When I first started learning about shipping goods across countries, I quickly realized how important ocean freight is.

Most of the products we use every day, from clothes to electronics, likely traveled by sea before reaching us.

Ocean freight is one of the most reliable and affordable ways to move large amounts of cargo around the world.

In this blog, I’ll walk you through what ocean freight really means, the types of services available, and how costs are figured out.

I’ll also share what documents you’ll need, the rules you should know, and how to choose the best ocean freight company for your business.

By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of how to get started with ocean shipping.

What is Ocean Freight and Why Businesses Use It

Ocean freight is the process of shipping goods by sea using large cargo ships. It’s the most common way products move across the world because ships can carry huge amounts at once.

Containers filled with everything from furniture and clothing to cars and food are loaded onto vessels and transported between ports.

Businesses use ocean freight mainly because it’s cost-friendly compared to air freight, especially for heavy or bulky items.

It also makes global trade possible by connecting suppliers and buyers in different countries.

While shipping by sea takes longer than air, the savings and capacity often make it the better choice. That’s why most international trade still depends on ocean freight.

Types of Ocean Freight Services

Not all ocean freight is the same. Depending on what you’re shipping, there are a few service options to choose from:

Top Ocean Freight Companies and Global Forwarders

When you’re booking ocean freight, choosing the right company is just as important as knowing your shipping options.

Below are some of the biggest ocean carriers and global freight forwarders that businesses rely on for international trade.

1. Maersk

Maersk is one of the world’s largest container shipping companies, operating across 120+ countries and handling millions of containers each year.

It offers shipping, door-to-door logistics, and advanced tracking tools. Maersk is also leading in sustainability with green-fuel vessels. Businesses often choose it for global coverage and reliable service.

• Pros: Huge global network, advanced technology, reliable scheduling
• Cons: Premium rates compared to smaller carriers
• Price Range: $2,500 – $4,500 per 40ft container (Asia–US routes)

2. MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company)

MSC is the largest carrier by fleet size, serving nearly all trade lanes. It provides container, reefer, and oversized cargo services along with eco-friendly shipping initiatives.

Shippers choose MSC for its global footprint, flexible options, and competitive rates, though service quality can vary by region.

• Pros: Wide coverage, competitive space availability
• Cons: Customer service can vary by region
• Price Range: $2,200 – $4,000 per 40ft container

3. CMA CGM

Based in France, CMA CGM operates in 160+ countries and offers container, reefer, and project cargo solutions. Known for digital tools and LNG-powered vessels, it focuses on flexibility and innovation.

Shippers often select CMA CGM for specialized cargo and reliable global coverage.

• Pros: Strong reefer capabilities, digital shipping tools
• Cons: Transit times can fluctuate during peak seasons
• Price Range: $2,000 – $3,800 per 40ft container

4. Hapag-Lloyd

This German carrier, Hapag-Lloyd, has strong roots in European and transatlantic trade. It operates a modern fleet with reliable scheduling and excellent reefer services.

Hapag-Lloyd also offers digital tools for booking and visibility, making it a solid choice for businesses needing consistent performance.

• Pros: Stable scheduling, strong customer support
• Cons: Slightly smaller global coverage compared to Maersk or MSC
• Price Range: $2,300 – $4,200 per 40ft container

5. COSCO Shipping Lines

COSCO, based in China, runs one of the largest fleets worldwide with strong networks in Asia, Europe, and North America.

It’s known for competitive pricing and large capacity, though documentation can be complex. Many businesses rely on COSCO for cost-effective, high-volume shipments.

• Pros: Competitive pricing, strong presence in Asia
• Cons: Documentation and communication may feel complex
• Price Range: $1,800 – $3,500 per 40ft container

6. Evergreen Marine

Evergreen, from Taiwan, is recognized for dependable service across Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Americas. It offers steady schedules and efficient operations at competitive rates.

While less advanced digitally than some rivals, Evergreen is valued for affordability and reliability.

• Pros: Strong Asian network, consistent service
• Cons: Fewer digital tools compared to larger players
• Price Range: $2,000 – $3,600 per 40ft container

7. ONE (Ocean Network Express)

ONE, formed from Japanese shipping companies, is known for its magenta containers and customer-friendly service. It specializes in trans-Pacific and intra-Asia trade with FCL, LCL, and reefer solutions.

Though smaller than Maersk or MSC, it’s growing steadily and offers strong regional expertise.

• Pros: Good regional coverage, customer-friendly service
• Cons: Smaller compared to Maersk and MSC
• Price Range: $2,200 – $3,900 per 40ft container

8. Kuehne+Nagel

Kuehne+Nagel is a top freight forwarder offering end-to-end logistics without owning ships. It provides customs clearance, warehousing, and door-to-door delivery with strong global partnerships.

