Top 10 freight forwarding companies in UK

Top 10 freight forwarding companies in UK

October 27, 2024

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Shipping freight from China to the UK might be quite a complicated and challenging process; therefore, precise planning and control will be in order. The first thing to attend to is to identify an appropriate UK  freight forwarder who has experience in the handling of international shipments and dealing with customs regulations. A good freight forwarder will ease the shipping process by ensuring timely delivery and also within the budget. Additionally, they are of great help in case of any problem or delay in shipment.

The other important factor to be considered while shipping from China to the UK  would be understanding the various transport options, which are either by  air freight , sea freight, or rail freight . Each transportation means has its merits and demerits regarding cost, speed, and reliability. By working closely with an informed UK freight forwarder, companies can achieve the most appropriate transport method suitable for their particular needs and considerations. Basically, developing a strategic way in which freight shipping from China is handled for businesses in the UK would yield a great opportunity to optimize the supply chain for more efficiency.

What are Freight Forwarders in United Kingdom?


In the UK, the Freight Forwarder is a firm or person that arranges and coordinates the shipment of goods belonging to other companies or individuals, known as shippers. They act as liaisons for the shipper with various transportation services-air, sea, road, and rail freight.
Their principal job is to ensure that goods are moved efficiently and cost-effectively, with security from the point of origin to the final destination.

The following are some of the major functions and services offered by freight forwarders in the UK:

Here are some key functions and services provided by freight forwarders in the UK:

Transportation Coordination:

This includes making the arrangements for the transportation of goods by various carriers in several modes of transport. They plan routes and shipping methods that ensure timely and cost-effective delivery.

Documentation and Customs Clearance:

They handle all the documentation that needs to be done for shipment, including a bill of lading, commercial invoice, and export and import licenses. They also handle customs clearance, which includes verification that goods are in agreement with international trade regulations and tariffs.

Warehousing and Distribution:

A majority of the freight forwarders offer warehousing solutions by providing storage facilities for goods prior to shipment. Additionally, they handle distribution logistics, including order fulfillment and delivery.

Cargo Insurance:

The freight forwarders always have an available option to insure the value of the goods during transportation to avoid damages, losses, or even thefts.

Consolidation Services:

The freight forwarders also consolidate the smaller shipments into one shipment shipment to save up on the cost of shipment and increasing efficiency in the process.

Tracking and Tracing:

They facilitate tracking services that help shippers trace the movement and location of their goods at any instance in the shipping process.

Consultancy Services:

They advise on the best way of shipping goods, how to save costs, and on the many areas of compliance for international trade.

UK freight forwarders play a major role in the supply chain. The complexity of the logistics intrinsic in international trade with them becomes much less overwhelming. They use their expertise, networks, and technology to give comprehensive shipping solutions from enterprises to large corporations.

Why cooperate with United Kingdom  Freight forwarders?

Cooperating with freight forwarding companies UK offers a lot of advantages to business entities involved in international trade. Here’s why cooperation with the best freight forwarder in the UK can bring a substantial value addition to your logistics and shipment: 

1. Expertise in Trade Regulations:

UK freight forwarders offer expertise in both inland and international trade, making sure customs and import/export regulations are observed-a certain way to reduce any potential for delay caused by documentation errors that can be very costly.

2. Cost Efficiency:

UK freight forwarders allow businesses to cut costs in logistics by selecting the most appropriate shipment routes and grouping smaller shipments, thereby assisting in cheap international shipment.

3. Global Network Access:

To this effect, UK freight forwarders have established good contacts with a wide variety of carriers and ports around the world, accesses that can indeed give businesses a wider network of shipping routes and destinations-many at very reasonable prices.

4. Time-Saving Solutions:

The freight forwarders take up all the headache in logistics, freeing your business to pay attention to its core functions and deal with all other areas. In fact, their efficient handling reduces the administrative burden to make sure any issues in shipping come to their resolution as soon as possible.

5. Risk Mitigation:

UK freight forwarders arrange cargo insurance, track shipments, and take other steps to ensure maximum security for your goods to minimize any loss, damage, or theft.

6. Flexibility and Scalability:

As a small or large enterprise, the shipping solutions by UK freight forwarding companies offer flexibility, scalable to your business needs, by air, sea, road, or rail.

