Why should you know the top 5 shipping lines in the world?
Knowing the top 5 shipping lines worldwide can greatly benefit your business by helping you find options that offer better shipment costs, reliability, and safety. But, choosing the right and best shipping line can be tricky, especially if you have little to no knowledge about it.
Did you know that about 95% of all shipments around the world are moved by these top 5 shipping lines? When you think of “shipping lines,” you might think of the shipping company’s name, how many ships they have, the ports they use, their shipping routes, and how much they can carry in containers.
That’s why, we are here to guide you through the world of the best shipping lines, with a special focus on the growing logistics industry. These important companies play a big role in the global economy. They help growth and generate a large amount of revenue around the world.
Get yourself ready to learn about the top 5 shipping lines that stand out in today’s growing market. Keep scrolling to stay in the know!
MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company) from Switzerland
Did you know that one of most reputable and best shipping lines in the world was founded in Switzerland? You read it correctly. It is the Mediterranean Shipping Company, or MSC. It was started in 1970 by Captain Gianluigi Aponte in Brussels, Belgium. MSC began with only one small ship, called the MV Patricia.
Since then, MSC has grown to become a leader in global container shipping. In fact, MSC was named “Shipping Company of the Year” in 2023 at the Seatrade Maritime Awards. What’s been driving their success? It is their extensive network of terminals and ship operations across the globe, making them one of the top 5 shipping lines in the industry.
You might be wondering why MSC should be one of your best shipping lines choices. Just take a look at their impressive reach: the countries they serve, their vast fleet of vessels and aircraft, numerous shipping routes, port calls, global offices, and dedicated MSC employees worldwide.
Interesting, right? If you would like to learn more, check out the illustration below made just for you.
MSC Key Operations
If you have any questions about why MSC should be on your list of top 5 shipping lines, feel free to contact our sales team!
Maersk from Denmark
Did you know that Maersk, one of the world’s top 5 shipping lines, was founded in 1904 by A.P. Moller during World War I? Maersk takes pride in its humble beginnings, where A.P. Moller, driven by a strong vision, focused on operating and expanding their fleet of just three vessels.
In the past, they worked in the spot market without set port schedules. This helped them become one of the best shipping lines in global container shipping, despite the many challenges they faced.
Maersk is always working to stay on top as one of the best shipping lines in the worldwide market. They have split their services into three main parts: Ocean Freight, Logistics and Services, and Terminal Operations.
Maersk helps with all shipping needs from beginning to end. Whether you are an exporter, importer, or business owner, Maersk can manage the whole shipping process for you, all in one place.
Wondering what makes Maersk stand out from the other top 5 shipping lines? It’s simple! Please see the table below.
| Maersk Key Operations | Maersk Sub-Operations | Figures (As of 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Ocean Freight | Green Methanol-Enabled Vessels | 24 vessels on order |
| Ocean Freight | Containers Moved Per Year | 11.9 million FFE (Forty-Foot Equivalent Unit), serving over 475 ports globally |
| Ocean Freight | Container Vessels Used | 670+ vessels |
| Logistics & Services | Warehousing Capacity | 7,800,000+ sqm across 460+ sites worldwide |
| Logistics & Services | Electric Vehicles in Operation | 100+ in operation, 200+ more on order |
| Logistics & Services | Intermodal Volumes Managed | 4.0 million FFE (Forty-Foot Equivalent Unit) |
| Terminal Operations | Moves in 2023 | 21.7 million |
| Terminal Operations | Vessel Calls | 27,000+ calls |
| Terminal Operations | Operating Locations | 62 facilities in 35 countries, 3 new port projects |
If you would like to explore about how Maersk could be the perfect shipping partner for your business, reach out to our sales team.
CMA CGM from France
Did you know that CMA CGM ranks as the third-largest container shipping company among the world’s top 5 shipping lines? Many people may not be aware of this impressive fact about CMA CGM. The company, known as Compagnie Maritime d’Affretement Compagnie Generale Maritime, was started by Jacques Saadé in Marseille, France, in 1978.
CMA CGM has been in the shipping industry for a long time. They now work in more than 160 countries and have over 655 offices around the world. They also partner with more than 170 best shipping lines as of 2025. This expansive reach has led CMA CGM to receive prestigious awards that highlight their industry impact, including:
- Best Shipping Line at Asia Entry Level
- Carrier of the Year by ASDA (a subsidiary of Walmart)
- Vendor of the Year Award by MD Logistics Seko
- Ocean Carrier of the Year by Lowe USA
Curious how CMA CGM won those big awards among the top 5 shipping lines? Keep reading to find out more!
| CMA CGM Key Operations | Figures (As of 2025) |
|---|---|
| Revenue Generated | $16.7 billion USD |
| Volume Transported | 15 million TEUs (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Unit) |
| Vessel Fleet | 750 vessels |
| Fleet Slot Capacity | 1.990 million TEUs (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units) |
| Offices Worldwide | 950 offices |
| Ports of Call | 500 ports in 160 countries |
| Shipping Line Partnerships | 300 shipping lines |
| Employees Worldwide | 23,500 employees |
| Employees in France | 6600 employees |
Want to explore more about each of CMA CGM operations? Just contact our sales team, and we’d be happy to answer all your curiosity!
COSCO Shipping from China
Do you know that one of the top 5 shipping lines in the world is actually a Chinese government agency? Yes, you read that right. COSCO Shipping stands tall among the best shipping lines, famous for its brand philosophy of “The Ports for All”.
