The freight forwarding industry in DACH plays a critical role in connecting businesses with global supply chains. Companies in this space manage the logistics of transporting goods, including customs clearance, warehousing, and shipping. These firms range from established global players to innovative startups, each offering specialized services to meet growing demands. With e-commerce on the rise, the industry is evolving through technology, enhancing efficiency with digital platforms and automation. Trends signal a shift toward sustainability, urging companies to adopt eco-friendly practices. This dynamic environment allows for numerous opportunities, especially for those leveraging technology in logistics solutions.


The investment scene in the DACH freight forwarding sector features a mix of venture capital, private equity, and corporate investors. Primarily based in key cities like Berlin, Munich, and Vienna, these investors range from small outfits with a handful of employees to large firms boasting thousands. Founded between 2000 and 2019, these groups were active in 2024, marking critical milestones for portfolio companies as they navigate a rapidly changing industry landscape. The investors play vital roles in supporting technology implementations and operational efficiencies for logistics firms, indicating a broader trend toward innovation in freight forwarding.


Top 17 Freight Forwarding Investors in DACH


1. Dhl

  • Website: dhl.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
  • Founded year: 1969
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: dhl

DHL is a leading logistics company founded in 1969, headquartered in Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. With over 10,000 employees, DHL specializes in providing a wide range of transportation and delivery services globally, including courier services, air and ocean freight, and supply chain management. The company has made significant strides in the freight forwarding industry through strategic acquisitions. Notably, DHL Worldwide Express Inc. acquired Mayne Group Canada Inc. to enhance its position in the Canadian courier market. Additionally, DHL Supply Chain's acquisition of Polar Transportes in Brazil focuses on temperature-controlled transportation, particularly for the Life Sciences and Healthcare sectors. Other key transactions include the acquisition of PPL CZ s.r.o. in the Czech Republic and the Suppla Group in Colombia, both aimed at strengthening DHL's logistics capabilities in growing markets. These transactions highlight DHL's commitment to expanding its footprint in the freight forwarding industry and enhancing its service offerings.


2. Speedinvest

  • Website: speedinvest.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Vienna, Vienna, Austria
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 45
  • LinkedIn: speedinvest

Speedinvest is a venture capital firm based in Vienna, Austria, founded in 2011. The firm specializes in funding early-stage tech startups across Europe, providing both capital and hands-on support to help these startups scale their operations. Their investment focus spans various technology sectors, including Deep Tech, Fintech, and SaaS. Notably, Speedinvest has participated in significant funding rounds for byrd, a Vienna-based e-commerce fulfillment platform, which raised $56 million in a Series C round in May 2022, and previously raised $18.9 million in a Series B round in July 2021, and $5.9 million in a Series A round in July 2020. These investments highlight Speedinvest's engagement in the logistics and fulfillment sector, which is closely related to freight forwarding, as byrd's services facilitate next-day e-commerce delivery across Europe, showcasing their relevance in the freight forwarding context.


3. HV Capital

  • Website: hvcapital.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
  • Founded year: 2000
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 28
  • LinkedIn: hvventures

HV Capital is a venture capital firm based in Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, founded in 2000. The firm specializes in investing in digital companies and supporting entrepreneurs from seed stage to exit, managing over €2.8 billion in assets. HV Capital has been involved in notable transactions within the freight forwarding industry, including significant investments in Zencargo, a London-based digital freight forwarder, where they participated in both Series A and Series B funding rounds, raising a total of £48 million. Additionally, HV Capital has invested in Sennder, a Berlin-based logistics company, participating in multiple funding rounds including Series B, C, and D, which collectively raised over €200 million. These investments highlight HV Capital's strategic focus on the logistics and freight forwarding sectors, making them a relevant player in this space.


