Have you ever questioned yourself how this toy manufactured in China or this chocolate bar manufactured in Switzerland gets to your local shop somewhere in India? Or how are vehicles manufactured in a plant at Chennai transported to Europe or Africa? The answer is big ships! These ships are owned and operated by companies known as shipping companies. They are the most powerful delivery service in the entire world.
Chennai is an extremely huge and significant city in the global delivery system. It is the largest shipping and trade center in India. As an example, the Chennai Port, the primary port in Chennai, had over 48 million tonnes of cargo in a year. That is the mass of 8 million elephants! Kamarajar Port was another nearby port that processed more than 34 million tonnes. Together, they render Chennai a very busy and significant port of entry and exit for ships in and out of India. Due to all this action, shipping companies in Chennai have been ranked among the top five largest container ports in our country.
Types of Shipping Firms in Chennai
Shipping companies in Chennai may have a lot of different meanings. There are numerous categories of businesses that collaborate in the transportation of goods over the sea. Let us examine the key ones that are available in Chennai.
- Shipping Lines (or Carriers): These are the giants who own or operate the large ships. They are the sea airlines. They are tasked with the responsibility of transporting containers and other cargo between ports on a predetermined schedule. Shipping lines such as Maersk, MSC, and CMA CGM are famous companies.
- Freight Forwarders: A freight forwarder is a travel agent for your goods. In case you wish to send something to a foreign country, you can visit a freight forwarder. They do not own the ships, but reserve space on their behalf. They do all the difficult stuff, picking up the goods in your factory, paperwork (which is a lot!).
- Terminal Operators: A ship should have a place where it can berth when it arrives at a port, and people to unload the cargo. Terminal operators control this. They operate the container terminals within the port. They possess the massive cranes, forklifts, and other equipment required to transfer containers off the ship to the shore and onto trucks or trains.
- Logistics and Supply Chain Companies: These companies consider the entire process of a product. They strategize on how a product should be made in a factory, up to the ultimate customer. This involves warehousing goods, transporting them using trucks, trains, and ships, and tracking the goods.
Top 10 Chennai shipping companies.
The offices of nearly all major shipping and logistics companies in the world are located in Chennai. The following are ten of the best companies that are highly represented in the city:
1. A.P. Moller – Maersk
Maersk is a highly familiar Danish corporation and one of the biggest container transportation lines in the entire globe. Their ships and containers are easily identifiable by the light blue color and the seven-pointed star logo. They are more than a century in the shipping business and are reputed to be reliable and have a massive network. Maersk is more than a ship; they are also a worldwide leader in the logistics business and assist businesses in the management of their supply chain to the end. Maersk has a very big and significant office in Chennai. They assist a number of Indian companies to reach other markets across the globe. They are also familiar with the application of technology to ease shipping, and customers can easily book and track their cargo online.
- Services: Container Shipping, Supply Chain & Logistics, Freight Forwarding, Port and Terminal Operations.
- Address: 2 nd floor, KGN Towers, No. 62, Ethiraj Salai, Egmore, Chennai, 600008, Tamil Nadu, Maersk India Pvt. Ltd.
- Salary: The average salary of an entry-level job such as an Operations Executive is estimated at ₹4,00,000 to ₹6,00,000/year. This is only an approximation and it may vary.
- Contact No.: +91‑44‑6684‑2000
- Website: https://www.maersk.com/
- Careers Page: https://www.maersk.com/careers.
2. Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC).
Another shipping giant is MSC. It is a Swiss-Italian firm which began with a single ship and has expanded to be one of the largest container shipping lines in the world. MSC is a family business and is reputed to have the best customer service and customized solutions. They possess an enormous fleet of ships that make hundreds of calls in ports worldwide. They are very strong in Chennai where they have a major port to their services linking India to Europe, Africa and the Americas. MSC is of the opinion that it should develop a strong and long-term relationship with its customers. They collaborate with both large and small businesses to know what they need and offer the most suitable shipping options.
- Services: Container Shipping, Logistics, Intermodal Transportation (ship, rail, and truck).
