List of Top Freight Forwarders in Texas

Texas, home to major seaports like Port Houston, serves as a critical hub for global trade and logistics. As one of the busiest ports in the United States, Port Houston is the largest port on the Gulf Coast, overseeing 73% of the total container traffic in the area. Additionally, Port Houston is the fifth-ranked container port in the U.S. The state’s strategic location, extensive infrastructure, and booming economy highlight the significance of efficient freight forwarding services. 

Freight forwarders in Texas ensure seamless transportation, customs clearance, and logistics management, which is vital in supporting businesses and driving economic growth in the region’s thriving trade landscape. 

Let’s discuss the list of freight forwarders in Texas. 

List of Top Freight Forwarders in Texas

In August 2024, Port Houston saw a 20% increase in TEU volume, reaching 367,653 TEUs. Houston, Texas, serves as a significant hub for freight forwarding and logistics, hosting numerous companies offering various services across various industries. 

Below is an overview of some prominent freight forwarders in Texas, highlighting their logistics and transportation expertise, key services, and the industries they serve:

1. Intoglo

Intolgo, a cross-border logistics platform, stands out with its holistic approach to international logistics, providing an efficient, transparent, and sustainable solution for customers involved in cross-border trade between India and the USA. 

Founded in 2021, it is a relatively new entrant in the market, yet it has quickly expanded its capabilities and network across India and into the United States.

• Door-to-Door FCL Shipping – Complete freight solutions from India to the USA, covering pickup, customs clearance, ocean freight, and last-mile delivery.
• Customs Clearance & Compliance – Expert customs brokers, customs bond services, pre-screening before departure, and customs entry before arrival for hassle-free clearance.
• Warehousing & Distribution – 50+ warehouses across the USA, offering long-term storage, transloading, repacking, and relabeling.
• PAN USA Trucking – Direct trucking network with 40+ partners, ensuring efficient inland transportation and drayage.
• Real-Time Tracking & Transparency – End-to-end shipment visibility via Glotrack tracking system with WhatsApp notifications.
• Transparent Quotation System – Detailed cost breakdown, direct rate procurement, special contract rates, and multiple routing options for cost-effective shipping.
• Extensive USA Coverage – Intoglo delivers to 41,000+ zip codes across the USA, ensuring comprehensive last-mile connectivity for businesses of all sizes.
• AI-Based HTS Code Scanner: Intoglo’s AI-powered HTS code scanner allows users to take a photo of an item and view its HS Code.

2. Freight Cowboy

Founded in 2004, Freight Cowboy offers comprehensive logistics solutions with a team of specialists experienced in 3PL, asset-based transportation, and shipper-side operations. Their key services include:

• LTL Shipping Center: Managing less-than-truckload shipments efficiently.
• Truckload Management: Coordinating full truckload services tailored to client needs.
• Parcel Service Refunds: Assisting clients in obtaining refunds for service failures in parcel deliveries.

Freight Cowboy serves a diverse clientele, providing tailored solutions to meet specific logistics requirements.

3. Energy Freight Systems

Energy Freight Systems Corporation, established in 2001, specializes in global air and ocean freight forwarding, offering integrated logistics solutions. Their key services encompass:

• Project Cargo: Managing oversized and heavy cargo transportation from manufacturing sites to project locations.
• Air and Ocean Freight: Providing international shipping solutions via air and sea.
• Inland Freight: Coordinating domestic transportation to ensure seamless delivery.
• Export Packing and Warehousing: Offering packaging services and storage facilities to safeguard goods.

Energy Freight Systems primarily serves industries involved in large-scale projects, including construction and energy sectors.

4. World Trade Distribution – Container Freight Station

Operating since 1983, World Trade Distribution is renowned for handling complex trans-loads and high-volume freight consolidations. Their services include:

• Container Management: Efficient handling and storage of shipping containers.
• Customs Bonded Warehousing: Providing secure storage facilities under customs supervision.
• Trucking, Drayage, and Delivery: Offering transportation services to move goods from ports to final destinations.
• Project Cargo: Managing the logistics of oversized and specialized cargo.
• General Order Storage: Storing goods pending customs clearance or awaiting final delivery instructions.

World Trade Distribution serves a broad spectrum of industries, ensuring efficient and compliant movement of goods through various stages of the supply chain.

5. Expedited Logistics and Freight Services, LLC (ELFS)

Since its inception in 2014, ELFS has specialized in cross-border air and land logistics programs tailored to business-specific needs. Their key services encompass:

• Domestic Transportation: Offering comprehensive ground transportation solutions across the United States.
• International Freight Forwarding: Facilitating global shipments focusing on efficiency and compliance.
• Warehousing and Crating: Providing secure storage solutions and custom catering services to protect goods during transit.
• Customs Brokerage: Assisting with customs clearance to streamline the import and export process.

ELFS serves industries that demand reliable and flexible logistics solutions, ensuring supply chains operate smoothly and cost-effectively.

6. Broussard Logistics

With a focus on comprehensive transportation solutions, Broussard Logistics offers:

• Freight Brokerage Services: Connecting clients with carriers to meet specific shipping needs.
• Supply Chain Consulting: Providing expertise to optimize logistics and supply chain strategies.
• Technology Integration: Implementing systems to enhance visibility and control over shipments.

