TCI Express Scales Trucking Operations with Technology and Efficiency

Chander Agarwal, MD, TCI Express

Despite a challenging macroeconomic backdrop, TCI Express closed FY24–25 on a steady footing, reinforcing its leadership in road-based express logistics and truck transport. Leveraging its asset-light model, containerised fleet, and expanding branch network, the company continued to deliver dependable growth while setting the stage for stronger performance in FY25–26.

FY25 – Road Network Expansion and Operational Gains

For FY24–25, TCI Express reported standalone revenue of ₹1,221.1 crore, EBITDA of ₹143 crore (margin of 11.7%), and net profit of ₹90.8 crore, supported by disciplined cost control and high operational efficiency. Cash flow from operations stood at ₹117.5 crore, reflecting the strength of its debt-free model.

“Our core advantage lies in being an asset-light company focused on high-value cargo,” said Chander Agarwal, Managing Director, TCI Express. “This allows us to maintain one of the lowest cost structures in the industry while offering unmatched reliability in road-based express delivery.”

The company’s Surface Express segment – powered by over 5,500 fully containerised, GPS-enabled trucks – remained the primary revenue driver. In FY24–25, TCI Express expanded its reach by adding 10 new branches to the Surface network, part of a broader addition of 60 branches across the business. Coverage now extends to 60,000 delivery locations nationwide, with services designed for time-definite pickup and delivery, including late-evening collections and Sunday operations.

A major highlight of the year was the commissioning of advanced sorting centres in Nagpur, Raipur, and Indore – strategically located to improve turnaround times and capacity in Central India. These facilities complement the fully automated centres in Gurugram and Pune, which have achieved up to 40% reductions in parcel handling time.

Technology in Truck Transport – Enhancing Speed and Accuracy

Automation and digitalisation have become the backbone of TCI Express’ road operations. Gurugram’s GIGA Sorting Centre and Pune’s AI-enabled cross-belt sorter have streamlined truck loading and unloading, cut errors, and improved route scheduling. Real-time GPS tracking, API integration with customers’ systems, and AI-driven route optimisation ensure that the truck fleet operates with maximum efficiency and transparency.

“Our technology investments directly benefit our truck transport operations,” Agarwal noted. “From automated scanning at sorting centres to AI-powered route planning, every innovation is aimed at increasing reliability, reducing fuel use, and meeting customers’ delivery commitments.”

These enhancements also align with the company’s sustainability goals. The truck fleet now includes CNG and electric vehicles, while 50% of heavy-capacity trucks meet BS-VI standards. Solar power systems at Pune and Gurugram sorting centres generated over 9.4 lakh kWh of clean energy in FY24–25, further reducing the network’s carbon footprint.

Trends in Road Logistics – Driving Industry Transformation

India’s road freight and trucking sector is undergoing rapid change. Infrastructure upgrades under Bharatmala and industrial corridor projects, along with improving highway connectivity, are reducing transit times and improving reliability. The express road logistics segment is expected to see continued demand from manufacturing, automotive, pharmaceuticals, e-commerce, and FMCG.

At the same time, technology adoption in trucking – from telematics and IoT-based fleet monitoring to automated hubs – is improving productivity and compliance. There is also growing emphasis on sustainability, with fleets shifting towards alternative fuels and cleaner engine standards.

“The road logistics sector is the backbone of India’s economy,” Agarwal said. “With rising demand from high-growth industries and increasing connectivity to Tier II and III cities, there is a significant opportunity for express trucking to capture market share.”

FY26 Outlook – Scaling Road-Based Growth

Looking ahead, TCI Express is prioritising further expansion of its road express network. The company plans to replicate its automation model at upcoming Kolkata and Ahmedabad sorting centres, enhancing truck loading speed and reducing handling time. Branch expansion in metro and Tier I cities will strengthen last-mile connectivity, while the focus on high-value, low-volume cargo will maintain profitability.

“Our strategic goal is to strengthen our leadership in road-based express delivery while continuing to innovate for customers,” Agarwal explained. “We will invest in automation, fleet optimisation, and sustainable transport solutions to meet evolving market needs.”

In FY25–26, TCI Express will also continue increasing the share of specialised trucking services for industries such as pharma cold chain, aerospace, and engineering – sectors that demand high compliance and precision in road transport.

Recognition and Market Standing

In FY24–25, TCI Express’ performance in express trucking and logistics was recognised with multiple awards, including the CII SCALE Award for Supply Chain and Logistics Excellence, the ET Business Leaders Award for ‘Excellence in Express Logistics’ to Agarwal, and its fifth consecutive Great Place to Work certification.

“These recognitions affirm the strength of our road transport operations and the dedication of our teams,” Agarwal said. “They inspire us to push boundaries in service excellence.”

With a robust surface network, expanding infrastructure, and a focus on technology-driven efficiency, TCI Express enters FY25–26 ready to capture emerging opportunities in India’s road freight market. By aligning with industry trends in automation, sustainability, and high-value cargo handling, the company is well positioned to sustain growth and reinforce its standing as the country’s fastest B2B express trucking service.

“Our journey ahead will be defined by precision, reliability, and customer trust,” Agarwal concluded. “As the road transport sector evolves, we will continue leading the way in innovation and service quality.”