- Address: MSC Agency (India) Private Limited, Ceebros Building, 1 st floor, No. 14, Cenotaph Road, Teynampet, Chennai – 600018, Tamil Nadu.
- Average Salary: The approximate salary of a Customer Service Representative is ₹3,50,000- ₹5,50,000 annually. This is just an estimate.
- Website: https://www.msc.com/
- Careers Page: https://www.msc.com/en/careers
Also Read: Shipping Companies in Mumbai
3. CMA CGM Group
CMA CGM is a French shipping and logistics corporation. The name is a short name of its original French name. The company has a reputation of being innovative and also putting into consideration the environment by constructing ships that consume cleaner fuel. It is one of the best shipping companies in Chennai. They possess a very extensive route system and an up-to-date fleet of vessels, of which some are among the largest container vessels ever constructed. CMA CGM is a crucial player in the linkage of the manufacturing and textile sectors in South India to the outside world, in Chennai. Their services extend to include air cargo and warehousing, among other services, and therefore they are a one-stop shop to most businesses.
- Key Services: Intermodal Solutions, Air Cargo, Container Shipping, and Logistics.
- Address: CMA CGM Agencies (India) Pvt. Ltd., Temple Steps, 5 th floor, 184 -187, Anna Salai, Little Mount, Saidapet, chennai – 600015, Tamil Nadu.
- Average Salary: The average salary of a Documentation Executive could be between ₹3,00,000 and ₹5,00,000 a year. This is just an estimate.
- Contact No.: +91‑44‑3064‑8888
- Website: https://www.cma-cgm.com/
4. Hapag‑Lloyd
Hapag-Lloyd is a German firm that has been in existence since time immemorial. It is long established and has a good reputation of quality and reliability. The company has a reputation for bright orange containers, which are common at ports. Hapag-Lloyd is safety and customer satisfaction oriented. It is one of the best shipping companies in Chennai. Their network network has all the major markets linked to India. Their office in Chennai is a major component of their operations in India, in particular, the specialized cargo (such as refrigerated goods, i.e. fruits, medicines) and oversized equipment. They are heavy on technology to offer their clients with excellent service and real time information.
- Key Services: Container Shipping, Reefer (Refrigerated) Cargo, Special Cargo, Logistics Services.
- Address: Hapag-Lloyd India Pvt. Ltd., RR Tower IV, 4 th floor, Thiru Vi Ka Industrial Estate, Guindy, Chennai – 600032, Tamil Nadu.
- Average Salary: The average salary of a Sales Coordinator may be ₹450,000 to ₹700,000 in a year. This is just an estimate.
- Contact No.: +91‑44‑4292‑2000
- Web address: https://www.hapag-lloyd.com/en/home.html
5. Ocean Network Express (ONE)
Ocean Network Express (ONE) is a comparatively young company, however, it is a combination of three large and experienced Japanese shipping lines (MOL, NYK, and “K” Line). Their ships and containers are immediately visible due to their distinctive and bright magenta color. ONE has been developed to offer a more effective and extended service network. They are relatively new but one of the largest container shipping companies in the world. It is one of the best shipping companies in Chennai. Their office in Chennai assists companies in the area to reach their vast global network particularly to Asia, North America and Europe. They have a reputation for their new approach, emphasis on teamwork, and Japanese quality of service.
- Key Services: Container Shipping, Global Fleet Management, Refrigerated Cargo.
- Address: Ocean Network Express (India) Pvt. Ltd. Prestige Polygon, 4 th floor, No. 471, Anna Salai, Teynampet, Chennai – 600018, Tamil Nadu.
- Salary: The salary of an average operations department professional could be estimated at approximately ₹5,000 to ₹7,500 every year. This is just an estimate.
