Choosing the right carrier in Central Europe is not just about "big names," but about matching the route, type of goods, transit times, and level of support offered—and this top 10 list helps you quickly compare the right options for your needs.
- Route coverage and frequency: Carriers with dense networks in CEE (Germany, Austria, Poland, Romania) reduce actual transit times and the risk of delays through regular departures and regional hubs.
- Type of services: Most companies on the list offer FTL/LTL, groupage, customs services, and door-to-door solutions, and some players have clear specializations (pharmaceutical, temperature-controlled, intermodal).
- Flexibility vs. global scale: Giants (e.g., Kuehne + Nagel, DHL, DB Schenker) excel at complex projects and IT integration, while a more agile carrier can better optimize the total cost on recurring routes.
- Sustainability and fleet modernization: Investments in electric vehicles, CNG/LNG alternatives, and low-emission solutions are becoming an increasingly important criterion for companies seeking long-term compliance and efficiency.
- Cost transparency and operational support: The right choice means clear quotes, fast communication, and real-time tracking—essential differentiators when you have constant deliveries or tight deadlines.
- Paneuropa Logistics in the context of the ranking: For customers looking for a flexible partner for RO–EU and intra-EU routes, with direct support and competitive rates, Paneuropa stands out as an efficient option for express transport, general cargo, and relocations.
Finally, this top 10 list gives you a clear picture of the most relevant carriers in Central Europe, so you can quickly choose the right option based on route, volume, urgency, and the level of service you need.
Top 10 freight forwarding companies in Central Europe, selected by reliability, international coverage and quality of service. This list objectively compares the top 10 freight forwarding companies in Central Europe and shows where Europe's giants rank, including the contenders for the title of Europe's largest freight forwarding company. Discover companies that deliver quickly, safely and efficiently - from global giants to trusted regional leaders.
Why is freight transport important in Central Europe?
Because it provides fast connections between major European economies and supports regional trade. In practice, international transport companies and pan-European transport companies reduce transit times, optimizing costs for companies that need constant transport between CEE and Western hubs.
What these firms offer:
- International road and rail transport;
- Integrated and customized logistics solutions;
- Express and door-to-door deliveries in Europe;
- Frequent routes in countries such as Germany, Austria, Poland and Romania.
International transportation firms have seen unprecedented growth in recent years, with giants such as Kuehne + Nagel generating revenues of $46.86 billion in 2024. At the same time, the rankings for Europe's top 10 transport firms are being regularly updated as investments in digitization and network expansion continue. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced the entire industry to adapt quickly to new approaches and strategies.
Against this dynamic backdrop, freight forwarding firms continue to expand their operations, with carriers such as DHL operating in more than 220 countries and regions worldwide. Romania's freight forwarding industry makes significant contributions to the country's economy, with the road transport sector generating €4.58 billion in service exports in 2017. In this context, competition for the title of Romania's largest freight forwarding firm remains intense, boosting service quality and tariff transparency. International freight forwarding firms in our region demonstrate impressive capabilities, such as the International Alexander Group which operates a fleet of 458 trucks.
We have analyzed the most important companies in the industry to bring you a comprehensive guide to the best transport companies in Central Europe. We'll start with Paneuropa Logistics, a key player in the market, then move on to international giants such as Kuehne + Nagel and DHL Freight, as well as regional champions who have proven their excellence in freight forwarding.
1. Paneuropa Logistics
Paneuropa Logistics stands out in the landscape of international freight forwarding companies as a player with extensive experience and a solid reputation in the European market. For B2B customers, this freight forwarding company offers the right combination of flexibility, optimized total cost and competitive transit times. Established in 2003, the company has been steadily evolving, reaching a turnover of RON 4,062,956 in 2024, an increase of 24.68% year-on-year.
What types of services does Paneuropa Logistics cover?
Paneuropa Logistics offers a diversified range tailored to customers' needs:
- National and international freight forwarding - Provides secure transportation both within Romania and to international destinations, with deliveries within 24-48 hours for domestic and 2-7 working days for international.
- Express Express Freight for Urgent Deliveries - Fast solutions for situations that require speed, using small vans for express freight.
