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ALL VEHICLES > LARGE STRAIGHT TRUCKS

Large Straight Trucks

With around half the capacity of a semi-trailer, and double that of a box truck, large straight trucks provide substantial cargo-hauling capability while retaining good maneuverability. Use the following information to determine if this size of vehicle will meet your need for rapid movement of high-value freight across town or across the country. FullTruckload.com specializes in matching shippers with the right straight truck configuration for every load.

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Contents

What are Straight Trucks?

A straight truck has a large rectangular, solid-sided body mounted behind the driver's cab on a rigid frame. Straight trucks are manufactured by a number of companies, including Freightliner, Peterbilt, and Kenworth, and come with a wide range of engine options. They are produced in two and three axle configurations, with the third axle increasing load-carrying capacity. Rear doors are typically of the roller shutter style, although some straight trucks have swing-out solid doors. Side doors are uncommon. These trucks are a popular choice for industries requiring efficient, secure, and flexible transportation solutions, balancing the capacity of larger vehicles with the maneuverability of smaller ones.

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Suited for hauling substantial loads while maintaining ability to navigate tighter spaces.

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Cargo capacity 10-12 pallets, maximum payload 10,000–15,000 lbs.

Package tracking

Ideal for high priority shipping of larger freight items.

Hub to spoke

Floor height aligns with standard loading docks for easy manual loading.

Large Straight Truck Cargo Capacity

The inside of a straight truck is 96” wide and 96” high, which makes it just big enough to take two rows of pallets. The shortest trucks, which provide 22’ of cargo capacity, will take a line of five pallets, (for a total of 10), while the longest (26’) will take 12 pallets.

Two important considerations are payload and loading method. Payload is complicated by the 26,000 pound Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) cutoff from non-CDL to CDL (Commercial Driver’s License). A non-CDL straight truck is therefore restricted to a maximum total weight of 26,000 pounds, but with a CDL operator, can go to 54,000 pounds.

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TYPES OF CARGO

Pallets aren’t the only type of freight these trucks can carry. With tie-downs and cargo nets to keep items secure, they’re incredibly versatile cargo-carriers.
 
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Loads can include manufacturing and test equipment, specialist tools, laboratory equipment, display stands and presentation systems, and even the gear sports teams need when they’re on the road.
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Whether it’s in cartons, hard-sided plastic cases, wheeled bins, or dedicated cradles, if it fits, a straight truck can carry it.
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Straight trucks are available with refrigeration for perishable goods. Freezer units can also be obtained if needed.
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While the floor is at dock height, straight trucks can be loaded via a ramp. Some straight trucks are equipped with a liftgate for easy loading.
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Range and Routes

Diesel-engined straight trucks, which most are, typically average 8 to 12 mpg and carry tanks of up to 150 gallon capacity. Depending on the type of driving they’re being used for, (highway, urban, rural roads), they can go up to 1,200 miles before refueling.

Many straight trucks are used for “last mile” deliveries, where freight is offloaded from a semi-trailer for local delivery in a congested urban or metropolitan area. However, they are just as well-suited to long-distance transportation, meaning inter-state, coast-to-coast, and even international. When using a straight truck with a sleeper cab, a driver team can cross the country in remarkable speed.

Another useful feature of the straight truck is that a lower GVWR, and a lower overall height than a semi-trailer, means they can often take more direct routes, crossing weight-limited bridges and going under low bridges.

 

End to End Solutions

These trucks are particularly beneficial for businesses requiring direct delivery of medium to large-sized shipments, reducing the risk of damage and delays. By integrating real-time tracking, optimized routing, and dedicated freight services, companies can enhance supply chain visibility and reliability. Large straight trucks also enable just-in-time delivery strategies, allowing businesses to minimize storage costs and keep inventory moving efficiently.

Additionally, utilizing large straight trucks in end-to-end logistics improves flexibility and scalability for businesses in industries such as retail, healthcare, and manufacturing. Their ability to access both urban and suburban areas makes them ideal for last-mile delivery and regional distribution.

Many providers offer value-added services, such as temperature-controlled transportation, specialized handling for fragile goods, and expedited shipping options. By leveraging these trucks in a comprehensive logistics strategy, businesses can streamline operations, improve customer satisfaction, and achieve cost-effective transportation solutions tailored to their needs.

KEY VEHICLE SPECIFICATIONS

Maximum payload

Up to 26,000 pounds without a CDL driver, and with a CDL, up to 54,000 pounds.

