Getting the goods shipped to Europe may be daunting, because of long distances, customs regulations and a tangled web of logistical choices may confuse even the most seasoned exporters. However, a stress-free process can be achieved by using the right freight forwarder that makes this process a smooth and predictable one.
This 2025 guide deconstructs the 10 best freight forwarders to ship to Europe out of Australia, both international reputable brands and Australian high-performing companies such as Think Global Logistics. These forwarders provide cost-effective, reliable and efficient services in major trade routes in Europe whether it is commercial goods being transported, e-commerce delivery services and specialised freights.
Why the Right Freight Forwarder Matters for Australia–Europe Shipping
The decision that you will make in your export process is in regards to the freight forwarder that you will choose. An excellent logistics partner is able to:
Automatize the clearance of customs in both directions.
Avoid expensive papertrail errors.
Have real-time tracking of your shipment.
Decrease delays by skilled route planning.
Whether, competitive air and sea freight rates.
Warehousing, insurance, consolidation, and last-mile delivery Manage.
Australia and Europe are separated by thousands of kilometres and the experience of your freight forwarder is your international supply chain.
Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Freight Forwarder
Search in companies that have experience previously in shipping between Australia and Europe, not all the routes and ports and customs procedures can be done without certain knowledge.
Route expertise
Look for companies with proven experience shipping from Australia to Europe—different routes, ports, and customs processes require specific knowledge.
Service offerings
An excellent freight forwarder is expected to provide:
* Air freight
* Sea freight (FCL & LCL)
* Customs brokerage
* Warehousing & distribution
* Insurance
* Modal flexibility
Transparency & communication
In contemporary logistics, it is necessary to track correctly and quickly respond to the demands.
Technology
There is the addition of enormous value in the form of digital dashboards, tracking tools, and automated documentation.
Reputation & reviews
The experiences that customers have can say a lot about the performance of a company when the pressure pushes it into action.
Top 10 Freight Forwarders for Shipping from Australia to Europe
The companies that have been the best performing freight forwarding companies as far as reliability is concerned in transporting between Australia and Europe have been listed below.
DHL Global Forwarding
DHL is an international logistics industry player with a global presence; it provides door to door delivery services in Europe. Their good network of air freight, efficient customs and better tracking system make them one of the most reliable alternatives to Australian exporters.
Kuehne + Nagel
Kuehne + Nagel is known as an innovative and accurate firm that offers strong sea, air, and overland freight. They have a large European network and their digital tools provide an exceptional visibility to complicated shipments.
DB Schenker
DB Schenker is a company specialising in multimodal transport and high volumes. Their combined systems and presence in Europe make them the best with businesses that ship regularly or at large volumes.
UPS Supply Chain Solutions
UPS introduces credibility, high compliance awareness, and effective delivery networks to the whole of Europe. Their expedited airfreight services come in handy especially when time is of the essence.
Expeditors International
Expeditors is reputed to have a customer-centric service, a highly reliable logistics service with a great sense of compliance and documentation preciseness – ideal in high value or regulated cargo.
DSV (formerly Panalpina)
DSV has become a well known name across the world in efficiency and competitive rates. They have good infrastructure in Europe and therefore, provide a good air and sea freight service.
CEVA Logistics
CEVA has differentiated itself because of its combined supply chain solutions and extensive European presence. In addition to being a versatile option in expanding businesses, their multimodal possibilities render them a versatile solution.
Mainfreight
Mainfreight is an ever-growing global logistical service provider, which boasts of a personalised service, transparency and high consistency of operations, which are a favourite among Australian exporters.
Think Global Logistics (TGL)
Australian based freight forwarder that has customized and technology based solutions.
Think Global Logistics can be listed in this list due to its provision of very personalised, transparent and efficient logistics. TGL as an Australian-based and agile freight forwarder offers:
Air and ocean to the main European destinations.
Intuitive tracking technology.
SME and enterprise solutions.
Rapid response and actual human service.
Firm relationships with European representatives.
TGL is the company of choice when a business seeks to have a forwarder who is more of a strategic partner than a service provider
Toll Group
Toll is one of the largest freight companies in Australia with reliable freight services supported by strong carrier networks and well-established operations throughout Europe.
Comparing Freight Forwarders: Services, Rates, and Reliability
In the comparison of freight forwarders in shipping between Australia and Europe, take into account:
Service range
Do they have all you require air, sea, insurance, LCL consolidation, warehousing?
Transit times
Shipments to Europe differ greatly in terms of route and mode.
Price transparency
Other forwarders have concealed charges in their dealing or paper work.
Special cargo capabilities
Critical to hazardous materials, perishables, overweight, or air controlled freight.
Customer support
Fast, clear communication often separates good forwarders from great ones.
Balancing price, reliability, and support will help you find the right partner.
Customer Reviews: What Shippers Are Saying
Before selecting a forwarder, check:
Google Reviews
Trustpilot
Industry forums
LinkedIn recommendations
Look for real feedback mentioning communication, damage handling, tracking accuracy, and responsiveness. Reviews often reveal strengths you won’t find on a company’s website.
Tips for Working Effectively with Your Freight Forwarder
To get the best results:
Provide accurate cargo dimensions and weight
Share deadlines early
Keep documentation organised
Ask questions regarding port charges and customs fees
Request tracking access and milestone updates
Communicate special handling instructions upfront
A good forwarder will become more efficient as your relationship grows.
Common Challenges in International Shipping (and How to Avoid Them)
Customs delays
Avoid by ensuring all documents are complete and accurate.
Unexpected charges
Ask for a complete breakdown of local port fees and handling costs
Damaged goods
Use quality packaging and consider marine insurance.
Long transit times
Plan ahead, especially during peak seasons or global disruptions.
Working with a knowledgeable forwarder greatly reduces these risks.
Conclusion
Australian to Europe shipping does not need to be complex. By having the appropriate freight forwarder in place, be it a global giant such as DHL or a specialist Australian based entity such as Think Global Logistics you are able to streamline your logistics, decrease the costs and make sure your shipment arrives in Europe safely and on time.
Compare services, reliability and quality of communication. A good logistical partner will not merely carry your commodities away to you they will also scale you to newer markets at ease.