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Upasana Das

Upasana is a content marketing analyst at WareIQ. She has more than 5 years of experience in content development and copywriting. Her key responsibilities include writing well-researched SEO-based blogs. Her niche of writing expertise includes supply chain, eCommerce, warehousing and fulfilment, and SaaS, among others.

Top 10 Freight Forwarding Companies in India in 2024

Top 10 Freight Forwarding Companies in India in 2024

When we discuss a profitable business, we must consider the active role that imports and exports play in its making. International transportation through commercial shipping has allowed businesses to trade and expand globally, create new opportunities as well as develop a global presence. However, smooth logistics requires extensive technical expertise and error-free strategies. It is important to have complete knowledge of the standard protocols of each country, the ability to manage external crises, and at the same time, have a strong network for the supply chain. This is when shippers in India need freight forwarding companies, to execute critical tasks like customs brokerage, container tracking, cargo planning and scheduling, documentation, insurance, and much more.  In this article, we will talk about the top 10 Freight forwarding companies in India in 2024 and the type of services they provide so that you can hand over the complication of logistics for your business to the right freight forwarder.  What is Freight Forwarding? Freight forwarders are an entity that specializes in the arrangement, handling, and maintenance of cargo on behalf of the shippers. Freight forwarders usually operate as a firm to provide extensive services such as transportation via air or ships, cargo documentation and insurance, licenses, storage, and warehouse services, customs documentation, shipment tracking, negotiating shipping rates, and a lot more.  The global markets function due to the inevitably of the international supply chains, which are usually honed and operated by freight forwarding companies. It is safe to say that these firms are extremely reliable and allows businesses to not only grow but also focus their resources on other essential aspects. This is why it is essential to know the top freight forwarding companies in india [contactus_lilgoodness] List of the Top Freight Forwarding Companies in India Professional freight forwarders in India are equipped to handle any crisis at their watch; moreover, with the right freight partner, you can expect lesser complications during delivery and more time to focus on incremental aspects of your business. Let us check out the top 10 freight forwarding companies in India that are listed below. 1. LORDS Freight India Pvt Ltd Source Mahindra Logistics' wholly-owned subsidiary, LORDS Freight India Pvt Ltd, specializes in Freight Forwarding services for air and ocean exports and imports. LORDS provides exceptional freight services in operations related to airfreight, ocean freight, customs brokerage, project cargo, and FCL/LCL services. LORDS serves customers from diverse industries, including Automotive, Engineering, Pharmaceutical, Fashion, Retail, Telecom, Electronics, and Industrial Goods. Mahindra Logistics is one of the best freight forwarding companies in india. The company holds IATA, FIATA, MTO, and AEO licenses and operates in all major Indian cities while having partnerships with over 100 network partners worldwide. LORDS has earned a reputable position in the industry as a member of freight forwarding networks such as the Worldwide Partner Alliance (WPA) and the World Cargo Association (WCA). The team members at LORDS are GDP trained to ensure they can handle Pharma shipments with precision. 2. Om Freight Forwarders Source Om Freight Forwarders Pvt Ltd., which is headquartered in Mumbai, is a third-generation versatile international logistics and freight forwarding company. With an experience of over four decades of domain expertise, this agency has established its presence in continents with over 700 unique national and international locations. Om Freight Forwarders have planted their major stations in all major cities, commercial hubs, airports, and seaports across the country and have developed international logistics partnerships white China, Hong Kong, Europe, and Singapore to facilitate reliable transportation networks. Being one of the most versatile logistics solutions companies, they adhere to stipulated custom compliance and possess accreditations like the MTO, IATA, and FIATA. The company offers end-to-end, tailor-made freight forwarding services at reasonable packages to its clients because of its intense network and strategic associations with global trade partners. They believe in understanding the client business and their logistical requirements before jumping in to provide their state-of-the-art legal, distribution, and warehousing solutions. Headed by able leaders and a brilliant backbone of hardworking staff, the company aims to develop long-term alliances with its clients, deploy its best and cutting-edge technology, and prioritize timely and cost-effective freight forwarding solutions.  