For almost seven decades, container shipping has been the staple of international logistics and global trade. From the transportation of goods to cheap and reliable storage, they have penetrated a number of spheres.
In 2025, the largest container shipping companies have a great influence on the whole market. They ensure international goods flow remains uninterrupted and efficient. But who are the most potent players? What are their specialties, and how to choose which one to choose for various purposes? Let’s see the top shipping companies that drive this vital sector.
At Midstate, we strive to bring our customers only the highest quality storage and shipping units to meet all of their needs. But having a unit is just half of your transportation project’s success - a reliable logistics partner is just as important. Below are the 10 most influential and experienced cargo ship companies in the market one can trust. You can also select storage containers based on your needs.
Contact us at sales@midstatecontainers.com or (805) 925-4422 and see how a sturdy container can complement a dependable transporter.
1. APM-Maersk
APM-Maersk remains one of the most recognized shipping company names with its ~700 ships and TEU (twenty-foot unit equivalent) capacity of over ~4.6 million. With its headquarters in Copenhagen, Denmark, it is the leader in the maritime industry.
In addition to that, the company is known for its sustainability practices. For instance, they are committed to reducing their carbon emotions to zero by 2040, which is likely to become a trend in the sphere.
Key metrics:
Revenue: over $52 billion in 2024
Net Income: appr. $ 3 billion in 2024
Market Cap: over $23 billion in February 2025
1-Year Trailing Total Return: 8.5%
2. COSCO – China Ocean Shipping Company
Another one of the largest sea freight companies, COSCO, is a considerable player in the market. Supported by the Chinese government and aligning its operations with them, the company can boast a fleet size of over 600 ships with a TEU capacity of ~4.1 million.
The company has shown interest in the African and Southeast Asian trade routes. COSCO is focusing on its shipping alliances with emerging markets and developing economies, as well as smart port technology.
Key metrics:
Revenue: over $25 billion in 2024
Net Income: appr. $7.5 billion in 2024
Market Cap: almost $29 billion in 2024
1-Year Trailing Total Return: 7.1%
3. Hapag-Lloyd
Another European company on the list, Hapag-Lloyd, which is based in Hamburg, Germany, is a leading maritime company in the market. Known for exceptional efficiency in container management, they are a favorable choice for multiple businesses. Their focus on digitalization, advanced tracking technologies, efficient vessel usage, and operational excellence make them one of the biggest shipping companies globally.
With a fleet consisting of around 250 ships with a TEU capacity of ~2.1 million, Hapag-Lloyd is a serious player in the market. As an industry leader, they have been modernizing their ships and introducing alternative fuels, paving the way for smaller container companies into a more sustainable future.
Key metrics:
Revenue: over $19.5 billion in 2024
Net Income: $5 billion in 2024
Market Cap: almost $26 billion in 2024
1-Year Trailing Total Return: 6.5%
4. CMA CGM Group
The first French organization in the largest shipping companies list, CMA CGM Group is a powerhouse of international logistics and global trade. The company is headquartered in Marseille and is considered to be one of the best shipping companies for its reliability and diverse service offerings.
CMA CGM operates over 600 ships with over 4.1 million TEU capacity and, as well as Hapag-Lloyd, it is known for its commitment to digitalization. The company is a pioneer in using trailblazing tech like real-time tracking, IoT, and AI, making it one of the most modernized enterprises on the list.
Key metrics:
Revenue: appr. $16 billion in 2024
Net Income: over $2.5 billion in 2024
Market Cap: $44 billion in 2024
1-Year Trailing Total Return: 6.8%
5. Evergreen Marine Corporation
Probably one of the most widely-known enterprises on the list, Taiwan-based Evergreen is a container company specializing in handling large-scale cargo transportation. Yet another East Asian company on the list, they are involved in worldwide trade, having business in virtually any region.
This giant can boast over 200 ships of various sizes with a total capacity of approximately 1.7 million TEUs. In addition to that, Evergreen is known to have some of the most efficient operations in the market, making it a staple of international trade.
