Finding the right shipping company in Mumbai can be confusing when different providers handle different parts of the maritime and logistics chain. Do you need an international container carrier, a tanker operator, a freight-forwarding company, or a ship-management specialist? Which provider is best suited to your cargo and destination? And how much should you budget for shipping? The answer depends on your cargo type, route, shipment size, transport mode, and service requirements.
Mumbai offers a broad maritime ecosystem, so businesses can compare specialised providers instead of relying on a single type of shipping service. This guide covers ten prominent companies and explains their services, suitability, career opportunities, and key factors to consider before making a decision.
Why Choose Shipping Companies In Mumbai?
Mumbai is one of India’s most established commercial and maritime centres. Its location on the western coast, connection with major trade routes, and access to port, road, rail, and air infrastructure make it an important base for shipping and logistics activities. Businesses can therefore find providers for both conventional cargo movement and specialised maritime requirements.
- Strong Trade Connectivity: Shipping companies operating from Mumbai can connect Indian businesses with international markets across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and other regions. This is particularly useful for companies involved in regular import and export activity.
- Multiple Service Options: Mumbai’s maritime sector includes container carriers, tanker operators, freight forwarders, ship-management companies, and logistics providers. Businesses can select a service based on the nature of their shipment rather than using a one-size-fits-all solution.
- Access To Port Infrastructure: The wider Mumbai region has established port infrastructure supporting containerised, bulk, liquid, break-bulk, and other cargo. This creates an extensive network for businesses involved in domestic and international trade.
- Support For Complex Shipments: Specialised cargo can require additional planning, equipment, documentation, or operational expertise. Experienced shipping providers can help coordinate these requirements according to the cargo and route.
- Professional Documentation:International shipping involves several commercial and transport documents. Working with an experienced provider can make booking, documentation, cargo coordination, and communication more organised.
Mumbai Port and Its Role In Shipping and Logistics
Mumbai Port remains an important part of the city’s maritime infrastructure and handles a diverse range of cargo. Its location within Mumbai provides access to the city’s commercial and industrial network while supporting maritime trade through the region. In FY 2025–26, Mumbai Port handled 75.15 million tonnes of cargo, compared with 68.63 million tonnes in the previous financial year. This represented 9.50% growth and the port’s highest-ever annual cargo throughput.
The wider Mumbai region is also supported by the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) in Navi Mumbai. JNPA describes itself as India’s premier container port and states that it handles around 50% of containerised cargo volume across India’s major ports. It is connected to more than 200 ports globally, highlighting its importance to India’s container trade. This combination of port infrastructure, inland connectivity, and access to international maritime networks strengthens Mumbai’s position as a major shipping and logistics centre.
List of Top 10 Shipping Companies In Mumbai
1. The Shipping Corporation Of India (SCI)
- Website: https://www.shipindia.com
- Address: “Shipping House”, 245, Madame Cama Road, Nariman Point, Mumbai
- Contact: +91-22-22772000 / +91-22-22021286
- Best suited for: Transporting crude oil, petroleum products, liquid chemicals, and gas via large-scale tankers.
The Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) has a diversified presence across several segments of maritime transportation. Its operations cover containerised cargo, crude and petroleum-product tankers, bulk commodities, offshore support, break-bulk cargo, coastal services, and passenger transportation. SCI also undertakes chartering, lighterage, dry-docking, and shipbuilding or technical consultancy activities.
Its container division provides coverage for cargo moving into and out of the Indian Subcontinent through direct calls, slot-sharing, slot-charter, and feeder arrangements. The company also supports India’s offshore oil industry through specialised vessels and marine logistics. This wide operating portfolio makes SCI different from a shipping line focused only on one cargo category.
Services
- Crude oil and product tanker operations
- Dry bulk cargo transport
- Container transport services
- Offshore exploration support vessels
- Break-bulk and specialized cargo movement
- Coastal and passenger ship operations
- Commercial vessel chartering
- Lighterage operations
- Dry-docking and ship management consultancy
Career And Job Opportunities
- Offers stable shore-based corporate and technical careers at its Mumbai headquarters, covering commercial shipping, finance, and legal divisions.