- Relocation Services - Provides organized moves for companies and individuals, including office and factory relocations.
- Advanced Logistics - Improves the supply chain with modern technologies that allow continuous monitoring of shipments.

Paneuropa Logistics also handles customs procedures according to the regulations, offers specially equipped storage facilities and transhipment and cargo handling services. Importantly, this international freight forwarding company does not transport mail, documents, jewelry or food parcels, and parcels must be at least 20 kg or 0.2 m³.
Paneuropa Logistics fleet and infrastructure
The carrier has a modern and diversified fleet, including:
- 20 ton payload trucks (tarpaulin, van, fridge)
- 3.5 ton payload trucks (tarpaulin, van, fridge)
- 1.5 ton payload trucks (tarpaulin, van, fridge)
- Small express delivery vans
The vehicles are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including GPS systems for real-time monitoring, which allows logistics coordinators to provide accurate information about the position of the vehicles at any time. This technological infrastructure ensures the traceability and safety of every delivery.
Geographical presence Paneuropa Logistics
The freight forwarding company operates extensively in Romania and internationally. Through pan-European partnerships, Paneuropa remains relevant in the top 10 Central European freight forwarding companies for RO-EU and intra-EU routes. It covers most European countries and destinations in Central Asia. Frequently served countries include Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Belgium, Poland, Hungary, Slovakia and Austria. With a strategic network of partners, Paneuropa Logistics can provide shipments from Romania to any country in Europe, including Russia, Ukraine and Turkey, as well as shipments between any of the European countries.
Paneuropa Logistics competitive advantage
A main strength of this international transportation company is its rapid adaptability to market and customer requirements. The offer includes:
- 24/7 advice and support - Ongoing professional support available anytime
- Maximum safety - Every shipment is covered by insurance and monitored with GPS technology
- Flexibility - Personalized services, including exclusive or groupage transport
- Competitive prices - Advantageous rates negotiated directly with logistics coordinators
In addition, Paneuropa Logistics benefits from over 20 years of experience and a team of dedicated professionals, with 7 employees in 2024. The company has demonstrated financial stability, recording steady profits in recent years, with RON 252,904 in 2024.
2. Kuehne + Nagel
With a history dating back to 1994 on the Romanian market, Kuehne + Nagel has developed into one of the leading logistics service providers in Central Europe. With the size of its network and portfolio of industries, the company is frequently mentioned when evaluating Europe's largest transportation firm by revenue and coverage This international transportation giant has built a solid reputation based on integrated logistics solutions and constant innovation.
What services does Kuehne + Nagel offer?
The company offers a comprehensive portfolio covering the entire supply chain:
- Sea and Air Freight - As a world leader in these segments, the company offers flexible solutions for the transportation of goods globally
- Road transport - Groupage, full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) services throughout Europe, backed by a network of over 8,000 specialists in over 180 locations across the continent
- Contract Logistics - Customized warehousing and distribution in 9 logistics centers in Romania with a total area of over 154.000 m²
- Specialized Services - Dedicated solutions for industries such as pharmaceuticals, automotive, FMCG, high-tech, industrial products and Oil & Gas
A distinct service is KN PharmaChain, dedicated to the transportation of pharmaceutical and medical products, which ensures that the strictest quality and temperature-controlled standards are met.
Kuehne + Nagel fleet and infrastructure
The carrier has invested significantly in the development of a specialized fleet, especially for the pharmaceutical sector:
- The European Pharmaceutical Fleet (EPF) includes 290 trailers specifically designed for the healthcare industry, 65 of which were added in 2022 alone
- The vehicles are equipped with customized features and dual temperature capabilities, and are qualified for various pharmaceutically relevant temperature ranges
- The trailers are TAPA TSR-1 certified, the highest possible safety standard in the industry
The international transportation company is also constantly investing in advanced technological solutions. Their Digital Ecosystem enables the combination and synchronization of supply chain data, route optimization and efficient management of potential bottlenecks.
