Top 15 Logistics Companies in India for eCommerce [2024] (2024)

Overview

Logistics companies have been growing and expanding exponentially. They are earmarked to contribute to a whopping 30% of the revenue for the entire logistics industry by 2025. 3PL (3rd Party) logistics companies in India are essential to e-commerce.

They handle the majority of logistics and delivery operations for online businesses. After an order is placed, logistics partners handle the manifestation of the order, generation of AWB (airway bills), then pick up and transportation of the order to the customer. Businesses may also rely on them for inventory storage before an order is placed and during transit.

As your business grows, you may find it more convenient to rely on multiple logistics providers or ones that provide more niche services depending on your business's industry.

That’s why it’s important to be aware of the best logistics company in India and how to select the right one for your business. Your choice of logistics partner can make or break your company and determine how you will succeed and grow.

That’s why it’s always good to be aware of the top dogs in the industry by common standards. Ecommerce logistics has blossomed into a powerful force, connecting businesses on one side of the country with customers on the other.

Given that over 100 million Indians use online enterprises, eCommerce logistics companies have had to up their game and improve the quality and range of services they provide.

They have to use more advanced tech wherever possible and put successful order completion above all else. They also have to maintain greater management systems for handling failed deliveries, return, and reducing RTOs. And all of this while keeping costs low and customer satisfaction high.

Top 15 Best Logistics Companies in India for eCommerce Businesses [2024 Updated List]

Whatever the size of your eCommerce business, you will need the help of an eCommerce Logistics startup or company in India to fulfill services to your customers.

Based on the size of the logistics company, the services they provide, and the resources they offer, we have determined that these are the best Logistics company, listed in alphabetical order.

1) Blue Dart

BlueDart is another global carrier with a massive network of resources in India and abroad. They allow you to give customers the option of selecting their preferred delivery date and time through scheduled and slot-based delivery.

The Blue Dart API can also request specialized services like automated and computerized proof-of-delivery updates or shipment weather-resistant packaging.

When it comes to delivery payments, they offer cash-on-delivery, online payment (both prepaid and postpaid), as well as numerous wallet options.

2) Delhivery

Delhivery is an Indian logistics company and one of the largest and most popular in operation. They handle logistics for 7,500+ e-commerce businesses across India.

They are well-known for their on-demand delivery, including next-day and same-day delivery services and scheduled deliveries.

Delhivery also provides COD services as well as reverse and exchange logistics. They are equipped to handle various goods, including dangerous, high-value, and heavyweight items.

The Delhivery API integration hastens the picking, packing, shipping label generation, and delivery of orders.

3) FedEx

Before bringing its logistics services to eCommerce businesses, FedEx made a name for itself in the global market. FedEx is well-equipped with trained personnel and top-of-the-line transportation services to handle high-value products, heavy or lightweight products, and even dangerous goods like dry ice and lithium batteries. They also help with handling customs clearances for cross-border and interstate shipments.

The FedEx API can integrate with your business systems to provide international deliveries to over 200 countries while keeping customers updated on the live status of their orders.

The FedEx API documentation includes many fantastic features like returns management, expedited delivery, etc. The FedEx API documentation is an excellent guidebook on how to go about integrating FedEx into your existing systems and software.

4) Ekart Logistics

Ekart was originally created as a Flipkart initiative and has grown to provide logistics solutions to a multitude of other eCommerce enterprises.

They have become especially popular because of their low rates and express delivery in certain areas. Same-day delivery is enabled in 13 cities across the country, while next-day delivery is available in 50.

For ecommerce businesses; looking for end-to-end logistics solutions, the Ekart Tracking API can help. The Ekart Tracking API enables automated shipping label printing and provides real-time data on where all your shipments are in their delivery journey.

This allows ecommerce entrepreneurs to know how many of their orders are delayed, whether the SLA terms are being maintained, and much more. Ekart Logistics also aids in providing smooth reverse logistics and returns management.

5) DHL

DHL is another established international logistics company that operates expansively across India. They have an extremely wide distribution network to optimize supply chain and logistics solutions domestically and globally.

DHL logistics company is well-liked among SMEs for their warehousing services. Their well-connected network helps them reduce the amount of wastage that arises during the delivery process and optimize their impact on the environment.

DHL has over 800 fulfillment centers scattered throughout the world. This means orders can reach customers faster than ever before, no matter where they live.

With warehouses and distribution centers located in the customer's vicinity, DHL helps online stores reduce logistics costs.

