Top Freight Forwarders: Choosing the Right Logistics Partner

3. DHL Global Forwarding

Website : https://www.dhl.com/global-en/home/global-forwarding.html

Part of Deutsche Post DHL Group, DHL Global Forwarding is best known for its air freight excellence. It has the widest global network for time-sensitive shipments and is a trusted partner for companies requiring speed and reliability.

• Global leader in air freight forwarding.
• Integrated multimodal transport: sea, air, and road.
• Customs brokerage and supply chain optimization.
• Limitation: pricing is usually higher than independent forwarders. 

4. DB Schenker

Website : https://www.dbschenker.com/global 

Owned by Deutsche Bahn, DB Schenker is a powerhouse in intermodal freight, especially within Europe. By combining rail, road, air, and sea, it offers sustainable solutions for companies looking to optimize routes and reduce carbon footprints.

• Expertise in European rail and road freight.
• Services include air and ocean freight, logistics, and supply chain solutions.
• Strong global presence with a focus on Europe and North America.
• Limitation: slower and less flexible than challenger brands. 

5. DSV Panalpina

​​Website : https://www.dsv.com/ 

Following its acquisition of Panalpina, DSV became one of the top logistics providers worldwide. Headquartered in Denmark, it offers extensive freight solutions for global trade.

• Operations in 80+ countries.
• Services: air, sea, road transport, and contract logistics.
• Known for competitive rates at large volumes.
• Limitation: tends to focus on multinational clients over SMEs. 

6. Expeditors International

Website : https://www.expeditors.com/ 

Expeditors International, based in Seattle, USA, is recognized for its high-performing IT systems and a strong position in air freight forwarding. It combines technology with efficiency, making it a popular choice for tech-driven industries.

• Focus on air freight and supply chain visibility.
• Over 300 offices in more than 100 countries.
• Customs clearance and supply chain consulting.
• Limitation: weaker presence in certain emerging markets. 

7. Sinotrans

Website : https://www.sinotrans.com/ 

As one of the largest Chinese logistics companies, Sinotrans is closely tied to China’s global trade flows. It plays a central role in moving goods from Asia to the rest of the world, supported by strong government-linked networks.

• Dominant in China-to-world trade lanes.
• Full suite: ocean freight, air freight, warehousing, distribution.
• Strong cost competitiveness in Asia.
• Limitation: less flexible outside Asian markets.
  

8. C.H. Robinson

Website : https://www.chrobinson.com/ 

Based in the United States, C.H. Robinson is North America’s leader in road freight and logistics. Its strength lies in its vast trucking network, complemented by freight forwarding services.

• Specialization in North American road freight.
• Services include customs brokerage, forwarding, and 3PL.
• Proprietary digital platform “Navisphere” enhances visibility.
• Limitation: less strong in international maritime routes.

9. Nippon Express

Website : https://www.nipponexpress.com/ 

Nippon Express, headquartered in Japan, is a trusted forwarder with strong expertise in automotive, technology, and electronics logistics. It is particularly reliable within Asia, supported by decades of know-how.

• Leading logistics provider in Asia.
• Specialized in automotive and high-tech industries.
• Services: multimodal forwarding, warehousing, distribution.
• Limitation: less competitive outside Asia.

10. CEVA Logistics (CMA CGM Group)

Website : https://www.cevalogistics.com/en 

Owned by French shipping giant CMA CGM, CEVA Logistics benefits from direct access to one of the largest container fleets worldwide. This gives it a competitive advantage in sea freight and integrated logistics.

• Backed by CMA CGM, ensuring reliable maritime capacity.
• Full-service offering: air, sea, land, and contract logistics.
• Good option for shippers prioritizing ocean freight.
• Limitation: not as balanced in other modes compared to competitors.

What Is a Freight Forwarder?

A freight forwarder is an intermediary that organizes transportation of goods between shippers and carriers. Instead of owning ships, planes, or trucks, they coordinate logistics across multiple partners, ensuring smooth delivery from origin to destination.

Key responsibilities include:

• Booking cargo space with carriers.
• Preparing export/import documentation.
• Handling customs clearance and compliance.
• Consolidating shipments for cost efficiency.
• Offering warehousing, insurance, and last-mile delivery.