- Contact No.: +91‑1800‑266‑1025
- Website: https://www.one-line.com/
6. Allcargo Logistics Ltd.
Allcargo Logistics is an Indian firm which has established itself as a world leader. It is among the biggest integrated logistics firms in India, which implies that it offers all services. They specialize in the transportation of cargo that cannot be transported in conventional containers (Less-than-Container Load or LCL). They also run huge warehouses and offer transport both on land and air. Allcargo is a fine example of an Indian company that finds its way into the world arena. It is one of the best shipping companies in Chennai. Their office is based in Chennai and it covers the whole South Indian region where they provide customized solutions to assist businesses in managing their supply chains. They are characterized by their good local expertise and international coverage.
- Key Services: Global LCL Consolidation, Full Container Load (FCL) Forwarding, Warehousing, Project Logistics.
- Address: Allcargo Logistics Ltd., Arihant Nitco Park, 6 th floor, no. 90, dr. Radhakrishnan Salai, Mylapore, Chennai – 600004, Tamil Nadu.
- Average Salary: A rough estimate of the salary of a Logistics Coordinator could lie between ₹3,00,000 to ₹5,00,000 per annum. This is just an estimate.
- Website: https://allcargologistics.com/
7. DP World Chennai
DP World is a major port terminal operator worldwide with its headquarters in Dubai. They do not own the ships but they control the container terminals where the ships are loaded and unloaded. They have the Chennai Container Terminal (CCTL) in Chennai. They are meant to ensure that the work in the port is as quick and efficient as possible. They operate hi-tech technology, massive cranes and intelligent systems to transport thousands of containers daily. The terminal, well run by DP World, assists in saving money by ensuring that a ship does not spend much time waiting at the port. They play an important role in ensuring the trade in Chennai is running smoothly and fast.
- Key Services: Container Terminal Operations, Port Management, Logistics Solutions.
- Average Salary: The estimated salary of a Terminal Operations Trainee would be between ₹400,000 to ₹600,000 per annum. This is just an estimate.
- Website: http://www.dpworldchennai.com/
8. PSA SICAL Terminal
PSA SICAL is another large terminal operator in the region. PSA international of Singapore and SICAL Logistics of India made it. Tuticorin Port south of Chennai, is a major container terminal operated by the company that is significant to trade in Tamil Nadu. around Chennai, PSA SICAL is also a major player in the transport sector. PSA is renowned across the globe to operate ports in an efficient and high quality manner. The port opens up the major industrial destinations of Tamil Nadu including Coimbatore and Madurai, to the sea.
- Key Services: Provided include operations in terminals, port logistics, warehouses.
- Average pay: a planning executive earns about 5 -8 lakh per annum on average.
- Website: https://www.globalpsa.com/
9. DB Schenker
DB Schenker is a subsidiary of the German railway company Deutsche Bahn that deals in logistics. It is a world leader in freight forwarding and supply-chain. DB Schenker does not possess ships; it designs the strategy of movement of goods. It is one of the best shipping companies in Chennai. Should a company require a product shipped to a store in Germany, it is possible to plan the entire trip with truck, ship, and train using DB Schenker. It is well connected in India and its office in Chennai a key logistics center in automobiles, electronics and retailing. The company has a reputation of accuracy, reliability, and addressing complicated logistics.
- Key Services: freight forwarding (ocean and air), land transport, contract logistics, warehousing.
- Address: Schenker India Pvt. Ltd., Kochar Globe, 4 th floor, No.1, G N Chetty Road, T. Nagar, Chennai -600017, Tamil Nadu.
- Average Salary: the approximate pay of a logistics specialist is 4 to 6.5 lakh annually.
- Website: https:// www.dbschenker.com/in-en.
- Career Page: https://www.dbschenker.com/global/careers
10. Kuehne + Nagel
Kuehne + Nagel is one of the leading logistic firms in the world with headquarters in Switzerland. It is a leading freight forwarder in the world with more than 130 years of history particularly in sea and air freight. The firm also incorporates modern technology that enables the customers to view and manage their packages. The Chennai office it has provides a complete spectrum of logistics services to most industries. It assists the businesses to enhance the supply chains, reduce costs and become efficient. It is reputed to be of high quality services and has a strong international network linking Chennai to nearly all places.
- Key Services: sea, air, road, contract and warehousing.
