INO Summit 2025 Gold Sponsor | Driving Success Together
Our senior member and the INO Summit 2025 Gold Sponsor, Merc Logistics (India) Pvt. Ltd., holds a strong position in the logistics industry, making significant contributions to international trade. A valued member of our network since 2015, Merc Logistics (India) Pvt. Ltd. has consistently supported our INO Summit events with their sponsorship, reinforcing their commitment to industry collaboration and growth. As Freight Midpoint (FM), we conducted an exclusive interview with Prakash Iyer from Merc Logistics (India) Pvt. Ltd. to learn more about their success and vision:
Could you share the story behind your company’s entry into the freight forwarding industry and how it has evolved over time?
"Merc Logistics India Pvt Ltd was established on 13 July 2012 with its corporate office in Mumbai and an initial branch office in Chennai. Within a few months, by December 2012, we expanded our operations by opening branches in Bangalore and Delhi. Over the years, we continued to grow steadily, establishing a presence in almost all major port cities across India. Recognizing the potential for further growth in ocean freight, we recently opened another office in Nhava Sheva, India’s largest container port, to enhance our ocean freight operations and cater to the evolving needs of our clients.
Our journey has been marked by a continuous commitment to excellence and innovation, enabling us to provide seamless and competitive logistics solutions to a wide range of industries. This growth trajectory underscores our dedication to becoming a leading player in the freight forwarding industry."
Could you highlight key milestones in your company’s history and how your experience has shaped your position in the market today?
"Since our inception, Merc Logistics India Pvt Ltd has achieved several key milestones that have contributed to our strong market position:
- Accreditations: We are accredited by industry-leading organizations, including IATA and FIATA, and hold a license from the Director General of Shipping for ocean shipments and an import manifest license. These accreditations reflect our adherence to global logistics standards. Additionally, we are part of many active freight forwarding associations in India, enhancing our contributions to the industry.
- In-house Custom Clearance: We have built a highly skilled in-house customs clearance team, ensuring faster and smoother processing of shipments.
- Transit Warehouses: Our strategically located transit warehouses enhance our operational efficiency and enable us to offer robust storage solutions.
- Dedicated Staff: Our experienced and dedicated workforce across all departments plays a crucial role in delivering exceptional service.
- Business Expertise: Garnering business from esteemed business conglomerates, handling DG Cargo, and serving niche trade lanes.
These achievements have positioned us as a trusted name in the logistics industry, recognized for our reliable and customer-centric approach."
Which services do you offer, and what distinguishes your company from other freight forwarders in your country?
"We offer a comprehensive range of logistics services, including:
- Air and Ocean Freight (export and import solutions)
- Custom Clearance: Comprehensive customs documentation and compliance.
- Warehousing: Secure storage facilities.
- Transportation: Efficient road transport services.
- Door Deliveries: End-to-end delivery solutions.
- Import Manifest Filing: Accurate and timely filing.
- Buyer Consol Services: Streamlined buyer consolidation solutions.
What sets us apart from other freight forwarders in India is our:
- Experienced Staff: Our dedicated teams ensure timely and competent services.
- Transparent Operations: We maintain complete transparency in our processes.
- Prompt Responses: Quick and competitive responses to customer inquiries.
- Customer-Centric Approach: Tailoring services to meet individual customer needs, which gives us a competitive edge in the market.
- Consultative Approach: Offering a one-stop solution to cater to large and small business conglomerates who consign high-value and complex cargo to us. We leverage in-house expertise and external collaborative partners to resolve clients' matters efficiently, at a fair cost, and on time.
Our focus on transparency, efficiency, and a proactive approach has earned us a reputation for reliability and innovation."
What opportunities for improvement do you see in the freight forwarding industry, and how do you think companies can address them?
"The freight forwarding industry is continuously evolving and growing, even in the face of numerous challenges. The contributions of freight forwarding and supply chain companies are pivotal in strengthening the GDP growth of every country. Import, export, and supply chain services are crucial for any developing economy.
There are several opportunities for improvement:
- Digitalization: Leveraging technology for better visibility and efficiency in operations.
- Sustainability: Implementing eco-friendly logistics solutions to reduce carbon footprints.
- Enhanced Collaboration: Strengthening partnerships across the supply chain for seamless operations.
- Skill Development: Investing in training programs to upskill the workforce and stay competitive.
Companies that can adapt to these changes and capitalize on technological advancements will be better positioned to thrive in this dynamic industry."
From your perspective, what is the value of being part of a logistics network, and how has your experience with our network contributed to your success?
"Being part of a global logistics network is both exciting and challenging. These networks provide invaluable opportunities to connect with international agents and partners. The ability to meet face-to-face at network conferences saves both time and money for forwarding companies while fostering stronger professional relationships.
Our experience with your network has been instrumental in our success. It has allowed us to explore new business opportunities, strengthen relationships with overseas agents, and stay updated on global logistics trends. The collaborative environment offered by such networks has greatly contributed to our growth and enhanced our service offerings to clients."
We sincerely appreciate MERC LOGISTICS (INDIA) PVT. LTD. for their continued trust and support. Their commitment to excellence and industry collaboration is truly commendable, and we look forward to welcoming them at INO Summit 2025 for another successful gathering of global freight forwarders!