Indian e-commerce logistics sector has witnessed tremendous growth in the last one decade. Even during the pandemic, e-commerce adoption witnessed exceptional performance and has spurred more and more people online. According to our compiled reports, e-commerce logistics grew 70 per cent year-on-year to facilitate 2.55 bn shipments in 2020, and further projections say that this will increase to about 10.5 bn by 2025. Despite the pandemic, e-commerce enabled 20 million new shoppers in 2020. The overall user base is further expected to reach 190 million users by the end of 2021. The growth has mainly come on the back of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), increased digital penetration, surge in smart phones adoption and new shoppers being added to the fray from tier II, III and IV cities as technology reaches the most intricate parts of the Indian heartland and promises a very bright future.
Ritika Arora Bhola
Boom in e-commerce amidst the gloom
Experts believe that Indian e-commerce logistics is very bullish right now and will grow further as e-commerce and online deliveries become the primary buying channel for all.
According to Jasmine Singh, Senior Executive Director and National Head- Industrial, Land & Logistics Services at CBRE India,“Owing to greater convenience and safety, most customers are opting for online retail avenues. Greater internet penetration has also contributed to this growth. With more e-commerce players betting on tier II and tier III cities as preferred warehousing hubs and investment destinations, it is further estimated that 88 per cent of the online shoppers, who are going to be added in the period of 2021 to 2030 will be from tier II and III cities. As the era of digitisation and e-tailing continues to evolve, the e-commerce sector is expected to enable customers' innovative and sustainable shopping experience in the coming years.”
Singh further highlights major trends which will shape up the future of e-commerce logistics trade in India.
“We’ve seen how the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated digital adoption for consumers and businesses alike. E-commerce is booming, nowhere more so than right here in India, as Indian e-commerce logistics is expected to reach US$ 11.48 billion by 2027, up from US$ 2.93 billion in 2019, growing at an estimated CAGR of 18.8 per cent from 2020 to 2027. With logistics playing a critical role to deliver goods, once purchased, to the consumer, the Indian e-commerce logistics market has also benefitted due to an increase in internet penetration,”informs Mohamad Sayegh, Vice President- Operations - India at FedEx Express Middle East, Indian subcontinent and Africa (MEISA).
He continues, “A surge in smartphone adoption has led to easier access and an increase in volume of goods purchased online, which then require last mile delivery across the country. With the proliferation of e-commerce and online hyper-local markets, the Indian e-retail market is primed to reach nearly 300 million to 350 million shoppers by 2025. To keep up with this surge in demand, companies, including SMEs are embracing online commercial platforms, and technological advancements to satisfy and retain customers. Especially in light of COVID-19 restrictions and the current environment, e-commerce is becoming the retail option of choice as it ensures social distancing for consumers, and contactless delivery options are now a standard service for many firms.”
Definitely, Ketan Kulkarni, CMO and Head– Business Development at Blue Dart says, “E-commerce gained a significant positive momentum during the pandemic as everything from groceries to consumer electronics could only be sourced online. Going forward, as the world aligns itself with the ‘new normal,’ the future of e-commerce logistics is going to be very significant.”
Saahil Goel, Co-founder and CEO at Shiprocket agrees! “For the logistics and transportation sector, the growth of e-commerce logistics will pave the way for more streamlined workflows, and increased tech-led innovation with features such as Augmented Reality being incorporated into the day-to-day operations to bridge the gap between physical and digital experiences.”
“India’s e-commerce logistics sector has gained immense traction over the past few years. With increased demand from tier II and III cities in recent times combined with increased preference for same-day/next-day deliveries and the incorporation of cutting-edge technology to introduce features such as real-time tracking, automation of warehouses, AI-led inventory management, etc. the e-commerce logistics space is set to witness exponential growth as third-party tech-logistics platforms expand their suite of offerings to cater to the growing demand.”
Industry veteran Sushil Rathi, currently COO of Mahindra Logistics points out that customers’ expectations are increasing greatly and both individuals and businesses are expected to get goods faster, more flexibly, and in the case of consumers—at low or no delivery cost. “As a result the logistics sector is undergoing immense pressure to deliver a better service at an ever-lower cost.”
“The growth e-commerce segment has accelerated the demand not only for transportation but also for sort centres, fulfilment centres, return processing, last mile delivery, etc. In the future, we will witness many breakthroughs in last-mile delivery models and technology integrations, offering greater comfort for the end consumers. The consumers are expecting same day delivery, especially for the groceries and essential items, and hence the concept of hyperlocal delivery business model has emerged. Meanwhile, an increase in omnichannel distribution models especially in e-commerce segment can be observed, a higher level of service integration and a greater adoption of technology would help logistics players in creating the customer value proposition.”
Small towns outpace tier I cities
The ongoing pandemic has seen more demand for variety of products coming in from the tier III and IV cities. With the availability of smartphones and greater e-commerce reach, people are finding it easier and convenient to buy anything to everything from homes with just a ‘Click’, while following all the COVID-19 protocols including social distancing rather than crowding the marketplaces. However, reaching out to these remote locations is a challenge in itself. Lack of adequate road and transportation infrastructure, connectivity issues, unskilled manpower are some of the bottlenecks which need to be addressed.
