Top 10 Popular Vietnam Freight Forwarder Companies
Ngoc Lee
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Freight forwarding is all about managing the shipment of goods, whether by air, land, or sea. Freight forwarders in Vietnam play a key role as go-betweens for shippers and carriers, making sure that goods move smoothly and efficiently. This is crucial for Vietnam’s economy and its growing export sector.
As the demand for international shipping rises, having a reliable freight forwarder becomes even more important. They handle everything from logistics and regulatory issues to risk management, ensuring timely and cost-effective deliveries. Recently, the Vietnam Report highlighted the top 10 freight forwarders based on their financial strength, media reputation, and feedback from stakeholders.
This list of the 10 popular freight forwarders in Vietnam helps businesses find trustworthy partners to keep their shipments on track and help Vietnam stay competitive in the global market.
Industry Overview of the Forwarding Services in Vietnam
The freight forwarding industry in Vietnam is experiencing rapid growth, with a projected CAGR of over 5.5% from 2022 to 2027. The expanding manufacturing, retail, FMCG, and eCommerce sectors fuel this growth. The Vietnamese government's focus on improving infrastructure and restructuring the air freight market by 2020 is also expected to enhance cargo transport, particularly in key economic zones and remote areas. Additionally, the US and EU markets play a significant role as major contributors to Vietnam's freight forwarding industry, further driving its expansion.
Moreover, the industry is highly fragmented, with both domestic and international players in the market. As of 2013, around 1,000 freight forwarders operated in Vietnam, primarily small and medium-sized enterprises with limited capital, but equipped facilities and a respectable number of warehouses. In the air freight segment, major companies include DHL, UPS, Expeditors, Panalpina, Kintetsu, APLL, Hellmann, UTI, and Kuehne Nagel. Meanwhile, other freight forwarders like Ceva, Bollore, and DB Schenker focus on ocean freight, contract logistics, and warehousing services.
It’s also worth noting that the forwarding services in Vietnam operate under various government regulations and policies. The government aims to achieve a 20% yearly logistics growth rate within the next two years, reflecting a favorable regulatory environment for the industry. Additionally, Vietnam's participation in free trade agreements, such as the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP), has expanded trade opportunities for freight forwarders in Vietnam. The government is also prioritizing road development, with plans to extend the total length of expressways from 1,290 km to 5,000 km by 2030, further enhancing the country's logistics infrastructure.
Top 10 Popular Freight Forwarders in Vietnam
Gemadept Corporation
The international name of Gemadept is Gemadept Shipping Limited Company with the short version is GMD Shipping. It was founded in 1990 and was one of the first three firms chosen by the government for equitization in 1993.
Gemadept is now a large-scale and sophisticated Port and Logistics network with sites throughout Vietnam and other surrounding nations. As one of the leading freight forwarders in Vietnam, Gemadept, along with its many subsidiary companies, has consistently been ranked among Vietnam’s Top 500 Largest Enterprises, Top 20 Vietnam Logistics Enterprises, and other prestigious rankings.
General information
Specialize in distribution centers, air-cargo terminals, OOG cargo transport, shipping, cold chain logistics, auto logistics, and ports/ICDs.
Representative: Tran Vinh Nguyen Bao
Address: 20th Floor, 6 Le Thanh Ton Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Current market position:
Stock performance: GMD shares are priced at ₫83,400.00, with a 1-year increase of 58.25% and a 220.77% rise over five years.
Financial health: Gemadept has a market capitalization of ₫25.89 trillion and total revenue of ₫3.95 trillion, with a gross profit margin of 45.38% and a net profit margin of 64.30%.
Service offered:
Gemadept offers a wide range of logistics services. They operate several ports, including Phuoc Long ICD, Nam Hai, and Dung Quat. Through their subsidiary, Gemadept Logistics, they provide integrated logistics solutions with a focus on supply chain management and freight forwarding. Additionally, Gemadept is involved in real estate trading and rubber plantation management.
Strengths and weaknesses:
Market leadership: Recognized as a pioneer in Vietnam's logistics industry, leveraging an extensive network and experience.
Diverse service portfolio: Offers a wide range of services catering to sectors like manufacturing and eCommerce.