6) Ecom Express

This top-rated company provides end-to-end eCommerce logistics services for some major online businesses.

They are a major favorite for companies that deal with high-value goods like jewelry as they offer extra security and surveillance services.

Ecom Express is operational even on Sundays and public holidays and guarantees that Express delivery orders will be fulfilled within 72 hours from the order being manifested.

Similarly, regarding returned items and reverse logistics, they offer the service of doorstep QC (quality checks) and a guarantee that the item will be returned within 72 hours.

7) Shadowfax

Shadowfax handles logistics for hundreds of brands globally and domestically. They provide marketplace and warehouse pickups, alongside in-transit storage options during the first and last mile of delivery. Shadowfax offers hyperlocal and express delivery and is well-known for its fast delivery services.

They also offer cash-on-delivery (COD) services and accept cashless payments for doorstep deliveries.

8) XpressBees

XpressBees came up around the same time as Shadowfax and continues to be a competitor in the logistics game. They have set up over 100+ distribution centers across India that coordinate with 2800+ offices to ensure efficiency in delivery.

XpressBeesprovides express delivery for certain types of shipments and caters to a wide variety of products, from pharmaceuticals to heavyweight items like machinery. They are also equipped to help complete customs clearances for cross-border deliveries.

9) GATI

GATI began its foray into the world of logistics nearly 4 decades ago, in 1989. Its headquarters are based out of Mumbai. It is one of the oldest logistics companies operating in India across 17,000+ pin codes.

If you choose Gati, you will also have to select which among their many packages you want to avail yourself of.

Differently-priced bundles of various services are made available to cater to various industries. Some of the Gati services include express delivery, automated proof of delivery, scheduled & time-based delivery, delivery of heavyweight shipments, and customized weather-resistant packaging.

10) DTDC

DTDC is among the top logistics startups in India, founded in Bangalore in 1990. It caters to 10,000+ customers across 17,500+ pin codes, and 75% of its customer base comprises major eCommerce businesses.

DTDC provides both warehousing and COD (cash-on-delivery) services, alongside other easy and flexible payment options for customers.

The DTDC Tracking API can provide accurate tracking updates for multiple orders at once. It also helps with Non-Delivery Report (NDR) Management. The DTDC API can provide in-depth data on courier performance too.

It is especially known for providing speedy delivery services, including express delivery, hyperlocal delivery, scheduled and slot-based delivery, same-day delivery, and next-day delivery.

What adds to DTDC's versatility is its ability to handle a wider variety of products, including high-value goods, heavyweight goods, and even dangerous or hazardous materials (HAZMAT).

11) Dunzo

New Delhi-based logistics company Dunzo was first incorporated in 2014 and remained a top ranker in end-to-end logistics.

It is a big favorite among some big-name eCommerce brands like Titan EyePlus and Zhivame. Orders can be shipped to under 3000 cities across the country, spanning 27,000+ pin codes.

Customers can avail of the collect-on-delivery service, which allows them to make various payments at the time of delivery, including cash on delivery, demand draft, and certain forms of digital payment.

Dunzo offers a higher safety standard for mid-to-heavyweight shipments and provides doorstep QC (quality checks) for return orders.

12) India Post

India Post has been a leading global logistics service provider since 1854. It is the government-operated postal service of India, serving 100+ countries.

India Post provides has been a longstanding institution for satisfying the logistical needs of individual customers.

Still, with the boom in eCommerce, India Post has also become part of the eCommerce logistics revolution. As an internationally renowned carrier, India Post can help its customers to navigate customs clearances for imports and exports.

India Postcaters to a wide range of industries from pharmaceuticals to aviation, and as such, is equipped to handle heavyweight items like machinery, items like jewels, and even HAZMAT, like lithium batteries or dry ice.

This makes India Post a big favorite for businesses that sell a more niche or specific range of products.

The India Post post office API will allow your e-commerce business to easily print shipping labels, provide estimated delivery dates to customers when they shop, and help you with returns management.

13) Safexpress

Safexpress is an older Indian carrier with over 2 decades of experience providing logistics services to businesses, especially to eCommerce businesses in the last few years.

Safexpress delivers to 1000+ different locations in India and uses GPRS-enabled smart devices to ensure real-time tracking is available for all deliveries.

This also allows them to follow optimal and accurate routes when it comes to cross-border shipments.

They also offer secured delivery services, culminating in collecting proof of delivery immediately after handing over the item.

14) WoW Express

WoW Express is an India-based logistics provider that has been operational since 2015 and offers niche delivery services all across the globe.

