Texas is a hub for container shipping, driven by significant port activity and cross-border trade, particularly given its proximity to Mexico. Companies in this sector provide a variety of services including container transport, drayage, and international freight forwarding. The industry is evolving, with increasing investments in technologies such as automated tracking and eco-friendly logistics practices. As demand for global trade rises, Texas-based shipping firms are adapting to more complex supply chain challenges and striving to enhance service efficiency, an important factor for sustaining competitive advantage in a fast-paced market.

The container shipping companies in Texas range in size, with workforces varying from small teams to large organizations employing thousands. They are predominantly located in major cities including Houston, San Antonio, and Freeport, symbolizing well-established logistics hubs. Founded between the 1920s and 2020s, these companies specialize in services like freight forwarding, customs brokerage, and transloading, showcasing various operational focus areas that meet different market needs.

Continue reading to explore the top container shipping companies in Texas.

Top 21 Container Shipping Companies Companies in Texas

1. Unilink Transportation

• Website: unilinktransportation.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Antonio, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Mexico 78%, United States (USA) 22%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: unilink-transportation

Unilink Transportation, based in San Antonio, Texas, is a logistics company founded in 2004. With a workforce of around 112 employees, the company specializes in international freight solutions and third-party logistics. Their service offerings include over-the-road transportation, expedited services, air freight, and ocean shipping, catering primarily to businesses that require efficient supply chain management. Unilink operates on a hybrid business model, utilizing a network of pre-approved carriers to meet various shipping needs. This model allows them to pre-plan shipments and respond quickly to spot freight requests, particularly across the USA, Mexico, and Canada. The company emphasizes safety and security, ensuring that their partner carriers meet essential certifications. Unilink aims to provide customized solutions to logistical challenges, focusing on timely delivery and cost efficiency.

2. Gulf Winds International

• Website: gwii.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Seabrook, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: December 2022
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: gulf-winds-international

Gulf Winds International, founded in 1996 and based in Seabrook, Texas, is a logistics company that specializes in transportation services, particularly in container drayage, transloading, and truckload solutions. With a workforce of approximately 263 employees, the company operates multiple locations across the United States, including major hubs in Houston, Dallas, and Memphis. Gulf Winds is known for its efficient logistics coordination, which helps businesses streamline their supply chains. The company boasts a fleet of over 700 trucks and more than 2,900 owned chassis, providing them with the capacity and flexibility to meet the demands of their clients. Their strategic port-side locations enhance their ability to offer cost-effective transloading services, allowing clients to optimize their shipping costs. Gulf Winds is committed to continuous investment in technology and infrastructure, ensuring they remain competitive in the logistics sector.

3. ABA Express

• Website: abaexpress.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Colombia 78%, United States (USA) 22%
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: aba-express

ABA Express, established in 1993 and headquartered in Houston, Texas, is a private shipping corporation that specializes in transportation and logistics services. The company offers a comprehensive suite of services, including ocean freight, air freight, inland transportation, storage, packing, and customs brokerage. With a focus on efficiency and customer satisfaction, ABA Express has built a network of associates to meet the logistics needs of businesses and organizations. Their operations extend beyond the United States, with a notable presence in Colombia, where a majority of their employees are based. This international reach allows them to cater to a variety of shipping requirements, although their scale and resources may not match those of larger competitors in the container shipping sector.

4. Roadpin

• Website: roadpin.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Turkey 79%, United States (USA) 14%, Canada 7%
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: roadpin

Roadpin is a private logistics company based in Houston, Texas, founded in 2020. It specializes in freight forwarding services, offering solutions for ocean, air, and land transport. The company caters to businesses that require efficient shipping solutions and customs clearance, ensuring compliance and timely delivery of goods. With a global network and a client-centric approach, Roadpin manages the movement of thousands of containers each year. The company operates offices in the United States, Canada, and Turkey, reflecting its international reach. Roadpin prides itself on providing personalized service, with dedicated agents available 24/7 to assist clients throughout the shipping process. Their commitment to customer service and operational efficiency positions them as a reliable partner in the logistics industry.

5. Transportes Nuevo Mundo

• Website: tnm.cl
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Antonio, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Chile 100%
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: transportes-nuevo-mundo

Transportes Nuevo Mundo SpA is a private logistics company based in San Antonio, Texas, with operations focused entirely in Chile. Founded in 2015, the company specializes in the transportation of containers and cargo, providing services that include container transport, storage, and online tracking. Their operations are centered around the ports of San Antonio and Valparaíso, catering primarily to business clients involved in international trade. The company prides itself on its qualified team and commitment to quality service, ensuring the secure and timely delivery of goods. They have developed their own technology for tracking and managing logistics, which enhances their operational efficiency. With a dedicated fleet and a focus on customer service, Transportes Nuevo Mundo aims to meet the logistical needs of its clients while maintaining high standards of safety and reliability.

