In the latest Demand Development Forecast 2025 - 2028 prepared by DHL, we observe that global container trade is expected to reach approximately 159.8 million TEU, with a projected increase of +3.3% in 2025 and a continued upward trajectory with a CAGR from 2026 to 2028.
This trend highlights that the highest growth among logistics companies will be seen in those capable of handling container shipping services. This will undoubtedly be a strict top 10 business segment that we will mention further in this article.
See which companies are top players in 2025 and what facilitates their dominance in the top 10. As far as we can see, the top logistics companies in 2025 include DHL, UPS, FedEx, and Kuehne + Nagel. They have solidified their leading positions by aggressively adopting digital technologies such as AI, automation, and IoT to enhance operational efficiency and supply chain visibility.
Their success is further driven by agility, adapting to evolving customer expectations for faster, more transparent, and sustainable deliveries. These leaders also build resilient supply chains to navigate global disruptions while prioritizing workforce development in a rapidly changing landscape. See more in our article below and download the list of 100+ companies.
Top 10 logistics companies in 2025
Top logistics companies increasingly focus on planning, implementing, and controlling the flow and storage of goods and information as the core of their operations. To excel in the top tier, a primary focus is on harnessing the power of visibility and traceability throughout the supply chain by developing a strong understanding of data analytics, digital technologies, and robust tracking systems.
Comprehensive supply chain management training enables teams to improve performance and create more responsive networks. Moreover, a deep understanding of demand planning, inventory management, and supply chain design provides the essential knowledge and expertise needed to achieve critical goals in quality, compliance, sustainability, and, ultimately, customer satisfaction.
But let's focus on our top 10 list:
1. DHL
This is a major multinational leading logistics company with roots in the United States but headquartered in Bonn, Germany. DHL is a prominent provider of courier, package delivery, and express mail services, handling a significant volume of over 1.7 billion parcels annually.
Here's a shorter summary of DHL's activities based on their service list for 2025:
DHL locker. Offers basic, affordable self-service parcel shipping and receiving up to 25 kg within Poland.
Domestic courier. Provides standard courier services up to 31.5 kg with various delivery options (door-to-door, service points, lockers) and paid extras.
Domestic heavy/pallet. Handles heavier parcels (up to 50 kg) and pallets (up to 1000 kg) for domestic shipments.
International. Offers cross-border parcel shipping up to 30 kg to European countries, including basic customs clearance.
Website: https://www.dhl.com
2. CEVA Logistics
Established in Marseille, France, in 2007 and now part of the CMA CGM Group, CEVA Logistics is a global logistics and supply chain company. They specialize in freight management and contract logistics services, with notable expertise in automotive logistics. They are also considered a strong freight forwarder for shipping to China.
CEVA Logistics is the official freight forwarder for IBC2024, offering:
Exclusive onsite handling (forklifts, etc.).
Global shipping & consolidation (sea, air, road).
On-site support during the event.
Customs clearance services.
Empty case management (priority & next day).
Strict shipping deadlines and traffic control (P20).
Centralized courier handling.
Website: https://www.cevalogistics.com
3. FedEx Corp
Originally named Federal Express Corporation, FedEx is an American multinational conglomerate holding company based in Memphis, Tennessee, with a great fleet management and top logistics operations. They specialize in transportation, eCommerce, and offering various services.
Here's a shorter summary of FedEx's services based on the FedEx Service Guide 2025:
Package & freight. FedEx offers shipping for both packages and freight.
Service variety. They provide US and international services, including express and economy options.
Online tools. FedEx provides online tools for rate calculations and shipping processing.
Website: https://www.fedex.com
4. XPO
Headquartered in Greenwich, Connecticut, XPO, Inc. is an American transportation company and a global leader presence of 564 locations. It is particularly known for its less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping services in North America, contract coordination, and final-mile delivery.
XPO Logistics provides freight and warehousing services. Here minimizes LTL damage through:
SafeStack. No double-stacking, braced shipments.
