India’s trade landscape is changing fast. With exports projected to touch $900 billion by 2030 and manufacturing boosted by Make in India and PLI schemes, logistics has become the backbone of growth. Yet, India still spends 13–14% of GDP on logistics, well above the global average of 8–9%. That’s where freight forwarders step in.
More than just movers of cargo, freight forwarders book space, consolidate shipments, clear customs, manage paperwork, and now even provide real-time visibility through digital platforms. For India’s exporters, especially SMEs who contribute nearly 45% of exports, a reliable freight forwarding partner can mean the difference between seamless trade and costly delays.
In this guide, we break down the best freight forwarding companies in India in 2025 that bring legacy networks with digital innovation to keep Indian businesses globally competitive.
The Freight Forwarding Landscape in India
Don’t think that freight forwarding and direct shipping are the same. Both international shipping methods are used by businesses at their convenience.
In today’s trade environment, freight forwarding in India is beyond a back-office function. It becomes a strategic lever for competitiveness. As supply chains expand and global trade routes grow more intricate, forwarders have stepped up from simply arranging shipments to becoming compliance advisors, cost negotiators, and digital partners who keep businesses moving without friction.
The Role of FFFAI
The Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations in India (FFFAI) is the apex body representing over 5,000 customs brokers and freight forwarders. It plays a critical role in shaping policy dialogues with the government, advocating for simplified customs processes, and training the next generation of logistics professionals.
Importantly, FFFAI maintains India’s alignment with the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA), ensuring Indian forwarders meet global service standards. For shippers, choosing an FFFAI-affiliated forwarder is a signal of professionalism and appropriate regulatory compliance.
Opportunities for Businesses in 2025
Here are the most probable opportunities for businesses:
Projects like PM Gati Shakti and multimodal logistics parks are improving port, road, and rail integration. This will gradually bring India’s logistics costs closer to global benchmarks.
India’s new FTAs with markets like the UAE and Australia are opening doors for exporters. Freight forwarders with FTA expertise can help businesses benefit from tariff reductions and simplified compliance.
With SMEs contributing nearly 45% of exports, forwarders act as their extended logistics arm. The growth of e-commerce and D2C brands has further increased demand for cost-effective, tech-enabled freight solutions.
Persistent Challenges in Businesses
Take a look at the potential challenges that can usually be found in businesses in India:
Busy hubs like JNPT and Chennai still face congestion, delaying cargo clearance. Forwarders with strong networks often mitigate these risks by rerouting shipments.
Managing documents for the legal import process in India is always a pain point. Experienced forwarders with in-house brokerage capabilities reduce delays and penalties.
Inland connectivity in Tier-2 and Tier-3 regions is still underdeveloped. Exporters in these clusters depend on forwarders with strong domestic transport partnerships.
What to Know when evaluating Freight Forwarders for managing the supply chain?
Choosing a freight forwarder is no longer just about hiring someone to move cargo. For Indian exporters and importers, the right freight forwarder partner can reduce costs, shorten transit times, and ease the headaches of regulatory compliance. Here are the core factors businesses should weigh before committing to a forwarder:
1. Network Reach
A forwarder’s value lies in its global and domestic partnerships. Large players like Allcargo have extensive worldwide networks, giving businesses access to more shipping routes and priority cargo space.
Regional forwarders may be cost-effective but could struggle with destinations outside their core areas. One thing to understand: for exporters aiming to grow internationally, global reach is non-negotiable.
2. Customs Expertise
Delays at Indian ports come down to customs documentation errors. A forwarder with in-house customs brokerage manages paperwork correctly, duties are calculated properly, and shipments clear faster. This can be very important to save the business from supplier fraud in international trade.
For industries with sensitive compliance like pharma or chemicals, this expertise prevents both fines and reputational damage.
3. Technology Integration
Today, visibility is as important as speed. Forwarders offering real-time shipment tracking, automated documentation, and predictive analytics give businesses more control over supply chains.
Digital-first players like iKargos and Delhivery are setting new benchmarks, while even traditional firms are adopting technology to stay relevant.
4. Industry Specialization
Forwarders specializing in perishables understand cold-chain logistics; those in e-commerce focus on last-mile efficiency; and those in heavy engineering know how to handle oversized freight.
Matching your business sector to a forwarder’s expertise reduces operational surprises. It is important that all cargo shipping is not the same.
5. Financial Stability
Freight rates fluctuate daily, and carriers usually demand upfront payments. Financially stable forwarders can negotiate better rates, absorb short-term price shocks, and ensure your cargo isn’t left stranded due to liquidity issues.
