Ethiopian Shipping Container Tracking

Ethiopian Shipping and Logistics Services Enterprise, commonly known as Ethiopian Shipping Lines (ESLSE), is Ethiopia’s national cargo shipping company with a history dating back to 1964. It was originally created as a state-backed carrier and continued operating even after Ethiopia became a landlocked nation in 1993, relocating its principal bases to the Port of Djibouti and Berbera in Somaliland to maintain global maritime connectivity.

The company’s origins include early collaborative ventures with foreign investors, and operations began in 1966 with three purpose-built vessels — Queen of Sheba, Lion of Judah and Lalibela. These initial steps positioned Ethiopian Shipping Lines as an important facilitator of Ethiopia’s foreign trade, particularly for import and export cargo moving through the Red Sea and beyond.

Despite the logistical challenge of losing direct access to the sea, the enterprise has adapted by focusing on efficient use of Djibouti’s ports and expanding services that integrate maritime and inland logistics. It now offers a suite of transport and logistics solutions, including coastal and international sea freight, multimodal transport, freight forwarding, port and terminal services, warehousing, container handling, and shore-handling operations.

ESLSE operates liner services that cover routes in the Red Sea, Mediterranean, Far East, Gulf states and the Indian subcontinent, reflecting Ethiopia’s broader trade partnerships. Its services are designed to support importers, exporters and investors by reducing transit costs, cutting delivery times, and enhancing reliability across supply chains.