List of Freight Forwarders in California
- United States
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- Washington DC
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
California has 46 freight forwarding companies in our directory and they are distributed throughout the country.
Browse allTotal of 518 real customer reviews of logistics companies in California
Marketing analysis & GuidelinesLooking for top rated, most reliable freight forwarders in California? We hand picked top 3 companies for your next shipment.
Top Freight Forwarding CompaniesShipping to / from California?
Top freight forwarding companies in California
Browse 2025's top rated freight companies in California based on 518 customer reviews.
| Company | About | Reviews | Services / Geolocation |
|---|---|---|---|
|
A M & S Transportation Co
California, United States
| Dedicated to customer serviceOur proximity to the port, expertise and experience in container transport enables us to provide the best customer service throughout Northern California. | Contact | Road freight Logistics Coverage |
|
GSC Logistics, Inc.
California, United States
| With us, you'll know that it's taken care ofOur team has years of experience in this industry, and are on the leading edge of environmental, political, and technological shifts. Every process and person is tested and proven to provide consistent and predictable results. | Contact | Road freight Logistics Coverage |
|
AB Trucking
California, United States
| Our goal is to exceed your expectationsProudly serving both large and small organizations.We can handle your distribution needs in both international and domestic markets. Our distribution area gives us the opportunity to provide superior customer service and loyalty to our clients. | Contact | Air freight Rail freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Intermodal transport Coverage |
We found 46 freight forwarding companies in California
| Company | Reviews | Services |
|---|---|---|
California, United States
Get with it!Impact Transportation always tries to provide timely delivery, reliability and accountability. We understand that these important values make or break a relationship. No task is too big or too small. | Rail freight Road freight Warehousing Coverage | |
California, United States
Let us help with your shipping needs We aim to provide an efficient, effective and reliable service to the importing community worldwide. We specialize in the areas of Customs Brokerage, Import/Inbound and Export/Outbound Air and Ocean Freight Forwarding/Consolidation. | Air freight Road freight Ocean freight Warehousing Customs services Coverage | |
California, United States
Fast & safe shipping. Every time. Everywhere.Through our high standard of care in the full range of international logistics services we provide, we have built a long lasting relationship with numerous high profile clients. | Air freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Warehousing Customs services Packing & Crating Multimodal transports Intermodal transport Coverage | |
California, United States
Delivering High Quality and Bringing New to YouWe stands out as the premier organization for people looking for a third-party logistics service in America.Our technology strategy is designed to give you the ultimate solution for all your supply chain visibility and management needs. | Rail freight Road freight Logistics Intermodal transport Coverage | |
California, United States
Trusted by shippers like youWe strive to accommodate our customers' needs, no matter how big or small, standard or difficult the request may be. We treat every shipment of the highest importance, so there's never a lack of communication or effort on our part. | Air freight Rail freight Road freight Logistics Hazardous goods Coverage | |
California, United States
The strongest link in your supply chainWe handle all your shipping needs, domestic or international, from start to finish. Our extensive network allows us to deliver goods across the United States as well as internationally through our strategic partnerships in Mexico and Canada. | Rail freight Warehousing Customs services Packing & Crating Cross-dock Coverage | |
California, United States
Years of experience and a rapidly growing networkSky2C offers professional world class shipping solutions and services to a multitude of businesses across varying industry verticals and individuals worldwide. We offer our clients a comprehensive suite of shipping solutions and logistics services | Air freight Rail freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Packing & Crating Coverage | |
California, United States
High quality people deliver quality resultsWe are leader in the transportation industry through efficient and cost-effective logistics management, inventory control, international and domestic freight forwarding, import brokerage, and ground transportation. | Air freight Road freight Ocean freight Warehousing Customs services Intermodal transport Coverage | |
California, United States
Providing comprehensive shipping and logistics servicesSky2C offers professional world class shipping solutions and services to a multitude of businesses across varying industry verticals and individuals worldwide. Services are offered at an extremely affordable and competitive rate. | Air freight Rail freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Warehousing Customs services Coverage | |
California, United States