7. Industry-Specific Expertise:

The best freight forwarder also specializes in industries, such as pharmaceutical or perishable goods, to offer customized services regarding packaging, labeling, and quality inspections, if your industry so requires.

Shipping with freight forwarding companies UK can save businesses logistics operations time, reduce shipping costs, and make international trade operations smoother and more reliable.

List of Freight Forwarders in United Kingdom

freight Forwarder in UK

Address

Phone

Email

Website

PBS International Freight Ltd

Unit 1, Britannia Industrial Park, Poyle Road, Colnbrook, Slough SL3 0BH, United Kingdom

+44 (0)1753 686 800

www.pbs-int.co.uk

KCI Logistics Ltd

 KCI Logistics Ltd, Suite 4, 35 Southernhay, Basildon, Essex SS14 1ET, United Kingdom

+44 (0)1268 534 444

www.kcilogistics.co.uk

Alinnza Trading Co  Ltd

27 Old Gloucester St
London WC1N 3AF
United Kingdom

20 8004 7744

www.alinnza.com

WWL ALS UK (International) Ltd

1501 Hedon Rd Hull
East Yorkshire HU9 5NX
United Kingdom

+44 (0) 1482 796214

www.abnormal-loads.com

Sunbury Warehousing and Logistics Limited

Unit A3, Dolphin Estate, Windmill Road
Sunbury-on-Thames, Middlesex
TW16 7HE United Kingdom

+44 (0)1932 450568

www.sunburylogistics.co.uk

Advantage Worldwide (UK) Ltd

Unit 11 Brooklands Close
Sunbury-on-Thames Middlesex
TW16 7DX United Kingdom

+44 (0) 1932 758 920

www.advantageworldwide.co.uk

Action Global Logistics Limited

Horatio House
Galleymead Road Colnbrook
SL3 0EN United Kingdom

+44 (0) 800 288 9792

www.actionglobal.co.uk

DAP UK Ltd

Candlet House,
Gulpher Road Business Park,
Felixstowe, IP11 9RB, UK

+44 (0) 1394 670058

www.dapuk.co.uk

Aerona (Air & Sea) Customs Clearing Agents Ltd

Safestore House, 189 Manchester Road
Oldham OL8 4PS
Greater Manchester, England

+44 0161 652 3443

www.aeronacca.co.uk

PBS International Freight Ltd

1-Freight Forwarder in UK – PBS International Freight Ltd

PBS International Freight Ltd is a frontline freight forwarder in the UK offering all types of logistic and shipping services. Incorporated in 1996, its head office is at Slough, and PBS International Freight Ltd is one of the most prominent freight forwarding organizations in United Kingdom serving top-class services to the esteemed customers.

Company Profile:

  • Name: PBS International Freight Ltd
  • Location: Slough, United Kingdom
  • Experience: PBS is highly experienced in the area of international freight forwarding companies because it has been operating since more than two decades. This makes dealing with shipping operations involving huge complications across various industries feasible.
  • Memberships: Membership to BIFA also means that it operates under conditions known as BIFA Standard Trading Conditions, which complement standards for reliability.

Services:

The services provided by PBS International Freight Ltd. are all-encompassing and include some of the best sea freight services in the UK. With its network spanning the globe and expertise from the industry, PBS indeed is a trusted partner of businesses needing efficient and cost-effective shipping solutions.

Contact Information:

  • Head Office: Unit 1, Britannia Industrial Park, Poyle Road, Colnbrook, Slough SL3 0BH, United Kingdom
  • Phone: +44 (0)1753 686 800
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: www.pbs-int.co.uk

Whether you need road, sea, or air transportation, PBS International Freight Ltd is second to none among the top freight forwarders in the UK, providing custom-made solutions to best suit your business needs.

KCI Logistics Ltd

2-Freight Forwarder in UK – KCI Logistics Ltd

KCI Logistics Ltd has been one of the well-established cargo companies in the UK, offering all-inclusive logistics and shipping services. Located in Essex, UK, KCI began its operations in 2007 with objectives to be among the leading freight forwarders in the United Kingdom while working for quality and customer satisfaction.

