Logistic companies play a vital role in the supply chain, ensuring that goods are transported efficiently from the point of origin to the end of consumption. Their functions encompass a wide range of activities, each critical to the seamless flow of products. In India, the logistics industry is experiencing a remarkable growth trajectory, significantly contributing to the nation’s GDP and providing livelihoods for millions.
The Indian Logistics Industry: A Snapshot
The logistics sector is vital for over 22 million livelihoods and contributes 14.4 percent to India’s GDP. Expected to grow by more than 8 percent CAGR over the next five years, the sector is poised to reach a market size of $320 billion by 2025. This rapid growth underscores the critical role of logistics in supporting India’s economic expansion.
Here are the leading logistic brands in India, each contributing uniquely to the industry’s landscape and driving its evolution.
1. Gati Limited
Founded in 1989, Gati Limited is a pioneer in express distribution and supply chain solutions in India. As a part of the Allcargo Group, Gati’s extensive network covers 99 percent of India’s districts, ensuring unparalleled reach. The company recorded its highest-ever quarterly revenue of Rs 379 crore in third quarter FY 2023, with EBITDA growth of 28 percent YoY.
Recently, Gati partnered with Tech Mahindra to develop the Gati Enterprise Management System (GEMS 2.0), which will aim to enhance productivity and customer experience while reducing costs.
“Our partnership with Gati in designing and developing GEMS 2.0 will help the organization boost productivity, unlock new business opportunities, scale performance and lead the tech-led transformation narrative in the express logistics segment,” said Vivek Agarwal, President - APJI (Enterprise), Corporate Development, Tech Mahindra.
2. Unicommerce
Unicommerce, established in 2012, is India’s largest e-commerce enablement SaaS platform. It enables end-to-end e-commerce management for brands and logistics service providers. The company reported net profit growth of 8 percent in FY23 and operating revenues of Rs 51 crore in H1 FY24.
Recently, Unicommerce’s collaboration with Wonderchef aims to streamline e-commerce supply chains and enhance customer experience through automated order processing. “We have a clear vision with technology leading our way in our distribution channels. With the help of Unicommerce’s reliable platform, we are confident of being ahead of the competition as our innovative products are already seeing good traction in Indian as well as overseas markets,” said Ravi Saxena, Founder & CEO, Wonderchef.
3. DTDC
Offers a comprehensive range of technology-enabled logistics solutions to serve a wide spectrum of customers across diverse industry verticals. The brand has transformed from a home-grown courier, express and parcel company to a widely recognized express logistics player offering a wide range of integrated delivery solutions to retail customers and businesses. The brand’s operating revenues range is Over Rs 500 crore FY 23, its EBITDA has increased by 9.95 percent.
The brand entered the Malaysian market, strengthening its presence in Southeast Asia. As part of its global expansion plans, the company collaborated with Aramex last year to enhance its capabilities in cross-border logistics. The newly established office will provide export and import services to and from India, Singapore, and Australia, along with handling local deliveries in Malaysia.
4. Mahindra Logistics
The brand aims to be a Rs10000 crore logistics service provider by FY 2026, focusing on seamless logistics solutions. It aims to bring different stakeholders together to form a seamless flow of activity and thus make life easy.
Its partnership with Seino Holdings enhances integrated logistics solutions in India, emphasizing technology, innovation, and operational excellence. Mahindra Logistics is dedicated to creating efficient supply chains and delivering optimal logistics solutions across the country.
“In collaboration with Mahindra Logistics’s unmatched capabilities, we endeavor to serve Japanese customers in India. Through this partnership, we will offer comprehensive logistics solutions supported by digitization, innovation, and a customer-centric approach, allowing us to efficiently manage the end-to-end supply chain” said Yosh*taka Taguchi, CEO, Seino Holdings.
5. Apollo Supply Chain
Apollo Supply Chain, part of the Apollo Group, is a leading integrated logistics provider serving industries like consumer durables, automotive, and e-commerce. With a turnover of $2.3 billion, Apollo Supply Chain partners with over 150 brands, offering services such as transport management and warehouse solutions.
The brand’s extensive network covers over 18,000 pin codes, delivering optimized logistics solutions across India. The technology services of the brand include transport management systems, warehouse management systems, control tower and analytics solutions.
6. Delhivery
With its nationwide network covering over 18,400 pin codes, the company provides a full suite of logistics services such as express parcel transportation, PTL freight, TL freight, cross-border, supply chain, and technology services. The brand successfully fulfilled over 1.7 billion shipments since its inception and today works with over 28,000 customers, including large & small e-commerce participants, SMEs, and other enterprises & brands.
