In a world where logistics disruptions are becoming the norm—not the exception—choosing the best freight forwarder can make or break your supply chain. With port bottlenecks, rising compliance challenges, and an increasing demand for real-time visibility, the role of a freight forwarder has never been more critical. That’s why we’ve compiled this in-depth freight forwarder comparison to spotlight the top freight forwarding companies in 2025.
These global freight forwarders distinguish themselves by marrying worldwide reach with cutting-edge digital capabilities and deep regulatory know-how. From temperature-sensitive pharma shipments to high-volume e-commerce logistics, they offer tailored solutions across sea, air, rail, and road—supported by robust customs management, shipment tracking, and transparent pricing.
Whether you’re scaling into new markets or looking to streamline operations, this curated list will help you identify a top freight forwarding company that aligns with your goals. Read on to discover which partners are leading the way in modern logistics—and why they’re trusted by businesses around the world.
1. DHL Global Forwarding
A standout for unparalleled global presence and compliance excellence.
- Operates in over 220 countries and territories
- Full-service customs brokerage and regulatory consulting
- Vertical expertise in healthcare, aerospace, and automotive
- Digital edge: MyDHLi platform supports unified quoting, tracking, and documentation
Best For: Enterprises with complex, large-scale international operations.
2. Kuehne + Nagel
Noted for its balance of ocean/air volume, tech innovation, and sustainability focus.
- Moved 4.3 million TEUs in 2024, dominating Asia–Europe and transatlantic routes
- Offers integrated TMS with predictive ETA analytics
- First mover in CO₂ tracking and green-routing performance
Best For: Businesses targeting cost efficiency and ESG alignment.
3. DB Schenker
Europe’s multimodal powerhouse with a strong digital backbone.
- Leading overland and rail provider across continental Europe
- Achieves 40% faster warehouse fulfilment using AI and automation
- Provides “Connect 4.0” portal for full shipment transparency
Best For: EU-based SMEs with scaling ambitions and distribution needs.
4. DSV Global Transport and Logistics
Following Panalpina’s integration, DSV delivers 360-degree logistics.
- Expanded ocean and air coverage globally
- Offers contract logistics, including kitting and returns management
- Provides unified visibility across end-to-end supply chains
Best For: Companies seeking all-in-one forwarding and 3PL solutions.
5. Expeditors International
Renowned for controlled, in-house forwarding operations.
- Present in 100+ countries with Seattle headquarters
- Handles all forwarding internally—no third-party subcontracting
- Among the top global air freight forwarders per IATA volumes
Best For: Shippers prioritizing hands-on compliance and service reliability.
6. Bolloré Logistics
Africa’s freight leader, with deepening global infrastructure.
- Dominates logistics across West Africa, while expanding in Asia
- Specializes in pharma, aerospace, and humanitarian freight
- Leading corporate social responsibility (CSR) and “green logistics” efforts
Best For: Businesses entering emerging markets needing reliable regional partners.
7. Noatum Logistics
Expert in Mediterranean trade flows, with expanding global reach.
- Dominates freight operations across Iberia, North Africa, and Latin America
- Offers project cargo, customs brokerage, and terminal logistics
- Integrated into AD Ports Group, enabling seamless multimodal services
Best For: Mediterranean–MENA corridor shippers.
8. Ziegler Group
Family-run with deep western European expertise and agility.
- Runs 150+ logistics facilities across Europe
- Offers tailored, SME-friendly customs and warehousing solutions
- Known for flexible, customer-centric service
Best For: SMEs needing bespoke European forwarding services.
9. Greencarrier Freight Services
Sustainability-driven forwarding across the Nordics and Baltics.
- Provides multimodal solutions with green credentials
- Delivers seamless digital onboarding and responsive support
- Operates with a clear eco-focus on fuel efficiency and emissions
Best For: Environmentally conscious shippers in Northern Europe.
10. Transmec Group
Combining European road strength with retail logistics expertise.
- Over 160 years in road and rail forwarding
- Excelling in fashion, retail, and just-in-time logistics
- Offers e-fulfillment and cross-border trucking specialties
Best For: Retailers and brands requiring tailored EU logistics.
11. Nippon Express
Precision Asian logistics at global scale.
- Strong intra-Asia and global air/ocean forwarding network
- Trusted for electronics and automotive cargo
- Expanding network in response to post-pandemic demand
Best For: Asia-origin shippers needing reliable international freight.
12. GEODIS
A tech-led multimodal leader under the SNCF umbrella.
- Operates across 166 countries
- GEODIS Visibility platform offers live shipment insight
- Specialized in industrial and retail verticals
Best For: Integrated logistics including freight and warehousing.
13. Omida
A rising Eastern European integrator focused on reliability and regional strength.
- 30+ branches with a 500-strong team
- Delivers 400,000+ orders annually via its Polish road and intermodal network
- Transparent, digital-first operations with freight rates starting at $25–49/hr
Best For: Shippers relying on Poland as a strategic EU logistics hub.
14. Girteka Group
Europe’s road transport giant with remarkable scale and modernisation.
- Operates 9,200+ trucks and delivers 775,000+ full loads annually
- 23,000-strong workforce with €1.93 billion revenue in 2022
- Ordered 2,000 Volvo trucks in 2025—the largest single order in Europe
- Pioneering digital transformation with SAP and AI integration
Best For: High-volume European road freight needing scale, modernity, and fleet control.
This carefully curated list spans global giants and regional leaders, each selected for different strategic strengths—from digital platform innovation to industry alignment and trade-lane specialization. Whether you’re shipping across continents or within Europe, you’ll find the right partner tailored to your sector, volume, and logistics needs.
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