Technology. Onboard safety systems, stable trailers.
Training. Best freight handling practices.
Packaging guidance. Emphasizes proper internal and external packaging (crates, pallets, cardboard).
Stacking advice. Recommends column stacking for stability.
Website: https://www.xpo.com
5. UPS
Founded in 1907 and initially known as the American Messenger Company, United Parcel Service (UPS) is an American multinational shipping & receiving and supply chain management company. Starting with telegraphs, they have grown into a Fortune 500 company and one of the world's largest shipping couriers. They are leaders in last-mile delivery, getting a competitive edge by increasing the number of locations worldwide.
Here are short headlines summarizing the UPS services:
UPS Capital. Shipping insurance (InsureShield), high-value shipping insurance (Parcel Pro), and secure payment processing.
Coyote Logistics. Truckload & intermodal services, collaborative transportation management.
UPS Ground with freight pricing (Large Ground).
UPS Hundredweight Service (Multi-Package).
Website: https://www.ups.com
6. C.H. Robinson
This American one of the biggest shipping companies that offers third-party logistics services. Based in the United States, C.H. Robinson provides a range of freight transportation solutions, including transportation management, brokerage, and warehousing, covering truckload, less-than-truckload, air freight, intermodal, and ocean transportation.
Here are short headlines summarizing the C.H. Robinson Global Forwarding information:
Global sourcing and multichannel retail
Rising supply chain costs and complexity
Global freight forwarding
Finding savings in global forwarding
Easy savings, moderate savings, difficult savings
Cargo consolidation and consolidation benefits
Ocean vs. air consolidation
Website: https://www.chrobinson.com
7. Kuehne + Nagel
One of the largest logistics companies provides carbon-free global transportation and biofuel shipments to promote sustainable logistics. They also offer a collaborative platform called myKN, which eventually brings value to the end customers. Based on the provided General Terms of Forwarding Services from Kuehne + Nagel, here's an outline of their services, keeping in mind this document primarily focuses on the terms under which they operate rather than a marketing brochure detailing all service offerings:
Freight forwarding they arranging for carriage with carriers.
Providing accurate and complete order instructions.
Ensuring the suitability of rolling stock for loading.
Refraining from directly ordering carriage from carriers.
Complying with trade control and embargo regulations.
Indemnifying for costs arising from incorrect information or non-compliance.
Website: https://home.kuehne-nagel.com
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Explore more8. DSV
DSV specializes in providing end-to-end supply chain solutions, encompassing warehousing and distribution. Its operations focus is on digitalization. DSV stands as a trusted leader in global freight forwarding, dedicated to simplifying the complexities of international trade. Expertly manage the storage and transport of goods via air, sea, and road, ensuring reliable connections for businesses around the globe.
DSV service areas that are implied from divisional performance:
DSV air and sea. Global air and ocean freight solutions.
DSV road. European and US road transportation services.
DSV solutions. Warehousing and supply chain solutions.
Website: https://www.dsv.com
9. Geodis
A French multinational leading logistics company offering services in parcel delivery, road haulage (full and part loads), and freight forwarding (following the acquisition of TNT's freight forwarding division). It employs 53,000 people and operates in 166 countries.
Geodis offers a comprehensive range of delivery services, including:
Flexible scheduling. Delivery on phone appointment, on-demand appointment via web platform, agreed delivery date, and even Saturday delivery.
Specific needs. Delivery to retail stores & logistics platforms, National Wholesale Markets (M.I.N.), and freight forwarders. Also provides home delivery options.
Special handling. Management of specific collection places, delivery note management, cash on delivery, Ad Valorem insurance, and handling of hazardous goods.
Location-based services. Delivery to specific locations, including islands and mountain resorts, with surcharges for "Ile de France" deliveries and potential peak-season charges.
Additional services. Additional delivery attempts, customs clearance, and management of oversized/overweight or multi-parcel shipments.
