiating competitive shipping rates.

Process of Freight Forwarding

Freight forwarding involves a series of essential steps to ensure goods are transported efficiently and securely. The entire process of freight forwarding is mentioned below.

Initiating the Shipment Plan: The process begins when the freight company receives a request from the client. They gather details about the type of goods, the destination, delivery deadlines, and special requirements. This information helps create a shipping strategy as per the client’s needs and budget.

Choosing Transportation Options: Based on the shipment requirements, the freight company selects the best transport mode, be it air, sea, road, or rail. They evaluate carriers, negotiate rates, and finalize agreements to ensure safe and cost-effective transit of goods.

Handling Documentation: The freight company prepares shipping invoices, customs forms, and other required paperwork. This step ensures the shipment complies with international regulations, further avoiding delays or penalties.

Managing Shipment Tracking: Throughout the journey, freight forwarding services provide real-time updates about the shipment’s progress. Any potential challenges are addressed immediately to maintain schedules and guarantee the shipment’s safety.

Final Delivery of Shipment: The last step involves completing customs clearance and delivering the shipment to the recipient. The freight company oversees this process to ensure timely and secure delivery of the shipment to its final destination without issues.

Top 11 Freight Forwarding Companies in India

There are many freight forwarders in India. Among them, some of the best ones are mentioned below. 

LORDS Freight India Pvt. Ltd.

LORDS Freight is a subsidiary of Mahindra Logistics. The company specializes in freight forwarding services for air and ocean exports and imports. LORDS Freight’s reputation arises from its robust logistics capabilities. The company provides airfreight, ocean freight, customs brokerage, project cargo handling, and FCL/LCL services. With IATA, FIATA, MTO, and AEO licenses, LORDS ensures high standards in operations. It operates in all major Indian cities and has partnerships with over 100 network partners globally. 

Maersk India

Maersk has over 20 years of experience in India. It was originally founded in 1904 in Denmark. Maersk offers reliable freight forwarding services to connect Indian businesses with the global market. The company has access to 15 ports and 25 offices across India. Maersk is equipped with a fleet of vessels and containers and ensures safe and efficient delivery. It has a presence in 130 countries and offers extensive global reach for Indian businesses. Industries like agriculture, retail, and manufacturing rely on Maersk for their logistics needs.

Ocean Sky Logistics

Ocean Sky Logistics, since its inception in 2014, has built a strong network across India and internationally. The company provides sea and air customs clearance, FCL, LCL import/export solutions, and advanced air and sea freight forwarding. The dedicated team of Ocean Sky Logistics ensures seamless operations across sea, air, and road transportation, adhering to modern global shipping standards. The company has a strong presence in major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai. 

Om Freight Forwarders

Om Freight Forwarders is a Mumbai-based freight forwarding company that has a presence in over 700 locations worldwide. It offers end-to-end freight forwarding which includes customs compliance, warehousing, and distribution. Om Freight Forwarders is accredited by MTO, IATA, and FIATA, thus ensuring compliance with international standards. The company serves major cities and international hubs, such as China, Hong Kong, Europe, and Singapore. 

Seal Freight

Seal Freight was founded in the year 1990 and has become a trusted freight forwarder by offering comprehensive logistics solutions. It offers services, such as international freight forwarding, multimodal transportation, customs clearance, and warehousing. With over 33 years of experience, the company uses advanced technology for supply chain management. Seal Freight has a global presence with direct services across major cargo centers worldwide.

APT Logistics

APT Logistics operates in more than 150 countries and focuses on efficient and customer-oriented freight forwarding services. The company provides end-to-end solutions, including import/export, customs clearance, and supply chain management. With in-depth knowledge of local ports and a collaborative approach, APT Logistics ensures cost-effective operations. TATA, Reliance, L&T, and other leading companies rely on APT for logistics support. 

AWL India Pvt. Ltd.

AWL India specializes in personalized freight forwarding services. It offers air and sea freight forwarding, warehousing, and supply chain solutions tailored to customer needs. AWL ensures reliable international logistics solutions with its strong global network and offices across India. Major Indian locations and gateways, along with over 100 countries worldwide. AWL India Pvt. Ltd. serves industries like retail, lifestyle, FMCG, and special projects.

Stockarea

Stockarea offers a seamless logistics platform for businesses, backed by a decade of experience in freight forwarding services. It provides integrated air and sea freight solutions, customs clearance, warehousing, and inland transportation. Stockarea has a presence at major Indian seaports and airports. The key industries served by it are E-commerce, retail, and pharmaceuticals.

Addax Logistics

Addax Logistics was founded in 2011 and since then it has provided customized freight forwarding services, building strong alliances with global partners. Addax offers comprehensive solutions, be it import, export, or project cargo logistics. Among the 400 industries it serves, pharma, textiles, and FMCG are the major ones.

SVP Logistics 

Founded in 2008, SVP Logistics is known for its end-to-end freight forwarding solutions for businesses of all sizes. It handles air, sea, and land cargo, customs brokerage, and door-to-door delivery. SVP Logistics covers major cities in India and international markets. Pharmaceuticals, garments, and perishable goods are among the sectors it supports. 

Airborne International

Airborne International was established in 2011 and provides reliable courier and freight forwarding services with a focus on customer satisfaction. It provides several services including express courier services, customs clearance, and logistics support. Airborne International is accredited by international bodies, giving assurance of providing timely deliveries and quality service. It has a strong global presence across the USA, the UK, and Canada. Medium and large enterprises across various sectors rely on Airborne for logistics solutions.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Freight Company

Selecting the right freight company is crucial for smooth and reliable shipping operations. With many options available, understanding key factors can help you choose the best freight forwarder for your business needs.

Expertise in the Industry: A freight company with years of experience and industry-specific knowledge is better equipped to handle your shipments. Their expertise ensures compliance with regulations and smooth handling of specialized cargo like perishables or hazardous materials.

Advanced Technology and Support: Opt for a freight company that uses modern tools like real-time tracking and automated solutions. Reliable customer support ensures you stay informed and get assistance promptly during the shipping process.

Global Network: Top freight forwarding companies in India with an extensive global network simplify international shipping. They offer access to reliable carriers and help you navigate customs processes and regulations efficiently, ensuring timely deliveries worldwide.

Comprehensive Freight Forwarding Services: Choose a freight company offering a wide range of freight forwarding services, such as customs clearance, warehousing, and insurance. A full-service provider manages end-to-end logistics which saves you time and effort.

Understand Your Shipping Needs: Clearly define your shipping requirements, including cargo type, volume, and destinations. This helps identify freight companies capable of offering personalized solutions to meet your business needs effectively.

Proven Reputation and Happy Clients: Research customer reviews and ratings to measure a company’s reputation. Freight forwarders with positive feedback and a proven track record are more likely to provide reliable and efficient services.

Value Beyond Cost: While affordability matters, prioritize value. Look for freight forwarding companies in India offering flexible pricing, reliable delivery, and quality services that ensure long-term cost savings.

Conclusion

The success of any business depends heavily on smooth and efficient logistics. Selecting the most suitable freight forwarding company ensures shipments are handled with care, delivered on time, and compliant with regulations. By partnering with the top freight forwarding companies in India, businesses can gain access to reliable networks and advanced shipping solutions. 

Bigship provides comprehensive international air cargo and sea cargo services by ensuring smooth customs clearance and documentation and also providing real-time tracking of shipments. With a focus on reliability and efficiency, Bigship empowers businesses to streamline their logistics and achieve seamless global connectivity.

You can sign up with Bigship to start sending your air and sea cargos around the world.

FAQs