- Provides floating staff employment (seafaring officers and ratings) for its vast fleet of tankers, bulk carriers, and offshore vessels.
- Conducts specialized marine grooming and cadet training programs through its dedicated Maritime Training Institute in Powai, Mumbai.
Why Choose this Company
SCI can suit businesses looking for a diversified Indian shipping organisation with capabilities across several cargo and maritime segments.
2. The Great Eastern Shipping Company
- Website: https://www.greatship.com
- Address: Ocean House, 134/A, Dr. Annie Besant Road, Worli, Mumbai
- Contact: +91 22 6661 3000
- Best suited for:
Transporting crude oil, petroleum products, and gas worldwide.
The Great Eastern Shipping Company has a specialised position in India’s maritime sector, with its principal shipping activities centred on tankers and dry-bulk carriers. Its tanker operations cover the transportation of crude oil and petroleum products, while its bulk-carrier fleet is used for moving commodities in large quantities.
The company also maintains dedicated technical, fleet-personnel, safety, and commercial functions to support vessel operations. Its Mumbai office in Worli houses separate departments for tanker operations, bulk carriers, technical matters, fleet personnel, and other shipping activities. This structure reflects the company’s focus on vessel-based commodity transportation rather than conventional parcel or general cargo delivery.
Services
- Crude oil transportation
- Petroleum product shipping (refined products)
- Dry bulk commodity shipping (coal, grain, iron ore via dry bulk carriers)
- Gas carrier operations (LPG transport)
- Offshore oilfield exploration support (drilling rigs, PSVs, AHTSSVs) via subsidiary
- Maritime vessel chartering and commercial management
Career And Job Opportunities
- Offers diverse onshore roles in corporate logistics, chartering, engineering, finance, legal, and human resources in Mumbai.
- Provides offshore and seafaring career paths across its modern fleet of crude carriers, product tankers, gas carriers, and offshore support vessels (OSVs).
- Known for structured training programs, competitive compensation, and steady onboard employment terms for licensed marine officers and crew.
Why Choose this Company
Great Eastern Shipping is a relevant option for specialised tanker and dry-bulk transportation rather than conventional container freight.
3. Maersk Line (Maersk India)
- Website: https://www.maersk.com
- Address: Unit no. 401 & 402, Godrej Two, Pirojshanagar, Eastern Express Highway, Vikhroli (East), Mumbai
- Contact: Accessible digitally via the Maersk Support & Contact Portal or through local customer service channels.
- Best suited for:
Businesses seeking integrated end-to-end logistics (combining ocean, land, and warehousing).
Maersk combines ocean transportation with a broader approach to supply-chain management. Its India operations support businesses moving cargo to and from international markets while also providing services that can connect ocean freight with inland transportation and customs processes. The company’s local solutions include booking support, shipment documentation, cargo movement coordination, customs services, and inland transportation.
This integrated model can be useful for businesses that want several logistics activities coordinated within one network. Maersk’s digital tools also support shipment management and visibility. For Indian importers and exporters, the relevant service can vary according to the trade lane, cargo requirements, equipment, and inland destination, making route-specific planning an important part of the shipping process.
Services
- Ocean freight and global container shipping lines
- Inland land transportation (trucking and rail integration)
- Contract logistics and warehousing solutions
- Air FV
- Supply chain management and customs clearance
- Marine crew recruitment and fleet management support
Career And Job Opportunities
- Seafarers & Fleet Operations: Deck officers, engineers, and ratings are frequently hired for tanker and container fleets.
- Shore-based Roles: Opportunities in logistics operations, customer service, finance, commercial sales, software engineering, and supply chain management.
- Graduate Programs: Mentorship-backed structured internships and global trainee programs.
Why Choose this Company
Maersk can be suitable for businesses looking for ocean transportation combined with broader logistics and supply-chain capabilities.
4. Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)
- Website: https://www.msc.com
- Address: MSC House, 2nd & 3rd Floor, Andheri-Kurla Road, Opposite Divine Child High School, Andheri (East), Mumbai
- Contact: 1800-209-2555; +91 22 67522555
- Best suited for:
Merchant navy professionals and seafarers seeking stable, long-term careers on container ships and luxury cruise liners.
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) operates a large international network focused on ocean transportation and containerised cargo. Its India operations connect customers with a broad range of shipping routes and port locations, including Mumbai and Nhava Sheva. MSC states that its global network spans hundreds of offices and connects numerous ports across more than 155 countries.
For Indian businesses, this network can support import and export movements across major international trade corridors. The company also provides solutions for different cargo requirements, supported by booking, tracking, and customer-service functions. Its extensive port coverage makes MSC particularly relevant to businesses handling regular container shipments and looking for access to established international maritime routes.
Services
- Seafarer recruitment, training, and deployment
- Global container shipping and slot chartering
- Vessel operations and technical management support
- Multimodal cargo logistics and inland transportation coordination
- Cruise division crewing and passenger liner staffing support
Career And Job Opportunities
- Seafaring Roles: Deck and engine crew, officers, electrical officers, and ratings for container vessels and cruise ships.
- Shore-based Roles: Logistics operations, customer service, documentation, fleet personnel management, and corporate administration in Mumbai.
- Growth: Offers structured onboard training programs, global exposure, and career progression across an expanding worldwide fleet.
Why Choose this Company
MSC is worth considering when extensive international container connectivity and established ocean-shipping capabilities are priorities.
5. CMA CGM India
- Website: https://www.cma-cgm.com › local › india
- Address: One International Center, Tower 3, 8th Floor, Senapati Bapat Marg, Prabhadevi (West), Mumbai
- Contact: +91 22 6842 1700 / +91 22 6842 1730
- Best suited for:
Large-scale commercial exporters and importers requiring international container shipping.
Businesses needing seamless door-to-door supply chain and multimodal connectivity.
CMA CGM India forms part of the global CMA CGM shipping and logistics network and provides regular maritime services connecting India with international markets. The company’s India operations include multiple scheduled services covering different regions and trade corridors. Its published schedules include connections across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and other markets, giving importers and exporters several options for international cargo movement.
CMA CGM also provides services designed around different container and shipment requirements. For customers, the availability of a particular route, vessel schedule, equipment type, and destination connection can influence which service is most suitable. Its established network makes the company a significant option for businesses involved in international container trade.
Services
- Intermodal (road and rail) inland logistics solutions
- Air freight and charter services
- Reefer and specialized project cargo handling
- Digital booking, tracking, and instant quotation (SpotOn) modules
- Seafarer manning, crewing, and maritime operational training
Career And Job Opportunities
- Offers diverse corporate, operational, and maritime career paths ranging from logistics management and customer service to seafarer recruitment via CMA CGM India.
- Regular job openings and application procedures are updated on the official CMA CGM Careers Portal and professional networks like LinkedIn.
Why Choose this Company
CMA CGM can suit businesses seeking international container services with access to a broader global logistics network.
Suggested Read:
6. Essar Shipping
- Website: https://www.essar.com › our work › infrastructure
- Address: Essar House, 11, Keshavrao Khadye Marg, Mahalaxmi, Mumbai
- Contact: +91-22-67335500
- Best suited for:
Energy and power companies needing raw material transport.
Essar Shipping operates within the maritime and logistics activities of the wider Essar group, with its business centred on owning and operating maritime assets. The company has worked across shipping arrangements including spot-market employment, Contracts of Affreightment, and long-term contracts. Its maritime activities have included bulk carriers and tankers, giving it a connection with large-volume commodity and energy-related transportation.