Your global logisticsBeing a professional freight forwarder is not enough at SHIPIT Logistics, we believe in our clients as partners; their success is our success. | Air freight Rail freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Warehousing Customs services Multimodal transports Intermodal transport Coverage | |
California, United States
Consistent performance and outstanding customer serviceWe are specialized in the transportation of domestic heavyweight shipments in the time sensitive, high value and mission critical arenas. We are committed to providing the highest level of customer service and operational excellence. | Air freight Rail freight Road freight Warehousing Customs services Hazardous goods Coverage | |
California, United States
Simple, reliable logistics.Our mission is to provide simple, reliable supply chain solutions that empower our customers to succeed in the marketplace and accomplish their goals, and we are doing it through the power of people, processes, and technology. | Air freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Warehousing Customs services Hazardous goods Intermodal transport Coverage | |
California, United States
You have a need, we have the solutionUsing the latest technology available, we will ensure the most accurate, expedient, economical, and safest transport of your cargo. Every one of our clients is part of our strong belief that they are best served when contacted on a personal level. | Air freight Road freight Ocean freight Warehousing Coverage | |
California, United States
A state of the art home for your demanding supply chainWe are Northern California's leading 3PL. We continually invest in technology, processes, people and facilities to optimize supply chains in demanding industries. PRISM is your trusted warehouse logistics partner. | Rail freight Logistics Coverage | |
California, United States
We aim to ensure the safe, thoughtful and economical handling of fragile objectsAtthowe Fine Art Services is dedicated to the safe handling of fine art and fragile objects. We are a third-generation business, started in 1928. Our services include transportation, packing, crating, installation, storage, and freight forwarding. | Road freight Logistics Warehousing Customs services Hazardous goods Coverage | |
California, United States
Freight Forwarding Your WayWe offers value-added services like simplified Customs clearance, competitive cargo insurance coverage,advice on supply-chain optimization, custom-tailored solutions for special projects,broad range of logistics services and most effectiv customer care. | Air freight Rail freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Customs services Coverage | |
California, United States
Bringing prime management to your supply chainPrime Freight International is a boutique Supply Chain Management provider based in Southern California. We provide air freight, ocean freight, domestic freight, warehousing services, project cargo, car shipping, Amazon FBA shipments and insurance. | Air freight Rail freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Warehousing Customs services Coverage | |
California, United States
Freight forwarding your wayBGI is a freight forwarding service provider based in the USA that focuses on creating partnerships to pave the way for sustainable business growth. Customer care and the needs of our clients are at the forefront of our values. | Air freight Rail freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Warehousing Value added services Cross-dock Coverage | |
California, United States
Dedicated to customer serviceOur proximity to the port, expertise and experience in container transport enables us to provide the best customer service throughout Northern California. | Road freight Logistics Coverage | |
California, United States
Shipping you can always count on!We have built a strong and respected name in the domestic freight forwarding industry since our launch in 2000. We believe in providing personalized service to accommodate every client's shipping needs. | Air freight Road freight Ocean freight Warehousing Coverage | |
California, United States
We make the "Last Mile" the BEST MILE!We are Northern California and Northern Nevada's leading regional warehousing, distribution and delivery company. We treat each shipment with the same sense of urgency and commitment to total customer satisfaction. | Road freight Logistics Warehousing Coverage | |
California, United States
With us, you'll know that it's taken care ofOur team has years of experience in this industry, and are on the leading edge of environmental, political, and technological shifts. Every process and person is tested and proven to provide consistent and predictable results. | Road freight Logistics Coverage | |
California, United States
Value-added services for your logistics needsUtilizing our specialized resources, we provide competitive rates, dependable timelines and excellent customer service to ensure the highest levels customer service. We are specializes in integrated logistics services and supply chain management. | Air freight Rail freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Customs services Coverage | |
California, United States
Connecting continentsProviding personalized solutions which fit customers requirement is all that RTW render. We listen to our customers need and provide the required solutions. | Air freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Warehousing Hazardous goods Intermodal transport Coverage | |