Geographical Presence Kuehne + Nagel
The freight forwarding company has impressive coverage:
- Presence in over 100 countries through some 1,300 offices worldwide
- In Romania, the company operates through 17 offices and 9 strategic logistics centers
- Active since 1994 on the Romanian market, serving both local companies and multinational corporations
- The Central and Eastern Europe Region is based in Hamburg, facilitating efficient coordination of operations
An example of service expansion is the Shanghai-Arad direct route for groupage containerized shipping, which includes consolidation in Shanghai, delivery in the port of Koper and transport of containers under customs control to the warehouse in Arad.
Competitive advantage Kuehne + Nagel
Among the strengths that differentiate this carrier on the international freight forwarding market are:
- Extensive experience - With over 81,000 logistics professionals globally
- International Recognition - Voted Most Visionary Vendor in the Gartner 2020 Magic Quadrant for Third-Party Logistics Providers
- Sustainability - Investing in renewable energy for warehouses and promoting low-emission transport modes
- Real-time visibility and monitoring - Through platforms such as myKN, which allows transport updates and customized reporting
In addition, Kuehne + Nagel is constantly adapting its processes to be efficient both globally and locally, which is the key to a successful long-term relationship with customers. In this way, this transportation company manages to turn logistical challenges into real competitive advantages.
3. DHL Freight
DHL Freight is one of Europe's strongest international freight forwarding companies, operating as a specialized division of logistics giant DHL Group. With an impressive transport capacity of more than 45 million tons annually, the company has developed an extensive distribution network and diverse services to meet the varied demands of the market.
What main services does DHL Freight offer?
The company offers a complete supply chain portfolio:
- Road transport - Includes Less than Truck Load (LTL), Partial Truck Load (PTL) and Full Truck Load (FTL) services
- Rail - Reliable and environmentally friendly solutions across Europe or between Europe and Asia
- Customs Services - Full support for customs processes
- Specialized services - Temperature controlled and secure transport for valuable goods
DHL Freight also offers customized options such as DHL Freight Eurapid (pan-European door-to-door, fixed-day priority service) and DHL Freight Coldchain (dedicated, temperature-controlled service for pharmaceuticals). For part-loads, the company offers partial container load (LCL) and full container load (FCL) services.
DHL Freight fleet and infrastructure
The carrier has a solid infrastructure that includes:
- Mix of transport equipment, from standard trailers to mega-trailers
- Constantly modernizing fleet, with recent acquisitions of 178 IVECO S-Way CNG trucks for the Post & Parcel division in Germany
- Vehicles equipped with advanced technologies, including bio-CNG-powered models, which help reduce carbon footprint
In Romania, DHL Freight operates strategic terminals in cities such as Bucharest (15A Orchid Street and 3 Virginia Street), Brasov (Griviței Boulevard), Cluj (Nervia Industrial Park) and Timisoara (Calea Aviatorilor Street). Recently, the freight forwarder signed for an additional 2,400 square meters of space in the CTPark Bucharest logistics park.
Geographical Presence DHL Freight
This transportation company stands out for its extensive coverage:
- Subsidiaries in over 40 countries, providing a single point of contact in the local market
- Network of 180 terminals across Europe
- Extensive coverage in Central Europe, North Africa and the Middle East
- Strategic presence in Romania through multiple terminals and logistics facilities
In this way, DHL Freight ensures efficient international deliveries, allowing customers to manage all their transportation needs with a single source. In addition, as part of Deutsche Post DHL, the company has a global presence in more than 200 countries and regions.
DHL Freight Competitive Advantage
Among the strengths that differentiate this carrier in the international freight forwarding market are:
- Impressive logistical capacity - Transporting over 45 million tons annually, with the resources to meet variable transport needs in low or peak seasons
- Financial stability - As part of the DHL Group, we offer financial strength and long-term stability, regardless of economic downturns
- Specialized expertise - 13,000 road and rail transport specialists
- Sustainability - Investing in green vehicles and climate neutral transport options
Also, through the myDHLFreight platform, the company offers customers advanced digital tools for calculating transit times, requesting quotes and booking road transportation. With approximately 360,000 employees globally and 1,394,000,000,000 parcels delivered annually, DHL Freight proves that it is one of the strongest transportation companies in Central Europe.