3. Ocean Sky Logistics Source Honing their decades of experience and strong customer base, Ocean Sky Logistics has built a business operations network across the globe and continues to do so to date. Starting from Sea and Air custom clearance, LCL and FCl import/export customs clearance to advanced air and sea freight forwarding services, the company provides a wide array of logistics solutions to its customers while maintaining their high standards and expectations. Ocean Sky has a proud team of well-trained and dedicated professionals who cover all modes of transport - sea, air, and road and draws special attention and care to each medium. The company adheres to the complexities of the Modem Global Operations in Shipping and Freight Forwarding, and hence the representatives are trained to work according to all customer requirements.  Much like other freight forwarding companies in India, ocean Sky has an extensive network in all major metropolitan cities, namely Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Mundra, Bengaluru, Ahemadabad, and Tuticorin. The company also has a large global presence in International marketing since its inception in 2014 and claims to have one of the largest warehousings in India.  4. APT Logistics Source Operating in over 150 countries worldwide and having provided an immense shipping experience to its clientele, APT Logistics preaches that they don’t talk; they deliver. Their unique approach towards providing solutions is that they manage their operations directly and have proper knowledge about local ports that allows them to build deeper business networks. They believe in getting brief insights into any business before taking over their delivery project so that the clients can experience the intense care that the company provides in its freight forwarding services.  The company operates worldwide and provides end-to-end freight forwarding solutions as well as flexible services to its customers. Moreover, they share a collaborative approach with their clients so that they can deliver positive and satisfying results while lowering their transportation costs and, at the same time, managing their extensive supply chain network. Their esteemed client network includes top-of-the-line companies like TATA, Capgemini, L&T, Reliance, lupin, ONGC, Indian Oil, etc.  5. Seal Freight Source Founded in 1990, Seal Freight has become one of the leading freight forwarding companies in India. It associates itself with reliability and trust and has proven to be the one-stop solution for all major export and import requirements in the country. SEAL offers integrated freight forwarding services for all sea, air, and land cargo, along with direct inbound and outbound services across all major cargo centers around the globe.  Their focal point is customized solutions that suit the client’s requirements bundled with innovative techniques and performance-enhancing technology. Seal provides complete logistics solutions starting from International freight forwarding, multimodal transport operations, Sea freight Import-Export, Warehousing & Distribution, custom clearance, inhibition and trade fair, logistics, cargo handling, and much more.  With well-qualified networks, over 33 years of experience, and a presence across the globe, the company offers excellence to business leaders with sophisticated transportation and supply chain management system.  6. Addax Logistics Source Established in 2011. Addax logistics has been providing freight forwarding services for the last 30 years in India. With a special focus on custom solutions, Addax takes care of all the shipping and logistics requirements for businesses across the country. They ensure good care for your cargo right from the factory to the delivery. Addax also offers commendable consultation services that allow businesses to save time and money on international trading processes.  Starting from import/export solutions. Personal cargo clearance, delivery, and inhibition logistics to project cargo logistics, Addax offers fourteen unique freight forwarding services to major national and international businesses. The company has formed sustainable relationships with over 400 industries in sectors such as pharma, textiles, FMCG, etc., and caters to all their requirements because of its strong alliance with agents and companies across all seaports and airports.  7. Stockarea Source Stockarea is the ultimate arena for shippers and businesses where they find the right transactional match. With over a decade of experience in logistics services, Stockarea is one of the fastest-growing freight forwarding companies in the country to offer integrated air and sea freight forwarding services that are tailor-made to fulfill the customer’s needs. The company relies on its collaborative logistics network to deliver more seamless supply chain management services to businesses. It pays special attention to all stages of operations, starting from planning, implementing, and controlling each aspect of the task at hand.  Stockarea has a presence in India’s major seaports and airports and offers a comprehensive set of services, including customs clearance, freight forwarding, domestic inland transportation, warehousing, and distribution. The company makes logistics flexible, on-demand, and completely transparent so that business can reliably outsource their transportation requirements.  8. Airborne International Source Airborne International Courier Services started in 2001 and is now considered one of the most respected Express Courier Services in the country to offer comprehensive and intact Logistics as well as courier services to medium and large enterprises across various industrial sectors. Its state-of-the-art service offering and strong international alliances allow businesses to enjoy quality service that saves time and money in this strong competitive market.  