Top 5 Logistics Companies in Houston, TX (2025 Consultant’s Guide)

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Logistics Companies in Huston TX

If you’re searching for logistics companies in Houston, TX, you know Houston is a major logistics hub. The city’s massive port, international airports, and highway network have attracted many logistics service provider companies. This infrastructure has drawn many freight companies Houston and carriers to the area. But with so many options (especially since there are dozens of logistic companies in Houston to consider), what do logistics companies do, and what is a logistics company in practical terms for your business?

In a nutshell, these firms handle the transportation, storage, and delivery of goods, managing fulfillment and shipping tasks so you can focus on growth. The city also hosts many shipping companies in Houston that specialize in last-mile delivery and express freight. Houston is home to numerous logistics and warehousing companies serving industries from oil & gas to e-commerce. In addition, the city has many shipping companies in Houston, Texas, that specialize in freight and parcel delivery. For a deep dive into e-commerce fulfillment and shipping strategies, check out our guide on fulfillment and shipping. The city is also home to many shipping companies in Houston, Texas that serve retailers, manufacturers, and more.

When it comes to logistics, Houston stands out as a strategic location. Some of the largest 3PL logistics companies in the world (like DHL and Kuehne+Nagel) have a presence here, leveraging the city’s infrastructure. At the same time, local specialized providers thrive. Selecting the right partner can be challenging; the best choice depends on your needs (freight forwarding, warehousing, retail distribution, etc.). In fact, companies often search online using terms like ‘logistics company Houston’ or ‘logistic companies in Texas’ when beginning their vendor search.

That’s where a consultancy-focused logistics solution company like Rite Prep Fulfillment comes in. Rather than being a standard logistics service provider, we act as your consultant, helping you navigate the Houston market and connect with the best logistics service provider for your specific requirements. In this guide, we’ll highlight five top Houston logistics companies that excel in various areas.

Each is a logistics service provider offering unique strengths, and we’ll discuss how a consulting partner can help you leverage these strengths effectively. Before diving into details, here’s a quick comparison of our top five picks.

Also Read: 3rd-Party Logistics Fulfillment

Quick Comparison of Top 5 Houston Logistics Providers

Below is a side-by-side look at the five leading logistics companies in Houston and what they offer:

Logistics CompanyCore ServicesNotable Strengths
Cargoways LogisticsFreight forwarding (air & ocean), trucking, warehousing, customs brokerageAsset-based 3PL with a global network in 120+ countries (exec office in Houston); established expertise since 1976.
Crane WorldwideEnd-to-end supply chain: air & ocean freight, customs, warehousing, distribution, project logisticsHouston-headquartered full-service logistics provider founded in 2008; 130+ offices across 30 countries for worldwide coverage.
McLane Global LogisticsWarehousing (food-grade), inventory management, distribution, fulfillment, transportation3PL with 870,000 sq ft of warehouse space in Houston; founded in 1958 with a full 360° suite of services and decades of distribution experience.
LNC LogisticsTruck brokerage (flatbed, dry van, LTL), transportation management, and some warehousingHouston-based logistics services company specializing in trucking; leverages a wide carrier network to move freight from Houston across the U.S. with fast, competitive rate quotes.
Broussard LogisticsTransportation management, freight bill auditing, logistics consulting, TMS software integration40+ years in business (founded 1978); focuses on cost reduction (clients save ~18% on shipping on average) and tech-driven logistics management services.

(All companies above are either headquartered in Houston or maintain major operations here.)

For example, companies often start their search online with queries like ‘logistics company Houston’ or ‘logistic companies in Texas’ when looking for a partner.

Now, let’s explore each of these top providers in detail, what they do, what sets them apart, and how service logistics needs are met by each. Remember, choosing a partner isn’t just about who’s biggest, but who is the right fit. A consultancy like Rite Prep can help match your needs to the strengths of these providers.

Cargoways Logistics (Houston, TX)

Cargoways Logistics is an asset-based 3PL provider with executive offices in Houston and branch locations in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Virginia, Mexico, and Canada. As a full-service logistics service provider, Cargoways handles international freight forwarding (both air and ocean), ground trucking, logistics & warehousing, and customs brokerage. The company originally started in 1976 (as Hub Shipping in Massachusetts) and adopted the Cargoways name in 2004, so it brings decades of experience to the table.

What makes Cargoways stand out is its global reach combined with personal service. They have representation in over 120 countries worldwide, allowing Houston-based clients to ship anywhere their market demands. Cargoways prides itself on being a full-service logistics provider, often acting as a one-stop shop for transportation and storage needs. Whether you need air freight for urgent shipments, ocean freight for cost-effective international moves, or local drayage and trucking, Cargoways can coordinate it. They also assist with customs clearance (import, export, and bonded shipments) and even provide cargo insurance options.

