The World’s Biggest Container Shipping Companies Ranked

As of March 2025, the global container shipping industry is dominated by a select group of companies that manage vast fleets and extensive logistics networks. These top ten container shipping companies are pivotal in facilitating international trade, connecting markets, and driving economic growth.

1. Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)

Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, MSC has emerged as the world's largest container shipping company, boasting a fleet capacity of approximately 6.4 million TEUs across 889 vessels, accounting for 20.2% of the global market share. Founded in 1970 by Gianluigi Aponte, MSC has expanded its operations beyond maritime shipping to include rail freight, cruise lines, and air cargo services. The company continues to invest in ultra-large container vessels, such as the 24,346 TEU MSC Irina, to enhance its service offerings.

2. Maersk

Denmark-based Maersk, with a fleet capacity of 4.5 million TEUs and 735 ships, holds a 14.3% share of the global container shipping market. Established in 1904, Maersk has evolved into a comprehensive logistics provider, offering end-to-end supply chain solutions. The company is a key member of the Gemini Alliance, collaborating with other major carriers to optimize service routes and schedules.

3. CMA CGM

French shipping giant CMA CGM ranks third globally, operating 664 vessels with a combined capacity of 3.9 million TEUs, representing 12.7% of the market. Under the leadership of CEO Rodolphe Saadé, the company has diversified its portfolio by acquiring logistics firms and investing in media outlets, such as France's leading news channel BFM-TV. CMA CGM is a prominent member of the Ocean Alliance, enhancing its global reach and service efficiency.

4. COSCO Shipping Lines

China's COSCO Shipping Lines operates 519 ships with a total capacity of 3.35 million TEUs, capturing 10.6% of the global market. As a state-owned enterprise, COSCO has expanded its fleet through strategic mergers and acquisitions, including the integration of China Shipping Container Lines and Orient Overseas Container Line. The company is actively investing in environmentally friendly technologies, such as methanol-powered vessels, to align with global sustainability goals.

5. Hapag-Lloyd

German carrier Hapag-Lloyd ranks fifth, managing a fleet of 300 ships with a combined capacity of 2.35 million TEUs, accounting for 7.4% of the market. Formed through the merger of Hamburg-American Line and Norddeutscher Lloyd in 1970, Hapag-Lloyd has a rich maritime heritage. The company is a member of the Gemini Alliance and has expanded its operations through mergers with CP Ships and United Arab Shipping Company.

6. Ocean Network Express (ONE)

Ocean Network Express, a Japanese consortium formed by the merger of NYK Line, MOL, and K Line, operates 257 vessels with a total capacity of 1.98 million TEUs, representing 6.2% of the global market. Headquartered in Singapore, ONE is a key player in the Premier Alliance, focusing on enhancing service quality and operational efficiency across major trade lanes.

7. Evergreen Marine Corporation

Taiwan's Evergreen Marine Corporation manages a fleet of 225 ships with a combined capacity of 1.79 million TEUs, capturing 5.7% of the market. The company is renowned for its commitment to innovation and sustainability, exemplified by its investment in next-generation vessels and participation in the Ocean Alliance to expand its global service network.

8. HMM Co., Ltd.

South Korea's HMM Co., Ltd. operates 83 vessels with a total capacity of 913,867 TEUs, accounting for 2.9% of the global market. As a member of the Premier Alliance, HMM focuses on enhancing its competitiveness through fleet modernization and strategic partnerships. The company has introduced some of the world's largest container ships, such as the HMM Algeciras, to strengthen its position in the industry.

9. ZIM Integrated Shipping Services

Israel-based ZIM Integrated Shipping Services operates 130 vessels with a combined capacity of 781,026 TEUs, representing 2.5% of the market. Known for its agile and customer-centric approach, ZIM has invested in digital technologies to enhance service reliability and efficiency. The company continues to expand its global footprint through strategic alliances and innovative service offerings.

10. Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation

Taiwan's Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation manages a fleet of 98 ships with a total capacity of 711,393 TEUs, capturing 2.2% of the global market. As a member of the Premier Alliance, Yang Ming focuses on providing comprehensive and reliable shipping services across major trade routes, leveraging its strategic partnerships to enhance operational efficiency.

These top ten container shipping companies play a crucial role in facilitating global trade in 2025, each bringing unique strengths and strategic approaches to the industry. Their continued investments in fleet expansion, technological innovation, and strategic alliances underscore their commitment to meeting the evolving demands of international commerce.

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