ABOUT
Your Strategic Partner in Global Trade Execution
Integrated Customs & International Trade Excellence
With 45+ years of experience, we are a trusted licensed Customs House Agent (CHA) and logistics solutions provider, helping businesses handle international trade smoothly. We have strong knowledge of customs rules, trade policies, and logistics, which allows us to offer simple, reliable, and compliant solutions.
We support importers and exporters across different industries by taking care of customs clearance, documentation, freight coordination, and cargo movement with accuracy and responsibility. Our goal is to reduce risks, avoid delays, and ensure smooth and predictable trade operations across global markets.
Our Journey
Partnership Firm Established
Established in 1979 as a partnership firm, Southern Mercantile Services Pvt. Ltd. (SMS) began with a vision to provide reliable transportation and logistics solutions. Built on a foundation of trust, integrity, and customer satisfaction, the company has grown from a local logistics provider into a globally connected logistics group.
Became a Private Limited Company
The company achieved a significant milestone by becoming a Private Limited Company, strengthening its capabilities for long-term growth and expansion.
Founder
- Mr. Mohamed Lafir
The organization was founded by Mr. Mohamed Lafir, whose entrepreneurial vision laid the foundation for the company's success.
Second Generation
- Mr. Mohammed Zaki
- Mr. Ahmed Ansari
The second generation, led by Mr. Mohammed Zaki and Mr. Ahmed Ansari, expanded the business and strengthened its position in the logistics industry.
Third Generation
- Mr. Muhammad Wazih
- Mr. Muhammad Razi
Today, the third generation, represented by Mr. Muhammad Wazih and Mr. Muhammad Razi, continues to drive the company forward with a strong focus on innovation, operational excellence, and customer satisfaction.
Our Business Divisions
SMS (Southern Mercantile Services Pvt. Ltd.)
Customs clearance, warehousing
MML Logistics
International freight forwarding, customs clearance, warehousing, and end-to-end logistics solutions.
MML Express
Fast, secure and reliable domestic courier services across India.
SML Movers
Professional transportation and trucking services supported by a dedicated fleet.
JS Shipping Services
Operating under the licensed name JS Shipping Services, the group manages transportation, logistics International and local, courier, and warehousing operations with a fleet of 15+ company-owned trucks and an experienced team of logistics professionals.
Global Presence
With our own office in Hong Kong and a strong network of trusted partners and agents, we deliver seamless logistics solutions across international markets, including:
Today, with 45+ years of industry experience, Southern Mercantile Services Pvt Ltd continues to build lasting partnerships by delivering reliable, efficient, and customer-focused logistics solutions worldwide.
Our Operational Philosophy
Compliance Integrity
We ensure complete and continuous adherence to evolving national and international trade regulations. Our processes are designed to mitigate regulatory risk, prevent penalties, and maintain absolute compliance across all customs and allied authorities.
Operational Excellence
Our operations are driven by structured workflows, standardized documentation practices, and rigorous quality checks. This enables faster clearance, higher accuracy, and consistent service delivery across all shipments.
Proactive Execution
We anticipate regulatory, procedural, and logistical challenges before they impact your shipment. Through advance planning and active coordination with customs authorities and logistics partners, we ensure timeline certainty and operational continuity.
Client Advocacy
We act as a transparent and dependable extension of your organization. Our team represents your interests at every stage of the trade process, offering clear communication, informed guidance, and accountable execution.
Our Core Strengths
Expertise in Customs Law, Procedures, and Duty Optimization
Our in-depth knowledge of customs legislation, tariff structures, exemptions, and incentive schemes allows us to provide informed advisory and efficient clearance strategies aligned with your business objectives.
Experienced Documentation and Clearance Professionals
Our team comprises seasoned specialists with extensive hands-on experience in import and export documentation, customs filings, and regulatory compliance across multiple cargo categories and industries.
Established Institutional Liaison
We maintain strong working relationships with customs departments, port and airport authorities, and allied regulatory bodies. This enables effective coordination, timely issue resolution, and smoother cargo movement.
Technology-Driven and Transparent Process Management
Our operations are supported by structured systems that enhance visibility, traceability, and accuracy. Clients benefit from clear documentation workflows, real-time status updates, and process transparency at every stage.
Partnership-Centric Service Model
We believe in long-term partnerships rather than transactional engagements. Our services are designed to scale with your business, support growth initiatives, and adapt to changing trade environments.
Our Commitment
Every assignment entrusted to us is managed with discipline, precision, and professional responsibility. We are committed to delivering regulatory certainty, operational reliability, and measurable value, enabling our clients to focus confidently on expanding their global trade footprint.