Top 10 Shipping Companies In India

Introduction

Have your product deliveries been delayed, RTOs been rising, and are you dealing with endless “Where is my order?” queries from customers?

In India’s growing logistics industry, shipping partners have a big impact on your brand reputation, cash flow, and customer retention. As companies diversify from offline to online commerce, shipping becomes a differentiating factor for their business.

Whether you are an eCommerce seller, MSME, manufacturer, or enterprise, your growth largely depends on your tech-driven courier networks, nationwide surface connectivity, expanded air cargo, and growing international trade routes.

That’s why we’ve created this list of the Top 10 Shipping Companies in India, based on service coverage, reliability, technology capabilities, pricing flexibility, and business suitability.

If you’re looking for the top shipping companies in India that dominate the maritime trade sector, offering services ranging from container transport to bulk carriers, then this guide will help you compare options clearly and make an informed decision.

Let’s get started.

Top 10 Shipping Companies in India: Summary

• Shipping Corporation of India (SCI): A government-backed maritime shipping corporation handling bulk carriers, tankers, and liner services.
• Maersk Line India: Few names carry as much weight in container shipping as Maersk. Their India operations tie major local ports directly into global trade routes across Europe, the US, and Asia.
• MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company): One of the world’s largest container shipping companies, providing high-frequency sailings and extensive logistics solutions across Indian and global markets.
• CMA CGM: High-frequency departures and a broad service range provide fast, reliable logistics and door-to-door solutions.
• Hapag-Lloyd: A digital-first approach and strong sustainability measures make shipping more efficient and reliable.
• Ocean Network Express (ONE): ONE offers live tracking, digital booking, and advanced financial management for container shipments.
• The Great Eastern Shipping Company: It is India’s largest private-sector shipping firm, specializing in crude oil, petroleum products, dry bulk cargo, and offshore energy shipments.
• Allcargo Logistics: Expert in multimodal transport, customs clearance, and cargo handling for various logistics needs.
• Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone: India’s top port operator, providing integrated cargo and logistics infrastructure.
• Evergreen Line: A Taiwan-based global container carrier operating in India since 2004, connecting exporters to Asia-Europe and Transpacific trade lanes with a sustainability-focused, digitally equipped fleet.

How We Ranked These Companies

To ensure high credibility and trust for our rankings, we used a multi-dimensional analysis that included the following factors:

• Market visibility
• Delivery network
• Technology adoption
• Customer reviews
• Industry reputation
• Service diversity

List of Shipping Companies in India: Detailed Reviews

Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) – runOverview, Services, Pros & Cons

Established: 1961 | Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra | Market Share: ₹12,000 Crore

Founded in 1961, SCI is India’s state-owned maritime shipping company and one of the few operators running a fleet this size, with 60-70 tankers, bulk carriers, container vessels, and offshore ships under its name.

When it comes to ocean trade, SCI sits at the backbone of India’s import-export infrastructure, quietly keeping cargo moving across international waters.

Key Services of SCI:

• Bulk carrier, tanker, and break-bulk cargo transportation
• Offshore vessels for oil and gas operations
• Coastal shipping & Passenger Services

Key Strengths of SCI:

• Backed by the government
• Diverse fleet covering tankers, bulk carriers, and offshore vessels under one operator.
• 60+ years of experience in crude oil and bulk cargo handling.

Best For:

Large-scale bulk cargo, energy supply, and government-supported trade projects.

Not Ideal For:

Small parcel shipping or time-sensitive express logistics.

Pros & Cons of SCI:

Maersk Line India – Overview, Services, Pros & Cons

Established: 1990s (India operations), incorporated 2011 | Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra | Market Share: ₹256 crore in 2024

Maersk Line India is the local arm of the Maersk Group, a name that needs little introduction in global shipping. From Mundra and Nhava Sheva, they run ocean freight and supply chain operations that extend to Europe, the US, and Asia.

What sets them apart is how much they bundle container shipping, inland logistics, and digital freight tools through a single operator.

