Top 15 Shipping Companies and Partners in India for eCommerce Business

1. Overview of Shipping Companies in India

Ecommerce businesses carry a huge burden on their back. They are trying to serve the needs of over 100 million shoppers worldwide. This burden is best handled by sharing the responsibility.

Logistics companies handle end-to-end delivery for e-commerce retailers by providing various solutions. Many shipping partners offer their enterprise customers a wide variety of services. This is to enable them to serve over 100 million online shoppers.

The most important functions are warehousing and inventory management. Additionally, they provide order creation and waybill generation. They cover the transportation of orders and in-transit storage, handling of delivery exceptions, and reverse logistics.

Numerous other services are encompassed within delivery mechanisms to assure the process is carried out smoothly. These include customized packaging and streamlined NDR (Non-delivery report) management. We’ll be discussing the top shipping partners in India that provide the best delivery experience to customers.

2. Top 15 Best Shipping Companies in India for e-Commerce Businesses [2022 Updated List]

There are over 150+ courier companies in India that eCommerce businesses can partner with. This can make selecting the right shipping partner a difficult task. While specific criteria need to be used to determine the perfect courier, it always helps to narrow down the list. Taking into account reviews and opinions from supply chain experts, we’ve created a list of the top shipping companies in India.

2.1) Aramex 

Aramex is an ecommerce delivery company that started in the UAE and was acquired in India by Delhivery. Aramex provides shipping services in 220+ countries across the globe. In fact, for both domestic and international orders, this shipping carrier provides express delivery services.

It also provides e-commerce businesses with value-added delivery services. These include COD handling, co-packing, and order bundling. Aramex can help ecommerce businesses from start to finish, including setting up a website on ShopGo or MartJack. 

From there, online stores can easily integrate with several shipping carriers, online storefronts, payment gateways, and more for easy shipping. Aramex's technical support is available 24/7 for all the help you'll need.

2.2) Blue Dart 

Blue Dart serves 35,000+ pin codes within India and 220+ countries across the globe. Blue Dart has been operating for over 4 decades. It has a large employee base of highly trained personnel that help provides customs clearances.

Ecommerce businesses can give their customers flexible delivery options. These include express delivery, time-based delivery, and overnight delivery. It also provides e-tailers with services to improve efficiency, like automated proof-of-delivery and weather-resistant packaging.

For international shipments, BlueDart offers express delivery, where packages can be picked up from the seller's chosen location. It also arranges for pre-customs clearance for faster movement of goods overseas. All international orders can be tracked in real-time by customers and shippers.

2.3) Delhivery

Delhivery is an India-based courier company that started operating in 2011. It has since grown to one of the most popular courier companies. With 10,000 customers, 75% of whom are major eCommerce businesses, the Delhivery shipping partner is known for its affordability.

Express delivery, same-day delivery, and next-day delivery are also major services. It serves 17,500+ pin codes and handles specialized goods. They offer courier services for high-value orders, heavyweight orders, and dangerous items.

Delhivery is one of the best shipping companies in India for cross-border and LTL shipping. Under value-added services its provide multi-channel supply chain management and inventory optimisation services.

2.4) DTDC

DTDC has been in operation since 1990. It serves over 9000+ pin codes across India and 240+ countries across the globe. DTDC is a big favorite for e-commerce enterprises. Its fleet of vehicles is GPS-enabled to ensure customers are kept informed about the status of their orders.

Additional shipping services offered by DTDC are express delivery, customized packaging, and priority delivery to satisfy customers. Online sellers can simply download the MyDTDC app to check out shipping rates, pin code serviceability, etc. 

Under Worldwide cargo services, DTDC provides excellent air, sea and land freight forwarding services for special packages. It also provides international Cash on Delivery services.

2.5) Ecom Express 

Ecom Express is another big favorite for eCommerce businesses. Ecom Express provides speedy delivery services, enabled by high-tech solutions, in 27000+ pin codes.

The reach of this Ecom Express spans 2650+ cities in India. It enables top-notch, efficient delivery services with the aid of 36000+ employees. It has 3000+ facilitation centers and 10 lakh square feet of warehousing space.

If you're looking for returns management for your online orders, Ecom Express can help you out. It provides QC-enabled returns management services to ensure all products are returned in mint condition with necessary documents and tags attached.

2.6) FedEx

FedEx has been an international shipping carrier operating in India for the past 10 years. It serves 19000+ pin codes and 220+ countries across the globe. FedEx is well regarded in the industry for providing excellent international delivery services. Its professionals are equipped to handle customs clearances for cross-border shipments.

It is equipped to handle products, including high-value shipments, heavyweight and lightweight shipments. FedEx also provides delivery services for hazardous materials like dry ice and lithium batteries.