Customer satisfaction is the ultimate priority for Airborne International and because the company is backed up by highly motivated and trained professionals, the same is implemented across all their clients. Their customer care services are quick, prompt, and well-equipped to handle major customer queries and provide accurate guidance about shipment processes and information. The exact care is provided to the customers starting from the pickup points at several locations to the fleets so that the deliveries are made seamlessly.  If we talk about their distribution network, Airborne International has associations with reputed overseas gateways at major sites like the UK, USA, Canada, Singapore, Dubai, Spain, Italy, etc. to name a few. The company also has an intricate domestic network spread across India, and it offers reliable and time-bound logistics to all its partners. Accredited by the ISA, the USA, and equipped with an advanced Quality Management System and Implementation of Best practices, the agency ensures that its prime objective is not just timely deliveries but quality services.  9. SVP Logistics Source SVP Logistics specializes in Air, Sea, and Land cargo, including packaging, import-export, warehousing, import consolidation, freight forwarding, customs brokerage, drop shipment, door-to-door delivery, fragile goods handling, and a 360-degree approach to all logistics requirements for businesses. The company has utilized its expertise to provide top-tier freight forwarding solutions to major businesses across the market segment by taking care of its entire logistics supply chain and custom-building its infrastructure.  SVP was founded in 2008 and is set to be on the list of the top freight forwarding companies in India that offers extravagant solutions to expand the dependable cargo sector in the country. Be it individual transportation to large cargo projects, the company transports all kinds of items like pharmaceuticals, garments, perishable cargo, etc. With SVP’s trusted range of associations and vivid experience, you can be assured of receiving the best assistance and consultation to reduce costs and develop your business. 10. Maersk India Source Maersk India was built with the vision to provide integrated logistics solutions to businesses that can connect, protect and simplify their supply chains. They carry forward a sustainable approach toward global economic trade so that companies can develop without impacting the environment, individuals, and communities negatively. Maersk India offers an extensive range of services that ensure accurate and timely delivery to any region across the globe. They are one of the best freight forwarding companies in India. They have state-of-the-art and modern technologies, types of equipment, and fleets that transport cargo and safely deliver them. Maersk has networks across 130 countries, stationed terminals across 36 countries, owns 700+ container vessels that deploy all kinds of cargo, has a manpower of over 110,000+ employees, and consists of a 7M+ SQM warehousing capacity. Along with the impressive numbers, the company also handles all legal and custom procedures by itself so that businesses are saved from the hassle.  Wrapping Up Freight forwarding companies in India is a single solution for all your logistical problems. They are responsible for national and international cargo needs, and they collaborate religiously with the best freight brokers and agents to offer businesses a unique supply chain and transportation solution. With the help of these freight forwarders, companies can take away the responsibility of commercial transportation from their shoulders. At the same time, you can boost your ROI, reduce shipping costs, and outsource all other logistical requirements that are met under one roof.  Fulfillment companies also rely on freight forwarders to handle the transportation aspects of their business. If you are looking for end-to-end fulfillment solutions for your eCommerce business, contact WareIQ. WareIQ is a logistics company that offers end-to-end fulfillment services, including warehousing, order fulfillment, and shipping. With WareIQ, eCommerce businesses can store their products in one of WareIQ's strategically located warehouses. WareIQ then handles the picking, packing, and shipping of orders on behalf of the eCommerce business. WareIQ partners with multiple courier companies and provides real-time tracking and visibility for each shipment, ensuring that the products are delivered to the end customer on time. Freight Forwarding Companies: FAQs What Does a Freight Forwarding Company Do?A freight forwarding company arranges the shipment of goods from one place to another on behalf of its clients. What Does a Freight Forwarder Do?A freight forwarder is a person or company that organizes and coordinates the transportation of goods for others. How Many Types of Freight Forwarding?There are four main types of freight forwarding: air freight, ocean freight, road freight, and rail freight. Who Pays the Freight Forwarder?The party that hires the freight forwarder pays for their services. Do Freight Forwarders Use Brokers?Yes, freight forwarders may use brokers to help them find suitable carriers or transport options for their clients.