Maximum cargo dimensions

Width: 96”, height: 96”, length: 22 to 26’. Generally sufficient for two rows of 6 standard pallets.

Floor is at loading dock level

Some straight trucks have a ramp or liftgate. Note that most straight truck floors will NOT accommodate a fork truck (and fork trucks are generally too tall to enter a truck anyway).

Range

Depends on engine, fuel, and fuel tank capacity, but can be up to 1,200 miles between refueling stops.

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Large Straight Truck Advantages

Large straight trucks offer significant advantages for expedited freight, especially when transporting medium to large-sized loads. Their spacious cargo areas accommodate heavier and bulkier shipments, making them ideal for industries requiring rapid delivery of substantial goods. Unlike full semi-trailers, straight trucks can access urban delivery points, low-clearance routes, and weight-restricted roads that would otherwise require costly detours or freight transfers. Their ability to operate efficiently over both short regional runs and extended long-distance hauls makes them a versatile, dependable asset in any expedited logistics network. FullTruckload.com matches each shipment with the right vehicle configuration to ensure on-time performance without unnecessary cost.

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Capabilities

A large straight truck is built on a rigid frame, with a solid-sided, rectangular cargo area positioned directly behind the driver’s cab. Designed for efficiency and versatility, these trucks typically come in two-axle and three-axle models, with the third axle allowing for greater payloads. Offering about twice the capacity of a box truck but only half that of a semi-trailer, they strike an ideal balance between cargo volume and maneuverability. This makes large straight trucks well-suited for hauling substantial loads while maintaining the ability to navigate tighter spaces.
Long Distance Service

Long Distance Service

In long-distance service, a straight truck is often faster than a semi. Being smaller and lighter, they can take more direct routes that use and pass under bridges with weight limits and height restrictions. They also have better maneuverability and gas mileage than semi-trucks, while being substantially larger than box trucks and Sprinter vans. For businesses requiring a balance between capacity, speed, and flexibility, large straight trucks are an ideal choice for long-distance and expedited freight needs.

Versatility

Versatility

Large straight trucks are as effective in long-distance transportation as they are for use in densely populated urban and metropolitan areas. They are ideal for high priority shipping of larger freight items, or freight requiring multiple pallets or containers. In addition, multiple loading and unloading options make for great versatility. This combination of adaptability and efficiency makes large straight trucks a dependable choice for businesses seeking reliable expedited freight solutions.

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Loading

Large straight trucks are engineered with a floor height that aligns with standard loading docks, facilitating easy manual loading and unloading or use of a pallet truck. However, they are not designed for fork truck loading. Most fork trucks are too tall to fit inside the cargo area, and their weight can exceed the floor’s capacity. Additionally, there is a risk of lifting the front of the truck as the fork truck enters, especially considering that the rear of the truck extends beyond its rear axle. Therefore, it’s important to use proper loading equipment that matches the truck’s design and weight limits.

Safety

Safety

Large straight trucks offer notable safety advantages when shipping expedited freight, ensuring both the protection of goods and the well-being of drivers. Their rigid frame design provides greater stability compared to articulated vehicles, reducing the risk of tipping or jackknifing during sudden maneuvers. Equipped with advanced safety features such as anti-lock braking systems (ABS), stability control, and collision mitigation technology, these trucks enhance driver control and minimize accident risks. The enclosed, solid-sided cargo area shields freight from external elements and potential damage.
Technology

Advanced Tracking Technology

The straight trucks we use are equipped with advanced tracking technology. This lets us monitor their progress and provide the drivers with rerouting instructions to address problems like bad weather or road congestion. It also enables the regular updates that give customers the assurance their delivery will arrive when promised. This combination of advanced technology, safety, and versatility makes our straight truck service a reliable solution for meeting tight deadlines and delivering exceptional customer satisfaction.

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Moving Production Loads with a Large Straight Truck

Manufacturing operations depend on tight supply chains, and a large straight truck gives shippers the dedicated capacity to move raw materials, components, and finished goods without the delays of shared freight. FullTruckload.com connects manufacturers with a single point of contact who coordinates the entire move, from pickup at the plant floor to confirmed delivery at the receiving dock, keeping production schedules on track across the country.

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Expedited Capacity When It Cannot Wait

When a shipment is time-sensitive and a standard carrier network simply will not do, FullTruckload.com deploys a large straight truck on a dedicated, direct run to your destination. Our 24/7 dispatch team monitors every critical move in real time, providing the responsiveness that high-stakes industries demand. Whether a production line is down or a retail deadline is looming, we keep cargo moving without interruption or unnecessary stops.