Rathi opines, “When it comes to transporting goods to remote locations and tier II and III cities, cash-on-delivery (COD) continues to be the preferred mode of payment in these towns. Although more than a dozen pre-paid payment options are available, customers prefer to pay only after getting the product in their hands. Managing the cash for COD orders in itself is a big challenge, especially in terms of high value products.”
“Another challenge we face is the road infrastructure of tier II and III cities causing delays in the delivery. While the e-commerce demand is increasing in these cities, we continue to face challenges towards timely deliveries. Although with more accessible warehousing facilities, the goods are transported with better ease and effectiveness. To mitigate the challenge of infrastructure, we have adopted hub and spoke arrangement of deliveries which helps in faster distribution of goods to remote locations.”
Stressing on the need for robust infrastructure, Goel asserts, “With the demand from smaller cities and towns increasing over the past few years, there is an urgent need for a robust infrastructure to be in place. Besides this, the pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns have further wreaked havoc in terms of the transportation of goods from one location to another. Strengthening of infrastructure and connectivity will further facilitate seamless, integrated end-to-end services to be carried out in such locations. Shiprocket is working to expand its presence pan-India for seamless workflow automation by establishing new fulfilment centres that will enable faster deliveries for both the merchant and the end user.”
Talking about Bluedart’s services and delivering products to the largest number of pin codes nationwide, Kulkarni says, “One of Blue Dart’s (part of the DPDHL Group) key USPs is our unparalleled reach. With access to over 35,000 locations across the nation and 220 countries and territories worldwide, Blue Dart provides customers with the most comprehensive express logistics network worldwide. As a result of the reach expansion programme Delivery Anywhere Now or DAWN that we recently conducted, our serviceable locations doubled catering specifically to tier II and III cities. Apart from this, we also launched a programme Revenue Increase from Small Towns & SMEs (RISE) to support businesses from Bharat to cater to a larger market. Both initiatives aimed to expand our reach into small towns to bring the world closer to these cities and towns. We have aligned ourselves with the Government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative and are keen to bring the world to these tier II and III cities and towns too.”
Blue Dart has also made extensive investments in infrastructure, manpower, new-age technology and automation to drive business growth and create value for all.
Interconnectivity between growth and infrastructure
In the last few years, increased penetration of e-commerce and digitisation has led to an influx of domestic and foreign investments in the warehousing market. Growth in e-commerce has fuelled the demand for warehousing, technology and last mile connectivity. Experts say, as e-commerce penetration will continue to grow in the established markets in the coming years, less established markets will eventually catch up due to the increasing presence of e-commerce drivers. According to CBRE’s Global E-Commerce Outlook Report, India’s e-commerce penetration rate is expected to increase from about 5 per cent in 2020 to more than 15 per cent in 2025.
“Identifying the enormous growth potential of e-commerce, many online retail platforms began investing in warehouses to ensure a smooth supply chain. With online shopping and e-tailing garnering popularity among the masses, end-to-end delivery has become central to an efficient supply chain flow. Further, to enable last-mile connectivity, digital tools and data analytics also came to the forefront. These tech deployments enable complete and constant visibility of the consignment through GPS installation. Further, leading-edge technologies like AI enabling predictive analysis of supply chain data, Industrial Intelligence of Things (IIoT) enabling predictive repairs and maintenance, and Smart Factories are expected to drive the future of e-commerce logistics in India,” explains Singh.
According to Kulkarni, “E-commerce has contributed and prompted an increase in investment in road infrastructure, last mile connectivity and emerging technologies. Prior to the pandemic, e-commerce was still gaining momentum in India—a fact that was propelled further due to the immobility of individuals and transport during the pandemic. The increase in demand for e-commerce has certainly highlighted the need for a more efficient supply chain to be in place that would reduce turnaround time and increase efficiency.”
He adds, “A larger facet that has prompted this growth is investment in road and supporting infrastructure, etc. The introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), the National Logistics Policy, National Air Cargo Policy, National E-commerce Policy, dedicated freight corridors, as well as the logistics initiatives highlighted in the Union Budget 2021 are all Governmental initiatives aimed at bringing down logistics costs from 14 per cent to 7 per cent. A reduction in logistics costs, an increase in efficiency owing to emerging technologies and a more seamless logistics network, will help India take one step further in its endeavour to be at par with other developed economies.”
Focussing on the significance of IT, Sayegh says, “Logistics companies can be the differentiator in an increasingly competitive global marketplace, with technological innovations playing a pivotal role. Tech integration has strengthened supply chain management and real-time tracking, increasing visibility, control and customisation over the end-to-end delivery experience. Additionally, automation and data analytics are fostering the tremendous potential for the logistics industry and are simplifying processes right from order processing, to warehousing, to distribution.”