Essar also highlights technology and environmental initiatives within its shipping operations, including paperless navigation, onboard scrubbers, and Green Passports for vessels. Its role is therefore distinct from that of a conventional container liner, with greater relevance to vessel-based transportation and industrial cargo requirements.
Services
- Bulk Cargo Transportation: Moving dry bulk commodities like coal, iron ore, and grain globally.
- Oil & Gas/Offshore Services: Supplying offshore support boats and rigs for production and exploration.
- Fleet Management: Managing technical operations, crew recruitment, and maintenance for marine vessels.
- Coastal and International Shipping: Operating multi-modal maritime logistics routes regionally and globally.
Career And Job Opportunities
- Offers marine and corporate roles spanning fleet operations, naval architecture, maritime engineering, and onshore logistics management.
- Seafaring jobs include positions for deck officers, marine engineers, and ratings on bulk carriers or oil rigs.
- Onshore openings are managed via corporate hubs in Mumbai focusing on commercial shipping, chartering, and finance.
Why Choose this Company
Essar Shipping can be considered for industrial and energy-related maritime requirements where specialised bulk or liquid cargo capabilities are relevant.
7. Allcargo Logistics
- Website: https://www.allcargologistics.com
- Address: 6th Floor, Allcargo House, CST Road, Kalina, Santacruz (East), Mumbai
- Contact: 1860-123-4284
- Best suited for:
Global businesses needing Less than Container Load (LCL) and Full Container Load (FCL) consolidation.
Allcargo Logistics takes a broader logistics approach, helping businesses coordinate cargo across different stages of the supply chain. Its Mumbai operations are supported through an office at Ascot Centre on Sahar Road in Andheri East, while the company also maintains its registered office in Santacruz East.
Allcargo’s business covers logistics activities beyond a single ocean voyage, making it relevant to companies that require coordinated transportation and supply-chain support. Its customer-service structure also provides dedicated channels for business enquiries and shipment-related assistance. This wider logistics orientation makes Allcargo different from a pure vessel operator or container carrier and gives businesses another option when freight movement involves multiple transport or handling requirements.
Services
- Global Multimodal Transport Operations (LCL, FCL, and Air freight)
- Container Freight Station (CFS) and Inland Container Depot (ICD) operations
- Contract Logistics and Warehousing
- Project Forwarding and Equipment/Crane Rental
- Express Logistics and Supply Chain Solutions
Career And Job Opportunities
- Offers diverse career paths in supply chain management, global freight forwarding, digital logistics tech, and corporate finance.
- renowned for having a professional workplace culture that prioritizes worldwide network collaboration, operational exposure, and skill development.
- Frequently hires for roles spanning customer service, operations execution, port handling, and regional management.
Why Choose this Company
Allcargo can be a practical choice for businesses that need freight forwarding and broader logistics coordination rather than only ocean transportation.
8. Anglo-Eastern Ship Management
- Website: https://www.angloeastern.com
- Address: 303, 3rd Floor, Leela Business Park, Marol Andheri-Kurla Road, Andheri East, Mumbai
- Contact: +91-22-61124435 / +91-22-61124600
- Best suited for:
Aspiring and experienced merchant navy officers, cadets, and ratings seeking stable employment at sea.
Anglo-Eastern specialises in managing vessels and supporting shipowners throughout different stages of the vessel lifecycle. Its services include technical ship management, crew management, newbuilding supervision, cruise and leisure management, sustainability and performance services, and digital solutions. The company works across vessel categories such as bulk carriers, container ships, oil and chemical tankers, gas tankers, Ro-Ro ships, offshore vessels, passenger ships, and LNG carriers.
Its Mumbai Ship Management office is located at Leela Business Park in Andheri East, alongside a separate maritime training centre. The company’s work is therefore centred on vessel operations, technical performance, crew, and maritime management rather than conventional freight booking for individual cargo shipments.