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Navigating Urban and Regional Destinations

Straight truck capacity is especially well suited for final-mile freight that needs to reach city centers, regional distribution points, or job sites where larger equipment cannot easily maneuver. FullTruckload.com matches your load to the right large straight truck and provides real-time tracking visibility from origin through final delivery. Shippers gain reliable, accountable service at every stop along the last leg of even the most complex routing.

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Large Straight Trucks for Retail Distribution

Retailers moving seasonal inventory, store replenishments, or high-value merchandise benefit from the capacity and agility that large straight trucks provide. These vehicles bridge the gap between smaller delivery vans and full semi-trailers, allowing shipments to reach distribution centers, storefronts, and fulfillment hubs without the overhead of a full truckload commitment. FullTruckload.com coordinates dedicated routing, real-time tracking, and 24/7 dispatch to keep retail supply chains moving on schedule.

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Straight Trucks Built for Time-Critical Loads

When a shipment cannot wait, straight trucks offer the right combination of capacity and speed for expedited freight runs. FullTruckload.com dispatches dedicated straight trucks around the clock, ensuring your cargo moves on a direct route without the delays associated with shared or LTL services. Whether the destination is a distribution hub, a manufacturing plant, or an urban delivery point, our drivers are staged and ready to roll the moment your freight is ready.

Why Work with FullTruckload.com?

A Single Point of Contact

From booking to delivery, you’ll have a dedicated expediter guiding you through every step of the logistics process. Experience seamless, personalized support from start to finish.

Real-Time Tracking, 24/7/365

With real-time updates and complete visibility, you can stay ahead of any potential delays and make informed decisions to keep your operations running smoothly.

Multiple Options

We proactively analyze ground and air traffic, anticipate weather challenges, and account for potential flight delays to keep your shipment on track. Our goal is to overcome any obstacles and ensure your deadline is always met.

Our Streamlined Process

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Single point of contact

Work with the same expeditor during your shipment’s entire process–no annoying call centers!
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shipment-to-vehicle matching system

We carefully match the size and weight of your shipment to the right vehicle.
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Vetted & exclusive carriers

We work with vetted, experienced carriers, so you get one vehicle for the entire delivery process exclusive.
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real-time monitoring & alerts

Our GPS tracking technology lets us know exactly where your shipment is at all times.

Types of Vehicles

STRAIGHT TRUCK

Measuring 22-26’ x 96” x 96”, our straight trucks can carry loads up to 9,000 pounds. Our large straight truck services offer focused logistics, professional drivers, and deeply-experienced expeditors to get your delivery where it needs to go.

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SPRINTER VAN

FullTruckload.com's expedited Sprinter vans have the capacity to meet your local, regional, or long-distance ground shipping needs. Measuring 8-12’ x 52” x 70", our carefully-selected vans have the capacity to carry loads up to 3,000 lbs.

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BOX TRUCK

We pride ourselves in working with trusted partners that offer carefully-vetted box trucks, from temperature-controlled vehicles to varying sizes that accommodate smaller loads. Our box trucks, or small straight trucks, measure 12-16’ x 94” x 70” and have the capacity to carry up to 5,000 pounds.

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HOT SHOT TRUCK

We'll happily arrange for your freight to be transported via hot shot trucking services. We've proudly partnered with hot shot trucking providers across North America to give you access to carefully-vetted ground delivery vehicles for your time-critical freight.

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53' DRY VAN

Our fleet of 53-Ft dry vans can carry loads up to 42,000 pounds. Measuring 53’ x 99” x 102”, these carefully-vetted vehicles will ensure your time-sensitive freight arrives at its destination safely.

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FULL FLATBED

FullTruckload.com's full flat bed vehicles can accommodate wide or mega-size loads, such as specialized equipment machinery of all weights and sizes. Measuring 48-53’ x 102” x 102”, our fleet of full flat bed vehicles can carry freight of up to 48,000 pounds.

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STRAIGHT TRUCK
SPRINTER VAN
BOX TRUCK
HOT SHOT TRUCK
53' DRY VAN
FULL FLATBED

THE FULL TRUCKLOAD PROMISE

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End to End Emergency Solutions with the Large Straight Truck Service

When people and businesses are in a bind, unable to get essential equipment where it needs to be, when it needs to be there, our large straight truck service is often the answer.

For a fascinating example, consider what happened with the NBA during the first year of the Covid-19 pandemic. Social distancing protocols, introduced to slow the spread of the disease, meant the only way the 2020 season could proceed was by creating a “bubble” where teams were quarantined.

