When a business needs goods moving from A to B at short notice, it relies on express freight services to keep operations running smoothly. This specialised arm of the logistics industry transports goods rapidly – with minimal delays and disruptions within the supply chain.  Industries such as automotive, healthcare and luxury goods rely on express freight to maintain efficiency. A car manufacturer may need urgent engine components to prevent production delays, while hospitals depend on rapid pharmaceutical deliveries. Luxury brands, too, require swift shipping to keep high-value items in stock. 
Driven by just-in-time production, e-commerce growth and complex cross-border logistics, express freight helps businesses avoid costly delays. XPO’s ExpressNow service is designed to tackle these challenges head-on, using cutting-edge technology and a dedicated team to provide fast, reliable delivery solutions. 

How Express Freight Works 

Unlike standard freight, which prioritises cost efficiency, express freight focuses on speed. Carriers achieve rapid transit times through: 

• Optimised routing – Smart planning reduces transit times by identifying the fastest, most efficient routes. 
• Dedicated transport options – From light vehicles for smaller loads to HGVs and Air Express for longer distances, tailored transport minimises delays.
• Real-time tracking – Advanced express freight tracking allows businesses to monitor shipments, enhancing supply chain control.

Logistics providers integrate multiple transport modes – air, road and last-mile solutions – to shift time-critical goods efficiently. 

Benefits of Express Freight 

Express freight ensures rapid deliveries, reducing downtime and keeping supply chains moving. Key advantages include:

• Reliable, secure transport – Dedicated vehicles and expert handling reduce risks of loss or damage.
• Real-time visibility – Advanced tracking systems enhance shipment monitoring.
• Cost-efficiency despite premium pricing – Avoiding downtime helps prevent significant financial losses.
• Tech-driven optimisation – AI-powered logistics streamline express deliveries, minimising disruptions. 

Express Freight Across Key Sectors 

Various industries rely on express freight to meet urgent demands. 

Automotive Industry 

• Supports just-in-time production, keeping assembly lines operational.
• Ensures fast delivery of spare parts to prevent customer delays.
• Facilitates efficient cross-border logistics. 

General Manufacturing 

• Reduces production downtime by preventing material shortages.
• Helps manufacturers recover from supply chain disruptions quickly.

Luxury Goods 

• Ensures secure, fast transport for high-value items.
• Meets tight retail deadlines for product launches and seasonal collections. 

Healthcare 

• Delivers critical medical supplies swiftly.
• Provides temperature-controlled logistics for sensitive pharmaceuticals.
• Enables rapid response for emergencies. 

XPO’s ExpressNow – A Tailored Solution for Time-Critical Freight 

First launched in Southern Europe and Morocco in June 2024, ExpressNow provides fast, customised transport solutions for urgent deliveries. It selects the most efficient transport mode for each case, ensuring minimal delays. 

How ExpressNow Works 

• Tailored transport selection – From light vehicles to HGVs and air charters, XPO determines the best solution.
• 24/7 response team – Specialists provide round-the-clock logistics support.
• Technology-driven efficiency – Real-time express freight tracking enhances shipment visibility. 

Emergency & Hypercare Solutions

• Fast intervention – Immediate response for supply chain disruptions like stock shortages or urgent repairs.
• Reliable security – XPO’s expertise ensures peace of mind when time is critical. 

ExpressNow’s Transport Solutions 

XPO provides a range of transport options to meet urgent delivery needs. 

The Future of Express Freight in Europe 

The express freight industry is evolving through AI-powered tracking, automation and optimised routing, reducing delays and boosting efficiency. Sustainability is also a key focus, with companies investing in low-emission transport and alternative fuels. XPO leads this shift by integrating advanced technology and developing greener logistics solutions. 

Express Freight’s Vital Role in Freight Forwarding 

Express freight provides businesses with rapid, reliable transport solutions for time-sensitive shipments. Whether supporting just-in-time manufacturing, replenishing last-minute stock, or handling critical deliveries in industries like healthcare and automotive, express freight ensures seamless supply chain management. 

XPO’s ExpressNow service offers a trusted, tailored approach with advanced tracking, dedicated logistics support and a range of transport solutions. From road to air, it provides businesses with the speed, flexibility and reliability needed for urgent deliveries. 

For companies facing time-critical logistics challenges, ExpressNow delivers the expertise and rapid response necessary to keep operations moving. Contact XPO today to discover how ExpressNow can support your business with fast and efficient delivery solutions.