4. BD Schenker
Celebrating 150 years of existence under the slogan "150 Years of Elevating Lives", DB Schenker has established itself as one of the giants of the global transportation and logistics industry. This international transportation company, part of Deutsche Bahn, combines tradition with innovation to offer complete logistics solutions to its customers.
Services offered by DB Schenker
DB Schenker's service portfolio covers the entire supply chain, offering:
- Road transport, with options for full and partial truck loads, plus groupage transport
- Rail, air and sea transport, with over 5,500 sea containers shipped daily to ports around the world
- Contract logistics services and supply chain management
- Customs operations and formalities, relocation and cargo insurance
A hallmark of the company is its focus on innovation, being the first global logistics service provider to offer customers a full 3D printing service. DB Schenker has also developed sustainable transportation solutions, such as the globally available CO2-neutral air freight offer.
DB Schenker fleet and infrastructure
The company is constantly investing in modernizing its fleet, adopting electric vehicles and advanced technologies:
- In January 2025, DB Schenker took delivery of its first ten MAN electric long-haul trucks, and will add 100 electric trucks by 2026
- In Romania, the company has recently expanded its fleet with the first Mercedes-Benz eActros 300 electric truck, used in collection and distribution operations in Bucharest
- It has modern equipment in the Constanta Mol 1S port terminal, directly connected to the Cernavodă canal
In addition, DB Schenker inaugurated the new DLC 3 megahub in Dubai, which runs on renewable energy, and opened the Red Lion warehouse in Singapore, marking a record investment of €101 million.
Geographical presence DB Schenker
What role does Romania play in DB Schenker's network?
A key market where the company is the leader in freight forwarding, with branches in major cities and dozens of working points.
This freight transportation firm has an impressive reach:
- Presence in some 2,000 locations in 130 countries, with over 96,000 employees worldwide
- In Romania, DB Schenker is the number one freight forwarder, with branches in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Arad, Iasi and Constanta
- Over 60 outlets distribute in all regions of the country
- Around 900 employees in Romania ensure quality customer service
After the acquisition of Romtrans S.A. at the end of 2008, DB Schenker consolidated its presence on the local market, holding a 10% market share in 2014.
DB Schenker competitive advantage
Among the strengths that set this carrier apart:
- Sustainability - Launch of eTrailers project to decarbonize long-distance transport and the first low-carbon distribution terminal opens in Oslo
- Technological innovation - Investment in Gideon Brothers autonomous mobile robots and operation of the first official flight of the Volo-Drone heavy-lift cargo drone
- Expertise in major events - Partner of MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS and official supplier for the Olympic Games (Athens 2004, Torino 2006, Beijing 2008)
- Benefits for partner carriers - Drive4Schenker program offers tire discounts, access to accommodation and specialized booking platforms
With a turnover of EUR 170 million in 2022, up 20% compared to the previous year, DB Schenker remains the market leader in the Romanian forwarding market, consolidating its position among the most important international freight forwarding companies in Central Europe.
5. CEVA Logistics
In the current context of the transport and logistics market, CEVA Logistics distinguishes itself as a significant global player among international transport companies, offering customized solutions for complete supply chains. This Dutch company, founded in 2007, has quickly become one of the top five logistics operators worldwide.
Services offered by CEVA Logistics
The diversified portfolio of CEVA Logistics covers the entire spectrum of logistics services:
- Air and sea - Customized solutions for global shipping
- Road and rail - Groupage and full load services with real-time monitoring
- Contract logistics - Complex supply chain management
- Special project solutions - Dedicated transportation for specific industries
- Customs and Tax Representation - Full Compliance Services
CEVA also offers specialized services for industries such as automotive, technology, healthcare and aerospace, with over 70 years of experience in the field. In urgent situations, the company provides response within 30 minutes and 24/7/365 availability.
CEVA Logistics fleet and infrastructure
The carrier has made significant investments in developing a modern and environmentally friendly fleet:
Recently, CEVA Logistics added 23 electric trucks to its European fleet for its operations in France, Belgium and the Netherlands, bringing the total to 541 electric vehicles. This initiative will reduce annual CO₂ emissions by 984 tons.