4. Seedstars

  • Website: seedstars.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Carouge, Geneva, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 2012
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 6
  • LinkedIn: seedstars

Seedstars is an investment and education company based in Carouge, Geneva, Switzerland, founded in 2012. The firm focuses on supporting startups and entrepreneurs in emerging markets through various programs, including acceleration and growth initiatives, investment readiness, and the operation of entrepreneurship hubs. Seedstars collaborates with governments, investors, and development agencies to foster entrepreneurial ecosystems and drive social and economic development. Notably, Seedstars has invested in companies relevant to the freight forwarding industry, such as FR8Labs, which raised $1.5 million in seed funding to expand its market presence, and Truck Lagbe, which secured $4 million in Series A funding to enhance logistics services. These investments highlight Seedstars' commitment to the logistics and freight forwarding sectors, making them a significant player in this space.


5. Rocket Internet SE


Rocket Internet SE is a venture builder based in Berlin, Germany, founded in 2007. The firm specializes in incubating and investing in internet and technology companies globally, providing operational support and capital to entrepreneurs. While their primary focus spans various sectors including eCommerce, PropTech, and FinTech, they have also made notable investments in the logistics and freight forwarding space. For instance, they participated in the Series A funding round for InstaFreight, a logistics platform that facilitates connections between shippers and carriers, raising over $5.5 million in June 2016. Additionally, they have invested in other logistics-related startups like Ofload and everstox, which further demonstrates their engagement in the freight forwarding industry. This diverse portfolio indicates their capability and willingness to support companies that operate within the logistics and freight forwarding sectors.


6. MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company


Mediterranean Shipping Company S.A. (MSC) is a logistics company based in Geneva, Switzerland, founded in 1970. With over 10,000 employees, MSC specializes in shipping and transportation services, offering a comprehensive range of solutions that include inland transportation, air cargo, and digital business services tailored to various industries such as agriculture, automotive, and pharmaceuticals. In recent years, MSC has made strategic acquisitions to bolster its logistics arm, Medlog. Notably, in 2019, MSC acquired Integrated Container Logistics (ICL) to enhance its landside logistics capabilities. In 2024, they acquired a majority stake in Milan-based MVN Srl, marking their entry into integrated industrial logistics with an expected turnover of 100 million euros. Additionally, their acquisition of 67% of Log-in in Brazil allows MSC to tap into the cabotage market, further expanding their logistics operations. These transactions highlight MSC's commitment to strengthening its position in the freight forwarding and logistics sectors.


7. Partners Group

  • Website: partnersgroup.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Baar, Zug, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 19
  • LinkedIn: partners-group

Partners Group Holding AG is a prominent investment management firm based in Baar, Zug, Switzerland, specializing in private equity, private infrastructure, private real estate, and private debt. Founded in 1996, the firm manages over USD 149 billion in assets and is recognized for its innovative investment strategies and commitment to sustainability. Among their notable transactions, Partners Group has invested in Apex Logistics International, a key player in the freight forwarding industry, and Ecom Express, which also operates within the logistics sector. These investments highlight Partners Group's active role in the freight forwarding market, making them a significant investor in this space.


8. Hapag-Lloyd AG

  • Website: hapag-lloyd.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
  • Founded year: 1847
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: hapag-lloyd-ag

Hapag-Lloyd AG, founded in 1847 and based in Hamburg, Germany, is a leading shipping company specializing in container shipping and logistics services. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, the company operates a substantial fleet of vessels and offers comprehensive logistics solutions tailored for businesses engaged in global trade. In recent years, Hapag-Lloyd has made strategic investments to enhance its logistics capabilities, including acquiring a 35% stake in J M Baxi Ports & Logistics Limited, which focuses on terminal and infrastructure investments in India. Additionally, they acquired the container liner business of Deutsche Afrika-Linien for approximately 1.5 billion euros, aiming to strengthen their service offerings in the African market. Furthermore, Hapag-Lloyd has expanded its presence in Latin America by acquiring the port terminals and logistics businesses of the SAAM Group, covering multiple countries. These transactions highlight Hapag-Lloyd's commitment to improving its logistics and freight forwarding services, making it a key player in the industry.