In agreement, Goel says, “The surge in online shopping fueled by the pervasive presence of social media has propelled e-commerce businesses/sellers to augment their operations and offerings such as quick deliveries, inventory management, order fulfilment, packaging, shipping, etc. as in today’s world, customer experience is the priority. Besides, being a highly lucrative sector, e-commerce is witnessing a rise in the investments being made, further enabling businesses to strengthen their services and expand their presence.”
Rathi says they are constantly looking and working towards expanding growth significantly around consumer durables, e-commerce, and pharma.
“We consider them as consumption driven industries. We have deepened our focus by launching new solutions, like return processing, pop-up sort centres and integrated distribution services. These are evident in our continued growth in value-added services and in the e-commerce and consumer segments. The new facilities are developed to sustainable standards and allow us to provide flexible and scalable fulfilment and integrated distribution solutions for the e-commerce industry,” says Rathi.
“On the supply chain side, we are working towards expanding our growth well beyond the auto business.”
Cross-border commerce: The major facilitator
Cross-border e-commerce trade is definitely picking up in the ‘New Normal’ scenario. In the last one year, it has proved to be the new disruption in the logistics ecosystem as it provides retailers/wholesalers and even regular customers’ an opportunity to engage in purchasing products from outside borders, from the comfort of homes and offices.
Sanjay Keswani, Director- Global Platform and Strategic Alliances at Eunimart, (a cross border e-commerce startup using AI to enable small merchants sell internationally) informs, “Across the globe, cross-border e-commerce is growing at 17 per cent compared to domestic e-commerce and is projected to reach US$ 1 trillion by the end of 2021.”
“SMEs contribute to approximately 50 per cent of domestic e-commerce but are able to get to only 5per cent when looking at exports. India, with 50 million registered SMEs stands to gain most by the momentum due to the large range of diverse categories that Indian artisans are able to churn out,” says Keswani.
Not only India, even in countries such as China, US and the UK, cross border e-commerce is in full swing as consumers have become more conscious about affordable pricing with no compromise on product’s quality. A study conducted by Acapture states that India exports 16 per cent products to the US, 4.3 per cent to China and 3.3 per cent to UK using cross-border e-commerce channel. Similarly, when it comes to import, India gets 14 per cent of products from the USA, 6 per cent from the UK and 5 per cent from China.
Rachid Fergati, Managing Director, Middle East and Indian subcontinent at UPS explains that international businesses are likely to diversify their supply base resulting in exponential opportunities for countries such as India to play a key role in global value chains and enhance international trade. Supply chains will have to be more adaptable and flexible to help businesses remain resilient, competitive, and support these opportunities.
During the pandemic, UPS continued to forge connections to support the movement of essential commodities, healthcare materials, and business products between India and rest of the world. “Business continuity emerged as a key imperative during the pandemic and UPS have been able to successfully continue operationsin 220 countries and territories,” says Fergati.
“Given the coronavirus related supply chain restrictions at the time, UPS Healthcare and Hyderabad-based Dr Reddy’s created an emergency supply chain plan to replenish pharmaceutical stocks in US markets. These products were transported within the UPS network through the Cologne, Germany air hub, then to the UPS Worldport in Kentucky, before reaching its final destination on time and as promised. UPS also transported pharmaceuticals and medical aids from the Government of India to partner countries in Latin America.”
Another recent report by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), estimates that cargo will represent approximately 30 per cent of total revenues, a significant increase from the usual 12 per cent industry average. It will continue the increase in the coming years. Similarly, cargo tonne kilometers (CTK) will grow more than 13 per cent over 2020 levels and carriers will increase their share of cross-border trade. Also, IATA business confidence surveys of cargo heads reveal plenty of optimism for the years ahead.
Rathi highlights some of the cross-border e-commerce trends:
“Above mentioned facts and figures certainly proves that cross border e-commerce is the future of online shopping and Indian SMEs can the prime beneficiaries of this new-age retail model by overstepping the geographical barriers to access global market with higher margins and larger chunk of consumers,” feels Rathi.
UPS recently conducted a survey that highlights the growth potential of small businesses covering India and eight other key countries in Asia, Middle East, Europe and North America. UPS, along with Nathan Associates, also surveyed small businesses in India across 21 industries to understand the current e-commerce opportunities and challenges for SMEs. Some of the key findings pointed towards:
“We’ve seen that the pandemic has accelerated the need for better global infrastructure and other critical healthcare focussed innovations. We view this as a structural shift in the marketplace and in response we recently launched UPS Cold Chain Solutions, a comprehensive suite of cold chain technologies and capabilities that provide complete end-to-end temperature-controlled logistics,” says Fergati. “And in terms of technology, our UPS Premier product offers an upgrade for healthcare shipments with advanced sensor technology. All of our US COVID-19 vaccine shipments are using UPS Premier, and it is this product that enables our near-perfect delivery performance. We have plans to expand UPS Premier to Europe and Asia in the coming months.”