To support electric transportation, the company has installed 85 charging stations at its sites in these countries and has more than 300 stations in France and 1,035 globally.
Geographical presence CEVA Logistics
This freight transportation company operates on a global scale:
The size of the portfolio recommends CEVA for complex cross-border projects, appreciated by many companies that need predictable transportation and IT integration. With a presence in over 170 countries and a workforce of over 110,000 dedicated employees, CEVA Logistics offers extensive coverage for its customers. In Romania, the company has been present since March 2007, managing logistics operations for clients in the telecommunications and automotive industries.
Through its global network, CEVA handles approximately 109,000 FTL/LTL shipments annually and 149,000 groupage shipments.
CEVA Logistics competitive advantages
Among the strengths that set this international freight forwarding company apart:
The LEAN program has achieved a high level of process efficiency and this advantage is used for business development. At the same time, CEVA is guided by sound ethical principles, aiming to be a leader through integrity, merit and continuous improvement.
In addition, the carrier offers emergency solutions for critical situations, with response time of less than 30 minutes and real-time monitoring of operations, ensuring complete visibility and regular notifications at every stage of delivery.
6. Your Logistics
Founded in the Netherlands more than 75 years ago, Vos Logistics has evolved into one of the leading international transportation companies in Central Europe. Headquartered in Oss, the Netherlands, the company offers integrated solutions for the transportation and management of goods throughout the European continent.
Services offered by Vos Logistics
The service portfolio of this carrier includes:
- Full (FTL) and part (LTL) road transport - Daily connections between the Benelux area and the rest of Europe
- High volume transportation - Using special 58 m³ CuboTainer® containers
- Dry bulk transport - With customized solutions for various industries
- Commodity Management - Goods based 4PL services and invoice auditing
Vos Logistics specializes in ADR freight forwarding and refrigerated transport, offering sustainable and efficient solutions for its customers. With its innovative "Control Tower" concept, the company monitors every movement of goods, whether they are transported by its own trucks or intermodal.
Fleet and infrastructure Vos Logistics
The company operates a modern fleet including:
- 1100 vehicles and 4000 loading units
- Over 1,500 high-volume containers, making it one of Europe's largest carriers of bulky goods
- LNG trucks cut CO2 emissions by 15% compared to diesel
The freight forwarding company also uses special Ecocombi combinations (25.25 m) for efficient and environmentally friendly transportation, wherever this is permitted and feasible.
Geographical presence Vos Logistics
This international transportation company operates through:
- Network of 35 branches across Europe
- Presence in countries such as the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, France, Belgium, Poland, Romania, Germany, France and Romania
- Major headquarters in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, managing international transportation activities for the whole group
In Romania, the company has grown rapidly since its establishment in 2012, reaching 457 employees, of which 330 are drivers.
Vos Logistics competitive advantage
The carrier is differentiated by:
- Centralized customer service department, which serves as a single source of information for all enquiries related to goods management
- Advanced transport management technology adapted to all modes of transport
- Information and data communication philosophy to support speed and efficiency of operations
- Subcontractor network of over 1000 partners across Europe
As a result, with 2,500 employees and a turnover of €357.5 million in 2024, Vos Logistics continues to be a major player on the market of international freight forwarding companies in Central Europe.
7. International Alexander
With 100% Romanian capital, International Alexander has established itself as one of the most dynamic players on the transportation and logistics market in Central Europe. By expanding its intermodal capacities, the group is often referred to in the local charts of freight forwarding companies. Founded in 2003 by the entrepreneur Simion Ioan Apreutese, this international transportation company has grown steadily, reaching an estimated turnover of 200 million euros.
Services of International Alexander
The company's diversified portfolio includes:
- Multimodal transportation - road, sea and air, including FTL and LTL services
- Integrated logistics - with class A warehousing and full handling services
- Intermodal transport - first Romania-Belgium route (Arad-Ghent) launched in 2023
- Specialized solutions - for the automotive, IT and FMCG industries
The company also offers cross-docking, consolidation/deconsolidation of palletized goods, labeling and co-packing, plus inventory management.