- Address: Kuehne + Nagel Pvt. Ltd., Tamarai Tech Park, 7 th Floor, S P Plot No. 16-19 and 20-A, Thiru Vi Ka Industrial Estate, Guindy, Chennai -600032, Tamil Nadu.
- Average Salary: 3.5 -6 lakh per annum of any operations executive in sea logistics.
- Website: https://home.kuehne-nagel.com/
Shipping Companies in Chennai for Jobs & Internships
The shipping and logistical industry in Chennai is the best place to begin with. It is expanding rapidly and it has numerous types of employment to individuals possessing varying skills.
These companies offer good opportunities to any student or a fresh graduate. You can seek employment in the following locations:
- Operations: These departments ensure a smooth movement of cargo. They deal with ports, trucks drivers, and clients.
- Documentation: Shipping requires much paperwork. All these forms are checked by this team.
- Customer Service: This is the primary customer point of contact and assists with booking and delivering answers.
- Sales and Marketing: It is a team that identifies new customers and makes the businesses aware of what the company can provide.
- Finance and Accounting: As in any business, such companies require money managers.
The internships are also available in many large companies. An internship is a brief employment scheme among the students. It allows you to check the booking of containers, the tracking of ships, and the resolution of big problems. In order to discover these opportunities, you must:
- Go to the careers page of the websites of the above companies.
- Establish a decent profile on networking platforms such as LinkedIn.
- Where possible, go to job fairs or industry events.
The Selection of the Best Shipping Company in Chennai.
When shipping goods, and you, or your family, you need to choose the right company. This is a list of the easy steps that can assist you in making a decision.
- Know Yourself: To begin with, know what you need. Is it a small box or a container you are shipping? Does your cargo come delicate or does it have to be cold? It is this knowledge that assists you in selecting a company that is offering the correct service. Freight forwarders would normally be suitable in smaller shipments, whereas shipping lines would be suitable in large shipments which are routine.
- Check Their Reputation and Experience: Select a company that is known and has a good reputation. An older company is normally a reliable one. Get suggestions of other business owners or seek reviews on the Internet. Experience is another factor that can be considered particularly when you are shipping to a location that is hard to access.
- Compare the Costs: Do not simply pick up the first company that you see. Request quotes of prices of at least three companies. Ask them to provide you with a breakdown of all costs in detail to avoid hitches in the future. Keep in mind the best is not necessarily the cheapest; the price could be so low that it is a sign of a very low quality of service.
- Examine the Services They Provide: See what they provide in service. Do they deliver and pick up on a door to door basis? Do they track your cargo so that you can see? Will they assist in paperwork of customs? A firm that provides you with a package deal can simplify your life.
- Assess Customer Service In the Company: Customer service is important. See their response when you first contact them. Are they polite and helpful? Are they responsive to your enquiries? You desire a firm that you can easily communicate with, and who is willing to contribute in resolving issues in case they arise.
Conclusion
Chennai is not just a gorgeous seaport. It is a forceful driver of Indian trade with the world. Its ports are the best in the world, the connectivity is high and its industrial sector is a busy one which draws the largest shipping and logistic firms. These shipping companies in Chennai connect an Indian factory with the customers thousands of miles away propelling business and the economy and creating thousands of jobs. The active transit of huge ships and containers in the ports of Chennai demonstrates a city, which is really interconnected with the world.
Also Read: Best Shipping Companies in India
FAQs
What is the core business of a shipping company?
A shipping company refers to a company that transports goods and cargo between one location to another across the sea by ships. They reserve space in a ship and ensure that the cargo gets to its destination in a safe environment.
What are the principal ports in Chennai?
Chennai Port (one of the oldest and busiest in India) and Kamarajar Port, a modern corporate port in Ennore are the two major ports.
Will these large companies take a small package?
Big shipping lines deal mostly with large containers, though small packages can be shipped with the help of a freight forwarder or a logistics company.
What is a freight forwarder?
A freight forwarder is a good travel agent of goods. They are not ship owners: they can structure the entire transport process on your behalf: securing the space, paperwork, and local transportation.
