• United Cargo is expanding its US airfreight capabilities through digitalisation, modern fleet investments, and agile route management to meet rising demand and e-commerce growth.
• Time-critical and temperature-sensitive cargo solutions, including UAPremium, QuickPak, and TempControl, ensure speed, reliability, and cold chain integrity across a global network.
• Services for high-value and sensitive shipments, combined with real-time tracking, regulatory adaptability, and strategic partnerships, provide resilience amid shifting trade policies and complex logistics.

The  US  airfreight market is poised for steady growth—projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.84 percent from 2024 to 2032. Within this evolving landscape, United Cargo is stepping forward with a future-focused strategy that aligns capacity, innovation, and resilience with shifting global logistics needs.

Meeting the needs of this market takes more than expanding routes—it requires thoughtful, adaptable scaling across every facet of operations. For United Cargo, that means investing in the tools and partnerships that enable fast, flexible, and reliable service.

“United Cargo is scaling smartly to align with sustained airfreight demand,” said Jan Krems, President of United Cargo. “Strategic investments in digitalisation, enhanced product offerings, and global partnerships are central to this growth.”

Digital transformation plays a pivotal role. The company has been expanding its online booking capabilities, making access to its services easier and more efficient for shippers across the world. “Our expanding digital booking capabilities make it easier than ever for customers to access our network and capacity,” Krems explained.

That network is supported by a fleet designed for resilience. “With a fleet powered by one of the most modern widebody aircraft lineups in the industry, United Cargo is well-positioned to deliver reliability, reach, and resilience,” he added.

As policy shifts, trade tensions, and global supply disruptions continue to affect the flow of goods, flexibility remains key. “United Cargo proactively monitors global trade dynamics to adjust routes, capacity allocations, and customer advisories in real time,” Krems continued. “Our global sales and operations teams work closely with shippers to manage complexity and maintain service continuity.”

Redefining time-critical shipping

In today’s freight environment, speed isn’t just a premium—it’s often the expectation. United Cargo has developed its expedited services with this urgency in mind, catering to industries where timing is everything.

“Our expedited portfolio is built for speed and precision,” Krems said. “Services like UAPremium and QuickPak offer high-priority handling, minimal connection times, and real-time visibility, ensuring urgent shipments get where they need to be—fast.”

These services aren’t just about moving faster—they’re about reducing uncertainty. “UAPremium provides priority boarding, bypassing standard cargo queues to minimise dwell time,” he explained. “Shipments are loaded last and offloaded first, reducing handoff delays and accelerating delivery.”

That reliability is backed by hands-on support. “The service includes proactive monitoring and intervention by a dedicated support team, ensuring each shipment moves seamlessly across our global network,” Krems added.

This level of precision is increasingly essential in a logistics ecosystem transformed by e-commerce. With small-package shipments surging from platforms like Shein and Temu, air cargo must adapt.

“e-commerce logistics require scale, speed, and agility,” Krems said. “United Cargo is optimising its network and processes to handle higher volumes of smaller, time-sensitive parcels.”

The company’s online platform partnerships, including integrations with WebCargo and cargo.one, play a crucial role in streamlining access and throughput. “Our strategic focus on digital transformation is streamlining access and enabling high-throughput processing tailored for e-commerce fulfillment,” Krems noted.

Cold chain confidence

As demand rises for temperature-sensitive cargo—particularly in pharmaceuticals and biotech—United Cargo is expanding its reach and capabilities through strategic alliances.

“Through interline agreements with trusted carriers, TempControl now connects more destinations and provides seamless end-to-end cold chain integrity,” Krems explained. “Our relationships with AeronUnion in Mexico, Air Class Cargo in Uruguay, and Emirates SkyCargo in Zurich extend our reach into emerging pharmaceutical and biotech markets.”

These partnerships aren’t just about geography—they’re about consistency. “They enable consistent handling for temperature-sensitive cargo, from origin to destination, across a broader global footprint,” he said.

Serving sectors

As global economies shift toward digital and green transitions, the demand for secure, high-value logistics solutions has intensified—especially in sectors like critical minerals, semiconductors, and clean energy. United Cargo has responded with services tailored for these needs.

“Our network flexibility, coupled with specialised handling capabilities through products like UASecure, allows us to meet the stringent requirements of high-value and sensitive shipments,” Krems said.

The UASecure service offers an elevated tier of protection. “UASecure offers elevated safeguards for high-value or sensitive cargo, including restricted access, monitored handling, and chain-of-custody protocols,” he said. “With priority boarding and unloading, shipments benefit from reduced exposure and quicker transfers.”

Real-time tracking and dedicated support ensure constant oversight. “Advanced tracking and a dedicated support team provide end-to-end oversight, delivering peace of mind for high-stakes consignments,” Krems noted.

Shifting policy landscape

New trade policies and regulatory changes have introduced new complexities into global shipping. The removal of the $800 de minimis exemption and the imposition of new tariffs are reshaping the freight conversation. For United Cargo, adaptability is the answer.

“United Cargo remains agile in navigating policy shifts,” Krems said. “We’re working closely with customers, regulatory agencies, and customs authorities to anticipate regulatory impacts, streamline compliance processes, and mitigate delays.”

Technology is a key ally in this process. “Our digital capabilities provide greater visibility and control over documentation and customs requirements, helping shippers adapt quickly and efficiently,” he explained.

That responsiveness extends to the company’s broader operating model. “By maintaining a flexible and responsive operating model, United Cargo is positioned to help customers weather regulatory changes,” said Krems. “We continue to engage in industry advocacy and partner with stakeholders to align on solutions.”

Transparency and collaboration are central pillars of United’s approach in an increasingly complex trade environment. “Our commitment to transparency, adaptability, and service excellence remains steadfast as we help customers navigate the evolving landscape,” he added.