Services
- Technical ship management and maintenance
- Crew management, recruitment, and deployment
- Maritime training, education, and simulation courses
- Newbuilding supervision and consultancy
- Safety, quality, and environmental compliance auditing
- Procurement, provisioning, and inventory handling for vessels
Career And Job Opportunities
- Offers extensive placement options for deck officers, engine officers, electrical officers (ETOs), and general-purpose ratings.
- Houses robust in-house training infrastructure (such as the Anglo-Eastern Maritime Academy), ensuring structured career progression from cadet level to senior management ranks like Master and Chief Engineer.
Why Choose this Company
Anglo-Eastern is suitable when the requirement involves professional ship management, crew management, technical operations, or maritime training.
9. Tata NYK Shipping
- Website: https://www.tatanykshipping.com
- Address: 106, 10th Floor, Maker Chamber III, Nariman Point, Mumbai
- Contact: +91 62923 28176
- Best suited for:Large-scale industrial and manufacturing corporations needing dependable raw material transport.
Tata NYK Shipping focuses on dry-bulk transportation and customised freight solutions for industrial and commodity supply chains. The company works with a wide range of dry-bulk cargoes and uses different vessel sizes to support worldwide trade routes.
Its business model includes long-term and short-term charter arrangements, as well as voyage and time-charter solutions designed around customer requirements. The company also develops freight structures that can support customers with transportation planning, inventory considerations, and supply-chain needs. With its emphasis on dry-bulk cargo rather than standard containers, Tata NYK occupies a specialised position within the wider shipping industry.
Services
- Global dry bulk cargo transportation
- Ship chartering and commercial fleet management
- Industrial raw material logistics and freight execution
- Customized marine supply chain solutions
- Environmentally sustainable maritime voyage planning and operations
Career And Job Opportunities
- Offers multi-cultural corporate work environments across commercial operations, chartering, maritime logistics, and finance.
- Focuses heavily on continuous learning and leadership development through structured HR frameworks.
- Provides openings for maritime professionals, supply chain graduates, chartering specialists, and corporate management.
Why Choose this Company
Tata NYK is particularly relevant for dry-bulk and commodity transportation rather than conventional containerised cargo.
10. Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL India)
- Website: https://www.molmi.info
- Address: Unit No. 52, 5th Floor, Kalpataru Square, Kondivita Lane, Off Andheri-Kurla Road, Andheri (East), Mumbai
- Contact: +91 (022) 6150 7000
- Best suited for:
Global marine logistics and bulk cargo supply chain solutions.
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has a diversified maritime presence in India through several businesses within its wider group. MOL’s Indian operations include its regional office as well as activities connected with automotive logistics, seafarer crewing, and information technology.
At the wider group level, MOL operates across several maritime fields, including vehicle transportation, dry bulk, tankers, LNG and other energy-related businesses. Its Indian network therefore extends beyond a single shipping activity and connects with different parts of the maritime and logistics value chain. MOL’s group structure also includes dedicated Indian entities for automotive logistics and crewing management, giving the organisation a broader operational footprint in the country.
Services
- Crew recruitment, placement, and comprehensive maritime manning.
- Ship management and technical maintenance oversight.
- Dry bulk and break-bulk shipping coordination.
- Energy transport logistics (including LNG and oil tankers).
- Car carrier (PCC) and specialized cargo logistics support.
Career And Job Opportunities
- Onshore Roles: Corporate logistics, vessel operations management, marine engineering support, human resources, and finance.
- Offshore/Seafaring Roles: Deck officers, marine engineers, ratings, and technical crew for specialized fleets (LNG, tankers, bulkers).
- Growth: Structured onboard training programs with recognition frameworks like the MOL Presidential Award.
Why Choose this Company
MOL can suit businesses requiring specialised international maritime transportation and access to a diversified global shipping network.