FedEx can streamline your international shipping line-up with time-definite deliveries, live order tracking, customs clearance, and end-to-end order management. 

2.7) GATI

Gati started in India in 1989 and is well known for its strict same-day delivery. It assures eCommerce businesses that orders placed in the morning are guaranteed to be delivered by 9 pm that same day.

While GATI offers warehousing and storage options, it also provides pickup from vendor warehouses. One of the major advantages of this delivery company is the promise of 2-day cash on delivery (COD) remittance.

2.8) Safexpress 

Safexpress is another among the oldest of India’s shipping companies. It has over 2 decades of experience under its belt. It provides delivery services to over 1000+ locations across the country.

Safe express uses a GPRS-enabled fleet of vehicles. This logistics provider aids eCommerce businesses in providing real-time order status updates to their customers.

This process also enables businesses to make use of route optimization technology. In keeping with its name, Safexpress also provides secure delivery services. These culminate in a computerized proof of delivery that is communicated to the Indian eCommerce business.

2.9) Shadowfax

Shadowfax is a leading shipping partner. They provide end-to-end logistics solutions to hundreds of eCommerce enterprises across the country. Shadowfax was started in 2015 to provide every variety of retailers and e-tailers a chance to provide speedy delivery.

In its roster of services are express delivery, hyperlocal delivery, SDD, and NDD. These delivery services are available in 10,000+ pin codes across 500+ cities. Shadowfax is especially notable for providing on-time courier delivery services to the remotest parts of the country.

2.10) XpressBees

XpressBees is revered for its warehousing services. Like Shadowfax, XpressBees began its journey in 2015. They use 30000+ well-trained professionals to provide end-to-end logistics solutions both domestically & internationally.

These employees operate through 100+ hub & dispatch centers and 2,800+ offices to serve 13000+ pin codes across the country. It can offer comprehensive fulfillment solutions with warehouse management, and handle reverse logistics.

2.11) DHL (Dalsey, Hillblom, and Lynn)

DHL Express, a German supply chain conglomerate, opened its world-class services in India in 2001. Since then, it has won the title of Global Express Provider at Payload Asia Awards five times. This was awarded for its excellent air cargo and freight shipping management. 

This shipping company offers tailor-made services for small to medium and large enterprises. DHL’s logistics solutions include warehousing, integrated logistics, transportation, and risk assessment.

For ecommerce companies, DHL can manage entire supply chain operations and handle customs brokerage for international shipments. With its SmartSensor feature, DHL provides real-time visibility of all packages. DHL consulting services provide strategic solutions for optimized shipping management.

2.12) Professional Couriers

Professional Couriers started in 1987 with its headquarters in Navi Mumbai, India. They simplify shipping and delivery for a varied clientele. They provide courier services to individuals, PSUs, ecommerce businesses, banks, healthcare organizations, etc.

The Professional Couriers provide comprehensive shipping solutions to over 70000 pin codes in India and 200 countries worldwide. They also offer a cloud-based order tracking system to help you stay on top of all your outgoing/incoming shipments.

Businesses can avail of express shipping, surface and air cargo. There are also special messenger services for time-bound domestic shipments. TPC also offers super economical shipping rates for international packages.

2.13) Ekart Logistics

Ekart Logistics is a Flipkart offshoot that provides ecommerce fulfillment and shipping services. Since its inception in 2007, Ekart has used automation to power first-mile and last-mile delivery challenges. 

As one of the top courier companies in India, Ekart offers many online marketplaces and storefront integrations for easy order management. It keeps track of inventory and restocks it after every sale. 

Through its Click n Collect feature, ecommerce stores can schedule deliveries or pick-ups at their chosen location. It has a dedicated customer support team to help solve customer issues promptly.

2.14) India Post

India Post is the national postal service of India operating under the Ministry of Communications. It was established in 1854 and is the oldest logistics provider in the country. It delivers even to the most remote locations.

Although India Post was synonymous with delivering important mail and documents, it has recently ventured into the ecommerce sphere. Under its ecommerce services, India Post has 2 offerings - Business Post and Logistics Post.

Business Post is most suitable for SMEs. It provides affordable shipping services across the country through Business Post centers. On the other hand, Logistics Post provides more in-depth services like storage, distribution, and fulfillment services.

Online companies can use FTL and LTL shippers for timely deliveries and opt for returns management.

2.15) First Flight Couriers

First Flight Couriers is one of the best shipping companies in India. It is known for its relentless pursuit of providing the most hassle-free delivery service. This courier company started its operations in 1986 with 3 offices in Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata. 

First Flight Couriers currently provide delivery services across India through its 1200 offices. They also offer international delivery to 9 countries. 

