Rising freight costs, tightening regulatory frameworks, and infrastructure bottlenecks are reshaping the trade and logistics landscape. For Sri Lanka to remain competitive, resilience and adaptability are no longer optional—they are critical. Success now depends on how quickly logistics players embrace digital tools, regulatory compliance, and forward-looking practices that align with global trade trends.
With over four decades of experience across 12 diverse industry sectors, Inter Freight has witnessed these shifts firsthand. Prashasthi Perera Ranawana, Chief Executive of Inter Freight Forwarding Service Pvt Ltd, tells Echelon how strategies built on asset ownership, digital innovation, and regulatory expertise are helping businesses overcome disruption, reduce inefficiencies, and reinforce Sri Lanka’s role in global supply chains.
What core strategies have enabled Inter Freight to remain competitive and innovative over four decades?
Inter Freight’s core philosophy prioritises ownership, expertise, and operational excellence, and this formula has sustained it over four decades of operations. Founded in 1984, and with leadership active since 1979, the company leverages decades of hands-on experience to clear customs and wharf operations within 24 hours to keep supply chains moving efficiently. Unlike competitors who may be reliant on third parties, Inter Freight maintains full control of its logistics chain through owned fleets and container yards, ensuring reliability, agility, and continuity even in volatile markets. This asset-backed model distinguishes the company as a dependable partner with end-to-end accountability.
Structurally, Inter Freight has evolved from a proprietorship to a private limited company to enhance stability, client confidence, and internal career progression. Commitment to ISO 9001:2015 standards further reinforces a culture of continuous improvement, risk mitigation, and data-driven innovation, cementing its reputation as a forward-thinking leader in the logistics industry.
What factors have enabled you to build and maintain strong relationships with over 150 clients?
Inter Freight has built and maintained strong relationships with over 150 clients by prioritising reliability, transparency, and a personalised, human-centric approach. With decades of consistent performance, the company has earned a reputation for dependability thanks to its ability to minimise delays, avoid demurrage, and ensure seamless customs clearance through up-to-date regulatory expertise. This track record extends across 12 diverse industry verticals, each benefiting from tailored logistics solutions and sector-specific expertise.
A proactive key account management strategy places experienced professionals at the forefront of client interactions, enabling swift issue resolution and fostering trust through attentive, responsive service. Crucially, Inter Freight rejects a one-size-fits-all model, offering tailored logistics solutions that address the unique needs of each client. This is true for everything from standard shipments to highly specialised moves.
How does owning a 70+ vehicle fleet and operating your own yards enhance service reliability and control across your logistics chain?
A fleet of this size combined with access to dedicated container yards gives Inter Freight exceptional control and reliability across its logistics chain. With guaranteed capacity and zero reliance on third-party carriers, the company consistently meets delivery commitments, even during peak periods. This eliminates the risk of delays or shortages.
Full ownership also empowers the company to implement strict, end-to-end security protocols, minimising the risk of theft, damage, or tampering. This operational independence allows for real-time route adjustments, rapid response to disruptions, and highly tailored solutions for clients. Additionally, direct oversight drives efficiency through optimised planning, fuel management, and maintenance, ensuring faster, more cost-effective deliveries and consistently high service standards. These advantages are naturally passed on to clients.
How do certifications like ISO 9001:2015, 45001, and C-TPAT enhance trust and operational standards?
Certifications play a vital role in reinforcing trust and operational excellence at Inter Freight. ISO 9001:2015 drives disciplined, consistent, and continuously improving processes, ensuring high-quality service delivery. ISO 45001 underscores a strong commitment to health and safety, protecting both employees and client cargo through rigorous standards. C-TPAT certification enhances supply chain security, particularly for US-bound shipments, enabling faster customs clearance and reduced risk.
Alongside being formal credentials, these certifications reflect Inter Freight’s commitment to reliability, compliance, and world-class service, all of which consistently attract clients who prioritise quality and accountability.
In your view, what role does Inter Freight play in supporting Sri Lanka’s broader trade and economic development?
Inter Freight plays a pivotal role in strengthening Sri Lanka’s trade resilience and economic development by blending traditional logistics expertise with forward-looking, technology-driven solutions. In a volatile global environment marked by shifting regulations and economic uncertainty, the company offers stability through its asset-backed model and compliance-first approach, helping Sri Lankan businesses maintain efficient, resilient supply chains.
Inter Freight is actively investing in digital platforms and AI to enhance visibility, optimise routes, and deliver smarter, more cost-effective logistics. These technologies enable predictive insights and real-time decision-making, allowing clients to proactively manage risks, reduce delays, and respond instantly to changing conditions.
Its commitment to sustainability, in part through greener fleet options and alignment with global ESG standards, supports responsible trade and positions Sri Lanka as a sustainable partner in global markets. By adapting to the needs of Gen Z entrepreneurs and digital-first businesses with speed, transparency, and values-driven service, Inter Freight fosters innovation and inclusivity in the next generation of trade.
As a catalyst in Sri Lanka’s trade ecosystem, Inter Freight not only facilitates the movement of goods but also actively shapes the standards, agility, and sustainability of national logistics. In doing so, it helps position the country as a competitive global trading partner. These efforts contribute directly to investor confidence, SME growth, and long-term economic stability.