6. Houston Terminal, LLC

• Website: houstonterminal.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Seabrook, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: houston-terminal-llc

Houston Terminal, LLC, founded in 2007 and based in Seabrook, Texas, is a private stevedoring company that specializes in shipping and logistics services. The company operates primarily in the Port of Houston, providing essential services such as containerized cargo operations, transloading, and breakbulk handling. With a workforce of approximately 28 employees, Houston Terminal has established itself as a reliable partner for businesses needing efficient cargo management. They emphasize operational safety and customer satisfaction, offering 24/7 support to ensure smooth operations. Their strategic location and expertise in handling various types of cargo make them a significant player in the local shipping industry.

7. World Trade Distribution, Inc.

• Website: wtcfs.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: world-trade-distribution-inc.

World Trade Distribution, Inc. is a family-owned logistics company based in Houston, Texas, founded in 1983. With a workforce of around 36 employees, the company has established itself as a key player in freight management services. They offer a comprehensive suite of services that includes container management, customs bonded warehousing, trucking, and project cargo handling. Their facility is strategically located near Houston's major container terminals, allowing for efficient operations in both import and export freight. Over the years, World Trade Distribution has developed strong relationships with some of the largest NVOCCs and freight forwarders in the country, underscoring their importance in the logistics and shipping sectors. Their centralized examination station (CES) is noted as the oldest in the country, further enhancing their credibility and expertise in customs compliance and inspection services. The company prides itself on its long-standing industry experience, which spans over four generations, and its commitment to quality customer service.

8. Core Trucking Company of Texas LLC

• Website: coreoftx.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: La Porte, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: core-trucking-company-of-texas-llc

Core Trucking Company of Texas LLC, founded in 1996, is a private logistics and trucking company based in La Porte, Texas. The firm specializes in drayage services, facilitating the movement of import and export cargo through the Port of Houston. With a workforce of 11-50 employees, Core Trucking operates a 7.5-acre terminal strategically located between the Barbours Cut and Bayport Container Terminals. This prime location allows them to efficiently handle container transfers and logistics operations. Their services include local and regional drayage, overweight container transport, and logistics management, all while adhering to safety and regulatory standards. Core Trucking is also bonded and Hazmat certified, enhancing their capability to manage sensitive cargo. The company has invested in its own fleet of tractors and chassis, which enables them to handle heavy containers with a gross vehicle weight of up to 100,000 pounds. Core Trucking is committed to ethical practices and customer satisfaction, continuously seeking to expand its service offerings and operational capacity.

9. Southwest Freight Inc.

• Website: southwestfreight.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1967
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: southwest-freight-inc-

Southwest Freight Inc., founded in 1967 and based in Houston, Texas, is a family-owned logistics company that specializes in transportation and warehousing services. With a workforce of approximately 42 employees, the company operates strategically located facilities in Houston, San Antonio, and New Orleans. Southwest Freight offers a range of services, including trucking, customs bonded warehousing, and project cargo management. They cater to businesses requiring efficient freight handling and storage solutions. Their capabilities include integrated container trucking and drayage services, which are vital for moving containers to and from marine terminals and railways. The company also provides specialized project cargo transportation, handling oversized and heavy items. With over 150,000 square feet of secure bonded warehousing space, Southwest Freight ensures safe storage and efficient management of imports, making them a reliable partner in the logistics and container shipping industry.

10. ConGlobal

• Website: conglobal.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Fort Worth, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: October 2017
• Founded year: 1968
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: itsconglobal

ConGlobal, founded in 1968 and based in Fort Worth, Texas, is a logistics company that specializes in intermodal services, finished vehicle handling, and depot service terminals. With a workforce of over 1,000 employees, the company operates across North America, including the United States, Mexico, and Costa Rica. ConGlobal offers a comprehensive range of services, including container yard management, railcar switching, drayage, and maintenance and repair of containers and chassis. Their customer base primarily consists of businesses in the shipping and logistics sectors, who rely on ConGlobal for efficient and reliable transportation solutions. The company has developed proprietary technology to enhance operational efficiency, such as automated gate systems and mobile inventory management. ConGlobal's extensive network and expertise in terminal operations make it a key player in the logistics and container shipping industry.