“A logistics partner, such as UPS, can assume a single carrier responsibility, with its own fleet of aircraft providing end-to-end logistics solutions, which is a strategic advantage for facilitating cross border trade. At a time, when lift capacity was impacted in and out of India, UPS continued to forge critical connections to support the movement of not only business products between India and rest of the world but also essential commodities and healthcare materials, assuming a single carrier responsibility,” expresses Fergati.
Unblocking bottlenecks in the trade
Cross-border e-commerce model is here to stay forever. Considering the spectacular growth in this segment in the last few years, it is clearly visible that cross border trade is the need of the hour and both businesses and investors have sharp eye on it. Cross-border e-commerce needs an efficient supply chain, speed and flexibility of operations and a certain push in terms of investment from both the public and private players as several SMEs have it already on their radar.
According to several reports, the Indian e-commerce market is expected to grow to US$ 200 billion by 2026. Much growth of the industry has been triggered by increasing internet and smartphone penetration. It is therefore not a surprise that massive international consumer and e-commerce companies are anchoring their presence in India. These developments will have a significant impact on cross-border trade to and from India. This also means that logistics will play a critical role in connecting these products, people and enterprises across borders.
Rathi points out two major challenges:
Keswani says lack of knowledge is one the biggest challenges, “This lack of knowledge influences ‘Where to sell, what to sell, what price to sell at, how to sell and other such significant aspects’. After studying the market, we were able to identify the roadblocks and issues that confronted merchants and sellers when they looked to expand their horizon globally. Leveraging insights gained through thorough market research and experience, our platform caters to solve the four critical challenges faced by sellers such as payment, logistics, data intelligence and market access. By breaking down the operational barriers that revolve around cross-border e-commerce, Eunimart accelerates SME growth and launches them into the global marketplace.”
“We are seeing that the fastest growing customers are often those doing business across borders. Our industry plays a key role in connecting SMBs to global markets—being global is not just for big companies. Additionally, the e-commerce industry is all about speed, accuracy, and scale. To this, we also need to add a fourth critical component—compliance,” explains Fergati.
“Post-pandemic, countries have new protocols, additional border controls, and new documentation requirements for shippers and traders. The right partner needs to help SMBs navigate all of these requirements and to deliver what matters to their business and the economy in general. UPS technology simplifies international shipping so you can easily manage imports and exports. Our cross-border shipping and tracking tools help to speed up delivery time and customs clearance, while maintaining compliance with trade regulations.”
“The Indian government is aiming to build a trillion-dollar online economy by 2025, through its Digital India programme. With the growth in cross-border e-commerce, FedEx services will support SMBs to grow their exports. FedEx operates all-cargo flights through gateways in Mumbai, New Delhi and Bengaluru, connecting India to the world, and the world to India by connecting business across the nation with 99 per cent of the world’s GDP through its global air network,” adds Sayegh.
“Logistics companies around the globe are now transforming and adjusting to technologically integrated service models that generate new opportunities for individuals, and businesses, whatever their size,” says Sayegh.
FedEx has the network required to safely, reliably and quickly deliver goods to the end customer while serving the supply chains that fuel global trade. Launched in 2017, FedEx Delivery Manager, an interactive e-commerce delivery solution provides residential customers the flexibility and convenience to customise their home deliveries to suit their schedules.
Ecom Express Limited, India’s sole pure-play B2C e-commerce logistics provider as of the Financial Year 2024, has introduced a new brand identity, underscoring its commitment to customer-centricity. This rebranding reflects a focus on addressing specific customer needs, prioritising customer-facing metrics, and integrating innovative technology across its nationwide express logistics network. The goal is to enhance speed, agility, and network reach, ensuring a customer-focused approach. The rebranding includes a dynamic logo and a refreshed visual identity, symbolising Ecom Express’s pursuit of excellence. The new logo features a forward-moving arrow within a square, representing the company’s dedication to delivery. The letter "E" in the logo stands for Expression, Innovation, and Progress, while the bold magenta colour signifies bravery, self-expression, and strength. This vibrant magenta reintroduction reflects Ecom Express's renewed commitment to customers, partners, and team members, as the company aims to simplify and democratise logistics for all. Ajay Chitkara, CEO and MD of Ecom Express, elaborated on the transformation, stating, “Our refreshed brand identity reaffirms our customer-first approach as we continue to integrate technology and innovation to provide reliable, high-speed services with the widest network reach. This transformation also underscores our commitment to our employees and delivery partners, who are essential to our business.” The new logo embodies Ecom Express’s dedication to its core values, focusing on customer welfare and fostering a diverse, inclusive environment. This rebranding signifies a promise to redefine logistics through advanced technology, making life easier for all types of customers.