They offer express delivery services for both national and international shipments, including express export and import. In addition to that, WoW Express also offers core logistics services like order tracking, order bundling, COD, and co-packaging.

WoW Express is trusted by some of the biggest ecommerce giants like Nykaa, Myntra, Amazon, and Flipkart. It has a dedicated service for healthcare logistics.

WoW Express can look after your business's entire warehousing and inventory management aspect. It has over 70 distribution centers across India.

15) Rivigo

Rivigo only began its journey into the eCommerce logistics industry in 2014, but, in this short time, has become one of the most trusted logistics partners.

It employs over 15,000 delivery partners to provide logistics services to 4000+ cities across India, with a reach of 29000+ pin codes.

Rivigo caters to some well-known eCommerce companies like Maruti Suzuki, Hero MotoCorp, ITC, Flipkart, etc.

In terms of payment options, this logistics service provider lets your customers choose between prepaid orders, cash on delivery, and UPI payment on delivery.

The Rivigo API has a reputation for super fast delivery and offers both hyperlocal and express delivery. It also offers route optimization and crowd-sourcing mechanisms to reduce eCommerce shipping costs.

How to Select the Best Logistics Company in India for eCommerce?

Now that you’re aware of the different top Logistics Companies that you should choose from, you still need to select the ones you wish to partner with. This isn’t a choice that can be made lightly.

There are numerous things an eCommerce business must consider before tying up with a logistics service provider. Many industry-specific things can be included in this decision.

We will discuss the most important elements for any business to consider when choosing the best logistics company for eCommerce in India.

1) Shipping Cost

While it’s tempting to look for the logistics company with the cheapest prices, low prices don’t necessarily keep your shipping costs low. What you’re looking for is the right price for the right services.

Overall,logistics costs can be high even if the shipping rate is low, usually because of the sudden appearance of hidden costs, like extra charges for cash on delivery orders or different value-added services, or weight discrepancies.

That’s why it's important to know exactly what services you need and what would be the ideal budget within which all of those services would have to be encompassed. You can determine which logistics partner will be most cost-effective for you.

2) Pin Code Reach

The pin code reach of a partner is one of the most important things to check first. But much like with costs, the greater number of pin codes doesn’t necessarily mean it will suit your needs.

You need first to know exactly which locations and pin codes you receive orders from across the country. This may even include remote locations in tier 2 and tier 3 cities that may not be reachable by most logistics partners.

3) Tracking Visibility

Visibility of order tracking is essential to ensure you provide a good post-purchase journey for the customer.

You would want to be able to send them regular and real-time updates so they will be aware of every delivery milestone crossed by their order.

This ensures they remain excited to receive their order. A logistics partner with better tech capabilities like GPRS-enabled tracking can help you ensure your customers are kept updated and allow you to maintain transparency in tracking orders.

4) Terms of Service

Numerous different types of services are encompassed under the broad term of logistics. This can include core delivery services like express delivery and cash-on-delivery.

This may include more specialized services like hyperlocal delivery, slot-based delivery, customized packaging, and bulk order shipments.

Each of these services typically has its own cost, so predetermining how these services can be bundled to Reduce eCommerce Shipping Costs.

You can also preemptively agree on which upper limits for certain key objectives, like a maximum number of fake deliveries or RTOs, are beyond which a penalty is applicable.

5) Speed of Delivery

As the Ecommerce industry has grown and become one of the most popular mechanisms for shopping, customer demands have also grown. And most customers have a preference for fast delivery.

This is why you would want to be able to give customers options for speedy delivery at low rates. You would also want these speedy delivery services from your logistics partners at reasonable rates.

You can first narrow down logistics companies based on those that offer various fast delivery services like express delivery, scheduled delivery, or hyperlocal delivery.

You can then further narrow down that list based on the rates charged. It's also important to ensure the specifics of how these various faster delivery services will be provided and at what rate in terms of service mentioned above, ideally in the form of an SLA (service level agreement).

6) RTO Percentage

A high RTO (Return to Origin) percentage is an unfriendly and unwelcome challenge faced by most ecommerce enterprises, even the biggest brands in the world.

But the bigger you get, the more energy you need to focus on bringing that number down so you can reach your goal of maximum order fulfillment.

Some logistics companies are well-equipped to help you deal with delivery exceptions that cause RTOs, like delayed deliveries, failed deliveries, and stuck shipments.

7) Specialty Shipping Services

This may sound a little counterintuitive, but you can bring down your logistics costs by splurging a little more on certain specialized services.