9. Picus Capital

  • Website: picuscap.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 28
  • LinkedIn: picus-capital

Picus Capital is a venture capital firm based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 2015. Specializing in early-stage technology investments, Picus Capital partners with innovative startups across various sectors, including fintech, healthcare, and logistics. They provide not only capital but also strategic guidance and HR support to empower entrepreneurs in building sustainable category leaders globally. Notably, Picus Capital has invested in Zencargo, a London-based digital freight forwarder, participating in their Seed round in 2018, Series A in 2019, and Series B in 2021. Additionally, they have invested in Hive, a Berlin-based e-commerce logistics startup, further showcasing their engagement in the logistics and freight forwarding industry. Through these investments, Picus Capital demonstrates a commitment to supporting advancements in freight services and logistics technology.


10. Cherry Ventures

  • Website: cherry.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
  • Founded year: 2012
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 25
  • LinkedIn: cherry-ventures

Cherry Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Berlin, Germany, founded in 2012. The firm specializes in early-stage investments across Europe, focusing on innovative startups in various sectors, including SaaS and mobility. Notably, Cherry Ventures has invested in FreightHub, a European digital freight forwarder that raised $30 million in Series B financing, and Forto, a freight technology startup that has raised a total of $240 million across multiple funding rounds, including Series A, B, and C. These investments highlight Cherry Ventures' active role in supporting companies that are transforming the freight forwarding industry through technology and innovation.


11. Point Nine

  • Website: pointnine.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 16
  • LinkedIn: point-nine-capital

Point Nine is a venture capital firm based in Berlin, Germany, founded in 2011. They specialize in investing in early-stage companies, particularly in the SaaS, enterprise software, and B2B marketplace sectors. Point Nine provides funding at the seed stage and participates in subsequent funding rounds to help startups scale their operations. Notably, they have invested in cargo.one, a digital booking platform for air cargo, which raised significant funding in multiple rounds, including a $42 million Series B and an $18 million Series A. Additionally, they have invested in OnTruck, a logistics platform that raised over $29 million in Series B and $10 million in Series A funding. These transactions highlight Point Nine's commitment to supporting innovative solutions in the logistics and freight forwarding space.


12. DB Schenker

  • Website: dbschenker.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
  • Founded year: 1872
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: dbschenker

DB Schenker is a leading logistics company based in Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, founded in 1872. As a subsidiary of Deutsche Bahn AG, DB Schenker specializes in providing comprehensive supply chain management solutions, including transport services across land, air, and sea. The company caters to a diverse range of industries, helping businesses optimize their logistics operations and improve efficiency. Notable transactions include the acquisition of a $25 million stake in the online freight intermediary uShip to strengthen their partnership and expand their European operations. Additionally, DB Schenker acquired a 75% stake in Redhead International to enhance its land transport operations in the UK, and it completed the acquisition of USA Truck for $435 million, integrating a significant fleet and workforce into its operations. These strategic investments highlight DB Schenker's active role in the freight forwarding sector and its commitment to expanding its logistics capabilities.


13. La Famiglia

  • Website: lafamiglia.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 4
  • LinkedIn: la-famiglia-vc

La Famiglia is a Berlin-based venture capital fund founded in 2016, specializing in early-stage and growth-stage investments in technology companies. The firm focuses on enabling disruptive innovations across various industries by leveraging the expertise of world-leading entrepreneurs in its network. Notably, La Famiglia has made significant investments in the freight forwarding and logistics sector, including multiple rounds of funding for Forto, a digital freight forwarding company, where they participated in Seed, Series A, and Series D rounds, totaling $273 million. Additionally, they invested in OnTruck, a logistics platform, contributing to its Series A and Series B funding rounds. These investments highlight La Famiglia's commitment to supporting technology-driven solutions in the logistics and freight forwarding industry.