11. Patriot Logistics, Inc.

• Website: patriot-logistics.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: patriot-logistics-inc-

Patriot Logistics, Inc., based in Houston, Texas, is a logistics company that has been active in the intermodal transportation sector since its founding in 2003. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including drayage, international transport, storage, and brokerage services. With a focus on intermodal solutions, Patriot Logistics ensures that client shipments are handled efficiently from start to finish. They cater to various industries, providing logistics solutions that meet the demands of businesses requiring timely delivery of goods. The company has grown significantly since its inception, establishing a network that includes multiple locations across the United States. Their commitment to exceptional service and operational excellence has allowed them to build a client base that includes major corporations. Patriot Logistics continues to adapt and enhance its service offerings to meet the evolving needs of the logistics market.

12. Cargoways Logistics, Inc.

• Website: cargowayslogistics.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1974
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: cargoways-logistics-inc-

Cargoways Logistics, Inc. is a private logistics firm based in Houston, Texas, specializing in supply chain management and transportation services. Founded in 1974, the company has evolved from its original name, Hub Shipping, to Cargoways Logistics, LLC in 2004. They offer a comprehensive suite of services including air freight forwarding, ocean forwarding, truck transportation, and customs brokerage. Cargoways operates as an asset-based third-party logistics provider, with strategic offices across North America and representation in over 120 countries worldwide. Their extensive experience as a Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC) allows them to handle various types of cargo, including full container loads and specialized shipments. Cargoways prides itself on providing exceptional customer service, treating each shipment with care and attention, and acting as an extension of their clients' operations.

13. Maxton Shipping

• Website: maxtonshipping.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 70%, Poland 30%
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: maxtonshipping

Maxton Shipping Inc. is a logistics firm based in Houston, Texas, specializing in global freight forwarding and supply chain management. Established in 2019, the company offers a range of services including seafreight, airfreight, trucking, and warehousing, catering to various industries such as pharmaceuticals, technology, and agriculture. As an FMC licensed NVOCC and freight forwarder, Maxton Shipping is equipped to handle international shipping needs, ensuring compliance with regulations and providing tailored solutions for its clients. The company operates a network of partners across 132 countries, facilitating efficient transportation and logistics management. With a team of logistics professionals, Maxton Shipping aims to innovate and improve supply chain solutions, leveraging technology to enhance customer satisfaction. The firm has expanded its operations internationally, with branches in Poland and the UK, and plans to enter the Asia Pacific market in the near future.

14. Gulf Intermodal Services

• Website: gulfintermodal.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: La Porte, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: gulf-intermodal-services

Gulf Intermodal Services, also known as IMC, is a family-owned logistics company based in La Porte, Texas, founded in 2009. The company specializes in marine drayage and intermodal logistics, providing a range of services that include drayage, storage, transloading, and intermodal rail. IMC operates a substantial fleet and maintains a network of depots strategically located near major ports and rail terminals across the United States. This positioning allows them to optimize supply chains and ensure timely delivery of goods. With a workforce of approximately 86 employees, IMC is committed to enhancing the efficiency of cargo movement, making it a vital player in the logistics sector. Their focus on technology and sustainability further underscores their commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of the industry.

15. Servitrans

• Website: servitrans.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Venezuela 33%, United States (USA) 33%, Colombia 17%, Other 17%
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: servitrans-inc-

Servitrans, Inc. is a logistics firm based in Houston, Texas, with a history dating back to 1997. Originally founded in Maracaibo, Venezuela, the company has expanded its operations across North America and Latin America. Servitrans specializes in transportation and freight forwarding services, offering solutions that include air, ocean, and inland freight, as well as customs clearance and project logistics. Their clientele primarily consists of businesses and organizations that require efficient supply chain management. With a workforce that is well-trained and experienced, Servitrans emphasizes the use of advanced technology and modern shipping procedures to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of goods. They have built a reputation for handling various types of cargo, including containerized shipments, and have a particular focus on the oil and gas sector in recent years.

16. Canal Cartage Company

• Website: canalcartage.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: canal-cartage-company

Canal Cartage Company, founded in 1983 and based in Houston, Texas, is a private logistics firm that specializes in freight services. With a workforce of approximately 53 employees, the company focuses on domestic and intermodal drayage, hazmat transportation, and warehousing solutions. Their operations are strategically centered around the Port of Houston, allowing them to provide timely delivery and secure storage for a variety of goods. Canal Cartage caters to manufacturers and distributors, offering tailored solutions for efficient supply chain management. Their services include cross-docking, transloading, and container lining installations, which are crucial for businesses that require reliable freight handling. The company prides itself on its commitment to safety and customer service, ensuring that clients receive competitive rates and dependable logistics support.

