Hamburg - Alfons Koester & Co. GmbH (Hamburg, Head Office)
Alfons Köster & Co. GmbH is a longstanding international freight forwarder established in 1929 and headquartered in Hamburg, Germany. The group operates as an independent, midsize company with multiple German locations and subsidiaries in the Czech Republic and China, providing a broad range of logistics services through its own offices and an extensive network of partners. The company highlights a commitment to a complete supply chain service, from planning through to delivery at the destination, leveraging its in-house know-how and a standardized approach to ensure consistent performance across assignments.
With a workforce of around 160 trained employees, Alfons Köster emphasizes its ability to manage both import and export movements across ocean and air modes. Key capabilities include ocean freight (import and export) and airfreight (import and export), complemented by warehousing and storage, European distribution, customs brokerage, and seabourne packing. The organization positions itself as a globally connected, undertenured partner in logistics, backed by memberships in a broader shipping group and a network that spans numerous countries through affiliates and contracted agents. The company asserts a track record of reliability and project execution, with examples of on-time operations supported by monitoring and coordination across its network.
Alfons Köster & Co. GmbH participates in international shipping collaborations and maintains a client-focused approach that emphasizes the ability to handle varied cargo profiles. The Hamburg head office coordinates operations, fleet and personnel across the German footprint, while leveraging worldwide agents to serve destinations far beyond its physical offices. The company’s stated mission centers on effective boarding and safe, controlled handling of shipments, even in challenging times, with a demonstrated emphasis on risk management and proactive planning. The organization notes industry recognition and awards for service quality, reflecting its commitment to maintaining high standards across its service lines.
As part of its service spectrum, Alfons Köster communicates capabilities in import and export handling, coordination of customs procedures, and value-added services related to packaging and warehousing. The firm points to its long-standing presence in the market, a robust network through United Shipping affiliated entities, and continuous investment in experienced staff to deliver dependable logistics solutions. While the profile emphasizes its regional strength in Germany and Europe, it also references its global reach through a network of over 200 specialists and a worldwide agent base that supports end-to-end logistics delivery. The combination of local expertise and international partnerships positions Alfons Köster as a versatile partner for customers seeking comprehensive freight forwarding and logistics management across multiple modes and regions.
Note: Specific service details, capabilities, and case studies are referenced in corporate materials and online content, highlighting the company’s capacity to manage complex shipments, including high-value projects and time-sensitive consignments when required. The Hamburg office serves as the hub for operations in northern Germany and coordinates with the broader group to meet client specifications across the supply chain.