Fleet and infrastructure International Alexander
The transporter has an impressive fleet that includes 400 trucks, 550 mega trailers, 40 transporters, 10 car platforms and 10 refrigerated trailers. This capacity has been strengthened by the acquisition of Vio Transgrup, the first TAPA1 certified transportation company in Romania.
Aradul is the main operational center, where the company has a major logistics platform of 27,000 sqm (10,000 sqm operational and 17,000 sqm under development). Additional projects for new warehouses are underway in Stuttgart, Timisoara, Sibiu, Bucharest and Belgrade.
Geographical Presence International Alexander
The freight forwarder currently operates in four main markets: Romania, Serbia, Hungary and Germany. The rail terminal in Arad serves as the main hub for the intermodal route to Belgium, with extensions to Duisburg, Düsseldorf and soon Cologne.
Competitive advantages International Alexander
The distinctive advantages of International Alexander therefore include:
- Focus on sustainability - developing low-emission intermodal transport
- Growth by acquisition strategy - incorporation of 15 independent companies into holding companies
- Urban proximity - warehouses strategically located near cities for reduced delivery times
- Professional team - around 1,500 dedicated staff
Thus, through continuous innovation and strategic diversification, International Alexander has positioned itself as a complete logistics service provider for customers in Central Europe.
8. Dolo Trans Olimp
Founded in 2011, Dolo Trans Olimp quickly became one of the leaders in the Romanian transportation market, becoming in 2023 the first transportation company with a profit of more than 10 million euro. This meteoric rise is the result of a constant investment strategy and an efficient management focused on quality and sustainable development.
Services of Dolo Trans Olimp
The company offers a diversified range of services tailored to the varied needs of customers:
- Domestic and international transportation of general cargo using 96 Mercedes Benz Euro 6 trucks with Krone semi-trailers
- Specialized car transport, a segment where Dolo Trans Olimp excels
- Freight transport under 3.5 tons for fast deliveries
- Business transportation for business trips
- Road haulage and escort services for special loads
The company also provides technical assistance through mobile workshops equipped with state-of-the-art tools for emergency truck breakdowns.
Dolo Trans Olimp fleet and infrastructure
This carrier has an impressive fleet that is constantly being modernized:
- 243 Mercedes Actros EURO 6 trucks with LOHR 2.53 LOHR 2.53 structures for transporting cars
- 96 Mercedes Benz Euro 6 Euro 6 trucks with Krone semi-trailers for general cargo transport
- Specialized vehicles such as Mercedes V Class Avantgarde, Peugeot Expert, Mercedes Benz Atego and Mercedes Sprinter
In recent years, the company has invested heavily in fleet renewal, exchanging over 250 trucks with new, more efficient models. Thus, Dolo Trans Olimp has become an authorized service LOHR, the manufacturer of structures for transporting machinery.
Geographical Presence Dolo Trans Olimp
This freight forwarding company provides global logistics support:
- Extensive coverage across the European Union, Asia and Africa
- Strong presence in key European markets: France, Germany and Italy
- Regular flights organized both domestically and internationally with high departure frequency
Competitive advantages Dolo Trans Olimp
The strengths that set this international transportation company apart include:
- Sustainability - Reducing environmental impact through fleet modernization
- Financial stability - With a turnover of 380.023.415 RON and a net profit of 39.542.953 RON in 2024
- Skilled workforce - 461 well-trained employees in 2024
- Strategic partnerships - Collaborations with major suppliers such as Gefco Romania, DHL Romania and Michelin
As a result, Dolo Trans Olimp continues to grow in the segments where it has a competitive advantage, emphasizing the quality of the services offered and investments in fleet, technology and people. This profile keeps it among the preferred transportation companies for automotive and special projects in the region.

9. Gartner KG
Originally from Austria, Gartner KG is a pillar of the transportation industry in Central Europe, having become a benchmark for integrated logistics services in more than 100 years of business. In terms of operational volume, Gartner is a benchmark for companies comparing transportation companies in terms of kilometers traveled and route efficiency. Founded in 1918 by Peter Gartner, the company has consolidated its position as one of the region's leading carriers, with a consolidated annual turnover of around €716 million.