Financial stability: Strong financial performance with a low Debt/Equity Ratio of 19.9%, enabling investment in growth opportunities.
However, there are some downsides:
Dependence on port operations: Significant revenue from port operations makes the company vulnerable to fluctuations in shipping volumes and service charges.
Limited international presence: Strong domestic presence but less expansive international operations compared to global competitors, limiting growth in international markets.
#2. In Do Trans Logistics Corporation
The company, also known as ITL Corp, has worked hard to become one of the leading enterprises in providing Integrated Logistics solutions and freight forwarders in Vietnam and Indochina, including Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, Myanmar, and Singapore. ITL is the leading supplier of cargo aviation and GSA services in Vietnam, as well as the leader in air freight market capacity outward, with participation from over 22 airlines, managing over 300 flights each week, and a capacity of 150,000 tons of cargo every year.
General information:
Offering aviation, contract logistics, customs and distribution services, warehousing, freight management, railway logistics, e-commerce logistics, and express.
Representative: Tran Tuan Anh
Address: No 52 - 54 - 56 Truong Son, Ward 2, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Current market position
In Do Trans Logistics is a mid-sized player in Vietnam, specializing in international freight forwarding and customs clearance.
The company operates in key cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, serving diverse industries.
In Do Trans has seen steady growth by leveraging its expertise in complex logistics and customs procedures.
Experienced staff with deep knowledge of customs and international trade.
Reliable service with a strong reputation for timely deliveries.
Diverse client base across various industries, showcasing adaptability.
And its weaknesses
Limited global presence, affecting seamless international service.
Smaller scale operations, leading to challenges in securing competitive rates.
Heavy dependence on the domestic market, which may limit growth potential.
#3. DHL Global Forwarding (Vietnam) Corporation
DHL is a German logistics firm, which is a part of the German logistics corporation Deutsche Post that provides couriers, package delivery, and expedited mail service. DHL was started in 1969 in San Francisco, California, and by the late 1970s has spread its operations around the world and became favorable freight forwarders in Vietnam.
General information:
Specializes in international and domestic freight forwarding across road, rail, sea, air, and multimodal transport; transportation agency services; labeling and packaging; container handling; customs brokerage; and inland freight transport.
Representative: Laurence Cheung
Address: 364 Cong Hoa Street, Ward 13, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Current market position
A subsidiary of Deutsche Post DHL Group, operating in over 220 countries.
Strong brand recognition and reputation for reliable international freight services.
Significant market share in Vietnam's air freight and express delivery segments.
Services offered:
International freight forwarding by air, sea, and road
Express delivery services
Customs clearance and brokerage
Warehousing and distribution
Supply chain management solutions
Specialized services for industries like healthcare, technology, and automotive
Strengths
Global reach: Leverages DHL's extensive global infrastructure for seamless door-to-door services.
Brand reputation: A strong brand name gives a competitive advantage in Vietnam.
Comprehensive service portfolio: Offers a wide range of freight forwarding and logistics services.
Weaknesses
High costs: Premium pricing may deter price-sensitive clients.
Bureaucracy: Hierarchical structure may slow adaptation to local market needs.
Dependence on parent company: Tied to DHL Group's overall strategy and performance, posing a risk during global economic uncertainty.
#4. Expeditors Vietnam Company Limited
Next on the list of the most popular freight forwarders in Vietnam is Expeditor Vietnam Co., Ltd. Founded in 2013, this is a logistics company headquartered in Seattle in Washington State in the USA, with offices ranging in various countries. It provides full-spectrum assistance for various sectors and the particular logistical issues they face. Expeditors firm offers streamlined and optimized supply chain solutions for clients by integrating unified technology systems throughout a global network of 322 facilities in 103 countries across six continents, employing over 16,500 people.
General information
Specialize in all services, from wholesale global logistics to customized supply chain innovations that are underpinned by cutting-edge information technology solutions that operate on a single global operating system.
Representative: Koh Mong Pheng
Address: No. 182, 8th Floor, Flemington Building, Le Dai Hanh Street, Ward 15, District 11, Ho Chi Minh City
Current market position
Expeditors Vietnam is part of Expeditors International of Washington, Inc., a global logistics leader.
Established in Vietnam since 2013, it has become a significant player in the local market.
