Allcargo Logistics Expands Support for Varanasi Handloom Cluster with COD, Door-to-Door Services
Allcargo Logistics Limited has reinforced its logistics support for the Varanasi handloom cluster by offering secure door-to-door delivery and cash-on-delivery (COD) services. The initiative focuses on improving distribution efficiency and payment security for weavers, traders, and MSMEs engaged in Banarasi silk production.
Allcargo Logistics Limited, which manages its Domestic Supply Chain business, Express Distribution and Consultative Logistics, has reiterated its focus on supporting the Varanasi handloom cluster. The cluster includes a large number of weavers, traders, saree manufacturers and exporters involved in producing Banarasi silk sarees and other handloom products.
The company currently serves several hundred active customers within the cluster. Its services include door-to-door pick-up and delivery along with value-added features such as cash-on-delivery (COD). These offerings are aimed at enabling businesses to transport goods securely across India while ensuring timely payments, reducing credit risk and improving working capital cycles. The network connects Varanasi to key markets including Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Surat and Ahmedabad.
Under its cluster-based operating model, shipments are consolidated and routed through a transshipment centre in Lucknow. From this hub, consignments are distributed to additional centres in locations such as Mumbai, Bengaluru and Guwahati before reaching retailers and wholesalers. This structure supports an integrated distribution system across multiple regions.
The company also provides services such as express distribution, air and surface transport, multimodal logistics, tracking systems, insurance for high-value consignments, reverse logistics and specialized handling for delicate handloom products.
“We are proud to support the Varanasi handloom cluster, which represents a unique blend of India’s cultural heritage and entrepreneurial spirit”, said Mr. Ketan Kulkarni, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Allcargo Logistics. “For businesses handling high-value and delicate consignments such as Banarasi sarees and handloom products, reliability, security and timely delivery are critical. Our door-to-door services, supported by secure transportation, technology-enabled tracking and customer-centric solutions such as COD, are helping MSMEs and traders expand their reach and operate with greater confidence.”
Located along the Ganges river, Varanasi is recognised both as a religious centre and for its established handloom sector, particularly Banarasi silk sarees. The sector supports a significant artisan base and contributes to the region’s economy.
Shipments from the cluster are generally smaller in volume but high in value, requiring secure handling. Allcargo Logistics operates a hub-and-spoke model supported by regional hubs, branch offices and line-haul routes to manage first-mile and last-mile connectivity. While most shipments are transported by road, air services are used for time-sensitive deliveries.
The company has reported steady year-on-year growth in customer onboarding and shipment volumes from the Varanasi cluster. Its logistics network has enabled businesses to expand beyond local markets, improve delivery timelines and develop direct-to-customer distribution capabilities.
Allcargo Logistics continues to assess opportunities to enhance its presence in Varanasi and similar MSME-driven clusters through route optimization, expanded service coverage, increased capacity, technology upgrades and infrastructure development where required.