Top European Container Shipping Companies are at the core of global maritime trade, moving millions of TEU across major routes and shaping the future of logistics. Based on the latest figures from Alphaliner, this ranking highlights the ten largest container carriers headquartered in Europe. From worldwide leaders like MSC, Maersk, and CMA CGM to regional specialists, these companies define Europe’s critical role in containerized shipping.
1. Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) – Switzerland
MSC, based in Geneva, tops the global and European charts with 6,800,658 TEU. Founded in 1970, it includes WEC Lines and Log-In Logistica. With a 20.8% global market share, MSC rules major trade routes
2. A.P. Møller – Maersk – Denmark
Copenhagen-based Maersk operates 4,630,676 TEU. It covers Maersk A/S, Hamburg Süd, Aliança, and Sealand brands across Asia, Americas, and Europe & Med. Holding a 14.2% market share, Maersk pushes for sustainable shipping.
3. CMA CGM Group – France
Marseille’s CMA CGM ranks third worldwide with 4,044,619 TEU. Its subsidiaries, including APL, ANL, CNC, and Containerships, secure a 12.3% market share. The group excels in Asia-Europe routes and green tech.
4. Hapag-Lloyd – Germany
Hamburg’s Hapag-Lloyd manages 2,393,209 TEU. It integrates NileDutch, DAL, and the former UASC fleet, with a 7.5% global share. The company thrives in transatlantic and African routes.
5. Unifeeder – Denmark
Aarhus-based Unifeeder runs around 139,000 TEU across 86 vessels. A key feeder operator, it includes Unimed Feeder Services, Feedertech, and Transworld Feeders, focusing on Baltic and North Sea short-sea routes.
6. Grimaldi Group – Italy
Naples-based Grimaldi handles an estimated 100,000 TEU, specializing in Ro-Ro and container services. Including Atlantic Container Line and Finnlines, it’s strong in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.
7. FESCO Transport Group – Russia
FESCO, with a European presence, operates roughly 110,000 TEU. Including FESCO ESF, it supports Asia-Europe routes via Russia, bolstering Eastern European logistics.
8. Arkas Line – Turkey
Izmir’s Arkas Line manages about 70,000 TEU. A leading feeder operator, it serves the Mediterranean and Black Sea, enhancing regional trade networks.
9. Samskip – Netherlands
Rotterdam’s Samskip operates around 40,000 TEU. With Nor Lines A/S and Seaconnect, it focuses on multimodal services in Northern Europe, prioritizing sustainability.
10. Peel Ports Group / BG Freight – United Kingdom
Liverpool’s Peel Ports, via BG Freight, handles approximately 30,000 TEU. It focuses on Irish Sea short-sea routes, supporting regional trade.
From global leaders to regional specialists, Europe’s shipping industry continues to play a vital role in connecting markets and supporting international trade.
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