From a consultancy perspective, Cargoways is a great choice if you require a logistics provider shipping globally with a reliable network. For example, if your Houston business needs to export heavy equipment overseas, a provider like Cargoways can manage the end-to-end logistics. This eliminates the need to coordinate with multiple shipping companies in Houston, Texas, providing a single point of contact. We often connect clients to Cargoways when they need flexibility across multiple transport modes. Their motto, one phone call to make, sums up the convenience they offer, which can be invaluable for a growing business that doesn’t have in-house logistics expertise.

Cargoways Logistics (Houston, TX)

Crane Worldwide Logistics (Houston, TX)

Crane Worldwide Logistics is a Houston-headquartered global logistics company known for its comprehensive supply chain solutions. Founded in 2008 in Houston by industry veteran Jim Crane, Crane Worldwide has rapidly grown to over 130 locations in 30+ countries. If you’re looking for a logistics service provider with truly international capabilities, Crane Worldwide is a top contender. They offer end-to-end logistics management, including air freight, ocean freight, customs brokerage, warehousing, and distribution services.

Crane Worldwide is often considered a full-service logistics provider because it can handle virtually every aspect of the supply chain. They support multiple industries (energy, retail, automotive, technology, and more) by providing customized solutions, from managing complex project cargo shipments to running logistics management services for e-commerce fulfillment. For instance, Crane can design a warehousing strategy, manage your inventory, ship products globally, and even handle final-mile delivery through partners. Being a large player, they leverage technology heavily: real-time tracking, supply chain visibility tools, and data analytics are part of their offering to ensure efficiency and transparency. For example, Crane is often considered one of the best Houston logistics companies because it can handle virtually every aspect of the supply chain with global integration.

One of Crane’s strengths is its strategic Houston presence combined with its global network. Houston’s location allows quick access to Port Houston (one of the busiest ports in the U.S.) and major rail and truck routes. Crane’s Houston warehouses and freight stations tap into this infrastructure. For a client, this means if you need a provider shipping from Houston to Asia or Europe, Crane Worldwide can seamlessly arrange that through its own offices in those regions.According to company info, Crane Worldwide’s expansive network and state-of-the-art tech help customers achieve cost efficiency and visibility across the full shipment lifecycle. In short, Crane is an ideal choice for businesses that require a big-league partner with global reach. As consultants, we might recommend Crane for a company looking to scale internationally or streamline a complex supply chain with a single integrated provider. For Texas businesses in particular, Crane Worldwide often stands out as a logistic company in Texas offering truly global capabilities.

Crane Worldwide Logistics (Houston, TX)

McLane Global Logistics (Houston, TX)

McLane Global Logistics is a prominent Houston-based 3PL that specializes in warehousing and distribution, particularly in the food and consumer packaged goods sector. McLane Global has a long history, tracing its roots back to 1958. Today, it operates a large footprint of warehouse space (about 870,000 sq. ft. across multiple facilities, with a major presence in Houston). McLane is known for its white-glove clean warehouses and organized operations, which are crucial for food-grade storage and handling.

As a logistics service provider, McLane Global offers a full 360° suite of services, meaning they don’t just store your products; they can handle inbound freight, inventory management, order fulfillment, and outbound shipping. They have multiple locations nationwide (e.g., Houston, Riverside, CA, etc.), enabling distributed inventory if needed.

McLane’s value proposition is often about quality and reliability: secure storage (including climate-controlled options for perishable goods), compliance with FDA and food safety standards, and integrated distribution for retail or e-commerce. If your business needs logistics & warehousing with an emphasis on food or grocery supply chain, McLane is a go-to name. Their parent company has deep roots in grocery distribution, which adds to their expertise in that industry.

For Houston businesses, McLane’s large local facility means you get extensive storage capacity near the port and city. They also utilize advanced inventory systems and can provide logistics management services like real-time stock visibility, kitting, labeling, and value-added services for products. As consultants, we often point out McLane Global to clients who require top-tier warehousing or have to meet strict quality standards. For example, McLane Global is often mentioned among the warehousing companies Houston thanks to its focus on food-grade storage.Their scale can handle both small and very large volumes, and many shippers report successful partnerships with 3PLs like McLane (indeed, about 90% of shippers say their 3PL relationships are successful). McLane Global’s decades of experience and huge infrastructure make it one of Houston’s logistics leaders, especially if dependable warehousing and distribution are your priority. In other words, McLane is often cited among the warehousing companies Houston when quality storage is needed.

