The courier and logistics industry plays a crucial role in the global economy, facilitating the movement of goods and services across borders and continents. This sector has seen tremendous growth due to globalization, e-commerce expansion, and technological advancements. In this article, we will delve into the world's most famous courier and logistics companies, examining their histories, operations, and potential in terms of revenues.

1. United Parcel Service (UPS)

History and Operations

Founded in 1907 in Seattle, Washington, United Parcel Service (UPS) has grown from a small messenger company into a global logistics powerhouse. UPS provides a broad range of solutions, including transportation, distribution, contract logistics, and customs brokerage.


UPS operates in more than 220 countries and territories, employing over 540,000 people. Its extensive network includes ground, air, and ocean freight services, making it one of the most versatile logistics companies in the world.

Revenue Potential

UPS reported a revenue of $97.3 billion in 2021. With the continued growth of e-commerce and the increasing demand for reliable supply chain solutions, UPS's revenue potential remains robust. The company's strategic investments in technology and sustainability further enhance its competitive edge and revenue prospects.

2. FedEx Corporation

History and Operations

FedEx Corporation, founded in 1971 by Frederick W. Smith, revolutionized the logistics industry with its overnight shipping service. Headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, FedEx offers express transportation, e-commerce, and business services globally.


FedEx operates through various segments, including FedEx Express, FedEx Ground, FedEx Freight, and FedEx Services. The company employs over 500,000 people and operates in more than 220 countries and territories.

Timeline of FedEx Milestones and Achievements

1973

  • Federal Express establishes operations.
  • On the first night of continuous operation, 389 employees and 14 Dassault Falcon jets deliver 186 packages to 25 U.S. cities.

1983

  • Federal Express reaches US$1 billion in revenue – the first U.S. business to achieve this status without merger or acquisition.
  • Acquired Flying Korea Co. Ltd. as a GSA of FedEx in South Korea.

1985

  • Regularly scheduled flights to Europe begin.

1989

  • FedEx Express establishes direct operations in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
  • Federal Express purchases Flying Tigers to expand its international presence.

1991

  • ExpressFreighter® is introduced to provide overnight delivery between the U.S., Europe, and Asia.

1994

  • FedEx launches fedex.com, the first transportation website to offer online package status tracking, enabling customers to conduct business via the Internet.
  • FedEx achieves ISO 9001 certification for its global operations – the first major carrier to earn this quality standard.

1996

  • FedEx becomes the first company to allow customers to process shipments online with the introduction of FedEx interNetShip® (now FedEx Ship Manager®).

1997

  • FedEx launches an around-the-world flight, significantly reducing transit times from Europe to the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent, and Asia. This flight also marks the introduction of the first regular express transportation service to Mumbai, India.

1999

  • FedEx launches FedEx EuroOne® Network, opening a hub at Roissy-Charles de Gaulle airport in France.
  • FedEx extends its gateway in Frankfurt, nearly doubling its size. Package handling/sort capacity increases by 70%, and sort speed increases by more than 60%.
  • Launch of an improved FedEx International Priority service through the new FedEx EuroOne Network, featuring later pickup times and earlier deliveries for European customers.

2010

  • FedEx Express opens a new, state-of-the-art hub at the Cologne/Bonn airport, becoming the company’s new Central and Eastern European gateway and FedEx’s largest solar-powered hub worldwide.
  • FedEx Express launches a direct roundtrip flight operating five days a week between Hong Kong and Paris—the first provider to offer a next-business-day service from Hong Kong to Europe.

2011

  • FedEx Express acquires the logistics, distribution, and express businesses of AFL Pvt. Ltd and its affiliate Unifreight India Pvt. Ltd. in India.
  • FedEx Express launches a new flight between India and the FedEx Asia Pacific hub at Baiyun International Airport Guangzhou, Southern China to provide better connectivity and improved services.
  • FedEx Express launches a new Boeing 777 intercontinental flight route to improve connectivity between India, Europe, Middle East, and the US.
  • FedEx European Hub at CDG obtains ISO 14001:2004 Environmental Certification.
  • FedEx Express strengthens its commitment to the environment by opening a state-of-the-art, eco-sustainable distribution center in Machelen, Belgium.
  • FedEx Express is named among the Top Five of the “World’s Best Multinational Workplaces” by the Great Places to Work Institute.
  • FedEx Express opens a new station in Belfast and launches a new daily flight offering next-day service to Europe and the East Coast of the US, as well as a two-business-day service to Asia and the rest of the US.
  • FedEx Express launches a new green delivery initiative in France by introducing seven electronically-assisted tricycles for package deliveries and collections in three separate districts in Paris.