March 20, 2023

Comprehensive Guide on Commercial Shipping: Definition, Types, Benefits, How It Works and Best Practices of Commercial Shipping in 2024

Comprehensive Guide on Commercial Shipping: Definition, Types, Benefits, How It Works and Best Practices of Commercial Shipping in 2024

Retail and wholesale organizations have begun operating through eCommerce channels due to the global market's rising demand and supply of goods. This has enabled the accelerated requirement for distribution centers and seamless supply chain procedures. Commercial shipping is an integral part of this system. In fact, as per the Statista reports, the Indian logistics market is worth USD 250 million in 2021 and is expected to grow to USD 380 billion by 2025. Hence, investment in the development, design, and technology of commercial shipping is exceptionally crucial.  This article is built as a comprehensive guide on commercial shipping, how it works, its benefits, and more information that will allow businesses and sellers to make the right choice for their local and international businesses.  What is Commercial Shipping? Commercial shipping is a B2B delivery method that involves the transportation of large volumes of products to customers at a business address. In commercial shipping, the freight is not transported to a residence or a direct consumer; it is sent to a company address - a warehouse, storage facility, medical center, etc. Businesses usually opt for commercial shipment when they require international transportation. Apart from this, businesses use commercial shipping to order bulk cargo as well as restock their products; in the process of this, they also enjoy huge shipment discounts since large volumes of products are transported at once.  When businesses include commercial shipping as a part of their operation, they automatically build healthy relationships with their trade partners and customers. Frequent commercial shipments have spectacular record-keeping systems that ensure smooth and timely deliveries, lesser damaged goods, and timely payments. [contactus_uth] How Does Commercial Shipping Work? Commercial shipping is a systematic process. When your products are ready for shipment, a commercial shipper arrives to pick up the delivery from the warehouse. After the pickup, the goods are transported to the customer’s loading docks, making sending a large bulk of goods easier. Following this, the cargo is shipped and received on the other end, where a clerk will verify the shipment receipt and confirm the delivery of your order. Commercial shipping is a practical transportation solution for businesses because it is often associated with larger volumes which ultimately helps reduce cost per unit. This shipping is cheaper than regional shipping and is usually sent in large containers.  Once the business makes its sale, how it handles all future shipping decides the intensity of its future orders.  For example, if a customer receives damaged goods or late deliveries, they will automatically have a wrong impression of your business which will reflect on your overall reputation even if it was not your fault. Hence, choosing the right shipping partner and having a good relationship with your transporter is very important. 6 Types of Commercial Shipping Cargo ships are often known as freighters and come in various shapes and sizes, each built to fulfill its intended purpose. These commercial ships are usually characterized by cargo capacity, weight, and size. Let us explore the various types of commercial shipping. Container Ships Source Also known as box ships, they are the most common and carry most of the seagoing non-bulk cargo. This shipping method uses intermodal containers as big as trucks to accept the goods. Container ships are the most prominent ocean vessels and often use liner routes. They are a prevalent mode of transit for manufactured goods all over the world due to the ideal size of the shipment. Container ships use cranes to load and unload. However, some smaller cargo ships can load and empty themselves. Emma Maersk is an example of a giant container vessel at present.  General Cargo Ships Source General cargo ships are often smaller than container ships and carry packaged goods since there is no space for containers. These ships have built-in cranes, which enable them to load and unload the goods once they arrive at the ports. Tankers Source These ships are also known as tank ships that carry large reserves of liquid or gas products. The size of tankers is measured in deadweight or DWT. There are several tanker ships, each classified based on the type and size of cargo; the most common being the oil tanker. Others include chemical tankers, product tankers, and gas carriers. Additionally, tankers transport goods like oil, molasses, wine, etc. Tanker ships usually operate in the sea or ocean. Still, specialized inland waterway tankers also carry tonnes of cargo on rivers and canals.  Dry Bulk Carriers Source The world’s first bulk carrier was built in 1852. These ships have been immensely modified with increased capacity, safety, and efficiency. Bulk carriers, also known as bulkers, carry unpackaged bulk goods such as grains, ore, steel coils, cement, etc. Bulkers are so often in use that it accounts for 21% of the world’s merchant ships, and some of them can carry up to 400,000 metric tonnes of DWT. Reefer Ships Source For goods that are perishable and must be stored at a specific temperature, reefer ships are often used for transportation. Reefer ships carry refrigerated cargo, such as meat, fish, vegetables, etc., inside cold containers that are specially insulated and pumped with cold air to maintain proper temperature as per the type of cargo. Unlike conventional ships, reefers are built with unique power generation and distribution systems and are categorized into side-door vessels, conventional vessels, and refrigerated container ships.  