Key Services of Maersk Line India:

• FCL & Reefer container shipping
• Inland transport and multimodal logistics
• supply chain services, warehousing, & distribution centers

Key Strengths of Maersk Line India:

• End to end integrated logistics network
• Advanced digital booking ecosystem
• Growing Warehousing & cold chain

Pricing of Maersk Line India:

• Container: Approx. ₹7,500–₹18,000
• 20′ dry container protection: ₹2,400
• Origin Terminal Handling (OHC): ₹10,950 (20′ Dry) to ₹17,000 (40′ HC)

Best For

FMCG, retail, pharma, and exporters that need reliable global container connectivity.

Not Ideal For

Low-volume exporters looking for budget-only freight options.

Pros & Cons:

Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) – Overview, Services, Pros & Cons

Established: 1970 | Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland | Market Share: Among the largest global container carriers

Few shipping companies operate at the scale MSC does. Founded in 1970, it has grown into one of the largest container fleets in the world, and India is no small part of that story. MSC has boots on the ground across all major Indian ports: Nhava Sheva, Mundra, Chennai, and Kolkata.

Exporters get direct frequent access to Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas without any need of changing carriers.

Key Services of MSC:

• FCL & LCL container shipping
• Ocean freight & Container Shipping
• Intermodal and inland logistics solutions

Key Strengths of MSC:

• One of the world’s largest container fleets
• Vertical integration and logistics
• Operate in 155 countries with 675 local offices

Pricing of MSC:

• India to Europe/ container for base ocean freight: ₹168414.08 – ₹195724
• Reefer Container: Dynamic based on route, season, and equipment availability
• Bunker Recovery Charge (BRC): ₹15483 – ₹18762

Best For:

It is best for exporters pushing high container volumes across international trade lanes.

Not Ideal For:

Domestic courier work or anything involving last-mile delivery.

Pros & Cons of MSC:

CMA CGM – Overview, Services, Pros & Cons

Established: 1978 | Headquarters: Marseille, France | Estimated Market Share: ~12–13% of global container shipping capacity

CMA CGM (Compagnie Maritime d’Affrètement – Compagnie Générale Maritime) is a French shipping powerhouse based in Marseille and 3rd largest global container shipping and logistics company.

In India, the footprint is growing fast. Terminal investments, dedicated service lanes, and an expanding port presence have pushed CMA CGM into one of the more active international carrier spots in the country.

Key Services of CMA CGM:

• Ocean Freight & AIr Cargo
• Specialised Container Solutions (Reefer & SMART)
• Value added logistics via CEVA Logistics

Key Strengths of CMA CGM:

• Global reach and Local Expertise
• Diversified fleet of 650+ vessels
• Integrated Logistics Network, link over 450+ ports with land and rail freight

Pricing of CMA CGM:

• Dynamic, contractual pricing for ocean freight and logistics services
• Dry container: (20′ and 40′ GP/HC) import haulage prices from Kolkata to Amingaon range from approximately ₹77,000 to over ₹86,000 INR

Best For

Time-sensitive exports and temperature-controlled cargo shipment

Not Ideal For

Micro exporters who don’t have frequent shipments

Pros & Cons of CMA CGM:

Hapag-Lloyd: Overview, Services, Pros & Cons

Established: 1970 | Headquarters: Hamburg, Germany | Estimated Market Share: ~7–7.5% global container shipping capacity

Hapag-Lloyd is a German international shipping & container transportation company that offers premium container and reefer shipping services with a strong global network. They are currently the fifth-largest container-wise by capacity, with over 305 vessels operating worldwide.

For Indian exporters moving high-quality cargo to North America, Europe, and the Middle East, high schedule reliability is a priority that you can’t put a price on.