They serve various industries, including oil and gas, manufacturing, and retail.

7. TriStar Freight System

Founded in 1987, TriStar Freight System is a family-owned company that provides secure freight transportation through a reliable fleet of owner-operators. Their key services include:

• Linehaul – 3PL: Offering third-party logistics services for long-haul transportation needs.
• Drayage: Specializing in transporting goods over short distances, particularly between ports and nearby locations.
• Flatbed Services: Providing flatbed trucks for transporting oversized or unconventional cargo.
• Warehousing: Offering storage solutions to manage inventory and distribution efficiently.
• Freight Forwarding: Coordinating the shipment of goods on behalf of clients, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery.

TriStar Freight System caters to industries requiring dependable transportation and logistics solutions, emphasizing safety and customer satisfaction.

8. Freight Forwarders, Inc.

Founded in 1990, Freight Forwarders, Inc. is a rapidly growing provider of international transportation and logistics services. Their offerings include:

• International Freight Forwarding: Managing global shipments with expertise navigating complex international regulations.
• Domestic Freight Forwarding: Coordinating nationwide transportation solutions tailored to client needs.

The company serves a diverse range of industries, providing innovative and customer-focused logistics solutions to meet various transportation requirements.

9. Texas International Freight

Established in 2010, Texas International Freight is a full-service international shipping and logistics company headquartered in Houston. They specialize in the transportation of large machinery and serve various industries, including energy, shipbuilding, mining, and manufacturing. Key services include:

• Air and Ocean Freight: Coordinating international shipments via air and sea, tailored to client specifications.
• Trucking: Providing ground transportation solutions for oversized and heavy cargo.
• Project Logistics: Managing complex logistics projects focusing on efficiency and safety.
• Export Packing and Cargo Insurance: Offering packing services and insurance options to protect valuable shipments.
• Customs Brokerage: Navigating customs regulations to facilitate smooth import and export processes.

Texas International Freight is committed to delivering dependable and personalized logistics services, ensuring that clients’ cargo reaches its destination safely and on schedule.

10. Crane Cartage Freight Services

Established in 2009 by logistics entrepreneur James Crane, Crane Cartage Freight Services (CFS) is committed to being a leading provider of specialized ground logistics in North America. Their key services include:

• Freight Services: Offering various logistic solutions to meet diverse shipping needs.
• Warehousing: Providing storage and distribution services to support supply chain operations.

CFS serves various industries, delivering innovative, practical, cost-effective logistics solutions to enhance operational efficiency.

These companies collectively contribute to Houston’s prominence as a central hub for logistics and transportation, offering specialized services to meet the diverse needs of industries both locally and globally.

Factors to Consider While Selecting Freight Forwarder in Texas

When choosing a freight forwarder in Texas, consider various essential factors to ensure the provider aligns with your logistics requirements and can effectively manage the complexities of the global supply chain.

Here are the primary factors to evaluate:

• Experience and Reputation: A well-established freight forwarder with a solid reputation in the industry will likely have the expertise and resources to handle various types of shipments efficiently. It’s important to choose a freight forwarder with a track record of delivering consistent, reliable services, particularly for the type of goods you are shipping.
• Services Offered: Different freight forwarders specialize in various types of services such as ocean freight, air freight, customs brokerage, warehousing, and last-mile delivery. Ensure the forwarder can meet your full range of logistics needs, whether for domestic shipments, international transportation, or specialized services like temperature-controlled shipments or hazardous materials handling.
• Global Network and Relationships: A good freight forwarder should have a well-established network with reliable carriers, suppliers, and other logistics partners. Their relationships with major shipping lines, air cargo operators, and other service providers are vital for ensuring smooth, on-time shipments, especially when navigating international borders or handling complex logistics.
• Customs Expertise: Customs clearance is a critical part of the shipping process. Freight forwarders with expertise in customs regulations, especially for international shipments, can help navigate the often complicated paperwork and duties associated with moving goods across borders. In Texas, the proximity to major ports like the Port of Houston means that a freight forwarder should be proficient in handling both imports and exports seamlessly.
• Technology and Tracking Systems: Modern freight forwarding companies should offer state-of-the-art technology to ensure you can track your shipments in real time. Many companies provide online platforms or mobile apps that allow exporters to monitor the shipment from origin to destination, making it easier to manage logistics and stay updated on any delays or issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Texas remains a vital hub for global trade, with its expansive network of freight forwarders offering diverse services to meet the growing logistics demands. From experienced providers to specialized companies, each forwarder plays a significant role in ensuring seamless movement of goods across international and domestic borders. Whether it’s ocean freight, air cargo, or customs clearance, these companies help streamline operations for businesses of all sizes.

For businesses looking for an efficient and sustainable logistics partner, Intoglo stands out with its comprehensive, end-to-end services. With a focus on seamless transport, real-time tracking, and hassle-free customs clearance, Intoglo offers a one-stop solution for all your shipping needs from India to the USA. Experience smooth, transparent, and cost-effective logistics with Intoglo, ensuring timely delivery and exceptional customer support. Explore how Intoglo can enhance your supply chain today!

Get a free quote now.