The NBA decided to operate this “bubble” from ESPN’s Wide World of Sports Complex in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. They did an amazing job of pulling this together in just days, but it left teams like the Brooklyn Nets with the problem of getting everything they needed – training gear, uniforms, player’s personal possessions, and more – from New York to The Sunshine State.

Our solution was to give the Nets exclusive use of a 26’ straight truck. The vehicle arrived in Brooklyn for loading on June 19th, and was in Florida just a few days later, ensuring the Nets’ players, coaches, and assistants had everything they needed. Since then, the Nets have continued to rely on us to get their belongings where they need to go safely and on time.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Large Straight Trucks

What is a large straight truck and how does it differ from a semi-trailer?

A large straight truck is a single-unit vehicle with the cab and cargo box built on one rigid frame, typically offering 22 to 26 feet of cargo space. Unlike a semi-trailer, the cargo body is permanently attached rather than detachable, which makes the vehicle more maneuverable in urban environments. Large straight trucks carry roughly half the volume of a standard semi-trailer, making them ideal for medium-sized shipments that do not require a full 53-foot trailer.

How much weight can a large straight truck carry?

The weight capacity of a large straight truck depends on whether the vehicle is operated under a CDL or non-CDL configuration. Non-CDL straight trucks are capped at a 26,000-pound Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, while CDL-operated vehicles can handle up to 54,000 pounds. Payload capacity will vary based on the truck's axle configuration and the weight of the vehicle itself, so confirming exact payload requirements with your logistics coordinator is always recommended before booking.

Can large straight trucks handle long-distance or interstate freight?

Yes. While large straight trucks are frequently associated with last-mile and urban delivery, they are fully capable of coast-to-coast and interstate runs. With diesel tanks holding up to 150 gallons, these vehicles can travel up to 1,200 miles between refueling stops. When equipped with a sleeper cab and operated by a driver team, large straight trucks can cross the country efficiently, making them a practical choice for time-sensitive, long-distance expedited freight shipments.

What types of freight are best suited for large straight trucks?

Large straight trucks are well suited for palletized goods, boxed merchandise, industrial components, medical equipment, and other medium-to-large shipments that require secure, enclosed transport. Their solid-sided cargo area, rear roller doors, and tie-down points make them versatile enough to handle both standard pallets and irregularly shaped cargo. Industries such as manufacturing, retail distribution, healthcare, and automotive parts supply commonly rely on large straight trucks for expedited freight needs.

Do large straight trucks have access advantages over full semi-trailers?

Yes. Because large straight trucks have a lower overall height and can be configured with a lower Gross Vehicle Weight Rating than a full semi-trailer, they can navigate weight-restricted bridges, low overpasses, and tighter urban streets that would be inaccessible to larger rigs. This routing flexibility often allows for more direct point-to-point delivery paths, reducing transit time and minimizing the handling risk associated with freight transfers at intermediate distribution points.

How does FullTruckload.com manage expedited shipments around the clock?

FullTruckload.com operates 24/7 dispatch, meaning a qualified logistics coordinator is available at any hour to accept, plan, and execute urgent freight moves. From the moment a shipment is tendered, the team handles vehicle selection, routing, driver assignment, and real-time tracking updates. Shippers receive a single point of contact throughout the move, eliminating the confusion of dealing with multiple parties during time-critical freight situations.

What tracking capabilities does FullTruckload.com provide?

FullTruckload.com uses advanced tracking technology to provide shippers with real-time visibility into the location and status of their freight from pickup through delivery. Updates are accessible without requiring shippers to chase down information manually. This level of transparency is especially important for expedited and critical shipments where delivery timing directly affects production schedules, customer commitments, or downstream logistics operations.

What is the difference between straight trucks and semi-trucks for freight shipping?

Straight trucks mount the cargo body directly onto the same frame as the cab, creating a single rigid unit. Semi-trucks use a separate tractor that pulls a detachable trailer, offering greater capacity but reduced maneuverability. For medium-volume shipments that require access to urban delivery points, weight-restricted roads, or low-clearance routes, straight trucks are often the more practical and cost-efficient choice.

How do I know if straight trucks are the right vehicle for my shipment?

Straight trucks are well matched to shipments occupying roughly 10 to 12 pallet positions and weighing up to 54,000 pounds gross with a CDL operator. If your freight is too large for a cargo van or box truck but does not fill a full semi-trailer, a large straight truck is likely the right fit. FullTruckload.com can assess your dimensions, weight, and delivery requirements to recommend the best configuration.