California, United States
Global logistic solutions for your businessAmoy Line has developed into a competitive shipping company providing a wide range of freight forwarding services. We have established a cooperative strategy between the customer service, operations, and sales departments. | Air freight Rail freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Warehousing Customs services Coverage | |
California, United States
Our goal is to exceed your expectationsProudly serving both large and small organizations.We can handle your distribution needs in both international and domestic markets. Our distribution area gives us the opportunity to provide superior customer service and loyalty to our clients. | Air freight Rail freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Intermodal transport Coverage | |
California, United States
Your global shipping needs... delivered.No matter the complexity of your shipments, we have the perfect solution to transport your products from origin to destination. | Air freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Warehousing Customs services Hazardous goods Value added services Coverage | |
California, United States
Our business is to manage our customer's businessFounded in 1977, Alliance Shippers Inc. is one of North America's top privately owned global logistics and transportation service corporations. We operate throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and other international destinations. | Air freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Warehousing Customs services Intermodal transport Coverage | |
California, United States
People you can trust, quality you can count on.We are a low risk, high quality service provider. Our goal is to provide the best value for your transportation needs. We define value as the best overall combination of service, price and risk management. | Road freight Logistics Intermodal transport Coverage | |
California, United States
If you have it, we have move itWe are fast, reliable, and competitively priced. Our experience in the import and export container industry and our relationships with port operators, help get your products in and out of the terminals with minimal difficulty and expense. | Logistics Intermodal transport Coverage | |
California, United States
Focusing on customer service and facilitating the import processProviding custom solutions for your company while delivering great personal attention is what sets our company apart. Focusing on customer service and facilitating the import process with the goal to make your company grow. | Air freight Rail freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Warehousing Customs services Coverage | |
California, United States
Peace of mind. Delivered.We are a trusted partner with our clients. We deliver the highest quality customized blend of compliance and international trade solutions with uncompromising, personalized customer service. | Air freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Warehousing Customs services Hazardous goods Intermodal transport Coverage | |
California, United States
Making it happen since 1982Since 1982, Aeronet has been a family-owned company dedicated to providing the very best in global logistics solutions and freight services. | Air freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Warehousing Customs services Coverage | |
California, United States
Your logistic provider for all of Northern CaliforniaWe strive to provide the highest quality solutions for logistics and distribution services. Our customer is the most important person ever and the reason for our existence, and we believe strongly in this way of doing business. | Rail freight Road freight Logistics Warehousing Coverage | |
California, United States
Full-Service Moving, Storage, & LogisticsWe delivers value to our customers and clients by focusing on delivering a remarkable relocation experience to everyone. We strive to be the relocation provider of choice, providing household goods moving, commercial relocation and logistics services. | Road freight Logistics Warehousing Coverage | |
California, United States
Full Service Trucking, Storage, & RepairsOur locations, close access to the port, and 24 hour wheel storage make us like no other company in Southern California. We provide faster, more reliable, high quality chassis for your journey. For rent or for lease. | Road freight Logistics Warehousing Hazardous goods Coverage | |
California, United States
Legacy, relationships and quality, working for you.We specialize in shipping any and all commodities to and from any place in the world. We provide global relocation and mobility services for the U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Department of State, public and private entities and private individuals | Air freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Warehousing Customs services Coverage | |
California, United States
Easy, fast & reliable shippingFast and reliable, door-to-door, custom freight forwarding solutions for full container load (FCL) and less than container load (LCL). Competitive pricing and ability to negotiate prices with multiple global and domestic partners. | Air freight Rail freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Warehousing Customs services Hazardous goods Coverage | |
California, United States
