Lucas BrennanNavigating the complexities of supply chains can feel overwhelming.
So, finding a reliable partner to handle your shipping needs is crucial for keeping operations running smoothly, and the best freight forwarders in Indianapolis can streamline your entire process.
A solid logistics partner takes the stress out of moving goods across borders and state lines, so I put together this guide to help you find the right fit for your specific cargo needs.
Let’s dive into the top options available in the city to keep your business moving forward!
How much does freight forwarding cost in Indianapolis?
Freight forwarding rates in Indianapolis start at $50 to $200 per shipment for basic Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) and $500 – $3,000+ per shipment for Full Truckload (FTL).
| Service Type | Estimated Cost |
| Basic Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) | $50 – $200 per shipment |
| Full Truckload (FTL) | $500 – $3,000+ per shipment |
| International Ocean & Air Freight | $500 – $3,000+ per shipment |
1. DB Schenker USA
Website: https://www.dbschenker.com/
Address: 2363 East Perry Road, Suite 191, Plainfield
Contact: +13179359227
Hours: Mon-Fri 08:00AM – 05:00PM, Sat-Sun Closed
Handling complex contract logistics is DB Schenker’s core strength. In particular, they offer specialized solutions designed specifically for e-commerce fulfillment and multi-commodity transport.
I recently spoke with a fellow business owner who used them for a large-scale product launch. He noted how their co-packing services saved his team hours of manual labor.
Furthermore, their strategic location near major transportation hubs is a significant advantage, making the movement of goods highly efficient.
They also manage diverse commodities, such as medical supplies and luxury items, with such precision that it includes rigorous quality assurance inspections.
You’ll also find that their dedicated purchase order and sales order management keeps inventory tracking very organized, providing peace of mind for complex logistics.
However, they’re typically geared toward larger-scale logistics and enterprise-level clients. This may make them less flexible or cost-effective for small businesses with lower shipment volumes or simpler distribution needs.
2. InTek Logistics, Inc.
Website: https://www.inteklogistics.com/
Address: 900 E. 96th St., Suite 110
Contact: 317-405-1164 | [email protected]
Hours: Mon-Fri 7:00AM – 7:00PM, Sat-Sun Closed
Optimizing supply chain costs is a major hurdle for many retailers today. Thankfully, InTek Logistics provides highly customized intermodal logistics and shipping solutions to address that exact problem.
Moreover, their operations team actively monitors shipments to catch potential issues early. Lowering overall transportation costs is also possible through their specialized intermodal strategies.
I also like how they feature a streamlined digital quote request system. This setup helps you rapidly assemble customized proposals without spending hours on the phone.
One limitation is that their strong focus on intermodal and large-scale freight solutions may not be the best fit for small businesses or those needing simple, short-distance shipping, as their services are better optimized for more complex logistics operations.
The InTek team has been amazing to work with and I would highley recommend them to any one. They are extremely professional, knowledgeable, and always helpful. Response times are always super fast with prompt payments under 30 days. They have always been an amazing partner you can definitely rely on and trust.
- Justin Whittle | Google Review
The InTek team is awesome to work with. I would recommend them to any one. They are extremely professional, knowledgeable, and helpful. Response times are always fast. Always up for any challenges that I throw at them and trust them with even my high profile customers. A PARTNER you can definitely rely on and trust.
- Marcie Evans | Google Review
3. XPress Cargo, Inc.
Website: http://www.xpresscargoinc.com/
Address: 2330 Enterprise Park Drive
Contact: 317-426-5410 | [email protected]
Hours: Available 24/7
Moving large volumes of temperature-sensitive goods requires serious infrastructure, and XPress Cargo has spent decades perfecting that niche right here in Indianapolis.
Operating as a high-capacity asset-based carrier, they maintain a privately owned fleet of over 250 tractors and 500 state-of-the-art refrigerated trailers
. A colleague of mine recently coordinated a large shipment of cold beverages through them and noted that their “newer-model” equipment significantly reduced the risk of mechanical breakdowns during the haul.
They employ hundreds of dedicated drivers to efficiently service long-haul freight lanes, specializing in the delicate transport of produce and temperature-controlled food.
While many logistics firms are just “middlemen,” XPress Cargo actually owns the equipment, providing a level of accountability that is hard to find.
However, because they’re a mid-sized asset-based firm rather than a global brokerage, their lane coverage is primarily concentrated in the Midwest and Southeast.
If you’re looking for immediate, high-volume capacity for a West Coast or international haul, you might find their regional focus a bit limiting.
“Xpress cargo is thoroughly impressive with their services. The team was professional, efficient, and handle everything with care. They communicated with me every step of the way. The price was reasonable and there were no hidden fees or surprises. I highly recommend Xpress Cargo for anyone in need of reliable and trustworthy company.”
- Sahj Shergill | Google Review
I haven’t had any issues yet with this company so far they have held up there end of the deal but only time will tell.. I’m getting plenty of miles and I run hard for the most part.. my truck is great it’s a 2019 vnl760 and I haven’t had any trouble with it .. I would like to get my fiance enrolled into the school so that we could run teams ..
- Steven Krick | Google Review
4. TransJet Cargo
Website: http://www.transjetcargo.com/
Address: 325 S College Ave
Contact: 1-800-632-1760 | Fax: 317-522-1550
Hours: Available 24/7
If your business needs the agility of a smaller fleet with the reach of a national carrier, TransJet Cargo is a standout partner in Indianapolis.
This firm operates as a full-service logistics provider delivering dedicated drayage operations and extensive on-road trucking solutions. They run a wide variety of equipment, including dry vans and temperature-controlled reefers.
A colleague recently used them for an urgent cross-state haul and noted that their communication felt much more “human” and immediate than the automated portals of larger logistics conglomerates.
They hold full USDOT credentials and specialize in a wide variety of equipment, from standard dry vans to specialized temperature-controlled reefers.
Much like seeking out a reliable contractor for garage door repair in Indianapolis, you’ll find that their pricing is based on a “request-a-quote” model to ensure you aren’t overpaying for services you don’t need.
However, because they prioritize their own asset-based drivers to ensure quality, their total capacity is smaller than that of a global brokerage.
We’ve booked several loads with them due to their competitive quotes, and they’ve consistently delivered. Each load was covered quickly, had reliable tracking, and arrived on time—which is exactly what we value. We’ll definitely use them again!
- rupinder singh | Google Review
I had a good experience working with TransJet cargo, they went well out of their way to accommodate my needs. Plus they were very professional and courteous. Not even to mention their amazing receptionist, while I waited she offered snacks and drinks, unbelievably kind!
- Maddie Fruit | Google Review
5. Cargo Services Inc.
Website: https://cargos.com/
Address: 7640 Miles Drive
Contact: (800) 645-0386 | [email protected]
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00AM – 5:00PM, Sat-Sun Closed
Global shipping requires an experienced team to prevent costly border delays. Cargo Services acts as an independent Midwest forwarder handling complex global freight requirements and US customs brokerage.
They even provide complete Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC) ocean services for international shipping.
Through them, you gain access to a highly comprehensive international air cargo forwarding network.
They also operate dedicated warehouse distribution facilities located conveniently within the city. Plus, their tenured support team has deep expertise in managing complex logistics requirements.
However, their baseline domestic transport prices are unavailable without calling their representatives directly. You must be prepared to negotiate and ask detailed questions during your initial phone call.