Building a visionary company requires one percent vision and 99 percent alignment. This analogy resonates deeply when we compare the process of building a company to conducting a symphony orchestra. Just as a conductor leads musicians to create a harmonious masterpiece, a successful business and its management fosters alignment among team members to achieve extraordinary success. In the business world, this vision translates into a clear understanding of where the company wants to go and what it aspires to achieve. The one percent of vision acts as the guiding force that sets the stage for greatness. However, a conductor alone cannot create a symphony. The true magic lies in the collective effort of the musicians, each playing their part to perfection. Similarly, in a visionary company, alignment becomes paramount. Every team member needs to be facing in the right direction, equipped with the right skills, and focused on delivering the right results at the right time. By fostering alignment, harnessing the diverse talents within the team, and continuously fine-tuning performance, savvy teams and visionary leaders carry the potential to transform their companies into harmonious and successful organisations that resonate with greatness. Embracing the power of alignment, inspiring teams with a clear vision, and actively cultivating an environment where every member can contribute their unique talents, RE Rogers India has over the years formed an indispensable pillar of business triumph. Most recently, the company orchestrated a symphony of success handling over 300 events in the fiscal year 2023. Four of these were mammoth events taking place in four different cities at around the same time frame. And these were not merely gatherings, they were milestones. The four gigantic events (CPHI and PMEC 2023 – 28 to 30 November at India Expo Centre, Noida; ENGIMACH 2023 – 6 to 10 December at Helipad Exhibition Centre, Gandhinagar, Gujarat; EXCON 2023 – 12 to 16 December at Bangalore International Exhibition Centre, Bengaluru; PLASTIVISION 2023 – 7 to 11 December at Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai) entailed approximately 650 on-ground manpower, 4300 packages, 370 equipment display, and 3600 vehicles. The symphony of greatness bubbled up in RE Rogers India's operational procedures and functions, and the teams and management leadership soared to create a masterpiece of lasting success as always. "To our heroes who faced the challenges head-on in handling their jobs with total finesse, and to our valuable customers who trusted us blindly during our busiest period pan-India: A HUGE THANK YOU!," the RE Rogers India team was quoted expressing in a LinkedIn post. As the demand for large-scale events and exhibitions continues to rise, the need for comprehensive and reliable exhibition logistics services has never been more critical. In India, where the exhibition industry thrives, one name stands out among the rest — RE Rogers India — who have been delivering unparalleled logistical solutions tailored to the unique demands of the exhibition sector. RE Rogers India have years of first-hand, specialist experience in handling every aspect of exhibitions, ranging from freight forwarding, transportation, customs formalities, secure handling of materials, on-time delivery and site assistance and supervision. Remember that logistics is not just about getting your materials from point A to point B; it’s about ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience for everyone involved in your exhibition, from exhibitors to attendees. So, if you partner with RE Rogers India, you’re not just hiring a logistics company; you’re bringing a dedicated and reliable team on board to ensure your exhibition materials reach their destination in perfect condition and on time. Having served a variety of clients from both the domestic and international arena, the company has developed deep understanding of the unique challenges of delivering time-critical goods in the face of huge crowds, open day pressure, and complex logistical requirements. RE Rogers India fully understands the value of complete exhibition sets in terms of the clients’ reputation and market standing, ranging from trade show booths, exhibits, and other equipment, which include wooden panels, steel frames, prefabricated designs, bunk houses, E-houses, printed material, lights, electronic items and other display resources. The company therefore takes utmost care to pay close attention to critical things like packing, loading, storing, lifting, etc. so as to eliminate any chance of damage. Due diligence is also exercised in choosing optimum and fastest mode of transport to enable the materials to reach the venue well in time, so as to facilitate timely set-up by the clients team at the venue. Post-exhibition, pick-up and delivery back to the shipper is also handled. With RE Rogers India as your esteemed logistics partner, you can focus on wowing your audience and making the most of your exhibition experience. Under the astute leadership of Ravinder Sethi, RE Rogers India is not just reaching new heights; it is setting successive benchmarks. With the innate ability to see through the intricacies and a commitment to perfection down to the minutest detail, Sethi has steered the company towards a trajectory of unparalleled success. His visionary approach complemented by the team's meticulous attention to excellence have become the driving force behind RE Rogers' ascent in the events and exhibition logistics sector. The collective efforts of Sethi and his entire team continue to sculpt a legacy of precision and excellence in the world of logistics that remains exciting, challenging and rewarding.