McLane Global Logistics (Houston, TX)

Also Read: Amazon FBA Prep Centers in the USA

LNC Logistics (Houston, TX)

LNC Logistics is a Houston-based logistics services company that focuses on freight transportation solutions. In contrast to providers that own warehouses or fleets, LNC operates as a freight broker and third-party logistics firm connecting shippers with carrier partners. They specialize in trucking services, including flatbed trucking (for heavy or oversized loads), dry van, refrigerated, and LTL (less-than-truckload) shipping.

LNC’s team offers more and better options to move freight in every lane from their hometown of Houston to destinations across the United States. This means if you have cargo in Houston that needs to reach New Orleans, Los Angeles, or anywhere nationwide, LNC can find you a reliable carrier at a competitive rate.

One notable aspect of LNC is its emphasis on service logistics in terms of personalized support. Being a local firm, they pride themselves on quick communication and fast turnaround on freight quotes. They leverage technology to get instant rate comparisons (acting almost like a logistics travel agent for your freight) and aim to secure capacity even in tight trucking markets.

LNC also provides some warehousing and cross-docking assistance in Houston, although its core strength is transportation coordination. If you require both transport and short-term storage, they can manage both needs within your supply chain (managing both the transportation and warehousing needs… to ensure smooth operations).

From a consultancy perspective, we might recommend LNC Logistics to a client that needs a flexible trucking solution without committing to a large asset-based carrier. For example, a mid-sized manufacturer in Houston that has irregular shipping schedules might benefit from LNC’s brokerage model to find trucks on demand.LNC acts as a logistics service provider that essentially extends your shipping department. They handle carrier vetting, scheduling, and troubleshooting. The result is that you get the benefit of a large network of carriers through a single point of contact. In a city with many shipping companies Houston, LNC stands out for its quick communication and flexible brokerage model. In summary, LNC Logistics is one of Houston’s top choices for freight management, especially for companies seeking a nimble partner for domestic shipping.

LNC Logistics (Houston, TX)

Broussard Logistics (Houston, TX)

Broussard Logistics offers a different angle among our top 5; it’s a logistics service provider that concentrates on transportation management, cost optimization, and logistics technology rather than physical hauling of freight. Founded in 1978 in Houston, Broussard has 40+ years of experience in helping businesses lower their shipping costs and streamline operations. Think of Broussard as part logistics consultant, part technology provider. They don’t run warehouses or trucks themselves; instead, they provide services like freight bill auditing, carrier contract negotiation, transportation management software (TMS), and managed transportation solutions.

A key selling point of Broussard Logistics is cost savings. According to their site, clients save an average of 18% on shipping costs by using Broussard’s expertise. They achieve this through analyses and optimization, for instance, auditing freight invoices for errors, finding more economical carrier rates, and optimizing routes and modes (choosing LTL vs parcel vs freight, etc.). For companies that ship a lot, small percentage savings per shipment can add up to huge improvements to the bottom line.

Broussard’s team includes industry veterans who previously worked for carriers and shippers, giving them insight into negotiating best-in-class carrier agreements. They also offer proprietary TMS that integrates with clients’ systems, automating shipping processes and providing visibility into the supply chain. As a logistics management services provider, Broussard is ideal for businesses that want to outsource the brains of their logistics operation while still using various carriers for the brawn.

For example, if a Houston-based company is spending too much on freight or lacks the infrastructure to manage complex shipping data, Broussard can step in to provide both the software and the expert team to run it. In our consulting practice, we might connect a client with Broussard if the client’s challenge is service logistics efficiency (e.g., too many billing errors, lack of freight analytics, or needing to establish a multi-carrier strategy).Broussard isn’t just about cutting costs; they also emphasize improving service levels, getting shipments delivered faster and with fewer issues, by using data-driven decision making. In summary, Broussard Logistics is one of the top logistics companies in Houston when it comes to logistics & warehousing strategy and transportation optimization, making it a valuable partner for companies aiming to sharpen their competitive edge through logistics.

Broussard Logistics (Houston, TX)

Why Work with a Logistics Consultant in Houston?

Each of the logistics companies in Houston we’ve highlighted has unique strengths. So, which is the best logistics company for you? The honest answer: it depends on your business needs. For example, Crane, Cargoways, and McLane are often cited among the best Houston logistics companies, but each excels in a different area and suits different requirements. That’s where a logistics consultancy like Rite Prep Fulfillment adds value. Rather than going directly to a single 3PL, working with a consultant allows you to assess and connect with the best logistics service provider for you. Here’s how our consultancy approach benefits Houston businesses:

1. Needs Assessment & Matchmaking

We start by understanding your specific requirements. Are you an e-commerce retailer needing warehousing and fast shipping? A manufacturer needing bulk freight transport? A startup asking what logistics services you even require? We then leverage our knowledge of the Houston logistics market to recommend a provider (or combination of providers) that fits those needs. For example, if you need cold storage warehousing, we’ll point you to providers with that specialty; if you need a full-service logistics provider for international growth, we might suggest a global player like Crane Worldwide. Companies often use terms like “logistics company Houston” or “freight companies Houston” during this process, and our local expertise helps narrow the field.