For exporters with long-term contracts, this stability is a critical safeguard.
Bottom line: The best freight forwarding companies in India combine these factors: network, compliance, technology, specialization, and financial strength. Businesses that evaluate forwarders through this lens are far less likely to face delays, hidden costs, or missed opportunities in global trade.
Top 10 Freight Forwarding Companies in India in 2025
Here is the complete list of the best freight forwarding companies in India:
1. iLife Import
iLife Imports has carved a unique space in India’s import logistics, specializing in sourcing and delivering goods from China directly to Indian businesses. Based in Vasai, Mumbai, the company offers end-to-end services that go beyond transport. It includes product sourcing, supplier verification, customs clearance (on both sides), quality inspections, and warehousing.
With over 10 years in the trade, iLife has built a reputation for hassle-free, door-to-door deliveries tailored for small and growing businesses. Their hands-on approach manages each consignment, whether electronics, apparel, or kitchenware, and moves smoothly and transparently from the factory floor in China to your doorstep in India.
What sets them apart:
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Door-to-door air and sea freight paired with customs support in India and China
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In-house sourcing, inspection, and vendor liaison as value-added services
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Tailored delivery solutions with a focus on reliability and affordability.
Experience:
For over a decade, iLife has served as the bridge between Indian importers and Chinese suppliers. Their experience shines in seamless coordination, from supplier discovery to final delivery.
Best For:
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Small to mid-sized businesses importing varied goods from China
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Entrepreneurs looking for one-stop support with sourcing, inspections, and customs
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Anyone prioritizing clarity and ease—from quotation to in-country delivery
2. Delhivery
Delhivery began as an e-commerce logistics startup but has since grown into India’s largest integrated logistics provider, with a strong freight forwarding arm. Known for its tech-led approach, Delhivery operates across express parcel, supply chain, trucking, and now international forwarding. Their platform-driven model allows businesses to book and track cargo with ease, making them especially attractive to digital-first brands and exporters.
Backed by a strong investor base and now publicly listed, Delhivery brings the credibility of scale along with the innovation of a startup. For Indian businesses that need speed and tech integration, Delhivery delivers both.
What sets them apart:
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Strong e-commerce and D2C freight forwarding solutions
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Tech-enabled booking and real-time visibility
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Global partnerships for air and ocean freight
Experience:
Founded in 2011, Delhivery has rapidly scaled to become a logistics giant. Their decade-long journey reflects innovation, scale, and digital-first thinking.
Best For:
- D2C brands scaling to global markets
- Exporters who value real-time visibility
- Businesses needing express forwarding + tech integration
3. Allcargo Logistics
Allcargo Logistics has grown from a regional forwarder in Mumbai into India’s largest integrated logistics provider with operations in more than 180 countries.
What sets them apart is their ability to manage every link in the supply chain, from freight forwarding and contract logistics to container stations and multimodal transport. Their strong footprint at Indian ports and inland hubs gives businesses the confidence that cargo will not just leave on time but also arrive without costly surprises.
For enterprises looking for both reach and resilience, Allcargo remains a trusted name that balances global scale with on-the-ground expertise.
What sets them apart:
- Industry leader in Less-than-Container Load (LCL) consolidation
- Advanced infrastructure covering CFS, ICDs, and warehouses
- Reliable project logistics for heavy and oversized cargo
Experience:
With 30+ years in the market, Allcargo has weathered multiple trade cycles and disruptions. Their consistency has made them a first call for many exporters and importers alike.
Best For:
- Large exporters need strong international networks
- Heavy industries moving machinery, oil & gas, or oversized freight
- Companies that want a single partner for freight, warehousing, and distribution
4. Khimji Poonja Freight Forwarders
Khimji Poonja Freight Forwarders is one of India’s oldest and most trusted names in shipping, dating back to 1922. With roots in Mumbai, the company has built its reputation on accuracy, compliance, and deep knowledge of trade regulations.
Over the decades, Khimji Poonja has expanded from being a customs clearing agent into a full-service freight forwarder that offers sea and air freight solutions.
For businesses that want assurance that their documentation will not derail a shipment, this company stands out as a partner that combines tradition with modern processes, ensuring goods move across borders smoothly.
What sets them apart:
- Strong focus on customs clearance and trade compliance
- Close relationships with shipping lines and port authorities
- Experience handling complex regulatory requirements
Experience:
With over 100 years in the business, Khimji Poonja has seen every evolution in Indian trade. Their century-old expertise still translates into faster, smoother cross-border cargo movement.