The Federation of Freight Forwarders’ Associations in India (FFFAI) held its 6th EC Meeting for the term 2021-23 on May 27 and 28 in Bengaluru. The meeting was attended by the Office Bearers and 28 Member Association representative of FFFAI from across the country, there were many issues discussed and updates provided concerning customs, CBLR, EDI, Service Tax/GST, logistics, air cargo, sea cargo, skill development,importance of social media which FFFAI has expanded recently, technology developments, etc. The special focus of the 6th EC meeting was the updates on forthcoming 24th Biennial Convention of FFFAI to be held from August 12 to 14, 2022 in Chennai with the theme LOGISTICS RESHAPE, EMBRACE AND SURGE IN THE DIGITAL ERA. At this EC meeting, FFFAI also implemented Digital Learning platform for members and next generation for e-learning. It has been decided that FFFAI would initiate FIATA eFBL here in India to benefit the trade, which empowers customs brokers, freight forwarders and logistics service providers. In addition, updates on the recently held FIATA HQ Meet was also provided by the concerned members of FFFAI. FFFAI members present at this EC meeting stressed upon enhancing productivity on ICEGATE for trade facilitation and Ease of Doing Business. The FFFAI members also urged for creating a dedicated portal for LSP integration. As regard to skill development initiatives, IIFF’s (training arm of FFFAI) past and forthcoming training programmes (both online and classroom/physical) for the entire logistics industry were presented at the EC meeting. In addition, FFFAI’s various initiatives on capacity building through technology/IT also discussed withadequate importance. Recent activities of FFFAI Women’s Wing including organising interactive meetings with Government of India officials and industry experts were highlighted at this meeting which drew huge appreciation from the members. The members committed to expand the activities of the Women’s Wing in all the 28 member association locations to empower/encourage the women logistics practitioners. At this EC meeting FFFAI has signed an MoU with the National Institute of Industrial Engineering (NITIE) with an objective of skilling the aspiring candidates looking for opportunities in the logistics sector. Notably, a special session was organised at this 6th EC Meeting where N Sivasailam, former Special Secretary (Logistics), Ministry of Commerce, Government of India was present to address the FFFAI members and highlight the recent initiatives of the government in strengthening the logistics infrastructure, thereby leading in increase of international trade through multimodal connectivity and faster cargo clearance. He projected the ambitious growth potential of the logistics industry in India with a strong collaboration between government and industry people. Also speaking on the occasion was Bani Bhattacharya, IRS, who interacted with members of FFFAI on various initiatives of CBIC for the trade facilitation without human intervention. FFFAI Chairman Shankar Shinde thanked all the 28 associations for their support and appreciated the contribution of CBIC/DG systems trade facilitation measures. FFFAI Member Associations are: 1. Ahmedabad Custom Brokers' Association2. Aurangabad Customs House Agents Association3. Association of Custom House Agents Thiruvanthapuram4. Bangalore Custom House Agents Association5. Brihnamumbai Custom Brokers Association6. Calcutta Customs House Agents Association7. Chennai Customs House Agents Association8. Cochin Customs Brokers' Association9. Coimbatore Customs House and Steamer Agents Association10. Custom Brokers Association Hyderabad11. Delhi Customs Brokers Association12. Goa Custom Brokers Association13.Indore Customs House Agents Association14. The Kakinada Customs Brokers Association15. Kandla Custom Brokers Association16. Kanpur Customs Brokers Association17. Ludhiana Customs House Agents Association18. Mangalore Customs House Agents Association19. Mundra Customs Brokers Association20. Nagpur Customs House Agents Association21. Nashik Customs House Agents Association22. Nadia Custom Brokers Association23. Pipavav Custom Brokers Association24. Pune Customs House Agents Association25. Rajasthan Customs House Agents Association26.Tuticorin Custom Brokers Association27.Visakhapatnam Cusotms Brokers' Association28.West Bengal Custom House Agents Society FFFAI welcomes Women in Logistics/Youth in Logistics to participate on FFFAI forums and also invites membership application form logistics service providers in industry as this is a big national and international forum to network.
The past decade has been a transformative period for the Indian logistics sector, characterised by a blend of challenges and growth opportunities. Key milestones such as the formal recognition of logistics as infrastructure, the implementation of GST, and disruptions from COVID-19 have reshaped the industry landscape. During this time, technology adoption surged, sustainability became a focal point, and the sector prioritised agility and resilience. As a result, new business models emerged, and the sector registered a growth rate of 8%-9%. Throughout this period of growth, logistics companies have created significant value for their customers by offering innovative solutions, improving efficiency, and providing exceptional service experiences. However, the process of capturing and capitalising on this value is complex, requiring long-term investment and strategic focus. Companies typically follow one of two paths: competitive pricing or superior customer value. Yet, only a few have successfully extracted profits and solidified their competitive position, while others have faced decline. On a broader scale, while the logistics sector has made substantial progress in innovation, infrastructure, and technology, its financial returns and profitability have often fallen short of expectations. The challenge lies in the varied performance of subsegments such as express delivery, e-commerce logistics, and contract logistics. Each of these subsegments faces distinct challenges, influenced by factors such as market demand, regulatory policies, technological integration, and investment levels, leading to diverse outcomes across the sector. India's transportation sector is predominantly road-based, with nearly two-thirds of the market share. Among road logistics, Full Truck Load (FTL) remains highly fragmented, with a minimal presence of organised players. While the market has nearly doubled over the last decade, along with technology adoption in fleet and transport management, startups like Blackbuck have made attempts to drive the sector toward organisation, but no significant