Services offered by Gartner KG
This international transportation company offers a complete portfolio of logistics services, based on an extensive road and rail transportation network. The company's operations include handling approximately 670,000 road shipments annually, complemented by 35,000 rail shipments. Gartner KG also acts as a major supplier to automotive manufacturers such as MAN, providing logistics expertise for vehicle transportation and numerous related services.
Fleet and Infrastructure Gartner KG
The carrier's impressive infrastructure includes:
- More than 2,100 tractors and over 3,300 green trailers
- Fleet of more than 80% MAN vehicles
- 1,600 containers for rail transport
Each tractor travels an average of 115,000 kilometers annually, with the company maintaining a low 13% of empty kilometers. In addition, Gartner KG uses about 260 tons of organic LNG annually for its operations.
Geographical Presence Gartner KG
Headquartered in Lambach, Austria, this freight forwarding company has expanded its presence in nine European countries. The group is now represented in 23 locations in Austria, Germany, Hungary, Romania, the Netherlands, Greece, Norway, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Germany, Hungary and Romania. Its five strategic logistics centers in Austria, Germany, Hungary and Romania form the basis for nationwide transport and logistics services, facilitating the loading and unloading of goods from 45 countries.
Competitive Advantage Gartner KG
Among the strengths that set this carrier apart are its financial stability and the expertise it has built up over more than a century in business. With around 3,800 employees, Gartner KG therefore offers its customers the security of a reliable partner for complex logistics solutions. Its commitment to environmental standards is reflected in continuous investment in equipment that meets the latest environmental standards and in efforts to shift as much transportation as possible to rail.
10. Gebrüder Weiss
With a logistics tradition spanning more than five centuries, Gebrüder Weiss is one of the oldest and most respected freight forwarding companies in the world, with origins in Austria. Over the years, the company has developed into a benchmark leader in Central Europe, offering complex and customized logistics services to customers in multiple industries.
Services of Gebrüder Weiss
The company offers a full range of logistics solutions covering all stages of the supply chain. This includes international road transportation for both full and partial loads, air and sea transportation for global destinations, as well as warehousing, fulfillment and customs consultancy services. Gebrüder Weiss is also a preferred partner for e-commerce, thanks to its digital solutions that integrate online ordering with efficient physical distribution.
Gebrüder Weiss fleet and infrastructure
The company's fleet consists of thousands of modern vehicles, equipped with state-of-the-art technology for transport monitoring and route optimization. Gebrüder Weiss operates more than 180 own locations in 35 countries and has extensive logistics facilities with a total storage area exceeding one million square meters. This integrated logistics ecosystem enables fast, accurate and predictable deliveries, regardless of destination.
Geographical Presence Gebrüder Weiss
The company has a strong presence in Central Europe, with subsidiaries and logistics centers in countries such as Austria, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia, Czech Republic and Romania. In Romania, Gebrüder Weiss is present in strategic cities such as Bucharest, Sibiu, Cluj-Napoca, Arad and Brasov, handling both domestic and international transportation. Its network is backed by direct connections to regional logistics hubs, allowing for short transit times and reliable solutions for any type of cargo.
Competitive Advantage Gartner KG
Gebrüder Weiss combines the experience accumulated in a history of over 500 years with a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability. The company is constantly investing in green technologies, including electric vehicles and related infrastructure, as well as intermodal transportation solutions that reduce carbon emissions. In addition, customer focus is reflected in flexible services, intuitive digital platforms and the ability to adapt to the specific requirements of each partner. This combination of tradition, innovation and responsibility makes Gebrüder Weiss a reliable and indispensable player in the Central European freight transportation landscape.
How can I quickly compare the top 10 freight companies in Central Europe?