Providing exceptional and personal servicePacOcean Forwarding / Pacific Ocean Ship Management, a California corporation, is a licensed and bonded freight forwarder headquartered in San Francisco since 1994. | Air freight Rail freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Customs services Intermodal transport Coverage | |
California, United States
First choice logistics solution that people loveWe're an all encompassing one-stop shop with over 20 years experience you can trust.We have an established and trusted network of shippers, manufacturers and distributors, opening pathways that expand opportunities to meet your unique business needs. | Air freight Rail freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Warehousing Customs services Coverage | |
California, United States
Current moves the things that metter mostWe'll move anywhere by land, water, or air to safely deliver your product and keep you smiling the whole way. | Air freight Rail freight Ocean freight Logistics Warehousing Customs services Packing & Crating Coverage | |
California, United States
Company for your Urgent Freight ShipmentsWe offers a mixture of air and ground delivery services, with an emphasis on ground deliveries for large freight. We provide emergency same day, overnight, and next day freight services to resolve our clients' supply and logistical issues. | Air freight Road freight Logistics Coverage | |
California, United States
International Import Export ServicesWe are a rapidly emerging international trading company that offers exceptional customer service in the industry. Our mission is to clearly understand our customer’s needs and to build mutually beneficial long-lasting business relationships. | Ocean freight Logistics Customs services Air freight Intermodal transport Warehousing Coverage | |
California, United States
Make your cargo journey easy across globeSEAWORLD GLOBAL LOGISTICS is one of the leading international logistics, freight forwarding services providers offering international freight forwarding services at very affordable rates. | Air freight Rail freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Warehousing Customs services Coverage | |
California, United States
Moving the worldOur company adheres to the principle of honesty, always puts the interests of clients first, constantly improves our service quality, and provides highest level of services to our clients at homeland and abroad. | Air freight Ocean freight Logistics Warehousing Customs services Coverage | |
California, United States
If its on the map, we ship it in a snapACE Logistics delivers top-tier logistics solutions: warehousing, precise fulfillment, swift distribution, and optimized supply chain management. Elevate your business efficiency with our trusted services. | Air freight Rail freight Road freight Ocean freight Logistics Warehousing Customs services One-stop shop Car transport Coverage |
My Insider Guide to Freight Forwarders in California, USA
By Daril, a Logistics Pro with Hands‑On Experience in California Freight
Introduction
Over the years, I’ve helped countless shipments move in and out of California—whether through the port of Los Angeles, Long Beach, Oakland, or San Diego. As a logistics expert who’s been elbow‑deep in container yards, scrutinizing vessel schedules and chasing AWBs, I can tell you California is the linchpin of U.S. international freight. It’s the gateway to Asia, Latin America, Europe—you name it.
I remember walking into a forwarder’s office in Oakland and overhearing someone say, “We’ve done more L.A.–Shanghai runs this month than any other U.S. west coast port.” That hustle is daily life here. My goal with this article is to give you that insider view—what services you can expect, how to choose the best freight forwarder in California, what red flags to avoid, and how to put my mini‑reviews to work. These are based on my own boots‑on‑the‑ground research and hands‑on conversations.
Freight Services in California
So, what does freight forwarding look like here?
Sea freight in California
The ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach collectively form the busiest port complex in North America. You’ll find plentiful FCL (full container load) and LCL (less than container load) options to and from Asia, Europe, Australia, even Africa. Transit times are competitive: L.A.–Shanghai is about 16–20 days, L.A.–Rotterdam 25–30 days, depending on routing.Air freight
LAX and SFO handle massive volumes of air cargo—electronics, perishables, high‑value items. Expect direct freighter options to Asia and Europe; many forwarders also consolidate to secondary hubs like Hong Kong or Frankfurt.Trucking / drayage
Nearly every forwarder here has either their own drayage fleet or strong partnerships. California rail drayage into the Midwest (e.g., to Illinois) is common, but drayage from marine terminals to inland distribution centers is where they earn margins.Customs brokerage and compliance
Forwarders typically double as customs brokers. California’s unique risks—like Proposition 65 labeling and CARB engine regulations—mean brokers who understand local compliance can save you a lot of headaches.Project & special cargo
Think oversized machinery, bulk liquids, refrigerated freight. Ports like Oakland specialize in heavy‑lift and breakbulk services. I’ve personally sent agricultural equipment and even a yacht through those docks.
California’s logistics ecosystem is mature: forwarders are backed by strong carrier relationships, warehouses near rail yards, and customs‑savvy teams.