The main services of First Flight Couriers are - freight forwarding (ocean, rail, road). They also provide pick & pack, priority express, reverse logistics and real-time order tracking.Additionally, they facilitate cash on Delivery orders. 

3. How to Choose the Best Shipping Partner or Company in India for Your eCommerce Business?

As discussed in the earlier sections, shipping partners are a wide and varied bunch. All have the same basic function, i.e., providing fast and efficient delivery of orders. However, numerous factors, such as added services, could improve customer experience radically.

eCommerce companies use as many as 16 parameters to determine their optimum shipping partner. We will discuss all these metrics in the section below. Keep reading!

3.1)Pricing

This would probably seem like the most obvious. The cheapest price means the least expensive shipping for you, right? Wrong.

While low shipping rates are always great, any good salesman knows to always look at the fine print. Different logistics companies in India offer different payment options. They differ in long-term contracts, monthly plans, or per-shipment charges.

Overall pricing is largely based on the average weight and size of shipments. However, it’s important to remember that additional charges and hidden costs can pop up. These costs can pile up if you require specific services.

These services can include COD coverage or a particular kind of packaging, that are not included in the original rates. So always consider your defined needs when determining the ideal shipping prices.

3.2)Service Level Agreements (SLA)

Every relationship with a courier partner is based upon certain terms and conditions. These are usually encompassed within an SLA (Service Level Agreement). Specialized services may be included in this contract. But the base terms that must be agreed upon are pricing (discussed above) and delivery speed. 

Delivery speed is a major indicator of a courier partner's performance. It can greatly impact customer satisfaction and your company’s reputation. The preferences of customers can vary depending on the industry.

Your customers may prefer hyperlocal, same-day delivery (SDD), or next-day delivery (NDD). Are speed, choice of delivery date and time, really that important?A 2019 study showed that these are considered by customers to be important elements of order fulfillment.

Beyond delivery speed (and shipping rates), numerous other major working areas need to be covered in an SLA.

3.3)Service Availability

Beyond pin code reach, you must know when each carrier partner operates. You should be aware of when they may be unable to provide their services. When providing potential delivery dates to customers, always check the date.

You would have to consider public holidays and bandhs that may result in delays. These should accordingly be specified in terms of the SLA.

3.4)Number of Delivery attempts

Agree in advance about the number of delivery attempts carriers need to make after a delivery exception is reported. Existing data shows that it can take up to 2-5 re-attempts to complete a failed delivery successfully.

3.5)Payment cycle

Your payment cycle is the time frame within which you will make payments for services rendered by the courier partner. For example, a monthly payment cycle may demand payments be made on the 5th of every month. A one-week relaxation period is provided to complete said payment, following which late-payment fees may be levied on you. Setting a clear payment cycle ensures you avoid random charges being forced upon you.

3.6)Monthly goals

It’s extremely important to be crystal clear about the goal you want to achieve in terms of the volume of shipments because carriers are the ones that let you reach those goals. Specify an average number of shipments that must be completed each week and quarter for a carrier to meet its quota. As your relationship with your carrier grows, these terms can also include goals for reduction of RTO% or stuck shipments, as per your needs.

3.7)Remittance cycle

There may be situations where customers make payments directly to the courier after receiving the orders, like in the case of COD orders. The shipping partner would then have to transfer that money to you. It’s vital to ensure carriers do so promptly, as money in the bank is the lifeblood of any e-commerce business.

Ensure the courier partner you’ve selected has a clear remittance cycle, i.e., a time frame for reverting order payments to you, and that the said cycle is viable for your operational needs. Otherwise, you may find yourself hounding a carrier to give you your money.

3.8)Packaging and Handling Fees

Specify when and how packaging and handling fees can be levied to ensure your overall shipping rate isn’t suddenly double what you expected. Couriers are usually equipped to provide packaging and shipping labels, often customized if there is a need for the same. However, some may add costs to the final bill for things like packaging, customizing labels, and even handling certain orders like fragile items and cash on delivery orders. 

3.9)Value-added services

Most shipping providers offer various value-added services, like COD services, customized packaging, temperature-controlled transit, choice of vehicles, and many others. Some of these may be vital to your bottom line. For example, a courier partner that offers insurance for orders marked as fragile or of a certain weight and size will ensure you avoid unnecessary losses in case of damage.

However, you must regularly discern which value-added services you need and bundle them into your overall shipping costs to get a discount. This also ensures that fees for the same don’t pop up unexpectedly later. 

3.10)COD (Cash on Delivery) reconciliation

COD reconciliation is a crucial part of the entire range of COD services (which may also include handling the item, receiving customer signatures on receipt, etc.)