Can straight trucks be used for dedicated, exclusive-use freight shipping?

Yes. FullTruckload.com operates straight trucks on a dedicated, exclusive-use basis, meaning no freight other than yours rides in the vehicle. This eliminates the handling touches and delay risks common in shared freight models, and it is especially important for high-value, fragile, or time-sensitive cargo that cannot tolerate intermediate stops or consolidation terminals.

Are straight trucks available for same-day or overnight shipments nationwide?

Straight trucks are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week through FullTruckload.com. Same-day dispatch is standard for urgent freight, and driver teams utilizing sleeper-cab configurations can execute overnight or cross-country runs without mandatory rest delays. Coverage extends nationwide, allowing straight truck shipments to originate from or deliver to virtually any US location.

What industries commonly rely on straight trucks for their freight needs?

Industries that frequently use straight trucks include manufacturing, retail distribution, healthcare, automotive parts, and construction supply. Their enclosed, solid-sided cargo bodies protect goods from weather and theft, making them suitable for high-value or sensitive materials. The ability to navigate urban cores and restricted-access sites also makes straight trucks a common choice for last-mile delivery operations within dense metropolitan areas.

Industries We Serve

Aviation & Aerospace

Every moment a commercial airliner sits on the ground, it costs an airline money. Expedited freight services by FullTruckload.com can get you back in the air with the prompt delivery of parts and equipment throughout North America. With a nationwide network of carriers and access to dedicated box trucks, straight trucks, and tractor-trailers, FullTruckload.com offers reliable and efficient transportation tailored to the aviation industry’s needs.
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Construction

Because one shipping delay can snowball and cause delays throughout your entire project, you need an experienced 3PL provider who understands the construction industry and has the logistical reach to deliver your freight on time, anywhere. That 3PL partner is FullTruckload.com. From heavy machinery and building materials to specialized tools and equipment, our logistics solutions are tailored to keep your project on track. With a robust network of carriers and expertise in handling oversized, time-sensitive, and critical shipments, we ensure that every delivery arrives exactly when and where it’s needed.
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Energy

The consequences from lost power production are serious for any business. Equipment failure is one of the biggest causes of energy production downtime. Losses compound exponentially with delay, loss of energy capacity, or the idling of plants for scheduled or unscheduled maintenance. Whether it's a hydroelectric power station or solar farm, you need a 3PL provider who can move your parts and equipment safely and securely while meeting your most stringent deadlines.
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Manufacturing

Every moment a manufacturing facility or factory sits idle costs a company money due to the high costs involved in lost sales and lost customers. With many manufacturers building to just-in-time production rates, any disruption threatens parts and vehicle inventories. This is where the speed, expertise, and experience of freight services from AirFreight.com make a difference throughout the entire manufacturing supply chain.
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Oil & Gas

The oil and gas industry faces challenging conditions in offshore and onshore oil rigs, often in remote locations with limited infrastructure. Don’t let oil pumps or pipelines sit idle, waiting for equipment. By having the right plans, parts, people, and a logistics partner such as FullTruckload.com, you can effectively mitigate plant or pump downtime, unscheduled disruptions, and equipment failures.
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Renewables & Environment

Wind turbines can be as tall as an 85-story building with a blade radius of an acre. Transporting just one wind turbine can take up to nine separate shipments. Solar equipment includes sensitive electronics and glass that are easily subject to damage. Constructing one solar panel requires nearly 40 different components, including precious metals, that need to get to the factory on time. With requirements like this, it's critical to work with the right 3PL provider that can flex with your needs when situations and requirements change.
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Retail

During downtime, retailers experience lost sales with the inability to process credit cards, access customer purchasing history, or locate items in stock at a distribution center or another retail location. Don’t let unexpected downtime due to point-of-sale equipment failures impact your brand or frustrate your customers. If you can’t serve your customers, your competition will!
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Technology

Unexpected IT downtime can bring down even the largest businesses—just ask airlines when their reservation systems go offline. The importance of e-commerce, online sales, and the computing infrastructure that supports it makes getting systems and servers up and running even more critical. With 98% of organizations reporting that a single hour of downtime costs over $100,000, you can’t afford a slow logistics partner.
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3PL

With today’s broken supply chains, even companies that specialize in logistics find themselves needing help. We provide an expansive network of expedited ground and air shipping options to make the trip in the air, to and from the airport, or complete the entire delivery on the ground. Through these resources and our centralized planning operations, we help 3PL providers overcome all the challenges of their industry.
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