Ro-Ro Ships Source RoRo ships or Roll-off/Roll-on ships are huge oceangoing ships that carry wheeled goods such as cars, bikes, trucks, trailers, buses, railcars, etc. These goods can operate on their wheels either on or off the ship and be unloaded from the RoRo ships using built-in ramps or ferry slips. The development of these ramps makes it easier for the cargo to be moved conveniently.  What is the Difference Between Commercial Shipping and Regular Shipping? [table id=68 /] What Are The Benefits Of Commercial Shipping? Enhanced Cost Effectiveness Commercial shipping allows businesses to gain a competitive advantage by enabling them to sell their products at a lower price. This becomes possible compared to rail, road, or air; transportation of bulky cargo is much cheaper through ocean freights. Companies can save money on their shipping operations, thus allowing their customers to purchase products at a low rate or enabling free shipping. Increased efficiency Ships and vessels are the ultimate way to transport large goods. And even if your shipment is light, sea freight companies can accommodate your requirements by providing cost-sharing options as they combine more oversized cargo with smaller ones. These ships can carry one or more large containers carrying bulk goods, making them efficient enough for bulk transport.  Improved Eco-Friendly Operations Air, railways, and roads produce a much higher carbon footprint when compared to commercial shipping. This poses an environmental disadvantage to a lot of businesses. Commercial ships have lesser grams of exhaust gas per tonne of cargo which means that it is the most environmentally friendly among all other transportation methods. Additionally, as technology advances and more eco-friendly fuel alternatives are deployed, carbon emissions through marine shipping are expected to reduce further.  Suggested Read: 10 Ways to Utilize Eco-Friendly Shipping for eCommerce Companies in 2023 Bettered Use of Company Focus With advanced automated systems in place, companies do not have to worry about exhausting their resources and workforce on transportation processes. Freight transportation through the sea is low maintenance and saves a lot of operational time.  Improved Transit Safety Cargo vessels and fleets are designed in such a way that it protects large volumes of goods from being damaged. These ships also carry hazardous or flammable materials; hence the materials used in its constructions ensure the utmost safety. Apart from this, the entire operational staff and crew handle cargo meticulously to ensure that the goods reach the customer safely and soundly. Due to the significant growth in the commercial shipping industry and the continuous development in maritime safety, damage caused to goods during transportation has dropped exponentially. Best Practices in Commercial Shipping in 2023 Provide Shipping Offers Customers are always on the lookout for cost-saving offers, and one of the best practices businesses can opt for is providing free shipping on purchases. However, brands must remember that free shipping services do not increase profits. To avoid this, shipping expenses can be integrated into the pricing structures, or a minimum order value can be added for the customers to enable free shipping.  Enable Control of Quality Care and quality control are essential when establishing trust with your customers. Make sure that defective, damaged, and improperly packaged goods are not shipped to the customers, as well as ensure there is a feedback system to get reviews/suggestions. When looking for third-party commercial shipments, choose a vendor with enough storage space and good shipment history.  Automate Operations Quicker operations can be put in place through automation software. During processing, several steps, such as weighing, measuring, and labeling, can easily be automated, ultimately increasing the workflow, saving time, and ensuring quick delivery. Follow Up With Customers Maintain proper and continuous communication with your customers from when they place their orders until they get delivered to them. This includes systems like package tracking, customer support, and regular updates, especially in case of unforeseen delays. A 3PL provider usually handles and automates these systems for businesses.  Conclusion: How Does WareIQ Contribute to Smooth commercial shipping? There is a lot of information, and knowledge is vital to explore before making decisions for your business’s commercial shipping. This article charts the basics of commercial shipping and its benefits in terms of usage. Commercial shipping has become one of the most used and trusted modes of transportation, especially in the era of online businesses. In addition to quicker deliveries, it ensures the safety and cost-effective solutions for companies expanding exponentially to outlying areas, making their brand accessible to a broader niche. Commercial shipping enhances the business-customer relationship due to its efficiency, resulting in better growth, retention, and sales for your business. Hence, keep exploring and choose wisely. WareIQ is far ahead regarding customer satisfaction and providing tailored solutions to improve your commercial