Transparency and accountability. Detailed CO2 dashboard, safety, security & environmental contributions, and various administrative and accounting management fees.
Website: https://geodis.com
10. DP World
DP World is focused on its customers and the communities it serves in logistics. The company strives to redefine what is achievable in the world of trade and logistics. With a diverse team of over 100,000 employees from more than 160 nations. DP World is committed to an inclusive culture and empowering its employees to excel and contribute to the seamless movement of goods across sectors. The company operates in automotive, healthcare, to technology.
DP World offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to facilitate global trade:
Freight forwarding. Managing the movement of goods across various modes of transport (sea, air, land) to ensure efficient and timely delivery.
Contract logistics. Providing customized and integrated logistics solutions, such as warehousing.
Market access. Offering solutions that help businesses expand into new markets, potentially including services like economic zone access and distribution networks.
Economic zones. Operating and managing special economic zones that offer benefits like tax incentives and streamlined regulations to attract businesses and promote trade.
Ports and terminals. A core part of DP World's operations involves the management and operation of sea and inland ports and terminals, including container handling, storage, and other related logistics services.
Marine services. Encompassing a range of maritime solutions that support port operations and global shipping, which could include towage, pilotage, and vessel maintenance.
Website: https://www.dpworld.com
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What do companies do in the logistics industry?
Efficient movement and storage of goods, including warehousing, inventory management, packaging, and order fulfillment, is the basis of modern logistics. Looking into 2025, we examined the key elements of the supply chain and identified the top 10 logistics companies and their operations that are leading them to success. So, here is the breakdown of the logistics services they are using. We took crucial data from PWC research to give you an understanding of this matter.
Warehouse management
Warehousing is the storage of goods until distribution, ensuring safety and protection from damage or environmental factors. Warehouse management systems help track inventory, optimize space, and streamline product flow. Warehouses also handle order prep, including picking, packing, and labeling. A key challenge in the logistics sector is the lack of digital culture and training.
Inventory management
Inventory management tracks and controls the flow of goods in and out of warehouses, aiming to optimize stock levels to meet demand. Accurate demand forecasting and inventory tracking help prevent stockouts and ensure timely order fulfillment. Moreover, 38% of T&L companies cite high financial investment and unresolved data security as major challenges in building digital operations capabilities.
Packaging and labeling
Packaging protects goods during transport and storage, ensuring they arrive in optimal condition. It involves selecting boxes, crates, cushioning, and clear, accurate labeling for tracking and compliance. T&L companies plan to invest 5% of their annual revenues in digitization.
Order fulfillment
Order fulfillment is completing a customer's order, from placement to delivery. It includes verifying order details, confirming product availability, and initiating fulfillment. Warehouse staff retrieve and carefully package the products to ensure protection during transit.
Transportation management
Transportation management is the movement of goods within the supply chain, using different modes with unique strengths. Road is flexible for local/regional delivery, rail is efficient for bulk over long distances, sea handles most global trade, and air enables fast shipping for high-value or urgent items. Data and analytics will be critical in the next five years — 90% of transportation and logistics experts highlight their importance, compared to 83% across all sectors.
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Contact usFinale takeaway
The logistics landscape in 2025 is clearly defined by the increasing volume of global container trade and the strategic adoption of digital technologies. The top players are not just moving goods but leveraging data, automation, and connectivity to build more efficient, resilient, and sustainable supply chains.
Their focus on customer demands for speed, transparency, and environmentally conscious deliveries, coupled with investments in their workforce, is key. It solidifies their leading positions in a dynamic market. Companies that can effectively harness these trends and adapt to evolving global challenges will continue to thrive in the top tier of the logistics industry.
Gain a comprehensive understanding of the leading logistics players and the broader industry landscape in 2025. Download our full list of 100+ top logistics companies to:
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Read above and download the complete list to gain valuable insights for navigating the future of logistics.