Through the table below, which shows the turnover, fleet size, geographic coverage and main services of each firm analyzed. The table helps firms in need of transport to quickly compare capacities, areas and specializations without having to wade through thick reports.
| Company | Turnover | No. Employees | Fleet | Geographical Coverage | Main Services |
| Paneuropa Logistics | 4.062.956 RON (2024) | 7 | 20t, 3.5t, 1.5t trucks and vans | Romania and most European countries | National and international transportation, express services, relocation, logistics |
| Kuehne + Nagel | 46.86 billion (2024) | 81.000 | 290 pharmaceutical trailers | Over 100 countries, 17 offices in Romania | Maritime, air, road, contract logistics |
| DHL Freight | N/A | 13.000 | 45 million tons annual capacity | 40+ countries, 180 terminals in Europe | Road, rail, customs, specialized transport |
| DB Schenker | EUR 170 million (2022) | 96.000 | 100+ electric trucks (planned) | 2,000 locations in 130 countries | Road, rail, air, sea, air transport, logistics |
| CEVA Logistics | N/A | 110.000 | 541 electric vehicles | 170+ countries | Air, sea, road transport, contract logistics |
| Your Logistics | EUR 357.5 million (2024) | 2.500 | 1100 vehicles, 4000 loading units | 35 branches in Europe | Road transport, bulk transport, freight management |
| Alexander International | EUR 200 million | 1.500 | 400 trucks, 550 trailers | Romania, Serbia, Hungary, Germany | Multimodal transport, integrated logistics, intermodal transport |
| Dolo Trans Olimp | 380 mil. RON (2024) | 461 | 243 Mercedes Actros trucks | EU, Asia, Africa | Car transport, general cargo, agabaritic transport |
| Gartner KG | EUR 716 million | 3.800 | 2,100 tractors, 3,300 trailers | 23 locations in 9 European countries | Road and rail transport, logistics |
| Gebrüder Weiss | N/A | Over 8.400 | Thousands of modern vehicles, 180+ own locations | 35 countries, including Romania, Hungary, Germany, Austria | Road, air, sea transport, integrated logistics, e-commerce, customs consultancy, sustainable solutions |
When is it worth choosing a regional carrier over a giant?
If you have recurring routes in CEE and need flexibility (mixed loads, quick adjustments, direct support), a more agile operator can better optimize total cost and actual times, even if it does not have the largest global network.
Conclusion
Freight transport in Central Europe undoubtedly relies on companies offering high quality services, modern fleets and extensive geographical coverage. For cross-border projects, the selection between freight forwarding companies has to balance total cost, risk and multimodal flexibility. After a detailed analysis of the leading companies in the field, Paneuropa Logistics stands out as the optimal choice for those looking for a reliable partner in international transportation. Although smaller compared to giants such as Kuehne + Nagel or DHL Freight, Paneuropa Logistics compensates with flexibility, personalized attention and competitive rates.
First of all, all the companies presented offer diversified services, from road and sea transportation to complete logistic solutions. However, each of them excels in particular areas. For example, Kuehne + Nagel stands out with specialized services for the pharmaceutical industry, while International Alexander has developed innovative intermodal solutions.
Interestingly, we see a clear trend towards sustainability in the industry. DB Schenker, CEVA Logistics and DHL are investing heavily in electric vehicles and green solutions. These efforts actually reflect the growing concern for reducing the carbon footprint in freight transportation.
Customers choosing one of these companies therefore benefit from services tailored to their specific business needs. The ability to offer customized solutions, together with extensive geographic coverage, are key competitive advantages for all the firms surveyed.
However, when we evaluate all aspects - from value for money to flexibility of service - Paneuropa Logistics becomes our top recommendation for freight transportation in Central Europe. Whether you need road, sea or air transport, this company can become your ideal partner for supply chain optimization.
In conclusion, the choice of a freight forwarding company should be based on the specifics of your business. Although all the companies listed offer quality services, carefully consider the particular needs of your operations before making a decision. Equally important, consider factors such as price, timeliness and geographical coverage to identify the right logistics partner for your business. So whether you're looking for a top 10 integrator or a regional specialist, you'll choose the freight forwarding company that matches your company's operational profile.
Here is a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) and answers

Founder and CEO of Paneuropa Logistics
I am György Bokor, Founder and CEO of Paneuropa Logistics. I have been active in the logistics industry for more than 20 years, focusing on international transportation, freight forwarding, last-mile deliveries and customs services. I am passionate about developing efficient solutions that connect businesses across Europe.