Best For:
- Exporters in textiles, chemicals, or engineering goods
- Companies with shipments requiring special regulatory compliance
- Businesses that value an experienced partner for customs and documentation
5. ONS Logistics India Pvt Ltd
ONS Logistics India Pvt Ltd is a Mumbai-based forwarder that has carved a niche with personalized services for small and mid-sized exporters. The company offers sea, air, and land freight solutions along with warehousing support, with a special focus on Western India trade routes.
Unlike larger multinational forwarders, ONS builds on agility, ensuring customers get hands-on support and direct communication. For businesses that don’t just want transactional forwarding but a partner who knows the regional nuances, ONS strikes a balance between affordability and dependability. Its steady growth over the past decade reflects its customer-first approach.
What sets them apart:
- Expertise in Mumbai and Gujarat port networks
- Sea, air, and road forwarding at competitive rates
- Tailored services for small and medium enterprises
Experience:
In just over a decade, ONS Logistics has built a solid reputation with SMEs by staying flexible and cost-conscious. Their growth comes from building long-term relationships with exporters.
Best For:
- Small and medium businesses looking for cost efficiency
- Exporters in chemicals, textiles, and engineering products
- Companies seeking personalized support and responsiveness over big-brand scale
6. iKargos
iKargos is a new-age digital freight forwarder that’s reshaping how Indian businesses manage cross-border logistics. Based in New Delhi, the company operates through an end-to-end online platform that simplifies booking, documentation, and cargo tracking.
Traditional forwarders that rely heavily on manual processes, iKargos leverages technology to offer real-time visibility and transparent pricing. This approach is particularly appealing to startups, SMEs, and e-commerce players that demand agility and control over costs.
iKargos represents the shift toward digital-first logistics models in India’s growing export economy.
What sets them apart:
- Tech-enabled platform for booking and documentation
- Real-time shipment visibility and predictive tracking
- Transparent, upfront pricing with digital workflows
Experience:
As a newer entrant, iKargos doesn’t have decades of history but has quickly gained traction. Their appeal lies in modern solutions tailored for digital-first businesses.
Best For:
- Startups and SMEs that value real-time visibility
- D2C and e-commerce exporters seeking transparency
- Companies looking to streamline freight forwarding with digital tools
7. AWL India Pvt Ltd
AWL India has steadily emerged as one of the fastest-growing logistics and freight forwarder companies in the country. Headquartered in Gurugram, AWL offers a wide spectrum of services, including air freight, ocean freight, contract logistics, and e-commerce fulfillment.
What differentiates AWL is its heavy investment in technology, whether it’s real-time cargo tracking, warehouse automation, or predictive analytics for route optimization. Their solutions are designed not just to move goods, but to help businesses reduce costs and scale globally.
In an industry that often lags in digitization, AWL India is positioning itself as a modern, forward-thinking logistics partner.
What sets them apart:
- Digitally driven freight forwarding and warehousing solutions
- Strong expertise in e-commerce logistics and fulfillment
- Multimodal capabilities for domestic and global supply chains
Experience:
Though relatively younger than legacy forwarders, AWL has built a reputation in under 15 years. Their strength lies in tech-led growth, serving fast-moving businesses across India.
Best For:
- D2C and e-commerce companies scaling across borders
- Mid-sized exporters looking for cost-efficient solutions
- Businesses seeking tech-enabled warehousing and fulfillment
8. VTL (Vinayak Transport & Logistics)
VTL started as a transport company but has expanded into a trusted freight forwarding player with strong domestic and global reach. Based in Gujarat, they specialize in handling containerized cargo for industries like textiles, agriculture, and chemicals. Their services include sea and air freight, customs brokerage, and door-to-door delivery.
VTL’s strength lies in its hybrid model by combining deep trucking experience with freight forwarding know-how. This allows them to deliver consistent service across India’s fragmented logistics landscape.
For exporters in Western India, VTL offers reliability and a cost-conscious approach without overcomplicating the process.
What sets them apart:
- Strong roots in container transport and trucking
- Simplified forwarding for exporters in textiles and agriculture
- Customs and port handling expertise in Gujarat
Experience:
With over two decades of logistics expertise, VTL blends transport muscle with forwarding capability. Their customer base has grown steadily, especially among Gujarat-based exporters.
Best For:
- Textile exporters from Gujarat and Rajasthan
- Agricultural and bulk commodity exporters
- Companies needing a balance of trucking + forwarding under one roof
9. Gateway Distriparks (with Snowman Logistics)
Gateway Distriparks is one of India’s leading integrated logistics providers with a unique strength in cold chain logistics through its subsidiary Snowman. Headquartered in Mumbai, the company operates container freight stations, inland container depots, and rail-linked logistics hubs. Its cold chain specialization makes it a go-to partner for industries like pharmaceuticals, food, and perishables, where temperature control is important.