Shipping Charges In Mumbai
Shipping charges in Mumbai vary according to the shipment rather than following one universal rate. Cargo type, weight, volume, destination, container size, route, transport mode, handling, and additional services can all influence the final quotation.
| Shipping Requirement | Main Cost Factors | Common Charging Basis |
| Domestic Road Cargo | Distance, weight, volume, vehicle type | Per vehicle, shipment, weight, or volume |
| LCL Ocean Freight | Cargo volume, weight, origin, destination | Usually CBM or chargeable weight |
| FCL Container Shipping | Container size, route, carrier, schedule | Usually per container |
| Reefer Cargo | Temperature, equipment, cargo type | Usually higher than standard container rates |
| Air Freight | Chargeable weight, destination, service level | Usually per chargeable kg |
| Freight Forwarding | Route, cargo type, handling, documentation | Service-specific quotation |
| Customs Clearance | Cargo classification and paperwork | Agency/service fee plus applicable duties |
| Ship Management | Vessel type and scope of work | Usually contract-based |
How To Choose The Best Shipping Company In Mumbai
The best shipping company is not necessarily the largest one. The right choice depends on whether the provider’s capabilities match your cargo, route, schedule, and service expectations.
- Match the Company to Your Cargo: Identify whether you need containerised, bulk, liquid, automotive, project, or specialised cargo transportation. This will help you shortlist companies with relevant experience.
- Confirm the Trade Route: For international shipments, check whether the provider serves your origin and destination. Compare sailing frequency, transit time, transshipment requirements, and available equipment.
- Compare the Total Quotation: Look beyond the basic freight amount. Ask whether handling, documentation, customs, terminal charges, inland transportation, and other fees are included or billed separately.
- Assess Service Coverage: A business with complex logistics requirements may benefit from an integrated provider. A straightforward container shipment may only require a suitable ocean carrier.
- Check Documentation and Communication: Ask who will handle booking documents, shipping instructions, cargo updates, customs coordination, and issue resolution. Clear communication can reduce operational problems.
- Verify Current Company Information: Office locations, contact numbers, schedules, and service arrangements can change. Confirm important details through the company’s official website before making payments or visiting an office.
- Request a Written Quote: A written quotation allows you to compare price, service scope, transit time, exclusions, payment conditions, and additional charges before confirming the shipment.
Conclusion
Choosing the right shipping company in Mumbai depends on more than comparing freight rates. Businesses should consider the type of cargo, destination, shipping route, transit time, service coverage, documentation support, and overall logistics requirements. Mumbai has a diverse maritime network, so companies can choose from container carriers, bulk and tanker operators, freight specialists, and ship-management providers.
Before finalising a service, compare quotations and check the complete cost, including applicable handling, documentation, inland transportation, and other charges. It is also important to confirm the company’s current services and contact details through its official channels. With the right shipping partner, businesses can improve cargo coordination, reduce avoidable delays, and manage their supply chain with greater confidence.
FAQs
1. Which Shipping Company Is Best For Container Cargo From Mumbai?
There is no single best option for every shipment. Companies such as Maersk, MSC, and CMA CGM are relevant to international container transportation, but the final choice should depend on the required route, sailing schedule, equipment, transit time, and quotation.
2. What Types Of Shipping Companies Operate In Mumbai?
Mumbai has international container carriers, tanker and bulk operators, freight-forwarding companies, integrated logistics providers, ship-management firms, and specialised maritime organisations. Their services are designed for different cargo and operational requirements.
3. Are Shipping Charges In Mumbai Fixed?
No. Charges vary according to cargo type, weight or volume, destination, container size, route, transport mode, handling, documentation, and additional services. A shipment-specific quotation is the most reliable way to determine the actual cost.
4. Is Mumbai Suitable For International Import and Export Shipping?
Yes. Mumbai’s maritime ecosystem is supported by Mumbai Port and the wider JNPA network, along with road, rail, and commercial infrastructure. JNPA states that it connects with more than 200 ports globally and handles around half of containerised cargo across India’s major ports.
5. What Should I Ask a Shipping Company Before Booking?
Ask about route coverage, transit time, cargo handling, equipment availability, documentation, included and excluded charges, shipment tracking, payment terms, and customer support. Requesting a complete written quotation can help you compare providers accurately.