Businesses choose it for managing complex supply chains and real-time visibility.

• Pros: Excellent global forwarding network, customs support
• Cons: Rates higher for small shipments
• Price Range: $2,400 – $4,500 per 40ft container (with services)

9. DHL Global Forwarding

Part of DHL Group, this forwarder provides FCL and LCL services backed by warehousing and multimodal solutions.

While its pricing can be higher, DHL is trusted for its strong logistics network, reliability, and consistent customer support across regions.

• Pros: Reliable service, strong supply chain network
• Cons: Higher cost for premium services
• Price Range: $2,500 – $4,800 per 40ft container

10. DSV

DSV, based in Denmark, offers ocean, air, and road logistics with flexible booking and supply chain management. It doesn’t own ships but maintains strong carrier partnerships.

Known for customer service, DSV is ideal for businesses with complex or multi-country shipping needs.

• Pros: Strong customer service, handles complex shipments
• Cons: Fewer in-house ships (depends on partnerships)
• Price Range: $2,000 – $3,700 per 40ft container

11. DB Schenker

DB Schenker provides global forwarding services, including consolidation, customs support, and warehousing.

It invests in digital tools and sustainability, making it attractive to eco-conscious shippers. While peak congestion may affect timing, its strong network ensures reliable long-term partnerships.

• Pros: End-to-end solutions, sustainability focus
• Cons: Transit delays reported during peak times
• Price Range: $2,300 – $4,200 per 40ft container

12. Expeditors

U.S.-based Expeditors focuses on tailored freight solutions, compliance expertise, and tech-driven tracking. It partners with carriers rather than owning ships, making it flexible.

Though often pricier, Expeditors is preferred by businesses moving sensitive or high-value cargo that requires close attention.

• Pros: Great for tailored logistics and visibility
• Cons: Premium cost compared to standard forwarders
• Price Range: $2,800 – $5,000 per 40ft container

13. Flexport

Flexport is a tech-driven forwarder with a digital-first platform for booking, tracking, and supply chain analytics.

It’s especially popular with small and mid-sized businesses for its transparent pricing and strong support. While its global presence is still smaller than legacy forwarders, it’s growing quickly.

• Pros: Easy-to-use platform, real-time tracking
• Cons: Limited global presence compared to older players
• Price Range: $2,100 – $3,900 per 40ft container

Key Documents and Compliance Rules in Ocean Freight Shipping

Shipping goods across borders involves more than just booking space on a vessel. To avoid delays and extra costs, it’s important to have the right documents and follow international rules.

• Bill of Lading (B/L): This is the main document in ocean freight. It serves as a receipt for the cargo, a contract between shipper and carrier, and proof of ownership. Without it, your goods can’t be released at the destination.
• Commercial Invoice & Packing List: These show what’s inside the shipment, the value of the goods, and how everything is packed. Customs uses them to calculate duties and taxes.
• ISF “10+2” Filing (U.S. Imports): Importers shipping to the U.S. must file shipment details with Customs before loading. Missing or late filings can lead to penalties and delays.
• SOLAS Verified Gross Mass (VGM): The International Maritime Organization requires shippers to declare the exact weight of a loaded container. This ensures safety during loading and transport.
• Customs Declarations & Certificates: Depending on your cargo, you may need extra paperwork like a certificate of origin, a fumigation certificate (for wooden packaging), or hazardous materials documents.

Ocean Freight Costs and Factors That Affect Pricing

The cost of ocean freight depends on several factors, and understanding them helps you avoid surprises when planning shipments.

Container size plays a big role, as booking a full container (FCL) is more expensive upfront but often cheaper per unit if you can fill it, while sharing space (LCL) works better for smaller loads.

Shipping routes and distance also affect rates, with popular trade lanes like Asia to the U.S. usually priced lower than less common routes.

Carriers charge based on whichever is greater: cargo weight or total volume, so bulky but lightweight goods may still be more expensive.

Seasonal demand, fuel surcharges, and local port fees also add to overall expenses. Knowing these cost drivers makes comparing quotes much easier.

Conclusion

Ocean freight continues to be the backbone of global trade, helping businesses move products across the world in a cost-friendly way.

From full containers to smaller shared loads, there’s a service to match every need. Choosing the right company matters just as much as understanding the costs, documents, and rules involved.

The good news is that once you know the basics, booking ocean freight becomes a lot less confusing.

I believe the key is comparing services, looking at total costs, and finding a provider that offers strong support along your trade route.

With the right partner, your shipments can move smoothly and on schedule, giving you the confidence to grow your business internationally.