More than 5000 years ago, the first recorded trade routes emerged in Mesopotamia, linking Sumerians with the Indus Valley civilization and sowing the primitive seeds of international trade — which accelerated when the Silk Road began to connect China with India, Persia, and Europe.
Fast forward a few millennia, and the business world is now truly globally connected. With the World Trade Organization (WTO) having 166 member countries, almost every nation engages in international trade in at least some way.
Of course, if you’re shipping across borders, you need a reliable logistics operation to deal with the complexities of global trade, which can include varying international laws and regulations, complicated customs procedures, and different currencies — and those are just some of the challenges involved.
Fortunately, third-party logistics (3PL) companies exist to lighten the burden, and many are well-versed in the intricacies of international shipping.
Looking to open up global markets with a reliable shipping partner by your side? Check out our list of 10 of the best global 3PL providers.
1. Pro3PL
Quickly positioning itself as a rising star in global logistics by combining the agility of a boutique operation with the infrastructure of a seasoned 3PL powerhouse, Pro3PL specializes in end-to-end supply chain solutions and is particularly adept at helping ecommerce brands scale internationally.
With strategically located fulfillment centers in the US, Europe and Australia, and seamless integrations with major platforms like Shopify, Amazon, and WooCommerce, Pro3PL simplifies cross-border logistics for fast-growing businesses.
A commitment to personalized support, transparent pricing, and tech-driven efficiency makes Pro3PL a go-to partner for companies ready to go global — minus the growing pains.
2. DHL Supply Chain
A household name in logistics, DHL Supply Chain is a global 3PL leader known for a robust international infrastructure and innovation in supply chain management. Operating in over 220 countries and territories, DHL provides scalable logistics solutions across industries including healthcare, automotive, retail, and technology.
With a strong focus on sustainability and digitization, DHL leverages advanced data analytics and robotics in its warehouses to optimize efficiency — an ideal partner for enterprise-scale operations looking for precision and a well-established global footprint.
3. Kuehne+Nagel
Kuehne+Nagel is one of the world’s largest and most trusted logistics providers, with a heritage dating back to 1890. Headquartered in Switzerland, the company excels in sea and air freight forwarding and contract logistics.
Its global network spans more than 100 countries, making it a strong option for companies that need consistent service across borders. Kuehne+Nagel stands out for its digital logistics platform, KN Login, which offers real-time shipment tracking, predictive analytics, and proactive alerts — a big win for businesses looking to reduce supply chain risk.
4. DB Schenker
Backed by Deutsche Bahn, DB Schenker combines European reliability with global reach. With more than 76,000 employees in over 130 countries, the company offers air, ocean, and land transport as well as warehousing and supply chain management services.
DB Schenker’s logistics solutions are tailored to industries like aerospace, electronics, healthcare, and fashion. They’re especially strong in cross-border European logistics, but also offer excellent support for international freight forwarding and customs clearance.
Strong sustainability commitments and digitization efforts also make DB Schenker an evolving player in the 3PL space.
5. Nippon Express
A major force in Asia especially, Nippon Express brings Japanese precision and global scale to third-party logistics. It operates in more than 50 countries and regions, with a particularly strong presence across East and Southeast Asia.
Nippon Express offers comprehensive 3PL services including freight forwarding, warehousing, customs brokerage, and heavy haul transport. Their logistics network is well-known for servicing automotive, electronics, and pharmaceutical sectors.
For businesses entering the Asian market or managing complex supply chains in the region, Nippon Express is a reliable and culturally savvy choice.
6. C.H. Robinson
C.H. Robinson is one of the largest 3PL providers in North America, boasting a global network of over 100,000 customers and 96,000 contract carriers. The company’s proprietary technology platform, Navisphere®, offers unmatched visibility and data-driven insights for shippers of all sizes.
From multimodal transportation to warehousing and customs brokerage, C.H. Robinson provides flexible solutions that scale with your needs — making it a preferred choice for businesses that value real-time visibility and actionable supply chain intelligence.
7. Expeditors
The Seattle-based Expeditors is a global logistics company known for its customized 3PL solutions and particularly strong customer service. Operating in over 100 countries, the company offers international freight forwarding, supply chain consulting, and customs compliance services.
Expeditors is a non-asset-based provider, which means it can offer highly flexible and tailored services without being tied to a specific carrier or transport method. This agility, combined with a strong reputation for on-time delivery and proactive communication, makes Expeditors a solid pick for international trade-focused companies.
8. XPO Logistics
XPO Logistics is a key player in the North American market, with a growing presence in Europe. While it focuses heavily on less-than-truckload (LTL) transportation, it also offers contract logistics and technology-driven supply chain optimization.
XPO is known for investing in cutting-edge tech, including machine learning algorithms that improve freight matching and route optimization.
For companies that rely on ground transportation and need a fast, reliable solution in the U.S. or EU, XPO delivers operational excellence with a tech-first approach.
9. Geodis
A division of French railway giant SNCF, Geodis is a global logistics provider with a focus on value-added services. It operates in 170 countries and specializes in freight forwarding, contract logistics, distribution, and last-mile delivery.
Geodis places a strong emphasis on performance tracking and customer satisfaction through visibility tools and analytics dashboards. For businesses looking for a 3PL partner that brings both logistics muscle and customer-centric service, Geodis is a dependable choice.
10. CEVA Logistics
CEVA Logistics, a subsidiary of the CMA CGM Group, delivers fully integrated supply chain solutions on a global scale. Operating across all continents, with strengths in both freight management and contract logistics, CEVA serves key sectors such as aerospace, automotive, retail, and energy.
With a strong presence in emerging markets and a robust focus on digital transformation, CEVA is an ideal 3PL partner for companies entering new territories or managing high-complexity logistics. A combination of global scale and sector expertise helps streamline even the most challenging supply chains.
International trade has come a long way since the ancient Sumerians first made their way to the Indus Valley, and nowadays a reliable shipping operation is the backbone of global enterprise. Whether you opt for the technology-driven agility of Pro3PL or the more region-specific expertise of a provider like Nippon Express, a dependable third-party logistics partner can be the difference between international expansion and a stalling growth strategy.