Company Profile:

  • Name: KCI Logistics Ltd
  • Location: Basildon, Essex, United Kingdom
  • Experience: With over 15 years of industry expertise, KCI Logistics excels in offering tailored solutions to meet the diverse needs of businesses, from small-scale operations to large enterprises.
  • Memberships: KCI is a proud member of the British International Freight Association (BIFA), operating under their standard trading conditions, ensuring reliability and trust in every transaction.

Services:

KCI Logistics Ltd is a logistic company that deals with ocean freight forwarding services. The main objective of the Company is to offer sea transport options efficiently and at more reasonable prices. This company can best be described as an all-round service company since it has different modes of transport.

Contact Information:

  • Head Office: Suite 4, 35 Southernhay, Basildon, Essex SS14 1ET, United Kingdom
  • Phone: +44 (0)1268 534 444
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: www.kcilogistics.co.uk

Among other ocean freight forwarders and the best freight forwarders in the UK, KCI Logistics Ltd is outstanding for those companies that seek integrated logistics solutions. It is flexible in service matters and strives for customer satisfaction, thus becoming a reliable partner for global shipping and logistic needs.

alinnza

3-Freight Forwarder in UK – Alinnza Trading Co  Ltd

Alinnza Trading Co., Ltd. is one of the well-known freight forwarders in the UK and Europe, offering unique services in international trading and logistics. With strong emphasis on world markets, Alinnza has become the perfect business partner for efficient logistics solutions.

Company Profile:

  • Name: Alinnza Trading Co., Ltd.
  • Location: London, United Kingdom
  • Experience: Alinnza Trading Co. has garnered a reputation as one of the most reliable UK international freight forwarders, known for its customer-centric approach and comprehensive service offerings that cater to businesses of all sizes.

Services:

Logistics services at Alinnza feature among the best freight forwarding agencies in the UK. The company offers a broad array of logistics solutions intended to ensure fast and efficient delivery both in Europe and beyond. It has the experience in managing complicated logistics services, and hence the company is an indispensable partner in the freight forwarding business.

Contact Information:

  • Head Office: 27 Old Gloucester St, London WC1N 3AF, United Kingdom
  • Phone: +44 20 8004 7744
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: www.alinnza.com

Of all freight forwarders UK Europe for any business to count on, Alinnza Trading Co., Ltd. prides itself on rich experience and customized logistics services in a manner that warrants the speedy movement of goods across international markets.

 
WWL ALS UK (International) Ltd

4-Freight Forwarder in UK –WWL ALS UK (International) Ltd

WWL ALS UK (International) Ltd is the leading UK freight forwarder, offering specialist global logistics solutions for projects involving complex and oversized cargo. With the company being part of Wallenius Wilhelmsen, one of the most reputed global logistics groups, WWL ALS is one of the top shipping companies in UK that deals with abnormal loads.

Company Profile:

  • Name: WWL ALS UK (International) Ltd
  • Parent Company: Wallenius Wilhelmsen
  • Location: Headquartered in East Yorkshire, United Kingdom, with a vast global network.
  • Experience: Known for their expertise in transporting oversized and abnormal loads, WWL ALS offers customized logistics solutions to meet challenging cargo requirements.

Services:

As one of the largest freight forwarders in the UK, WWL ALS offers bespoke logistics across a range of industries that require oversized, abnormal cargo. Global presence and expertise make them a trustworthy partner for companies with peculiar logistics demands.

Contact Information:

  • Head Office: 1501 Hedon Rd, Hull, East Yorkshire HU9 5NX, United Kingdom
  • Phone: +44 (0) 1482 796214
  • Fax: +44 (0) 1482 707650
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: www.abnormal-loads.com

From heavy haulage to vessel chartering and liner services, each mode developed with the express aim of providing efficient logistics for abnormal cargo. WWL ALS UK (International) Ltd is renowned to be one of the most trusted freight forwarding companies in UK, helping businesses transport complex goods safely and efficiently.

 
Unsworth

5-Freight Forwarder in UK – Unsworth 

Unsworth is among the top forwarding companies in the UK. The wide range of logistics and freight forwarding services are the reason behind their success. Established in 1974, Unsworth stands out as one of the best freight forwarding companies, with more than 45 years of experience in freight. They have managed to gain a strong position in the top ten freight companies in the UK, which established a full logistics approach.