Leverages its parent company's vast network of 16,500 employees and operations in 322 facilities across 103 countries.
Services offered:
Freight forwarding: Air, ocean, and ground transport.
Customs brokerage: Ensures compliance and smooth clearance.
Specialized services: Tailored for tech, healthcare, retail.
Strengths
Extensive reach through the parent company enables seamless international logistics.
End-to-end solutions, including customs brokerage and supply chain management.
Advanced systems for streamlined operations and improved supply chain visibility.
Weaknesses
Premium pricing may deter price-sensitive clients.
Growth and flexibility are tied to the parent company's strategy.
#5. Transimex Corporation
Transimex Corporation is a major and one of the global freight forwarders in Vietnam with over 37 years of freight forwarding expertise that can fulfill every customer's demands. We offer full logistics solutions, including inland transportation, ocean shipment, air freight, distribution centers, warehouses, and customs services.
General information
Specialize in international freight forwarding, warehousing and distribution center service, inland trucking service, project cargo, integrated logistics services, waterway transport service, ICD operator service, Dongjin shipping agency, and office for lease.
Representative: Bui Tuan Ngoc
Address: 172, 9th and 10th Floor, Hai Ba Trung Street, Da Kao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Current market position
Transimex Corporation, established in 1983, is a leading logistics provider in Vietnam.
Publicly traded on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (TMS).
Ranked among the top 500 companies (VNR500) and top 10 most reputable logistics firms.
Strong infrastructure with multiple warehouses and inland clearance depots.
Services offered:
Freight forwarding: Sea, air, and road transport services, both domestic and international.
Customs brokerage: Expertise in customs clearance for compliance.
Established reputation with decades of experience.
Comprehensive service portfolio catering to diverse needs.
Strong logistics infrastructure with warehouses and transportation fleets.
Strategic partnerships with shipping lines and logistics providers.
Weaknesses
Dependence on the domestic market with limited global reach.
Higher operational costs due to extensive logistics network.
Increasing competition in Vietnam's logistics sector.
#6. Bee Logistics Corporation
Bee Logistics Corporation, a Vietnamese-based company and one of the leading freight forwarders in Vietnam, was founded on October 1, 2004, in Ho Chi Minh City by three founding members. For 17 years, it has grown from an essential vision into a company that has made significant development. Its human resources have grown to approximately 800 employees who work in 35 locations in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Myanmar, as well as in its partnerships, affiliates, and representative offices in India, Australia, China, Thailand, Taiwan, Korea, Malaysia,... and a system of world-class strategic suppliers.
General information:
Specialize in integrated logistics services: customs brokerage, containerized shipping, multimodal and cross-border transport, oversized cargo, air freight, break bulk, railway, door-to-door, packaging, labeling, and warehousing.
Representative: Dinh Huu Thanh
Address: 39B Truong Son, Ward 4, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City
Current market position
Founded in 2004, Bee Logistics is a top 6 logistics provider in Vietnam.
Employs over 800 people, with 35 offices in Vietnam and internationally in Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand, India, and China.
Recognized for innovative solutions, especially during challenges like COVID-19.
Services offered:
Freight forwarding: International and domestic via air, sea, and land, including FCL and LCL.
Customs brokerage: Expertise in ensuring compliance with regulations.
Warehousing and distribution: Facilities in key locations like Ho Chi Minh City and Haiphong.
Multimodal transportation: Integrated logistics combining different transport modes.
Value-added services: Packaging, labeling, inventory management, and cargo insurance.
Specialized logistics: Solutions for oversized cargo, cross-border transport, and eCommerce logistics.
Strengths
Offers a diverse service portfolio, providing versatile logistics solutions that cater to various business needs.
Is well-regarded in Vietnam, earning strong brand recognition for its quality services.
Has established strategic partnerships, enabling it to operate within a global network spanning over 200 countries.
Weaknesses
Heavily relies on the Vietnamese market, which limits its growth potential on a global scale.
As a mid-sized firm, Bee Logistics encounters challenges in scaling its operations and investing in new technologies compared to larger multinational logistics companies.
