Traditionally seen as a link between airlines and freight forwarders, modern airfreight wholesale now demands more than rate sheets and capacity—it requires digital agility and intelligent infrastructure.

Back-end integration, real-time visibility, and digital workflows are no longer optional. As freight forwarders seek faster, and more transparent solutions, wholesalers are investing in technology to keep pace. From managing cross-trade complexities to automating documentation and tracking, the shift towards digital-first operations is fundamentally changing the way the wholesale airfreight sector functions.

“Each obstacle has pushed us to adapt, streamline, and strengthen our value proposition,” Steve Landy, Managing Director at Cargonet, stated, referring to operational pressures such as Brexit, market volatility, and the pandemic.

Digital technology has become a critical enabler of that evolution. Today, Cargonet’s operations are powered by robust internal platforms that support real-time quoting, booking, document handling, customs workflows, and track-and-trace—all essential tools for wholesalers handling increasingly complex shipment requirements.

“Technology underpins everything we do. Our systems allow us to manage bookings, documentation, customs formalities, and tracking in real time,” Landy outlined.

While many freight tech solutions are geared toward retail-facing freight models, Cargonet has tailored its tools to support neutral wholesale operations, with particular strength in managing sensitive cargo like outsize freight and dangerous goods (DG). For Cargonet, digitisation isn’t about replacing relationships—it’s about enhancing them.

“For us it’s all about having the technology internally to help us work more efficiently, whilst outwardly ensuring that our people remain the face of our business.”

This human-digital balance gives Cargonet a unique advantage: personal service backed by systems that enable speed, scalability, and transparency. Whether managing cross-trade shipments, complex routings, or out-of-gauge cargo, the technology ensures traceability and operational accuracy without compromising on service.

“Every special shipment is treated as a project, with tailored planning and execution,” Landy added.

Built for flexibility and reach

Cargonet’s commitment to neutrality and reliability is now being supported by physical and strategic expansion across the UK. The recent launch of its Manchester branch marked a pivotal shift from a London-centric operation to a national network with regional service capacity.

“Opening a branch beyond our London hub, in Manchester, has allowed us to become truly national in scope,” Landy stated.

This move has not only shortened transit times but also increased the company’s accessibility to a broader base of forwarders. It’s a deliberate strategy aimed at maintaining Cargonet’s core promise of localised service with global reach.

“It’s a strategic move that aligns with our mission to deliver fast, personal service with a local touch, backed by a global reach.”

The expansion of physical space has also brought about operational efficiencies. New ground handling agreements across the UK have enabled faster cargo throughput, improved segregation for DG shipments, and stronger control over warehousing functions.

“Growth in physical space has gone hand in hand with growth in capability,” Landy explained. “It’s not just about square footage; it’s about operational flow and efficiency.”

In parallel, Cargonet has invested in digital tools that streamline workflows across back-to-back shipments, door-to-door deliveries, and international cross-trade operations.

“Our systems allow us to manage bookings, documentation, customs formalities, and tracking in real time,” Landy said.

These efficiencies support not only operational success but also allow for rapid response to shifting market demands—a necessity in an environment shaped by tariff fluctuations, capacity shortages, and unpredictable geopolitical events.

“Our lean structure and strong client relationships enabled us to react decisively,” he highlighted, referring to the company’s strategic agility during the pandemic.

Neutral by design

One of the cornerstones of Cargonet’s success lies in its unflinching neutrality—a business model that not only avoids conflicts of interest but positions the company as an extension of its customers’ own operations. In an industry where transparency and trust are critical, Cargonet’s impartial stance offers a competitive edge.

“Neutrality is our DNA. We don’t compete with our customers, we empower them,” Landy declared. “That principle is embedded in every agreement, every pitch, and every relationship.”

Cargonet’s global agent network reflects this philosophy. Built to serve the needs of freight forwarders and courier companies, the network does not double as a retail operation. Instead, it provides partners with access to Cargonet’s resources without undercutting their services.

“This gives our customers confidence that we are an extension of their operation, not a competitor.”

This neutrality, coupled with strong customer service and agile response times, is what Landy credits for the company’s ability to retain and grow its client base.

“In a competitive space, it’s our honesty, speed, and flexibility that set us apart,” he emphasised. “And we never take those relationships for granted.”

Technology plays a significant role in ensuring that neutrality doesn’t come at the cost of speed or precision. Real-time visibility, digital document workflows, and robust pricing models are all designed to make Cargonet a seamless partner.

“We support back-to-back, consolidation, and cross-trade workflows with full visibility and control,” Landy continued.

Even rate competitiveness, which often drives customer decision-making, is balanced against operational integrity. “We quote with a conscience. The cheapest rate isn’t always the best—in fact, it can cost you a lot more down the line,” he adds.

End-to-end solutions 

With over a decade of operational maturity behind it, Cargonet is focused firmly on what’s next. The growth trajectory includes strengthening its UK presence, broadening its global reach, and investing in people, systems, and innovation.

“Our goals for the next decade are ambitious yet grounded: strengthen our UK network, and deepen our global agency reach,” Landy outlined.

Training and team development remain central to this strategy, ensuring that Cargonet can keep pace with evolving client needs while retaining its personalised, high-touch service culture.

“Training is key: our teams are skilled, experienced, and motivated. Above all, we stay close to our customers.”

At the same time, the company is eyeing the growing demand for end-to-end logistics solutions—particularly from freight forwarders looking for value-added partnerships rather than transactional rate providers.

“We see huge opportunity in the demand for end-to-end solutions,” Landy said. “As forwarders look for value-added partners, not just rate providers, we aim to be that trusted extension of their business.”