COD reconciliation is a service provided by cash on delivery (COD) courier companies that not only include remittance of payment for COD orders to you but also aids in fixing any mismatched accounts in the books of record. These mismatches can occur with COD orders as the payments for the same can only be accounted for once they have been transferred from the carrier to your company.

3.11)Penalties

Every contract comes with penalties, SLAs especially. Based on the above terms like remittance cycle, service availability, and many others, such as if a certain percentage of stuck shipments or fake deliveries, penalties should be specified in the contract.

This ensures that you are appropriately compensated for losses caused by carrier breaches. It’s also vital to be aware of the penalties that may be levied on you, for example, if minimum volume requirements are not met or if there are delays in making payments to the carrier.

3.12)Visibility

By visibility, we essentially mean transparency. Keeping an eye on your orders is crucial to ensuring your business stays on track. Real-time order tracking is essential for greater post-purchase customer satisfaction.

Online retailers are built on customers' trust, who typically get anxious when they don’t know where their order is. To ensure proper order visibility is maintained for both you and your customers, your courier partner must have the capability to provide multifunctional tracking updates.

3.13)eCommerce Shipping API

You must integrate with a courier partner’s APIs to perform certain vital functions. These include: 

i) Updating the tracking status of orders in your internal systems 

ii) Enabling the use of a branded tracking page for your customers 

iii) Sending tracking updates to customers during different stages of delivery.

Good shipping partners have both pull and push APIs. 

Using Pull APIs (also called the polling method), your systems would be able to 'pull' information on order updates from courier partner systems every hour or every few hours. 

Using Push APIs (also called webhooks), courier partner systems would push updates to your internal system whenever any order status changes. 

Both APIs together ensure a consistent and regular flow of order status updates from the courier partner to your system and the customer via the tracking page.

3.14)Courier partner Dashboard

Having access to a courier partner dashboard provides time-based and order-based visibility. It lets you view orders based on specified parameters, like specific order statuses. This enables you to identify fake deliveries, stuck shipments, and other delivery exceptions that may arise frequently and need to be addressed. 

3.15)Dedicated Contact (Email) For Handling Exceptions

The reliable and top courier companies in India for eCommerce shipping must be equipped to handle delivery exceptions. The best way for a carrier to do this is by maintaining a dedicated email address to provide support when exceptions occur. So as soon as a company is notified of a delivery failure, there is a single point of contact to reach out to.

This helps ensure the issue is resolved on time. The alternative is emailing various carrier agents and doing multiple follow-ups to determine how to complete the delivery. With more developed tech capabilities, shipping partners can offer real-time tracking until the last mile is complete.

Fully integrating with a courier partner will allow customers to view the updated status of their order during every stage of delivery from the platform without any hitches.

3.16)Reach

This is possibly the most basic but essential criterion when selecting a shipping partner. The reach of a courier partner essentially describes the locations and areas they service within the country and across the globe. It is also referred to as pin code serviceability. If you need hyperlocal or same-day delivery in a city, town, or more remote area, your courier company must be able to fulfill orders to said locations accordingly.

There are a variety of value-added services that some courier partners also make available. Some of these are more common e-commerce needs, like COD coverage. Others may be industry-specific, such as special handling for temperature-sensitive or fragile items.

While these are the major and foremost criteria to be considered, it's also important to remember that unique shipping challenges require unique shipping solutions.

4. Benefits of Using Shipping Companies for Your Online Business

If you are running an ecommerce business, you need to partner with a trusted shipping carrier to handle all your orders. One of the biggest benefits of using a courier partner is their cheap shipping rates.

As you've seen above, the best shipping companies also offer to pick and pack. This massively reduces the time you and your workforce spend in packaging, allowing you to focus on your core competencies.

Moreover, they bring a team of logistics experts to help optimize your shipping operations. Lastly, they offer live order tracking, a must-have in today's ecommerce market.

5. Conclusion

Your choice of shipping partner can greatly impact your customers' delivery experiences. With so many shipping companies in India, making the right choice is a top priority for every business. That’s why it's important to limit your options to the best of the best to reduce the time spent sifting through the best shipping companies in India. Once the list is narrowed down, you can review the previous record of each company and find the right fit for you based on your shipping strategy.

6. FAQs

6.1) How can you track your shipments while they are in transit?

Customers can track their incoming shipments through the track link or tracking ID provided to them by their seller or courier service provider.

6.2) What are the customs clearance procedures for importing goods into India?

The customs clearance procedure for imported goods involve thorough examination and appraisal of the packages. Documents required for the customs clearance procedure are Invoice, AWB, Packing list, GATT declaration, Import licence, Insurance document, DEEC book or DEPB, and Origin certificate.