Beyond that, Gateway offers reliable multimodal freight forwarding services across India’s major trade hubs. Their combination of rail connectivity and cold chain infrastructure positions them as a niche yet highly dependable logistics partner.
What sets them apart:
- Cold chain logistics for pharma and perishables
- Container freight stations and ICDs across India
- Multimodal connectivity with strong rail presence
Experience:
With over two decades in logistics, Gateway has specialized in combining freight forwarding with temperature-sensitive cargo expertise. Their consistency makes them trusted across pharma and FMCG.
Best For:
- Pharmaceutical exporters needing cold chain assurance
- Food and perishable goods exporters
- Businesses that need reliable multimodal and rail-linked solutions
10. Tiger Logistics (India) Ltd
Tiger Logistics, headquartered in New Delhi, is one of India’s well-established names in international freight forwarding. Listed on the NSE, it offers end-to-end logistics services across sea, air, road, and rail. The company is known for handling large-scale project logistics—such as defense, energy, and infrastructure shipments.
With strong ties to international shipping lines and airline carriers, Tiger ensures competitive rates and capacity assurance. Their strength lies in combining scale with sector-specific expertise, which is why they remain a trusted partner for industries where delays can cost crores.
What set them apart:
- Project cargo for defense, energy, and infrastructure
- Global air and sea freight partnerships
- Strong compliance and documentation support
Experience:
With over 25 years in the business, Tiger Logistics has handled some of India’s most complex logistics projects. Their expertise lies in managing high-value, sensitive cargo.
Best For:
- Large industries with oversized or critical cargo
- Energy, engineering, and defense sectors
- Businesses needing secure and time-sensitive solutions
Conclusion
Freight forwarding isn’t just about moving goods; it’s about choosing a partner who understands your business, your timelines, and the challenges of international trade. Big players with global reach serve large corporations well, but for many Indian businesses, especially SMEs, the real need is a partner who simplifies the journey. That’s where iLife Import makes a difference.
From helping you source the right supplier in China to handling customs, quality checks, and delivering to your doorstep in India, they cover every step so you don’t have to juggle multiple service providers.
If you’re serious about importing from China without the usual headaches, iLife Import is worth exploring. They bring reliability, transparency, and a hands-on approach that small and growing businesses value most.
FAQs
- What exactly does a freight forwarder do in India?
A freight forwarder coordinates the entire logistics chain without physically moving your goods. They book cargo, manage documentation like bills of lading and customs forms, negotiate with carriers, and track your shipment from origin to destination. It’s like having a trusted guide handle all the steps, so you focus on your core business.
- How much does freight forwarding typically cost?
Freight forwarding costs vary greatly depending on your goods, origin, destination, mode of transport, and services like insurance or warehousing. Forwarders will give you a detailed quote covering all elements. So, you’re not hit with surprise charges later.
- What’s required to import goods from China to India?
You’ll likely need documents like a commercial invoice, bill of lading number, packing list, and your IEC (Import–Export Code). Depending on the item, certificates like BIS or health and safety approvals might also be required.
- How long does it take for shipments from China to reach India?
Transit time depends heavily on the mode of transport:
- Air Freight takes 4–10 days. Best for urgent shipments or high-value goods.
- Sea Freight usually takes 10–35 days. Cost-effective for bulk cargo but slower due to port handling and vessel schedules.
- Rail Freight takes 15–25 days. A growing option via the China–Europe rail network with onward trucking to India, offering a middle ground between sea and air.
- Truck Freight (cross-border in India) takes 2–7 days within South Asia (Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh routes). Domestically in India, trucking from port to warehouse usually adds 1–5 days, depending on distance and road conditions.
Planning buffer time for customs and seasonal delays is always wise.
- Are there major differences between air and sea freight?
Yes. Air freight is faster but costlier, while sea freight offers huge savings for bulky or non-urgent shipments. The right choice depends on your priorities: speed or cost-efficiency.
- How can I ensure smooth customs clearance?
Work with a forwarder that has in-house customs brokerage. They’ll ensure all duties are calculated accurately, paperwork is error-free, and cargo clears quickly. It saves you from delays and penalties.
- What’s the deal with freight charges: FOB vs. CIF?
These are Incoterms: FOB (Free on Board) means the buyer handles shipping from the port of origin. CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) means the seller pays up to the destination port. Deciding which fits your risk and budget is key.