14. DPD Deutschland

  • Website: dpd.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Aschaffenburg, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 1986
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • LinkedIn: dpd-deutschland

DPD Deutschland, part of the Geopost group, is a prominent logistics company based in Aschaffenburg, Bavaria, Germany, specializing in parcel delivery services. Founded in 1986, the company operates a vast network that delivers millions of parcels daily, catering to both businesses and consumers. DPD Deutschland has been actively involved in various transactions that enhance its position in the freight forwarding industry. Notable transactions include the acquisition of BRT in December 2016, which expanded their logistics capabilities, and the acquisition of Cool Runnings Transport BV in November 2022, focusing on conditioned transport of fresh and frozen foods. Additionally, DPD has invested in last-mile delivery startups such as Ninja Van and Bosta, indicating a strategic interest in improving technology and operational capabilities in the logistics sector. These activities align with DPD's commitment to providing efficient logistics solutions across various markets, including e-commerce, healthcare, and food delivery.


15. Earlybird Venture Capital


Earlybird Venture Capital is a venture capital firm based in Germany, founded in 1997, that specializes in investing in European technology innovators. They provide financial resources and strategic support to startups, particularly in the digital health and deep tech sectors. Earlybird has been active in nurturing early-stage companies through funding and mentorship, helping them navigate growth challenges. Notably, they have invested in sennder, a Berlin-based freight forwarding company that raised €131.2 million in Series D financing, surpassing a $1 billion valuation. Additionally, they have invested in Hive, an e-commerce logistics startup, which raised approximately €29 million to expand geographically and develop proprietary warehouse software. These transactions highlight Earlybird's involvement in the logistics and freight forwarding sectors, showcasing their commitment to supporting innovative companies in this space.


16. TecPier

  • Website: tecpier.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
  • Founded year: 2018
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • LinkedIn: tecpier

TecPier GmbH & Co. KG is a venture capital firm based in Hamburg, Germany, founded in 2018. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage B2B technology startups within the maritime, logistics, and supply chain sectors. TecPier provides funding and support to help these startups develop innovative solutions and technologies that address the needs of businesses in these industries. Notable transactions include investments in FreightFlows, which offers a predictive maritime intelligence platform, and OceanScore, a platform for tracking emissions from the global shipping fleet. Additionally, TecPier has invested in Clockwork Logistics Systems and FlowFox, both of which are relevant to logistics and supply chain management, further demonstrating their active role in the freight forwarding ecosystem.


17. Foundamental

  • Website: foundamental.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
  • Founded year: 2019
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 7
  • LinkedIn: foundamental

Foundamental is a Berlin-based venture capital firm founded in 2019, specializing in early-stage investments in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) technology sectors. They provide strategic support to startups, helping them navigate the challenges of building their businesses. Notably, Foundamental has invested in Wiz Freight, a digital forwarder that has raised significant funding in recent rounds, including a Series B round led by Nippon Express. Additionally, they have backed Ofload, an Australian logistics startup focused on sustainable supply chains, which raised $60 million in Series B funding with Foundamental as a key investor. These transactions highlight Foundamental's engagement in the logistics and freight forwarding space, aligning with their broader investment strategy.



Freight Forwarding Insights: Key Investors in DACH


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
DhlBonn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany10001+19691
SpeedinvestVienna, Vienna, Austria51-200201145
HV CapitalFlensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany11-50200028
SeedstarsCarouge, Geneva, Switzerland201-50020126
Rocket Internet SEBerlin, Berlin, Germany201-50020070
MSC Mediterranean Shipping CompanyGeneva, Geneva, Switzerland10001+19704
Partners GroupBaar, Zug, Switzerland1001-5000199619
Hapag-Lloyd AGHamburg, Hamburg, Germany10001+18471
Picus CapitalMunich, Bavaria, Germany11-50201528
Cherry VenturesBerlin, Berlin, Germany11-50201225
Point NineBerlin, Berlin, Germany11-50201116
DB SchenkerEssen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany10001+18721
La FamigliaBerlin, Berlin, Germany11-5020164
DPD DeutschlandAschaffenburg, Bavaria, Germany5001-1000019860
Earlybird Venture CapitalGermany51-200199729
TecPierHamburg, Hamburg, Germany1-1020180
FoundamentalBerlin, Berlin, Germany11-5020197


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