breakthroughs have emerged. As a result, FTL has struggled to create substantial value for customers, and profitability within the segment has remained stagnant. The second major segment in road logistics is Part Truck Load (PTL) services, where organised players have made gradual improvements. Companies like VRL and V-Trans India have established a national presence, supported by relevant infrastructure and technology. These organised players have delivered tangible value to customers, improving profitability alongside revenue growth through a cost-conscious approach. Rail logistics, on the other hand, has created significant value in specific subsegments, such as container train operators, private rail operators, and car carriers. While Indian Railways remains the primary infrastructure provider, private players like Adani, DP World, Gateway Distriparks, and Pristine have experienced profitable growth over the past decade. E-commerce logistics has been the most hyped segment in the last ten years. While e-commerce logistics started gaining traction in 2010, it exploded in 2014 with technological advancements and the emergence of new-age companies. This segment has grown into a US$6 billion market, creating immense value by reducing transit times, improving customer service, and offering tech-driven solutions. However, as these differentiators become industry standards, the rate of value creation has slowed. Despite significant investments to achieve profitability, most e-commerce companies are still either EBITDA-negative or marginally positive. While they have made strides in reducing losses, profitability remains below industry benchmarks. The express logistics segment, largely controlled by organised players, has also experienced incremental improvements in service offerings and customer service. Despite challenges such as declining document volumes, slow air cargo growth, and cost pressures, express logistics has achieved double-digit growth. However, the segment has failed to create significant new value, as many differentiators have now become standard offerings. This inability to create and capture value raises concerns for the future of express logistics. In contrast, the contract logistics segment has benefited from complex global supply chains and the post-GST momentum, providing significant opportunities for value creation through optimisation. Organised players, with their advanced solutions, technology, and automation, have been able to capture substantial value in this segment. Overall, while the logistics industry has created value across most of its segments, the ability to capture this value has been suboptimal. Factors such as technological advancements, sustainability trends, and evolving customer expectations will continue to influence value creation. However, value capture will hinge on effective pricing strategies, market positioning, and operational scalability. In the future, a balance between continuous innovation and profitability will be essential for long-term success in the logistics industry. Author: Vikash Khatri, Founder, Aviral Consulting
A significant milestone has been achieved in the Indo-Bangla railway project with the inauguration of the inaugural freight train connecting Bangladesh's Gangasagar to Tripura's Nischintanpur. This momentous event marks a significant step forward in strengthening the rail connectivity between the two neighboring countries. The new railway connection is set to enhance trade and commerce between India and Bangladesh, providing a more efficient and cost-effective mode of transportation for goods. It will not only boost bilateral trade but also promote economic development in the region by opening up new opportunities for businesses and industries. The Indo-Bangla railway project is part of a broader effort to improve connectivity and foster closer ties between the two nations. It is expected to play a vital role in facilitating the movement of goods and passengers, ultimately contributing to the economic growth and prosperity of both countries.
Trade shows are mission-critical, high-investment events where logistics execution directly influences marketing ROI. Exhibitors spend months preparing for a few days on the floor, since a single missed delivery window can jeopardise the entire programme. In this environment, Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) trade show logistics is no longer just transportation; it is an orchestration of timing, compliance, risk control, and venue-specific expertise. While standard LTL carriers can handle general freight, elite trade show shippers excel because they are built for the ecosystem — understanding drayage, marshalling yards, target windows, live-loading rules, equipment constraints, and the high-value nature of exhibits. This updated guide unpacks the differentiators that set the best providers apart, enhanced with additional dimensions such as KPIs, risk mitigation frameworks, technology adoption, sustainability practices, and a practical vendor-evaluation checklist. The Key Differentiators of Elite Trade Show Shippers When shipping general freight, a standard LTL carrier may be sufficient. However, event logistics demand a higher level of specialised service. The top trade show shippers possess four key differentiators that distinguish them from the rest. Proactive and Specialised Support Trade shows operate on rigid move-in schedules tied to booth size, dock flow, and decorator rules. The strongest providers deploy dedicated trade show teams who can interpret show manuals, coordinate with decorators, and time deliveries to avoid re-handling fees. Best-in-class partners also: Pre-audit documentation and labels to avoid show-site rejections Manage drayage coordination to reduce dwell and material-handling charges Offer pre-receiving and staging at regional facilities for smoother Day-1 move-ins This advisory-driven model transforms logistics from a cost center into a risk-mitigation service. Flexible Coordination and Network Access Because no two events are alike, trade show logistics demand configurable access to LTL, FTL, hot-shot, air, and international capacity. Top providers match service levels, route constraints, and budget requirements by tapping into broad asset and partner networks. A sophisticated network allows for: Expedited or guaranteed-capacity moves for high-stakes shows Cost-effective options for booth materials that can stage early Lane-specific equipment (air-ride, liftgate, climate-controlled) This flexibility becomes essential during peak show seasons when capacity is tight and timelines narrow. Guaranteed Performance and Asset Protection Event deadlines are immovable. Leading providers