Company Profile:

  • Name: Unsworth
  • Location: London, United Kingdom
  • Experience: With more than four decades of experience, Unsworth has cemented its position as a reliable forwarder UK in the global logistics market.
  • Memberships: Unsworth is a member of the British International Freight Association (BIFA) and other key industry associations, ensuring high standards and compliance with industry best practices.

Services:

Logistics solutions provided by Unsworth can be tailored according to specific business needs for businesses of many industries. Their knowledge also extends into many transportation modes, making them an excellent partner for international trade.

Contact Information:

  • Head Office: 3 Lemna Road, London E11 1JL, United Kingdom
  • Phone: +44 020 8539 8899
  • Fax: +44 020 8539 2868
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: www.unsworth.uk

Having been in this long-rooted industry, the commitment to excellence has positioned Unsworth as one of the most trusted names across the freight forwarding shipping company landscape that serves businesses globally with efficient logistics solutions.

Sunbury Warehousing and Logistics Limited

6-Freight Forwarder in UK – Sunbury Warehousing and Logistics Limited

Sunbury Warehousing and Logistics Limited is among the very top London freight forwarders offering world-class freight forwarding services UK. Sunbury specializes in warehousing, distribution, and logistics and offers businesses of all kinds tailored solutions.

Company Profile:

  • Name: Sunbury Warehousing and Logistics Limited
  • Location: Sunbury-on-Thames, Middlesex, United Kingdom
  • Experience: Known for its expertise in delivering efficient warehousing and logistics solutions, Sunbury is recognized as one of the best UK freight forwarders.

Services:

Being a freight forwarding shipping company, Sunbury offers a comprehensive range of services that includes storage, handling, and distribution. Due to their logistics proficiency and customer-oriented attitude and approach, the company has been considered as one of the top 10 freight forwarders in the UK.

Contact Information:

  • Head Office: Unit A3, Dolphin Estate, Windmill Road, Sunbury-on-Thames, Middlesex, TW16 7HE, United Kingdom
  • Phone: +44 (0)1932 450568
  • Fax: +44 (0) 1932 754948
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: www.sunburylogistics.co.uk

Sunbury Warehousing and Logistics Limited is a well-reputed name for freight forwarding services UK, aiming to develop practical logistics solutions that businesses need to be efficient and reliable.

Advantage Worldwide (UK) Ltd

7-Freight Forwarder in UK – Advantage Worldwide (UK) Ltd

Advantage Worldwide UK Ltd is one of the most popular UK shipping forwarders that boast a wide array of logistics and freight forwarding solutions. Housing wide networking and broad expertise, the company offers personalized shipping solutions to companies of all types and sizes in a wide array of industries.

Company Profile:

  • Name: Advantage Worldwide (UK) Ltd
  • Location: Headquartered in Sunbury-on-Thames, Middlesex, United Kingdom
  • Experience: Advantage Worldwide has established itself as a reliable forwarding agent UK with years of experience in the logistics industry.
  • Memberships: The company is a member of the British International Freight Association (BIFA) and adheres to industry-leading standards.

Services:

Advantage Worldwide is a name to be relied upon for the best freight forwarding services, and its expertise lies in handling shipment between the USA and the UK. It is one of the biggest choices for freight forwarders USA to UK operations.

Contact Information:

  • Head Office: Unit 11 Brooklands Close, Sunbury-on-Thames, Middlesex, TW16 7DX, United Kingdom
  • Phone: +44 (0) 1932 758 920
  • Fax: +44 (0) 1932 758 950
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: www.advantageworldwide.co.uk

Advantage Worldwide UK Ltd is of course second to none and guarantees the best freight forwarding services with efficiency and perfection so that logistics operations are problem-free for any business.

Action Global Logistics Limited

8-Freight Forwarder in UK – Action Global Logistics Limited

Located in the UK, Action Global Logistics Limited is a shipping agent UK providing integrated logistics and freight forwarding services to a wide range of industries. Known for their timely and dependable services, it has gained a place among the most-in-demand freight forwarders not only in the UK but also in the whole region because of its specialty logistics solutions that meet every business’s specific demand.

Company Profile:

  • Name: Action Global Logistics Limited
  • Location: Headquartered in Colnbrook, United Kingdom
  • Experience: With extensive experience in the logistics sector, Action Global Logistics is recognized for its commitment to quality service and client satisfaction.
  • Memberships: Likely affiliated with prominent industry associations, underscoring its dedication to best practices.

