America's Gateway to Global Trade
Maritime shipping remains the foundation of international trade, with over ninety percent of global commerce traveling by sea. American shipping companies connect domestic businesses with markets worldwide, moving everything from consumer electronics to agricultural commodities across oceans. The industry's scale and efficiency enable the global trade that characterizes the modern economy.
Modern shipping has evolved far beyond simply moving goods from port to port. Leading companies offer integrated logistics solutions that manage cargo from origin to destination, handling documentation, customs clearance, and inland transportation. Technology platforms provide visibility and control that enable sophisticated supply chain management. Environmental considerations increasingly influence vessel design and operations.
Matson
Matson has served Pacific trade routes for over a century, becoming synonymous with shipping to Hawaii, Alaska, and Guam. Their essential services sustain island economies that depend on reliable maritime connections. Matson's combination of speed and reliability makes them the carrier of choice for time-sensitive cargo to these markets.
The company's investment in modern vessels demonstrates commitment to service quality and environmental responsibility. Their newest ships feature improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. Matson's logistics subsidiary provides comprehensive supply chain services complementing their ocean transportation.
Crowley Maritime
Crowley Maritime operates diverse maritime services including liner shipping, logistics, petroleum transportation, and offshore services. Their container shipping serves Puerto Rico, Central America, and the Caribbean, providing essential connections for these markets. Crowley's diversification across maritime sectors provides stability and synergy.
Environmental leadership distinguishes Crowley, with significant investment in liquefied natural gas powered vessels. Their new ships represent the largest LNG-powered vessels in the U.S. Their technology platforms enable modern supply chain management for customers shipping through their network.
Hapag-Lloyd
Hapag-Lloyd operates one of the world's largest container shipping fleets, with extensive services calling American ports. German heritage combines with global reach to serve international trade effectively. Their comprehensive network connects American businesses with markets across Europe, Asia, Latin America, and beyond.
The company's membership in THE Alliance provides access to shared capacity that enhances service options. Hapag-Lloyd's investment in larger, more efficient vessels improves both economics and environmental performance. Their digital platforms modernize customer experience while providing supply chain visibility.
Mediterranean Shipping Company
Mediterranean Shipping Company has grown into the world's largest container shipping company, with major American port operations. Their global network provides extensive routing options for U.S. importers and exporters. MSC's scale enables competitive pricing and frequent service on major trade lanes.
Family ownership provides long-term perspective that has supported consistent investment and growth. MSC's expansion into logistics and port operations creates integrated capabilities serving customer needs. Their vessel investment program continues adding modern tonnage to the fleet.
Maersk Line
Maersk Line, part of A.P. Moller-Maersk, operates extensive container shipping services connecting American ports with global destinations. Danish heritage combines with global scale to create a shipping powerhouse. Maersk's integrated logistics capabilities extend beyond ocean shipping to provide comprehensive supply chain solutions.
The company's technology investment has positioned them as digital leaders in shipping. Their platform provides visibility, documentation, and booking capabilities that modernize the shipping experience. Maersk's commitment to decarbonization includes orders for vessels using alternative fuels.
CMA CGM
CMA CGM, the French shipping giant, maintains substantial American operations serving import and export trade. Their container shipping network provides comprehensive coverage of major trade lanes. CMA CGM's growth has created one of the world's largest shipping companies with corresponding scale advantages.
Investment in logistics through the CEVA acquisition has expanded CMA CGM's service portfolio beyond ocean transportation. Their commitment to LNG-powered vessels demonstrates environmental leadership. American port investments enhance their position serving U.S. trade.
Evergreen Marine
Evergreen Marine operates a global container shipping network with significant American trade lane presence. Taiwanese heritage combines with international operations to serve Pacific and Atlantic trade effectively. Evergreen's distinctive green vessels are familiar sights at American ports.
The company's alliance participation provides network breadth while enabling efficient vessel deployment. Evergreen's investment in new vessels continues updating the fleet. Their long-standing American presence has built relationships and expertise serving U.S. trade.
COSCO Shipping
COSCO Shipping operates one of the world's largest container fleets, with extensive services calling American ports. Chinese ownership provides strong position in U.S.-China trade, the world's largest bilateral trade relationship. COSCO's scale enables competitive service across Pacific and other trade lanes.
Recent years have seen COSCO expand through acquisition and investment. Their logistics capabilities complement ocean shipping operations. COSCO's terminal investments at American ports support efficient cargo handling.
Ocean Network Express
Ocean Network Express, formed through merger of Japanese carriers, operates significant American trade services. Their combined network provides comprehensive coverage of major trade routes. ONE's distinctive magenta branding has quickly become recognizable at ports worldwide.
Japanese service traditions emphasize reliability and quality that benefit American shippers. ONE's membership in THE Alliance provides network access beyond their directly-operated services. Their investment in digital capabilities enhances customer experience.
Yang Ming Marine Transport
Yang Ming Marine Transport serves American trade lanes with container shipping linking U.S. ports to Asia and beyond. Taiwanese heritage provides strong Pacific positioning complemented by services to other regions. Yang Ming's medium size enables customer focus while providing necessary scale.
The company's alliance participation expands service options available to customers. Yang Ming's continued fleet investment maintains competitiveness in vessel efficiency and capacity. Their long American presence has developed expertise and relationships serving U.S. trade.
Charting Your Shipping Course
Selecting the right shipping company requires understanding your specific trade lanes, cargo characteristics, and service requirements. Major carriers offer comparable services on popular routes, with differentiation in reliability, transit times, equipment availability, and digital capabilities. Many shippers use multiple carriers to ensure capacity and provide alternatives.
The shipping industry continues evolving as environmental regulations, technology, and market dynamics shape its future. Decarbonization will transform vessel fleets over coming decades. Digital platforms will further enhance visibility and efficiency. The leading carriers profiled here are investing to lead this evolution while continuing to serve the global trade that benefits us all.