Delhivery recorded a year-on-year growth of 20 percent in operating revenue to Rs 2,194 crore during the third quarter of FY24. In comparison, its total expenses rose only 7 percent on year to Rs 2,290 crore. Around the world in 2024, over 242 companies have started using Delhivery as a Shipping And fulfilment tool.
7. Ekart
It is India’s largest supply xhain company. Starting in 2009 to fulfil the supply chain requirements of customers across India, today the brand is the preferred partner for various businesses with consistent excellence in consumer experience, reliable delivery and managing variability at scale.
The brand covers 14,000 pin codes in India with reliable delivery services. Same-day or next-day delivery is available for short distances, while longer distances are guaranteed delivery within 48-96 hours.
8. Ecom Express
The brand uses cutting-edge technology and automated solutions to enable end-to-end logistics and supply chain solutions across 29 states and 6 union territories with coverage in 2,700+ cities and towns serving 27,000+ pin codes throughout India. The company provides first-mile pickup, processing, network operation, last-mile delivery, reverse logistics and returns management under its flagship service – Ecom Express Services (EXS).
Market giants such as Amazon, Flipkart, Clovia, Myntra, Paytm, Nykaa, and others, are among Ecom Express’ clients. The brand operates around 2930 facility centers.
9. Shadowfax
Established in 2015, Shadowfax is India’s leading last-mile logistics platform, utilizing a crowd sourced network of 125,000 active monthly delivery partners and 3.5 million registered users. The company serves major e-commerce and D2C players like Amazon, Flipkart, and Swiggy, recording revenues of Rs 1,415.40 crore for the financial year ending March 2023. Shadowfax’s commitment to reliable, customer-centric service has made it a preferred partner for leading brands across various sectors.
10. Pidge
Founded in 2019, Pidge empowers small and medium businesses with a unified logistics platform. Pidge’s innovative approach allows businesses to choose their delivery partners, facilitating deeper supply penetration. With a network of over 200 regional and national partners, Pidge supports brands like Blue Tokai and Dana Choga. The company has raised $6.86 million in funding, with a $3 million seed round in March 2023.
Pidge aims to create interoperable hybrid micro-networks where businesses can choose delivery partners, be it 3PL or local delivery vendors, and, consequently, democratize access to logistics.
The Future of Logistics in India
The Indian logistics sector is set for exponential growth, driven by technological advancements, strategic partnerships, and an increasing emphasis on customer-centric services. As these top logistic brands continue to innovate and expand, they will play a pivotal role in achieving the projected market size of $320 billion by 2025.
Conclusion
The logistics industry in India is at the cusp of a significant transformation, driven by technological innovation, strategic partnerships, and a focus on customer satisfaction. The top logistic brands in India are leading this change, each contributing uniquely to the industry’s growth. As the sector moves towards achieving a market size of $320 billion by 2025, these brands will play a crucial role in shaping the future of logistics in India.
India’s logistics cost is a steep 13-14 percent of the GDP. Leveraging their strengths and embracing new opportunities, these top 10 logistic brands in India are set to redefine the logistics landscape, ensuring efficient and reliable delivery services across the nation. As they continue to evolve and adapt, the Indian logistics industry will undoubtedly reach new heights, driving economic growth and development.
FAQ
- How can I choose the right logistics company for my business needs?
Choosing the right logistics company involves evaluating several factors such as the company's experience and expertise in your industry, the range of services offered, technological capabilities, geographical coverage, pricing structure, reliability and reputation, customer service, and flexibility to scale operations according to your business growth.
- What are the key challenges faced by logistics companies in India?
Key challenges include inadequate infrastructure, complex regulatory environment, high logistics costs, lack of skilled workforce, inefficiencies in last-mile delivery, and fluctuating fuel prices. Additionally, managing the diverse and fragmented nature of the Indian market, including navigating through urban congestion and rural areas, can also be challenging.
- What impact has e-commerce had on the logistics industry in India?
The e-commerce boom in India has significantly impacted the logistics industry by increasing the demand for efficient and reliable delivery services. This has led to the growth of specialized e-commerce logistics providers, the adoption of faster and more flexible delivery models (like same-day and next-day delivery), advancements in last-mile delivery solutions, greater focus on reverse logistics, and the integration of technology to handle large volumes of small, frequent shipments more effectively.
- What are the leading logistics companies in India?
Some of the leading logistics companies in India include Blue Dart, DHL Express India, Gati Limited, Mahindra Logistics, DTDC, and Delhivery. These companies have a strong presence across the country and offer a variety of logistics services.
- What are the benefits of outsourcing logistics services to third-party logistics (3PL) providers in India?
Outsourcing logistics to 3PL providers offers several benefits, including cost savings through economies of scale, access to specialized expertise and technology, flexibility to scale operations, improved efficiency and focus on core business activities, enhanced customer service, and reduced risk through shared responsibility for logistics functions.