#7. Kuehne + Nagel Company Limited
Kuehne + Nagel has been the best among freight forwarders in Vietnam since 1994 and is well-known for providing high-value, complete logistics solutions suited to clients’ needs. The company has created a strong team of foreign and local logistics professionals in Vietnam for over 25 years, each with a deep awareness of the Vietnam market and extensive industry know-how for their various trades and sectors. It is now Vietnam’s top logistics firm, with over 600 logistics specialists spread across ten sites.
General information:
Specialize in comprehensive logistics solutions for a wide range of industries and trades, including business areas such as ocean freight, air freight, warehousing and distribution, and trucking
Representative: Krusell Bo Jesperthomas Gomas Junior
Address: Vincom Center Building, 72, Le Thanh Ton Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Current market position
A leading global logistics provider based in Switzerland, operating in over 100 countries and more than 1,400 offices worldwide.
Recognized as the global leader in air and sea logistics and holds strong positions in road and contract logistics.
Kuehne + Nagel's vast global network allows it to cater to diverse industries, including automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and retail.
Has maintained a strong market presence, showing resilience and adaptability even amid global supply chain disruptions.
Services offered:
Sea freight: FCL and LCL shipments.
Air freight: Speed-focused global solutions.
Road and rail: Domestic and cross-border logistics.
Contract logistics: Tailored warehousing and distribution.
Lead logistics provider (LLP): End-to-end supply chain management.
Specialized services: Industry-specific logistics for pharmaceuticals, tech, and eCommerce.
Strengths
Operates in over 100 countries, ensuring seamless international logistics services and effective supply chain management.
Offers a wide range of logistics services, catering to multiple industries and customer needs.
Weaknesses
Performance can be affected by global trade policies, economic changes, and geopolitical events, creating operational uncertainties.
The vast global network and diverse services introduce operational complexities, including regulatory compliance and potential supply chain disruptions.
As a premium logistics provider, services may be more expensive than those of local competitors, which could deter price-sensitive clients.
#8. Schenker Viet Nam Co., Ltd
DB Shenker has a full presence in Vietnam, including 21 offices and warehouses with more than 1,000 people. Its offices are in Ho Chi Minh City which is near major airports and seaports. DB Schenker’s distribution centers are strategically placed throughout North, South, and Central Vietnam to meet the demands. Clients include leading worldwide brands with operations in Vietnam, along with local businesses in a variety of industries, such as Electronics, FMCG, Semicon & Solar, Fashion and Retail, and Healthcare & Pharma.
General information:
Specialize in land transport, air and sea freight in and out of Vietnam, along with full logistics services and worldwide supply chain management solutions from a single supplier, by combining global skills with local strengths.
Representative: Lim Kim Chwee
Address: Floor 14th, A Tower, 285 Cach Mang Thang Tam Street, Ward 12, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Current market position
Schenker Vietnam Co., Ltd. has been a leading logistics provider in Vietnam since 1999.
Operates 21 offices and warehouses with over 1,000 employees.
Strategically located near major airports and seaports, serving top global brands in electronics, fashion, FMCG, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals.
Benefits from integration into DB Schenker’s global network for comprehensive logistics solutions.
Services offered:
Air freight: Includes charter options for urgent shipments.
Ocean freight: Offers FCL and LCL services.
Land transportation: Covers domestic distribution and international trucking.
Contract logistics: Provides warehousing and inventory management.
Customs clearance: Expertise in import/export regulations.
Specialized services: Logistics support for trade exhibitions and fairs.
Strengths
Global network: Access to DB Schenker’s vast international resources.
Diverse services: Comprehensive logistics offerings for various industries.
Strategic locations: Offices and warehouses near key transport hubs.
Weaknesses
High costs: Premium services may deter price-sensitive clients.
Operational complexity: Extensive service range and global integration can lead to coordination challenges.
Parent company dependence: Tied to DB Schenker’s corporate strategy, limiting local flexibility.
#9. South Logistics Joint Stock Company (Sotrans)
The company was founded in 1975 and has offered the trade sector a primary warehousing system as well as transportation services. Sotrans was legally transitioned from a State Company to a Joint Stock Enterprise in 2007, with a significant focus on the multi-functional warehouse, petroleum and oil trading, and global forwarding solutions.