commit to guaranteed on-time service, narrow ETA bands, and contingency planning across linehaul and last-mile execution. They also emphasise exhibit protection through: Air-ride suspension fleets Strapping, padding, and vibration-control practices Secure transport protocols for prototypes and LED/AV assets With show participation costs rising, damage and delay prevention become competitive differentiators. End-to-End Visibility and Services Real-time visibility is no longer optional. Tocay, exhibitors rely on it to make staffing, booth-build, and drayage decisions. The best LTL partners deliver: Live tracking from pickup to booth delivery API connectivity with exhibitor dashboards Pre-emptive exception alerts and delay recovery paths For international events, leading providers integrate customs documentation, Carnet handling, temporary import permits, and venue-specific rules, ensuring frictionless handoffs across borders. What Are the Best LTL Logistics Companies for Trade Shows? Several providers exemplify these differentiators. The following firms are selected based on their demonstrated strength in specialised show support, performance-oriented service design, event fluency, flexible coordination and comprehensive offerings that cover pre-show to teardown. 1. Green River Logistics Solutions A brokerage-led model with deep carrier reach, making it ideal for exhibitors with varied lane structures. Key strengths: Highly personalised coordination and single-point-of-contact support Flexible equipment sourcing — LTL, flatbed, refrigerated, heavy haul Real-time updates and precise timing for fragile builds 2. XPO Logistics A multinational leader with a controlled linehaul network and a dedicated Trade Show Desk. Key strengths: Tight schedule integrity Venue-specific coordination and dock navigation Strong performance management systems. 3. TWI Group A global exhibition logistics specialist excelling in international customs and venue compliance. Key strengths: ATA Carnet expertise and cross-border support On-site liaisons at major venues High-touch service model for global exhibitors 4. Averitt A time-definite, reliability-driven carrier focused on window compliance. Key strengths: Guaranteed performance Expertise with marshaling yards and dock appointments Rapid recovery for last-minute constraints 5. TTI Logistics A specialist for fragile and custom builds requiring maximum protection. Key strengths: Air-ride fleets and vibration-controlled handling Precision timing for target-move-ins Advanced security protocols Comparing the Top LTL Logistics Providers for Trade Shows These providers excel in different areas. This table offers a quick comparison of their key service features to help you align their strengths with your specific needs. New Strategic Enhancements Added for a Modern Exhibitor’s Playbook Technology Advancements Worth Evaluating AI-assisted ETA predictions Digital drayage coordination tools IoT-enabled condition monitoring for AV and prototype freight Automated warehouse cut-off compliance checks Risk-Mitigation Practices That Matter Pre-show risk audits Contingency rerouting plans Venue-specific compliance checklists High-value cargo insurance design Sustainability Expectations from Today’s Exhibitors Low-emission or EV linehaul and last-mile options Carbon-neutral freight programs Reusable or recyclable crating solutions Emissions dashboards linked to booth shipments Performance Metrics That Define Best-in-Class Providers On-time delivery to target windows Damage-free shipment percentage Visibility uptime SLA Drayage handoff accuracy Exception-resolution response time How to Vet Your Trade Show Logistics Partner Applying the key differentiators includes asking potential partners the right questions. When your program includes international stops, ask about their documentation process, how they manage Carnets and how visibility will work across handoffs. The following can further validate fit and execution discipline: What is your detailed experience with my venue and decorator? Can you guarantee delivery within target-window constraints? What risk-mitigation plan is activated if my freight misses staging cutoff? What specialised equipment will you use for fragile or custom exhibits? How do you integrate with drayage contractors and marshaling yards? Which visibility tools and tracking integrations are available? Can you manage international customs documentation end-to-end? What sustainability options can be applied to my show calendar? Your Partner Is Your Most Critical Exhibit A logistics provider is more than a freight handler; they are the enabler of your presence on the show floor. The right LTL partner combines timing discipline, technical fluency, equipment strength, and venue intelligence to protect your brand and maximise your event ROI. Elite trade show shippers don’t just move freight; they orchestrate flawless show execution.
The expansion of Dammam Port in Saudi Arabia has taken a significant step towards strengthening trade relations between India and the Gulf region. The enhanced infrastructure and capacity of the port are set to benefit businesses and industries on both sides, facilitating smoother trade and commerce. The expansion of Dammam Port opens up new opportunities for Indian businesses to engage in import and export activities with the Gulf nations. It also serves as a strategic gateway for goods traveling to and from India, further improving the logistics and transportation landscape for businesses. The project showcases the commitment of both India and Saudi Arabia to enhance economic ties and boost bilateral trade. The increased port capacity will help meet the growing demand for trade between the two regions, ultimately contributing to the economic growth and prosperity of both nations.
Air India is setting its sights on a promising future as the exclusive carrier for TATA's iPhone exports. This strategic partnership between the renowned Indian airline and the tech giant TATA promises to boost India's manufacturing and export capabilities. The collaboration will enable Air India to become the sole carrier for TATA's iPhone exports, facilitating the efficient transport of these popular devices to international markets. With a reputation for reliability and global reach, Air India is poised to play a crucial role in TATA's supply chain. The move not only strengthens the relationship between two major Indian companies but also underlines India's growing importance in the global technology and manufacturing sectors. Air India's role as the exclusive carrier for iPhone exports is expected to generate significant revenue for the airline and enhance India's position as a hub for high-tech exports.