Key Services of Hapag-Lloyd:

• Logistics solutions tailored for like chemical, food, automotive, and machinery
• Dangerous/hazardous goods handling
• Digital booking & supply chain support

Key Strengths of Hapag-Lloyd:

• Modern fleet and capacity of 300+ vessels
• High schedule integrity
• Digitalization & Customer Focus

Pricing of Hapag-Lloyd:

• Dry Container: Dynamic determined by tool “Quick Quotes Spot” 
• Rates by Routes India to North Europe is ₹216314 – ₹239084/ TEU
• Import Service Fee for India: ₹799/20′ – ₹1427/40

Best For

Reliability-focused exporters shipping high-value, reefer, or hazardous cargo on long-term contracts across North Atlantic, Latin America, and Middle East trade lanes.

Not Ideal For

Cost-sensitive shippers or businesses need a full-service logistics partner.

Pros & Cons of Hapag-Lloyd:

Ocean Network Express (ONE): Overview, Services, Pros & Cons

Established: 2017 | Headquarters: Singapore | Estimated Market Share: ~6–6.5% global container capacity

Ocean Network Express (ONE) is a global container carrier formed when 3 Japanese shipping lines merged in 2017, making it the sixth-largest container carrier by capacity in the world.

ONE connects India with Asia-Europe and Pacific trade lanes.

Key Services of ONE:

• Specialize transportation of general, dangerous, and special cargo
• Digital solutions via tools like ONE Quote
• Intermodal logistics connections

Key Strengths of ONE:

• Real-time cargo tracking systems
• Strong Asia–Europe–Middle East connectivity
• Alliance-optimized vessel network

Pricing of ONE services:

• You can get from ONE Quote Platform: Instant Quote

Best For

ONE is best for scaling D2C brands needing precise inventory control and digital visibility for high-volume electronics or fashion imports from Asia.

Not Ideal For

Shippers needing end-to-end supply chain management beyond port-to-port, or those chasing the absolute lowest spot-market freight rates.

Pros & Cons of ONE:

Great Eastern Shipping Co. Ltd – Overview, Services, Pros & Cons

Established: 1948 | Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra | Estimated Market Share: Leading private Indian fleet in bulk/energy shipping

When it comes to private maritime operators in India, Great Eastern Shipping stands in a league of its own. Founded in 1948, it has spent decades building a fleet that covers the full energy spectrum tankers, bulk carriers, gas carriers, and offshore vessels.

The focus has always been on moving crude oil, petroleum products, dry bulk commodities, and supporting offshore energy operations across routes connecting India with the Middle East and Asia.

Key Services of Great Eastern Shipping:

• Crude and petroleum tanker shipping
• Dry bulk commodity carriers
• Offshore supply vessel support, drilling digs and more

Key Strengths of Great Eastern Shipping:

• India’s largest private fleet 
• Young diversified fleet of (13-16 years) average
• Offshore logistics capabilities

Pricing of Great Eastern Shipping:

• Tanker freight: USD-linked market pricing
• Offshore service contract rates: Variable

Best For

Oil, gas, and bulk commodity logistics.

Not Ideal For

Containerized export shipments.

Pros & Cons of Great Eastern Shipping:

Allcargo Logistics – Overview, Services, Pros & Cons

Established: 1993 | Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra | Estimated Market Share: 15% LCL (Less-than-Container)

Allcargo Logistics is India’s largest private-sector integrated logistics provider, recognized as the world’s No. 1 Less-Than-Container-Load (LCL) consolidator.

But what sets Allcargo apart from a typical shipping company is its scope. Most carriers move cargo between ports. Allcargo manages the entire journey from the factory floor to the end customer’s door, making it an end-to-end option for businesses that don’t want to juggle multiple logistics partners.

Key Services of Allcargo Logistics:

• Contain Freight Stations (CFS) and Inland Container Depot (ICD)
• Project & ODC cargo logistics
• Customs clearance and multimodal transport operations (MTO)

Key Strengths of Allcargo Logistics:

• Global leadership in LCL
• Integrated logistics solutions
• Industry expertise of 30+ years

Pricing of Allcargo Logistics:

• LCL Import Cargo Surcharge: ₹1200 per Bill of Entry (BOE).
• LCL Freight: Volume-based pricing
• Customs handling based on container type, weight, and service type

Best For

Allcargo is best for Indian D2C brands and global SMEs needing a digital-first partner to handle everything from domestic express delivery to international small-batch shipping (LCL).