2012

  • FedEx Express is named a Business Superbrand in the UK for 2012.
  • From June 2011 to May 2012, FedEx Express announces the opening of 38 stations in France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.
  • From June 2011 to May 2012, FedEx Express launches four new Boeing 757s, offering next-business-day services to FedEx Express customers in Oslo and significantly improving services for customers in Sweden, Finland, UK, and the Netherlands through faster transit times and extended cut-off times.
  • FedEx Express becomes the first operator to launch a regular Boeing 777F service to and from Cologne, reducing environmental and noise impacts.
  • FedEx Express acquires Polish shipping company Opek Sp.z o.o.
  • FedEx Express becomes the first transportation company globally to launch carbon-neutral shipping for all FedEx envelopes at no extra charge to its customers.
  • FedEx Express acquires TATEX, a leading French business-to-business express transportation company.
  • FedEx Express is named Super Eco-Airline of the Year 2012 by Air Transport World.
  • FedEx Express launches a new international B777 route between Milan, Italy, and Memphis, US, with a stop in Munich, Germany once a week.
  • FedEx Express announces the launch of SenseAware in the UK, a service providing real-time access to a package’s vital statistics during transit or stationary periods, with broader international availability and the ability to use the service with carriers outside the FedEx network.
  • FedEx Express rolls out its ‘Priority Alert’ and ‘Priority Alert Plus’ services to an additional 29 countries across EMEA.
  • FedEx Express launches a new Twitter handle for EMEA, home to the latest news, events, and European announcements.
  • FedEx Express announces the opening of 38 stations in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Middle East, and Sweden.
  • FedEx Express introduces a direct route from Gdansk, Poland to Paris’s Roissy-Charles de Gaulle airport four times a week, connecting Northern Poland to the global network through the main European hub, extending pickup and delivery times for customers within the region.
  • FedEx Express opens a new facility in Al Garhoud, Dubai to accommodate growing shipping demands. The new facility houses an operating station, 24/7 customer service call center, and a retail service center.

2013

  • FedEx Express transports two giant pandas from Chengdu, China, to Toronto Zoo, Canada aboard an MD-11 aircraft.
  • FedEx Express wins several awards including being voted in the top 20 Business Superbrands in the UK, named as an Outstanding Employer by CRF Institute, and awarded first place in the Supply Chain Integrity Innovator of the Year category at the Cool Chain Logistics 2013 Europe Excellence Awards.
  • Continuing its commitment to local communities, FedEx Express donates $50,000 USD to SOS-Kinderdorf e.V. (SOS Children’s Villages) in Berlin. In Munich, FedEx Express supported the student initiative Plant for the Planet, which saw 600 trees planted within the Rhein-Sieg District.
  • FedEx Express Belgium, France, and Ireland are recognized by the Great Place to Work institute.
  • FedEx Express surpasses its vehicle fuel efficiency goals ahead of schedule, achieving more than a 22 percent cumulative improvement in fuel economy for its vehicles.

Revenue Potential

In 2021, FedEx reported a revenue of $83.9 billion. The company’s revenue potential is driven by its strategic focus on e-commerce, healthcare logistics, and international expansion. FedEx's continuous innovation and investment in technology, such as autonomous delivery robots and drones, position it well for future growth.


3. DHL Express (Deutsche Post DHL Group)

History and Operations

DHL, founded in the United States in 1969, is now a part of Deutsche Post DHL Group, a German logistics company. DHL Express specializes in international express mail services and operates in over 220 countries and territories.

DHL's operations are divided into four key divisions: DHL Express, DHL Global Forwarding, DHL Supply Chain, and DHL eCommerce Solutions. This diversified approach allows DHL to offer a comprehensive range of logistics solutions, from international parcel delivery to complex supply chain management.

Revenue Potential

Deutsche Post DHL Group reported a revenue of €81.7 billion ($96.4 billion) in 2021. DHL's revenue potential is significant, given its strong presence in emerging markets and its strategic focus on e-commerce and digitalization. The company’s investments in green logistics and sustainability initiatives also enhance its long-term growth prospects.

4. SF Express

History and Operations

Founded in 1993, SF Express is a leading Chinese courier company headquartered in Shenzhen, China. SF Express offers a wide range of services, including express delivery, freight forwarding, and supply chain solutions.

The company operates an extensive network in China and has expanded its international presence in recent years. SF Express is known for its advanced logistics technology and efficient delivery services, making it a preferred choice for many e-commerce businesses.

Revenue Potential

SF Express reported a revenue of ¥135.2 billion ($21.1 billion) in 2021. With the rapid growth of e-commerce in China and the increasing demand for cross-border logistics solutions, SF Express has significant revenue potential. The company’s focus on technological innovation and international expansion further strengthens its growth prospects.

5. Japan Post Group

History and Operations

Japan Post Group, established in 2007, is a state-owned enterprise that provides postal and logistics services in Japan. The company operates through various segments, including Japan Post Co., Japan Post Bank, and Japan Post Insurance.