shipping experience. Let's understand how: Customizable Solutions: WareIQ offers customizable solutions tailored to each business's specific needs. This allows businesses to choose the services they need and only pay for their use. Fast and Reliable Shipping: WareIQ has a network of warehouses that are strategically located to ensure fast and reliable shipping. This allows businesses to get their products to customers quickly and efficiently, which can help improve customer satisfaction and loyalty. WareIQ gives you the option to choose the delivery partner of your choice. You can also select WareIQ Rush to provide them with a same-day delivery experience. Advanced Technology: WareIQ uses advanced technology to manage inventory, orders, and shipping. This includes real-time inventory tracking and reporting, automated order processing, and AI-powered algorithms for optimized shipping routes. These technologies help streamline the logistics and shipping process, to improve efficiency, and reduce errors.  Transparency and Communication: WareIQ gives businesses real-time visibility into their inventory, orders, and shipping status. This helps businesses to stay informed and make data-driven decisions. WareIQ also provides proactive communication with customers, informing them throughout the shipping process with message alerts and notifications. Exceptional Customer Support: Stuck somewhere during the shipment process? Don't worry. WareIQ has a dedicated customer support team available 24/7 to answer questions and assist. This ensures businesses receive the support they need to effectively manage their logistics and shipping operations. WareIQ provides smooth eCommerce shipping to its customers, and here's how they help. Pick-Up and Storage: WareIQ picks up the suppliers' products and stores them in their warehouse. They also conduct quality checks to ensure the products are in good condition. Order Processing: When a customer places an order, WareIQ receives and processes it automatically. The product is then picked from the warehouse and prepared for shipping. Shipping: WareIQ uses advanced algorithms to optimize shipping routes and select the best carrier facility for each order. They also provide tracking information to customers to monitor their orders in real-time. Here you can also choose the delivery partner as per your preferred choice. Smooth return: WareIQ also manages business returns, providing customers with a seamless and hassle-free returns process. This helps to improve customer satisfaction and reduce the workload for businesses. WareIQ's customizable solutions, advanced technology, fast and reliable shipping, transparency and communication, and exceptional customer support make it a unique and valuable provider in the commercial shipping industry. Commercial Shipping: FAQs How To Choose A Commercial Shipping Supplier?To choose a commercial shipping supplier, consider the following factors:1. Reputation and experience of the supplier in the industry2. Quality and range of services offered3. Shipping rates and pricing transparency4. Delivery options5. Customer support 6. Insurance and liability policies7. Compliance with regulations and certifications8. Technology and tracking capabilities9. References and reviews from other customers. What are Some of the Well-known Commercial Shipping Carriers in India?There are several well-known commercial shipping carriers in India. Here are some of the top names in the industry:1. Maersk Line: Maersk is one of the largest shipping companies in the world and operates in over 100 countries. Their rates vary depending on the cargo's destination, weight, and volume.2. MSC: MSC is another global leader in the shipping industry, offering various services and routes to various destinations. Like Maersk, their rates are based on multiple factors.3. CMA CGM: CMA CGM is a French container transportation and shipping company in India. They offer various services, including dry, reefer, and special containers. Their rates are dependent on the destination, container size, and weight.4. Evergreen Marine: Evergreen Marine is India's Taiwanese container transportation and shipping company. They offer services to various ports across the country and have competitive rates.5. Hapag-Lloyd: Hapag-Lloyd is a German-based shipping company with a strong presence in India. They offer various services, including dry, reefer, and special containers, with rates that vary depending on the destination and other factors. How Does Commercial Shipping Take To Deliver?The delivery time for commercial shipping depends on several factors, including the origin and destination of the shipment, the shipping method chosen, the transit time, and any potential delays due to customs or weather conditions. Generally, international shipments may take several days or weeks, while domestic shipments can take a few days to a week. Shipping carriers often provide estimated delivery times based on these factors. It's important to note that delivery times are not guaranteed and may vary based on unforeseen circumstances. How Much Does Commercial Shipping Cost?Commercial shipping costs depend on several factors, including the type of shipment, the package's weight, dimensions, shipping distance, and the chosen carrier and service level. Freight rates are usually calculated based on the shipment's weight or volume and the transportation mode. Air shipping tends to be more expensive than ocean or ground shipping. Additional costs, such as insurance, customs duties, and taxes, may also apply. 

March 18, 2023