Services:

Action Global Logistics specializes in Sea freight forwarding and has established its position as one of the leading Sea freight forwarders in the UK. Its powerful presence and capabilities in Europe also establish the company as a leading name among freight forwarders in Europe. Being one of the largest UK shipping companies, the firm ensures that cargo operation is smooth and efficient.

Contact Information:

  • Head Office: Horatio House, Galleymead Road, Colnbrook, SL3 0EN, United Kingdom
  • Phone: +44 (0) 800 288 9792
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: www.actionglobal.co.uk

Action Global Logistics Limited has over the years been committed to offering the highest possible level of logistics and freight forwarding services. This makes it not only one of the most competent sea freight forwarders but also among the very top shipping companies in the UK.

9-Freight Forwarder in UK – DAP UK Ltd

DAP UK Ltd. is an international freight forwarder, UK-based, specializing in logistics, freight forwarding, and supply chain management. The company offers a wide array of freight forwarding services to meet the needs of different businesses for efficiency and reliability.

Company Profile:

  • Name: DAP UK Ltd.
  • Location: Headquartered in Felixstowe, United Kingdom
  • Experience: DAP UK Ltd. has established a solid reputation in the global freight forwarding companies sector, offering customized logistics solutions to meet the unique requirements of its clients.

Services:

Providing quality freight forwarding services, DAP UK Ltd. also holds the reputation of being one of the biggest freight companies in the UK, guaranteeing overall comfort for businesses dealing in international trade.

Contact Information:

  • Head Office: Candlet House, Gulpher Road Business Park, Felixstowe, IP11 9RB, United Kingdom
  • Phone: +44 (0) 1394 670058
  • Fax: +44 (0) 1394 277560
  • Email: [email protected]

DAP UK Ltd. is considered one of the most important freight forwarders worldwide and offers every type of service with care for international trade and logistics operations.

aeronacca

10-Freight Forwarder in UK – Aerona (Air & Sea) Customs Clearing Agents Ltd

Aerona Air & Sea Customs Clearing Agents Ltd had been among the UK-based leaders of customs clearance and logistics services. Because of a reputation for efficiently working out all intricacies of customs regulations, at Aerona, time- and effort-saving logistics solutions regarding air and sea freight are produced.

Company Profile:

  • Name: Aerona (Air & Sea) Customs Clearing Agents Ltd.
  • Location: Headquartered in Oldham, Greater Manchester, England
  • Experience: With an established presence in the logistics industry, Aerona focuses on delivering high-quality freight forwarding services and expert customs clearance.

Specialization:

Aerona is particularly known for its specialized customs clearance services for both air and sea freight, positioning it as one of the biggest freight companies in the UK and a key player among global freight forwarding companies.

Contact Information:

  • Head Office: Safestore House, 189 Manchester Road, Oldham OL8 4PS, Greater Manchester, England
  • Phone: +44 0161 652 3443
  • Fax: +44 0161 627 1896
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: www.aeronacca.co.uk

Aerona Air & Sea Customs Clearing Agents Ltd. continues to be a partner of choice for any business enterprise in need of reliable customs clearance and freight forwarding services with the assurance of seamless operations in international trade.

conclusion

Hence, the top 10 freight forwarders in the UK have been identified considering exceptional services, reliability, and efficiency in handling the needs of logistics and transportation.

They showed commitment to excellence by offering innovative solutions to meet the growing and changing demands of the industry.


Be it air transport, sea transport, or land transport; every one of them has made their place prominent and strong.

The following are the top companies for any business looking to outsource logistics services to responsible and reliable partners.

Whichever of these top freight forwarders you might decide to contact today, rest assured that magic will be performed in your supply chain operations, with goods being moved smoothly.

topshipping
About the Author
Topshipping's team, led by industry veteran Topshipping, boasts over a decade of experience in freight and cargo. Renowned for their expertise and reliability, each member excels in areas like transportation management, customs regulations, and distribution. Our standout feature is our collaborative spirit, ensuring the best solutions for clients through effective teamwork. More than just experts, we are dedicated professionals committed to transforming shipping operations and making a real difference for their clients.
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