Japan Post Co. offers domestic and international mail services, logistics solutions, and real estate management. The company has a vast network of post offices and logistics centers across Japan, ensuring comprehensive coverage and reliable services.

Revenue Potential

Japan Post Group reported a revenue of ¥11.2 trillion ($102 billion) in 2021. The company’s revenue potential is supported by its dominant position in the Japanese market and its efforts to diversify its services. Japan Post Group's focus on digital transformation and strategic partnerships further enhances its growth prospects.

6. Royal Mail

History and Operations

Founded in 1516, Royal Mail is one of the oldest postal services in the world. Headquartered in London, the company provides mail collection and delivery services across the United Kingdom and international logistics solutions through its subsidiary, Parcelforce Worldwide.

Royal Mail operates a vast network of sorting offices, post offices, and delivery vehicles, ensuring reliable and efficient services. The company has also invested in technology to enhance its operations and meet the growing demand for e-commerce deliveries.

Revenue Potential

Royal Mail reported a revenue of £12.6 billion ($16.8 billion) in 2021. The company's revenue potential is driven by the growth of e-commerce and its focus on improving operational efficiency. Royal Mail’s investments in automation and digital solutions further strengthen its long-term growth prospects.

7. Singapore Post (SingPost)

History and Operations

Singapore Post, commonly known as SingPost, is the national postal service provider in Singapore. Founded in 1819, SingPost offers a range of services, including mail delivery, logistics solutions, and e-commerce logistics.

SingPost operates a comprehensive network of post offices, logistics centers, and delivery vehicles across Singapore and internationally. The company has also expanded its e-commerce logistics capabilities, providing end-to-end solutions for online retailers.

Revenue Potential

SingPost reported a revenue of S$1.4 billion ($1.03 billion) in 2021. The company's revenue potential is supported by the rapid growth of e-commerce in Asia and its strategic focus on expanding its logistics network. SingPost’s investments in technology and automation further enhance its competitive position and growth prospects.

8. Aramex

History and Operations

Aramex, founded in 1982 in Jordan, is a global provider of comprehensive logistics and transportation solutions. Headquartered in Dubai, the company offers express delivery, freight forwarding, logistics, and supply chain management services.


Aramex operates in over 70 countries, providing reliable and efficient logistics solutions to a diverse range of customers. The company is known for its innovative approach and strategic focus on emerging markets.

Revenue Potential

Aramex reported a revenue of AED 5.5 billion ($1.5 billion) in 2021. The company’s revenue potential is driven by its strong presence in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and its focus on expanding its global network. Aramex’s investments in technology and sustainable logistics further strengthen its growth prospects.

9. La Poste Group

History and Operations

La Poste Group is the national postal service of France, founded in 1576. Headquartered in Paris, the company provides mail delivery, logistics, and financial services through its various subsidiaries, including GeoPost and DPDgroup.

La Poste operates a vast network of post offices, sorting centers, and delivery vehicles across France and internationally. The company has also expanded its e-commerce logistics capabilities, offering end-to-end solutions for online retailers.

Revenue Potential

La Poste Group reported a revenue of €33.5 billion ($39.5 billion) in 2021. The company’s revenue potential is supported by its dominant position in the French market and its strategic focus on international expansion. La Poste’s investments in technology and digital transformation further enhance its competitive position and growth prospects.

10. China Post Group

History and Operations

China Post Group, established in 1949, is the national postal service provider in China. Headquartered in Beijing, the company offers a range of services, including mail delivery, logistics, and financial services.


China Post operates an extensive network of post offices, sorting centers, and delivery vehicles across China. The company has also expanded its logistics capabilities, providing comprehensive solutions for e-commerce and international trade.

Revenue Potential

China Post Group reported a revenue of ¥937 billion ($146 billion) in 2021. The company’s revenue potential is driven by the rapid growth of e-commerce in China and its focus on expanding its logistics network. China Post’s investments in technology and automation further enhance its competitive position and growth prospects.

Role of Courier and Logistics Industry in Economy

The courier and logistics industry is a vital component of the global economy, facilitating the movement of goods and services across borders and continents. The world's most famous courier and logistics companies, including UPS, FedEx, DHL, SF Express, Japan Post Group, Royal Mail, SingPost, Aramex, La Poste Group, and China Post Group, have demonstrated significant revenue potential through their extensive networks, innovative solutions, and strategic investments.

As e-commerce continues to grow and supply chains become more complex, the demand for reliable and efficient logistics solutions will only increase. These companies are well-positioned to capitalize on these trends, driving revenue growth and enhancing their competitive positions in the global market. Through continuous innovation and strategic expansion, the leading courier and logistics companies will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the future of global trade and commerce.