How I Recommend Choosing a Forwarder in California
From my experience, here’s what I always look for:
Communication clarity
Are they responsive? Do they explain costs in clear terms—freight, surcharges, port fees? I remember one forwarder who "forgot" to mention a $350 THC (Terminal Handling Charge) until I asked about documentation assistance. Big red flag.Local knowledge
Can they navigate Proposition 65? Do they coordinate CARB‑compliant drayage? A good forwarder will proactively flag state compliance issues.Industry specialization
If you’re shipping electronics, toys, perishables, or industrial parts, pick someone who’s done it often. For instance, a forwarder I reviewed 10 years ago built a refrigerated dry‑ice lane from SFO to Asia—those folks had the systems and service to prove it.Documentation support
Bill of Lading, commercial invoice, packing list—they should prep them, check them, and walk you through them. Customs delays often come from sloppy paperwork.Carrier network
A forwarder I know won’t book your shipment as “best possible” with one carrier; they’ll show you 2–3 options with different transit times, costs, and routing options. That transparency matters.
What to Watch Out For
Here’s where things go sideways:
Unrealistic transit times
I’ve seen companies promise 10‑day transit from California to northern Europe by sea—and take 30. Always ask, “Which port calls? Which carrier? What’s the routing?” A forwarder should say: “We’d route L.A.–Oakland–Panama‑Canal–Rotterdam via Maersk, estimated 27 days door to door.”Not listing all extra charges
THC, D/O (Delivery Order), B/L amendments—they add up fast. If a forwarder quotes “$1,200 all‑in” but leaves these out, that’s a red flag.Weak customs knowledge
Especially in California, where state‑level rules are layered on top of federal. One forwarder I spoke with didn’t even mention the CARB requirements for chassis—it cost a client $2,500 in fines before they realized.No physical presence
Forwarders with no office, no staff at port or airport, can’t solve issues on the ground. A terminal hold means nothing if they’re calling overseas teams for an answer.
About the Reviews I’ve Written
I’ve taken the time to personally review every freight forwarder listed here in California. I looked at:
Scope of services (sea, air, trucking, customs, special cargo)
Strengths & weaknesses (response times, carrier options, pricing transparency)
Client feedback (direct from shippers and carriers)
Reliability record (late deliveries, clearance delays, claims)
These reviews aren’t paid placements—these are my honest takes, based on site visits, phone interviews, and actual shipment histories. My goal: help you cut through the noise and pick the forwarder who fits your needs—whether you’re moving electronics from Shenzhen or wine to London.
When you scroll through the list, use them like this:
If you need refrigerated transport or perishables, look at the partners who specialize in those lanes.
If you’re a SMB volume shipper, focus on forwarders with flexible fee structures and not a massive minimum volume.
If you demand boutique service and fast response, find one with a lean but proactive team—check notes in “communication” and “onsite presence.”
Final Thoughts & FAQ
Q1: How long does sea freight from California usually take?
To Asia: ~16–20 days L.A.–Shanghai, 18–22 to Hong Kong
To Europe: ~25–30 days L.A.–Rotterdam, maybe 27 via Panama
To Latin America: ~7–10 days L.A.–Manila
Q2: What documents are needed to export from California?
Bill of Lading
Commercial Invoice & Packing List
Customs Form 7501 (PWGSC for re‑exports)
Certificates of Origin (e.g. NAFTA/USMCA, if applicable)
Any state‑level docs (Proposition 65, CARB statements, food‑grade certifications)
Q3: How much should I budget for customs clearance?
Expect federal duties, then broker fees (~$85–$150), plus any state inspections, inland drayage, or engine‑compliance fees — maybe $300 top‑end on a standard container.
Final Personal Advice
If I were in your shoes, I’d start by reaching out to 2–3 forwarders from the list—those that match your product type and lane—and schedule quick discovery calls. I’d ask them things like:
“Which carriers are you booking? What’s realistic transit time?”
“How do you handle state‑level compliance issues?”
“Can I see a sample invoice breakdown of all charges?”
Trust your gut, but lean on the actual answers. In California logistics, transparency and local knowledge aren’t optional—they’re crucial. I've been in this lane long enough to see where things break. This guide is my way of helping you avoid those pitfalls and find the best freight forwarders in California that fit your specific needs.
Here’s to smooth sailing—or trucking, or flying—for your next shipment.
Arts entertainment
14.12.2021Good company truck