It originates from the 1961 merger of China Ocean Shipping (Group) Company (COSCO) and China Shipping (Group) Company. COSCO Shipping is a major player in global trade as one of the best shipping lines. It has a large container service and network around the world. Their mission?
To drive the globalization of China’s economy covering the five main port regions of the Yangtze River in China, Middle East, Europe, Southeast Asia, Middle East, Midetarrenean, South America and Africa.
COSCO Shipping, supported by the Chinese government, is one of the top 5 shipping lines. It sets high standards in global shipping, logistics, terminal operations, ship repair, shipbuilding, and shipping finance.
By 2025, this leading shipping company has increased its investments in different areas, making it one of the top 5 shipping lines in the world. Curious to learn what makes COSCO Shipping stand out? Keep reading!
COSCO Shipping Key Operations 2025
Financial Performance
- Generated 99 Billion RMB in Business Income.
- Achieved 1.05 Billion RMB in Net Profit.
- Acquired Total Assets worth 102 Billion RMB.
Business Performance
- Operates 70 terminals globally, including 65 container terminals.
- Achieved 135 million TEU (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Unit), boosting COSCO’s global sales of bunker fuel to over 32 million tons.
- Manages a fleet of 2,579 vessels, representing COSCO Shipping’s total fleet.
Hapag-Lloyd from Germany
Are you ready to uncover the best shipping line that completes the top 5 shipping lines driving the world’s economy forward? Come aboard as we explore how Hapag-Lloyd has risen to become a powerful global liner, supporting shipping companies and businesses worldwide.
Hapag-Lloyd’s roots trace back to the 19th century, when its founding companies—Hamburg-Amerikanische Packetfahrt-Actien-Gesellschaft (Hapag) and North German Lloyd—launched their first ships, carrying cargo and passengers across the Atlantic to New York.
Surprising origins, right? But Hapag-Lloyd’s success goes beyond its founders. Today, it continues to lead the market with innovative strategies and a commitment to excellence as one of the best shipping lines.
Curious about how Hapag-Lloyd has earned its spot among the top 5 shipping lines? Explore into the details below to learn more about its impressive operations as of this 2025.
Hapag-Lloyd Key Operations 2025
- Vessel Count: 287 vessels
- Employees: 16,600 employees worldwide, with 12,370 in land operations, 1,321 in sea operations, and 2,863 in terminal infrastructure.
- Countries Served: 37 locations in North Europe, 53 in South Europe, 95 in Asia, 14 in North America, 86 in Latin America, and 114 in the Middle East and Africa.
Which one is our suggestion based on our experience?
Understanding the top 5 shipping lines can make a huge difference for your business.
These companies provide reliable shipping services. They are cost-effective and have a wide global reach, making it easy to ship your goods. But finding the right shipping partner from the top 5 shipping lines can be a challenge, especially if you are new to the logistics world.
That’s where DDPCH comes in. We help you find the best shipping line for your business. Our knowledge makes it easy for you to choose what works best. DDPCH helps you choose from the top 5 shipping lines, making sure you have a trusted partner for all your shipping needs.
Whether you’re drawn to MSC’s global network, Maersk’s innovative services, CMA CGM’s strong partnerships, COSCO Shipping’s reliable infrastructure, or Hapag-Lloyd’s excellent reputation, DDPCH can guide you to the best shipping line for your needs.
Partner with DDPCH today to work with the top 5 shipping lines and take the stress out of shipping. We are here to make your logistics journey as smooth and rewarding as possible.
FAQ
Q: Who are the top 5 shipping lines in the world?
A: The top 5 shipping lines are MSC, Maersk, CMA CGM, COSCO Shipping, and Hapag-Lloyd.
Q: What is the best shipping line for international shipping?
A: The best shipping line depends on your specific needs. Top options like MSC, Maersk, and CMA CGM are popular for their global reach and reliable services.
Q: How do I choose the best shipping line for my business?
A: Consider factors like cost, transit times, route coverage, and service reliability. DDPCH can assist you in selecting the ideal shipping line for your needs.
Q: What services do the top 5 shipping lines offer?
A: They offer ocean freight, warehousing, logistics, terminal operations, and end-to-end shipping solutions to cover all aspects of shipping.
Q: Why should I work with a top 5 shipping line?
A: Top shipping lines provide reliable transit times, extensive global networks, and competitive pricing, ensuring smooth and secure shipment handling.
Q: Can I save money by choosing a top shipping line?
A: Yes, top shipping lines often have competitive rates and economies of scale that can lead to cost savings, especially on international shipments.
Q: How many containers can the largest shipping lines handle?
A: The largest shipping lines like MSC and Maersk handle millions of TEUs (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units) per year, enabling them to manage high-volume shipments efficiently.
Q: Is working with a logistics partner like DDPCH helpful for choosing the best shipping line?
A: Yes, DDPCH provides expert guidance to help you pick the best shipping line, making your logistics smoother and more efficient.
Q: What should I consider when selecting the best shipping line?
A: Look at factors like route options, shipping times, reliability, and costs. DDPCH can help you evaluate these aspects to find the best option.
Q: Are all top 5 shipping lines the same?
A: No, each shipping line has unique strengths. For example, MSC is known for its large fleet, while Maersk is known for its comprehensive logistics services. DDPCH can help you identify the best fit for your needs.