2. Local Expertise

Houston’s logistics scene has its quirks, from port schedules to highway congestion patterns. As a Houston-based logistics solution company with a consultancy focus, Rite Prep understands these local factors. We know which Houston logistics company might be better for heavy haul trucking, and which has extra capacity at the Port. We can navigate the nuances of logistics & warehousing regulations, local labor availability, and more, to ensure you partner with a provider that can deliver reliably in this region.

3. Saving Time & Costs

Engaging a consultant can save you the legwork of vetting dozens of logistics service providers. In fact, instead of contacting multiple warehouses or freight companies Houston for quotes and audits, you can rely on Rite Prep’s network and relationships. We’ve effectively pre-vetted many providers. This not only saves you time but often money; we help avoid costly missteps like engaging the wrong level of service (e.g., paying for a huge 3PL when a niche provider would suffice, or vice versa). Just as Broussard focuses on cost optimization once services are running, we focus on cost-efficiency in the selection and setup phase.

4. Ongoing Support

Our role doesn’t necessarily end after connecting you with a provider. We continue to offer support and consultancy as your business grows or faces changes. Houston’s market can change quickly (for instance, port congestion or new regulations). Having a consultant means you have someone keeping an eye on the big picture of your supply chain. Need to add another warehouse on the West Coast while keeping Houston as a hub? We can advise and facilitate that. Essentially, we become an extension of your team’s logistics expertise.

In a city as dynamic and industry-rich as Houston, a one-size-fits-all approach rarely works for the supply chain. A logistic service provider that is perfect for one company might not suit the next. By working with a consultancy like Rite Prep Fulfillment, you gain an impartial ally that’s focused on your best interests. Our consultancy model is all about finding logistics solution fit, the right mix of services at the right cost, rather than selling you any single company’s offering. Think of us as your logistics matchmaker and advisor, ensuring your partnership with any of Houston’s top logistics companies is set up for long-term success. For instance, if you search online for shipping companies in Houston Texas, you’ll see many of the same names we’ve covered here.

For more insights on outsourcing inventory and fulfillment to third-party providers, see our guide on warehousing 3PL and how it can optimize your operations.

Ready to streamline your supply chain with the ideal partner? Feel free to reach out to Rite Prep Fulfillment for a personalized consultation. We’ll help you transform Houston’s vibrant logistics landscape into a competitive advantage for your business.

Also Read: 3rd Party Shipping and Fulfillment

FAQs

What are the major companies in Houston, Texas?

Houston is a powerhouse city, home to many major companies across various industries. In terms of Fortune 500 headquarters, Houston’s major companies include several oil & gas giants and other large corporations. For example, ExxonMobil, Chevron, Phillips 66, and Sysco are all among the Fortune 500 companies based in the Houston area.

How much does a logistics specialist make in Houston, Texas?

A logistics specialist in Houston can expect a competitive salary that varies based on experience, industry, and the specific role. According to Salary.com, the average logistics specialist salary in Houston is around $42,785 per year (with a typical range between about $38,000 and $48,000 annually). However, other estimates are higher; for instance, Glassdoor reports an average closer to $81,000 per year for logistics specialists in Houston. This disparity can be due to different definitions of the role.

Which company is best for logistics?

There isn’t a single best logistics company for every situation; it truly depends on your specific needs and what aspect of logistics you’re focused on. Globally, some of the top logistics companies (by reputation and size) include DHL Supply Chain, UPS (United Parcel Service), FedEx, Kuehne + Nagel, and C.H. Robinson, among others. These large 3PLs and carriers are often considered the best in terms of worldwide network and services.

Who is the biggest logistics company in the USA?

The title of the biggest logistics company in the USA is often determined by revenue and scale of operations. By that measure, UPS (United Parcel Service) is frequently cited as the largest. UPS leads U.S. logistics companies with about $91 billion in revenue and operations spanning over 200 countries. Close contenders in size include FedEx, which also has massive revenues, and Amazon’s logistics network, which has grown rapidly (Amazon Logistics isn’t a third-party provider in the traditional sense, but its in-house delivery operation is now enormous).

What is the biggest industry in Houston, Texas?

Houston’s economy is diverse, but the biggest industry in Houston is unquestionably the energy sector, especially oil and gas. Often dubbed the Energy Capital of the World, Houston has a concentration of exploration, production, oilfield services, and petrochemical companies. The economy of Houston is based primarily on the energy industry, particularly oil. Many major oil & gas companies (ExxonMobil, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, Shell’s U.S. operations, etc.) have headquarters or significant operations in Houston.

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