The company is now one of the top choice freight forwarders in Vietnam, as well as import-export forwarding and warehousing solutions. It spans more than 100 countries worldwide, with a focus on potential areas like the U.S., Japan, Korea, and European Union.
General information:
Provide global freight forwarding, multi-functional warehouse operations, and port operations
Representative: Dang Vu Thanh
Address: 1B Hoang Dieu Street, Ward 13, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City
Current market position
Sotrans is a leading logistics company in Vietnam with 45+ years of experience.
Operates over 10 branch offices and handles 6,000 TEUs per month.
International presence with agents in 100+ countries and routes to Europe, Asia, and America.
Manages 100,000 m² of customs clearance ports and depots in Ho Chi Minh City.
Contracts with 20+ major shipping lines globally.
Services offered:
International freight forwarding for import/export.
Multi-functional warehouse services totaling 230,000 m².
Domestic freight forwarding with a nationwide network.
Handling of small to oversized cargo using various transport methods.
Strengths
Extensive experience: Over 45 years in the industry, with strong expertise in freight forwarding and warehousing.
Extensive network: Wide branch network in Vietnam and global agents in 100+ countries.
Diverse services: Offers a broad range of logistics services, from forwarding to warehousing.
Strategic partnerships: Contracts with major shipping lines and membership in logistics associations.
Weaknesses
Domestic dependence: Heavy reliance on the Vietnamese market limits international growth potential.
Competition: Highly competitive logistics sector in Vietnam may pressure pricing and margins.
Limited disclosure: As a private company, it may not disclose financial details extensively, affecting transparency.
#10. Vietnam Freight Forwarder - Vinafreight Joint Stock Company
Last but not least, it’s hard to mention that Vinafreight Joint Stock Company, originally Vinafreight International Freight Forwarders Joint Stock Company, is one of the prominent freight forwarders in Vietnam. The company provides air freight and freight forwarding, maritime transportation, and support services. It also offers maritime insurance brokerage, logistical services, and ship agency and brokerage.
Furthermore, the company offers general and refrigerated warehousing services and runs Container Freight Stations (CFS).
General information:
Specialize in supporting services related to transportation
Representative: Nguyen Huy Dieu
Address: Floor 1, Block C, Waseco Building, 10 Pho Quang Street, Ward 2, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City
Current market position
Vinafreight Joint Stock Company is a prominent logistics and freight forwarding player listed on the Hanoi Stock Exchange (HNX: VNF).
Recognized as a top freight forwarder in Vietnam with a market cap of approximately 345.53 billion VND.
Major stakeholders include Transimex JSC, providing significant resources and network advantages.
Services offered:
Air freight: International and domestic air cargo services for timely deliveries.
Ocean freight: Sea freight solutions, including FCL and LCL services.
Customs brokerage: Expertise in customs clearance for smooth import/export.
Warehousing: General and refrigerated warehousing, including CFS for efficient cargo handling.
Logistics services: Integrated solutions for transportation and distribution.
Maritime insurance: Insurance options to safeguard shipments during transit.
Strengths
Comprehensive range of logistics services for various needs.
Relationships with major shipping lines and logistics providers enhance service offerings.
Significant shareholding by Transimex provides financial stability and growth resources.
Weaknesses
Performance is closely tied to the Vietnamese market, limiting growth potential.
Highly competitive logistics sector may pressure profit margins.
International operations are less extensive compared to larger global competitors.
Conclusion
You can see that along with the top global freight forwarder companies that have emerged in Vietnam, there are also leading Vietnam freight forwarder companies. These firms are progressively exerting their substantial imprint in the freight forwarding industry due to their scale, knowledge, and worldwide network.
Furthermore, freight forwarding business in domestic Vietnam has demonstrated their competence, like Bee Logistics, Sotrans, and Vinafreight. These companies have the characteristics of timely adaptability to new trends, industry shifts, daring innovation, and attained success.
Ngoc LeeNgoc Lee is an Content Creator Manager at EFEX. She wields her long-term expertise in Logistics and Supply Chain, harnessing her top-notch writing and research skills to bring incredibly valuable content. Whether you're a small startup or a well-established enterprise, Ngoc Lee is here to equip you with the essential knowledge of e-commerce, fulfillment, and all things business-related.