Temperature-controlled transit and weather-resistant packaging can ensure fewer orders are damaged in transit. Secured delivery services also offer additional support here. Insurance services can help you recover any potential losses for damaged orders.

Quicker COD remittance can ensure you have money in the bank in case of any urgent need. The right permutation and combination of these specialized services, at the right cost, can be a huge leg up for your business.

You would therefore be able to identify quickly which logistics partners are right for you based on the specialty services they offer.

8) Optimal Returns Management

It is absolutely impossible to stop customers from ever canceling or returning an order. As an Ecommerce business, your job is to make those processes as easy as possible for customers so they come back.

And once an order is canceled or returned, customers don't think twice about it. But that's not a luxury your business has.

In their return journey, orders can get damaged, stuck, or even lost en route. The chances of this happening are infinitely higher for a logistics company with no streamlined system for processing and tracking returning orders.

A logistics company that maintains its reverse logistics mechanisms as effectively as its forward logistics mechanisms is potentially a good partner.

9) Secured Delivery

We mentioned specialty services before, but these can often depend on the industry within which your Ecommerce enterprise operates and the goods you deal in.

Secured delivery and insured delivery are two services that can be useful for any ecommerce endeavor, regardless of product or pin code reach. Secured delivery services make you feel comfortable knowing that the utmost care is being used to transport your orders.

And you can breathe easier knowing that insurance services would cover any damage that could occur.

The key to determining the right logistics partner that provides these services is first understanding how they do so. For example, Safe Express provides secured delivery with the help of GPRS-enabled smart devices attached to every vehicle in their fleet, so not only is the order being tracked, but the vehicle transporting it as well.

You would also need to check the cost over time, as the cost should not be greater than the sum of the losses avoided.

10) Track Record

No matter how much you break it down to the services and costs, the true value of a logistics partner is in their overall performance. A logistics company may offer all the required services, but a brief discussion with a former user will tell you which ones they provide most efficiently.

Most logistics companies have been around for at least a few years and a few decades in the case of some.

Viewing a logistics company's track record can sometimes be as simple as checking reviews on major platforms and Ecommerce-specific forums.

This will give you the clearest idea of which logistics company fits into the shipping strategy you created using the above-listed criteria.

Advantages of Working with Logistics Companies for Ecommerce Shipping

Ecommerce logistics can be tricky and result in lost sales if not handled properly. Whether you want faster delivery or just a more reliable service, there are many benefits in working with e-commerce logistics companies in India.

The best logistics companies come with tailor-made services and expertise to plan out the most suitable shipping strategy for e-commerce businesses.

They are equipped to handle supply chain operations, freight forwarding, and much more. This gives online store owners the freedom to scale rapidly without investing too much in acquiring a larger workforce or storage facility.

Perhaps the biggest advantage of working with the top e-commerce logistics companies in India is reduced shipping costs. Contrary to popular belief, outsourcing shipping management to logistic 3PLs is more cost-effective than running an in-house logistics team.

Only logistics and courier companies can offer discounted shipping rates. Additionally, the availability of 24/7 customer support reduces the burden on online entrepreneurs.

Lastly, the range of shipping and payment options offered by an e-commerce company is nothing compared to the ones provided by a logistics company.

Conclusion

Selecting the best logistics companies to work with is not an easy decision. Still, it can be made much simpler by first narrowing down the best logistics service providers in India.

Now you only have to select from the top logistics companies instead of 120+. After that, it’s a question of determining which logistics partners can give you the widest pin code reach and the most visibility when tracking our orders.

Make sure to know what services you need to reduce costs proactively by maximizing your operational efficiency.

Without the top logistics companies to take care of delivery, e-commerce businesses would be forced to create and manage their infrastructure to deliver orders, which is a costly and time-consuming process.

This also means that eCommerce companies rely heavily on logistics to track their orders and keep customers informed of the delivery progress.

Optimizing your logistics solutions can sometimes be as simple as selecting the right logistics partners to work alongside you.

With 150+ logistics companies operating all across India, finding the right ones for you may seem impossible. However, the best way to go about it is to approach logistics service providers based on your business needs and the specific services you require.

FAQs

1) Which are the top logistics companies in India?

India's top logistics companies are BlueDart, DTDC, Delhivery, Gati, Ekart, DHL, FedEx, Shadowfax, Ecom Express, and India Post.

2) Which are India's best e-commerce logistics companies for B2B shipping?

The best B2B e-commerce logistics companies in India are - FedEx, DHL, BlueDart, and DTDC.

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