Key metrics:
Revenue: $27 billion in 2024
Net Income: $2.8 billion in 2024
Market Cap: $34 billion in 2024
1-Year Trailing Total Return:
6. Ocean Network Express (ONE)
With its vibrant magenta-colored containers, ONE is a distinctive name in the shipping industry. It is headquartered in Singapore and operates globally.
ONE excels in customer-centric services and innovative technology integration. Its growing fleet size and strategic trade routes amplify its influence. The company currently operates 252 ships with a combined capacity of 1.96 million TEUs
Key metrics:
Revenue: in 2024
Net Income: in 2024
Market Cap: in 2024
1-Year Trailing Total Return:
7. Hyundai Merchant Marine (HMM)
South Korea’s flagship cargo ship company, HMM, is recognized for its significant contributions to Asia’s export markets and global logistics.
HMM’s advanced fleet of 91 ships with a total TEU capacity of 0.9 million, focus on environmental sustainability, and strong presence on critical routes make it a trusted name in the maritime industry.
Key metrics:
Revenue: $22 billion in 2024
Net Income: over $2.1 billion in 2024
Market Cap: $26 billion in 2024
1-Year Trailing Total Return: 4.8%
8. Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation
Yang Ming, headquartered in Taiwan, is a leader in international trade transportation, leveraging decades of experience to optimize its operations.
Yang Ming’s focus on cargo security, efficient delivery, and streamlined operations makes it a standout among maritime companies. At the moment, the company owns a fleet of 99 vessels with an operating capacity of 0.7 million TEUs
Key metrics:
Revenue: $20 billion in 2024
Net Income: $1.9 billion in 2024
Market Cap: $24 billion in 2024
1-Year Trailing Total Return: 4.5%
9. ZIM Integrated Shipping Service
Based in Haifa, Israel, ZIM is a forward-thinking player among container shipping companies known for its tech-driven approach. ZIM’s investments in blockchain technology, AI-driven logistics, and diverse services enhance its position as a leader in worldwide trade.
The company’s fleet of 131 ships with a total capacity of about 0.7 million TEUs secures it a place among the biggest cargo shipping companies.
Key metrics:
Revenue: $18 billion in 2024
Net Income: $1.8 billion in 2024
Market Cap: $22 billion in 2024
1-Year Trailing Total Return: 4.2%
10. PIL – Pacific International Lines
Headquartered in Singapore, PIL focuses on connecting smaller ports with massive trade hubs, supporting emerging markets.
PIL’s adaptability, strategic expansion, and focus on underserved trade routes make it a vital player in the maritime industry. Its fleet consists of around 100 ships with a total capacity of 0.3 TEUs.
Key metrics:
Revenue: $16 billion in 2024
Net Income: $1.7 billion in 2024
Market Cap: $20 billion in 2024
1-Year Trailing Total Return: 4%
The important role of these companies in global trade
It is hard to imagine modern trade without these largest container shipping companies. From timely delivery of goods to their integrity, these businesses ensure the goods flow is smooth. It is hard to overstate the vital role their extensive fleet size and robust services play in international commerce and economic growth.
Whether we are talking about massive cargo hubs like Singapore or small local ports, all of them work closely with these shipping container companies. In total, they handle anywhere from 80% to 90% of the logistics industry, facilitating over $20 trillion worth of goods annually. Here are a few other ways they contribute to the global economy
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Improving supply chain efficiency for manufacturing, retail, and tech.
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Creating millions of jobs.
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Stabilizing interstate trade flows.
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Making goods more accessible and affordable for consumers and businesses.
Final thoughts
The maritime industry without those 10 leading shipping agencies is like a car with no wheels. Besides just transporting goods from one place to another, they introduce innovations that maintain transportation efficiency and sustainability. Their role in shaping the global trade landscape cannot be overstated. Whether you are exploring sea shipping companies for business or personal needs, Midstate Containers offers insights, expertise, and high-quality containers. From container modification to tailored solutions, Midstate is your trusted partner in navigating the industry.