17. iShip

• Website: ishipinc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 50%, United Arab Emirates 50%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: iship

iShip, founded in 2008 and based in Houston, Texas, is a private logistics company that specializes in shipping and transportation services. The company offers a range of solutions, including ocean freight, inland transport, and customs clearance, catering to both businesses and individual consumers. With a workforce of around 23 employees, iShip operates globally, ensuring efficient movement of goods and vehicles across various regions. They have expanded their operations to include a branch in the United Arab Emirates, enhancing their service offerings in the Middle East. iShip is licensed as a Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC) and freight forwarder by the Federal Maritime Commission, which underscores their compliance with industry regulations. Their partnerships with major shipping lines, such as Maersk and MSC, further solidify their role in the container shipping sector, particularly in vehicle transportation. iShip's commitment to providing tailored logistics solutions and their focus on customer service are central to their business model.

18. Shiptonaija(African Import Export Solution)

• Website: shiptonaija.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Nigeria 92%, United States (USA) 8%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: shiptonaija

Shiptonaija, also known as African Import Export Solution, is a logistics company based in Houston, Texas, founded in 2009. With a workforce of approximately 26 employees, the company focuses on providing air and ocean shipping services primarily between the USA and Nigeria. Their offerings include customs clearing, door-to-door delivery, and procurement services, catering to both individual consumers and businesses. Shiptonaija emphasizes reliability and customer satisfaction, claiming to provide timely shipping solutions and free insurance on shipments. They operate with a significant employee presence in Nigeria, indicating a strong connection to their primary market. The company ships containers weekly from their warehouses in Houston and Atlanta, ensuring a consistent flow of goods to Nigeria. Their services are designed to facilitate the import and export of personal and commercial goods, making them a key player for those looking to navigate the complexities of shipping between these two countries.

19. Port Freeport

• Website: portfreeport.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Freeport, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1925
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: port-freeport

Port Freeport, located in Freeport, Texas, is a private logistics company founded in 1925. It specializes in a variety of services, including Project Cargo, Container Operations, and Heavy Lift Terminal services. The port plays a crucial role in facilitating the efficient movement of goods for businesses in shipping and manufacturing. With a workforce of around 40 employees, Port Freeport is actively involved in container shipping, having handled over 100,000 TEUs in 2016. The port has established long-term relationships with key customers and global carriers, enhancing its operational footprint. Additionally, it sponsors Foreign Trade Zone #149, which provides businesses with benefits related to customs duties. The port is currently undergoing expansion to improve its container handling capabilities, including the construction of new berths and the acquisition of additional cranes.

20. Rowl United

• Website: flexirowl.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Pasadena, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Colombia 52%, United States (USA) 48%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: rowl-trucking-llc

Rowl United, founded in 2011 and based in Pasadena, Texas, is a private logistics company that specializes in containerized bulk freight solutions. With a workforce of approximately 44 employees, the company has built a strong presence in the logistics sector over the past 13 years. Rowl United offers a comprehensive range of services, including asset-based trucking, ground and ocean transportation, and ISO tank repairs. They have successfully managed over 150,000 shipments and have fitted and transported more than 100,000 flexitanks. Their operations extend globally, with a focus on countries such as Brazil, China, and Mexico. Rowl United prides itself on a hands-on approach, ensuring that their team is involved in every step of the shipping process, which has contributed to their low incident rate of less than 1%. The company also emphasizes technological innovation, exemplified by their Trackalo application, which streamlines shipment tracking and management. Rowl United's commitment to quality service and customer satisfaction makes them a notable player in the logistics and container shipping industry.

21. Excargo

• Website: excargo.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: excargo-services-inc-

Excargo, founded in 1979 and based in Houston, Texas, is a private logistics company that specializes in transportation and warehousing services. With a workforce of around 32 employees, Excargo has carved out a niche in the logistics sector, focusing on drayage, transloading, and supply chain solutions. They cater primarily to businesses in industries such as retail and petrochemicals, providing tailored services that help clients navigate the complexities of moving goods through the Port of Houston and its surrounding areas. Excargo's operations include a robust infrastructure for handling time-sensitive and high-value cargo, ensuring that shipments are managed efficiently and securely. Their commitment to safety and customer service is evident in their award-winning safety program and high driver retention rates. Excargo's strategic location and specialized services make them a key player in the logistics landscape, particularly for companies looking to optimize their supply chain operations.

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