Not Ideal For

AllCargo is not ideal for large enterprise ships carrying thousands of full container loads (FCL).

Pros & Cons of Allcargo Logistics:

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone – Overview, Services, Pros & Cons

Established: 1998 | Headquarters: Ahmedabad, Gujarat | Estimated Market Share: 27% port cargo

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone is India’s largest private port and logistics operator, with nearly 15 strategic ports, integrated cargo terminals, and inland connectivity. They handle nearly 27% of India’s total cargo.

Key Services of Adani Ports:

• Port operations and cargo handling, specialize in container, dry bulk, liquid cargo, and crude oil
• Marine and terminal services
• Rail & road-linked multimodal connectivity

Key Strengths of Adani Ports:

• India’s largest commercial port network
• Integrated port + logistics ecosystem
• Diverse cargo and Strategic coastal coverage

Pricing of Adani Ports:

• Pricing optimized for volume and turnaround time
• Market Link rates based on demand
• Terminal charges: Volume-based

Best For

Large-scale import/export with port integration.

Not Ideal For

Small parcel or courier-style deliveries.

Pros & Cons of Adani Ports:

Evergreen Line – Overview, Services, Pros & Cons

Established: 1968 | Headquarters: Taoyuan City, Taiwan | Estimated Market Share: ~5.67% global container shipping capacity

Evergreen Line has been moving cargo across the world’s oceans since 1968, making it one of the oldest names on this list. They have grown into a fleet carrying over 1.6 million TEU capacity across 150+ weekly trade lanes.

In India, Evergreen has operated through its wholly owned agency, Evergreen Shipping Agency India Private Limited, with offices in Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, and Bengaluru.

Key Services of Evergreen Line:

• Reefer Container Services
• Intermodal & Door-to-Door Services
• Digital freight booking via the ShipmentLink portal

Key Strengths of Evergreen Line:

• Fleet capacity of 1.6 million+ TEU across global trade lanes
• Strategic alliance with Ocean, CMA CGM, COSCO, and OOCL
• Active investment in fleet modernization and eco-friendly fleet renewal

Pricing of Evergreen Line:

• Pricing is market-linked and route-dependent. Contact Evergreen Shipping Agency India for current rates.

Best For: Exporters and importers needing reliable Asia-Europe and Transpacific container services with strong digital booking and cargo visibility tools.

Not Ideal For: Businesses needing end-to-end inland logistics or a full-service supply chain partner beyond port-to-port shipping.

Pros & Cons of Evergreen Line:

Top 10 Shipping Companies in India – Quick Comparison Table

Below is a side-by-side comparison of the leading shipping and maritime logistics companies operating in India, based on service focus, network reach, pricing positioning, and ideal use cases.

This comparison helps you match your specific cargo volume and budget with the best shipping provider for your supply chain needs.

Which Shipping Company Is Best in India?

It depends on your cargo type, shipment volume, and whether you operate domestically or globally. Here’s a simple breakdown:

• Best for eCommerce & SME Shipments: AllCargo Gati Limited is ideal for time-bound domestic deliveries and growing brands.
• Best for International Container Shipping: Maersk Line India and Mediterranean Shipping Company. They offer extensive global trade routes, high sailing frequency, and strong connectivity.
• Best for Bulk & Energy Cargo: Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) and Great Eastern Shipping Company (GESC).
• Best Port Operator in India: Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone leads in cargo handling capacity.
• Best for Digitally Managed Global Shipping: Hapag-Lloyd and Ocean Network Express (ONE) provide digital booking systems, real-time container tracking, and automated documentation.

There is no single “best” company for every business; ultimately, you have to choose based on shipment scale, cargo type, and required service coverage.

How to Choose the Right Shipping Company for Your Business

Brand name alone won’t cut it; here’s what actually matters when evaluating a shipping partner:

Identify Your Shipment Type

Start by defining what you ship, like bulk commodities, containerized cargo (FCL/LCL), temperature-sensitive goods, or time-critical parcels.

