The global market’s expectations have changed since the Covid-19 pandemic. During that time, most consumers were restricted in where they could physically visit and shop, meaning they were forced to look for other options and default to internet shopping.

Internet suppliers quickly adapted by offering sometimes a better price and overnight delivery, which pushed the supply chain to offer a stronger express service product.

This has been paired with the evolution of technology, which is continuing to advance at an unprecedented pace. Nowadays, most, if not all, carriers and elements of the supply chain have had to adapt and provide shipping transparency within their system with real- time updates.

“We have realised significant growth year over year driven by our express service,” Len Williams, Regional Manager of Buffalo Air Express, stated.

“Even though we are a regional carrier, we also process goods from our interline partners that have global connections, and we have seen significant growth in the interline volumes we are carrying.”

Shipments and seasonality

Traditionally, seasons have played a factor in the express market, and still do for some customers, depending on ice roads and barging availability.

Recently, there have been noticeable increases in volumes, particularly for companies in the pharma and mining sectors. 

“As the consumer gets familiar and accustomed to express delivery, I believe the delivery service expectation bar has been permanently set,” Williams outlined.  

“Buffalo Air Express is now operating a B737F-300 from Edmonton to Yellowknife five days a week. That added capacity has been embraced by the northern communities we serve. 

“As more of the northern communities get familiar with our added capacity to the north, volumes and frequency will steadily increase.”