Imagine shipping goods across oceans without worrying about delays, customs paperwork, or lost cargo. That’s the promise of freight forwarding, a behind-the-scenes service that keeps global trade moving smoothly.
A single disruption can ripple across supply chains, costing time and money. This is why the choice of a freight forwarder is not just a business decision; it’s a strategic one.
In this article, we’ll spotlight seven leading freight forwarding companies in 2025 that stand out for their innovation, scale, and ability to keep global trade moving forward with confidence.
1. DHL Global Forwarding
As one of the most reputable freight forwarding service providers globally, DHL Global Forwarding operates in over 220 countries. It is a great option for companies that rely on smooth international trade due to its unparalleled global reach.
Beyond moving goods, DHL offers strong customs brokerage and compliance expertise, ensuring shipments meet regulations in even the most complex markets. The company also focuses on key sectors where accuracy and reliability are crucial, such as healthcare, aerospace, and automotive.
Clients enjoy simplified quoting, tracking, and documentation with its MyDHLi platform.
Best for: large enterprises managing complex, multi-market operations.
2. Kuehne + Nagel
A global leader in freight forwarding services, Kuehne + Nagel employs roughly 80,000 people across 1,345 locations in almost 100 countries. It provides all-inclusive solutions for contract, air, sea, and road logistics, making it a flexible option for companies managing intricate supply chains.
The company leads the way in digital innovation and sustainability. Businesses are able to measure and cut CO₂ emissions while optimizing transportation routes and modes for environmental sustainability with the help of Kuehne + Nagel’s carbon calculator and Seaexplorer platform.
In 2025, Kuehne + Nagel reported significant volume growth—air logistics up 7% to 1.1 million tonnes and sea freight rising in turnover and container traffic. They’ve also expanded their physical footprint with a new road logistics and customs facility at the US–Mexico border to support near-shoring trends and cross-docking needs.
Ideal for: Companies looking for a progressive, internationally integrated partner with superior digital tools, sustainability, and multimodal forwarding skills.
3. DB Schenker
DB Schenker is a top-tier name among freight forwarding services companies, especially for European routes. Here’s why it’s a standout choice:
- DB Schenker excels in overland and rail transport across the continent, making it a reliable hub for diverse supply chain needs.
- With AI and automation, it achieves up to 40% faster warehouse fulfillment, helping clients reduce delays and move goods more efficiently.
- Their digital portal, Connect 4.0, offers full visibility into shipments—all the way from origin to destination.
- As of April 2025, DB Schenker became a subsidiary of DSV, operating across over 130 countries, with more than 71,000 employees and €19 billion in 2024 revenue—solidifying its global presence and capabilities.
Best For: EU-based SMEs aiming to scale, especially those needing reliable multimodal logistics, digital visibility, and faster fulfillment with a trusted partner.
4. DSV Global Transport and Logistics
A major force in the freight forwarding services industry, DSV Global Transport and Logistics is distinguished by its broad worldwide reach and merger-driven expansion approach.
- DSV offers air, sea, road, and contract logistics services across more than 80 countries with around 75,000 employees.
- The company has rapidly ascended the industry ranks through acquisitions such as Panalpina in 2019 and Agility’s Global Integrated Logistics in 2021, positioning it among the world’s top three transport and logistics firms.
- In a landmark move, DSV completed the acquisition of DB Schenker (formerly under Deutsche Bahn) on April 30, 2025. This merger vaulted DSV to the top of the global freight forwarding rankings by volume and revenue.
- With these integrations, DSV provides seamless, end-to-end logistics visibility, from booking to delivery, covering every mode of transport under one powerful organizational umbrella.
Ideal For: Companies seeking a freight forwarding services provider with unparalleled operational scale, worldwide reach, and the ease of integrated logistics solutions.
5. Expeditors International
Expeditors International’s unique business model has helped it establish a reputation as one of the most dependable freight forwarding service providers.
Unlike many competitors, Expeditors manages every part of the forwarding process internally, without relying on subcontractors. For all shipments, this hands-on approach guarantees greater control, uniform service standards, and stronger compliance.
Based on IATA volumes, the Seattle-based company is one of the leading international air freight forwarders, with operations in over 100 countries. With a focus on precision and accountability, Expeditors appeals to businesses that prioritize reliability and transparency in logistics operations.
It remains the go-to choice for shippers who want a trusted partner capable of navigating complex compliance requirements while maintaining direct control over their supply chain.
Best For: Shippers that value direct control, strong compliance, and highly dependable freight forwarding services.
6. Bolloré Logistics
Among the major international freight forwarding services providers, Bolloré Logistics is especially well-established in Africa, where it controls the majority of logistics operations, particularly in West Africa.
Beyond the continent, the company keeps growing its network in Asia and other important markets, which makes it a smart option for companies starting or growth in developing nations.
Bolloré is also renowned for its proficiency in delicate fields where accuracy and dependability are essential, like pharmaceuticals, aerospace, and humanitarian assistance.
The business has also established a solid reputation for its CSR initiatives and is a pioneer in environmentally friendly and sustainable logistics techniques. It also does ocean freight.
Best For: Businesses entering emerging or frontier markets that require dependable regional expertise combined with a commitment to sustainable logistics.
7. Noatum Logistics
Noatum Logistics, which has a solid presence in the Mediterranean, Iberia, North Africa, and Latin America, has established itself as one of the top freight forwarding service providers.
Being a part of the AD Ports Group allows the business to easily integrate with port and terminal operations, providing clients with easy access to multimodal solutions.
It provides project cargo management, customs brokerage, and terminal logistics in addition to standard freight forwarding, all of which are customized to satisfy various business requirements.
This makes Noatum especially valuable for companies operating within complex trade corridors where efficiency and expertise are vital.
Ideal For: Shippers focused on Mediterranean–MENA and Latin American trade routes that need a trusted freight forwarding partner with multimodal strengths.
Summary
The global supply chain is becoming more complex, and the role of freight forwarding services companies has never been more crucial.
From giants like DHL and Kuehne + Nagel with their worldwide reach to regional experts such as Bolloré and Noatum, each company brings unique strengths to the table.
The right choice depends on your business goals—whether it’s entering emerging markets, prioritizing sustainability, or managing large-scale international operations with advanced digital tools.
What remains clear is that reliable freight forwarder services are not just a service provider but a long-term partner in building efficient, resilient, and future-ready global trade.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a freight forwarder?
A freight forwarder is a company that arranges the transportation of goods across international borders. They manage logistics, customs clearance, and documentation, and ensure goods move smoothly through different modes of transport.
Why are freight forwarding services companies important for global trade?
They simplify complex shipping processes, provide compliance expertise, and offer real-time visibility. By doing so, they help businesses save time, reduce costs, and avoid disruptions in the supply chain.
How do I choose the right freight forwarding company?
Look at factors like global reach, industry specialization, digital tools for visibility, sustainability practices, and the company’s ability to handle compliance in your trade lanes.
Do small businesses also need freight forwarding list companies?
Yes. SMEs benefit from affordable shipping solutions, expert customs support, and the ability to scale operations internationally with reliable partners.
Which industries rely most on freight forwarders?
Industries such as healthcare, aerospace, automotive, e-commerce, and retail rely heavily on freight forwarders because they require fast, secure, and compliant international shipping.