Check Network Strength & Route Coverage

Review whether the company has strong access to the ports, trade lanes, or domestic zones relevant to your business.

Evaluate Reliability & Transit Performance

Confirm their on-time departures, predictable transit schedules, how often they get delayed, and their average transit performance.

Assess Technology & Shipment Visibility

Confirm if the shipment partner provides digital documentation, live tracking, automated booking systems, and preemptive shipment updates.

Analyze Scalability & Operational Support

If your shipment volume fluctuates seasonally, ensure the logistics partner can scale capacity without service disruptions. Dedicated account management and responsive support are important for long-term partnerships.

Compare Total Cost, Not Just Base Freight

Look beyond freight rates. Consider fuel surcharges, handling fees, port charges, customs coordination, and documentation costs to understand the complete logistics expense.

Challenges & Restrictions in the Indian Shipping Industry

India’s shipping sector has come a long way, but these are 6 major real-world friction points businesses face:

Last-Mile Delivery Constraints

Moving cargo inland from ports costs money, takes time, and depends heavily on road and rail networks that don’t always align with timing.

Infrastructure Gap

Although Indian ports are modernizing rapidly, disparities still exist between large gateway ports and smaller regional facilities, with storage capacity, handling equipment, and connectivity varying across locations.

Port Congestion

High cargo volumes during peak trade cycles lead to vessel waiting times, berth delays, and slower turnaround. Congestion is more common during export surges or global commerce disruptions.

Cost Volatility

Ocean freight rates may fluctuate due to fuel prices, international events, shifts in global demand, and container availability. Businesses must factor in rate variability when planning long-term logistics budgets.

Regulatory & Compliance Complexity

Freight services involve customs procedures, paperwork requirements, and evolving trade regulations. Compliance delays and paperwork errors can extend transit timelines.

Seasonal Capacity Constraints

In peak seasons, such as pre-festival export periods or periods of global demand increases, container shortages and limited vessel space may affect the timing flexibility.

Understanding these challenges lets businesses plan proactively, diversify logistics partners when necessary, and build more resilient supply strategies.

Conclusion

There is no one-size-fits-all shipping solution in India. The right logistics partner depends entirely on your business type, shipment volume, cargo category, and growth plans.

Instead of choosing based solely on brand name, evaluate companies on service capability, pricing transparency, operational dependability, and long-term scalability.

An informed comparison today leads to fewer disruptions, better cost control, and a stronger supply chain tomorrow. Choose strategically, not just conveniently.

FAQs

Q.1: Which shipping company is best in India?

A: There is no single best shipping company for every business. For bulk maritime cargo, Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) and Great Eastern Shipping Company are strong choices, while global container shipping is dominated by players like Maersk Line India and Mediterranean Shipping Company.

Q.2: Which shipping company is the cheapest in India?

A: Shipping costs vary depending on cargo type, distance, and freight rates. Domestic and multimodal providers such as Allcargo Logistics deliver competitive pricing for SMEs, but ocean freight rates are affected by global market conditions.

Q.3: Which shipping company is best for eCommerce businesses?

A: For time-critical and SME shipments, Allcargo provides express and supply chain solutions.

Q.4: Do Indian shipping companies offer international shipping?

A: Yes. Companies such as Shipping Corporation of India and Allcargo Logistics operate globally, while international container giants like CMA CGM and Hapag-Lloyd connect Indian ports to major global trade routes.

Q.5: Which company is best for bulk shipments in India?

A: For crude oil, dry bulk, and large-scale maritime transport, Great Eastern Shipping Company and Shipping Corporation of India are among the most established operators.

Q.6: How long does domestic shipping take in India?

A: Domestic shipping timelines depend on route distance and mode of transport. Major metro-to-metro routes typically take 2–5 days, while remote locations may require additional transit time.

Q.7: How do I compare logistics providers effectively?

A: Compare providers based on cargo specialization, network coverage, reliability, digital capabilities, scalability, and total cost transparency. Choose a partner aligned with your shipment profile for long-term efficiency.