When to Use Expedited Freight vs Traditional Services
June 9, 2025 | 4 Minute Read
Expedited freight prioritises speed, ensuring production lines keep running, retailers meet tight deadlines and hospitals receive urgent medical supplies. Unlike traditional freight, which follows fixed schedules with multiple stops, expedited freight is designed for last-minute stock replenishments, critical machine parts and high-value goods that need immediate transport.
XPO’s ExpressNow, launched in Southern Europe and Morocco in 2024 and deployed across Europe in March 2025, is an emergency supply chain solution with flexible transport options, real-time tracking and a dedicated support team. When time is tight, ExpressNow gets shipments in motion.
Expedited Freight vs. Traditional Freight – Quick Overview
| Feature | Expedited freight | Traditional freight |
| Speed | Faster transit times, often same-day or next-day | Slower, scheduled deliveries |
| Flexibility | Uses priority routes and direct transport | May involve multiple stops or consolidations |
| Security | Enhanced handling, fewer touchpoints | Standard handling, more potential delays |
| Cost | Higher due to premium service | More budget-friendly |
Key Features of Expedited Freight
- Faster transit times – Deliveries within hours or next-day.
- Priority handling – Urgent shipments avoid delays.
- Real-time tracking – Advanced express freight tracking ensures visibility.
- Direct transport – Light vehicles, HGVs and air freight reduce touchpoints.
Industries That Typically Rely on Expedited Freight
| Automotive | Delivering critical spare parts to prevent production stoppages. |
| Healthcare | Transporting urgent pharmaceuticals and medical equipment. |
| Luxury goods | Securing high-value items like designer fashion or jewellery. |
When to Use Expedited Freight
Emergency Supply Chain Disruptions
Manufacturers and retailers often need urgent deliveries due to unexpected disruptions. A factory experiencing an equipment failure can lose thousands per hour, while a retailer facing a last-minute stock shortage during peak season relies on express freight to meet demand.
High-Value or Time-Sensitive Goods
Luxury brands need secure express freight for watches, jewellery and designer pieces. Hospitals depend on urgent delivery for medical devices and pharmaceuticals, including temperature-sensitive medications like vaccines, which require express freight tracking for safe arrival.
Cross-Border Logistics & B2B Operations
Global businesses use expedited freight to meet strict deadlines and avoid penalties. Delays in cross-border logistics can disrupt supply chains, making urgent delivery essential for maintaining operations and supplier relationships.
How ExpressNow Provides a Competitive Edge
ExpressNow is XPO’s dedicated solution for high-priority freight, helping shipments move swiftly through the supply chain with minimal delays.
Key Benefits of ExpressNow
- Faster transit times – Same-day, next-day or express air freight options.
- 24/7 support – A dedicated response team handles urgent shipments.
- Flexible solutions – Tailored transport for time-critical deliveries
- Rapid quoting process – Providing businesses with an express shipment quote in under 30 minutes so firms can make faster, smarter logistics decisions.
Technology’s Role in Expedited Freight
Advancements in technology have made express freight faster, more transparent and highly efficient. AI-driven route optimisation analyses real-time data – weather, traffic and customs clearance – to determine the fastest route.
How Technology is Improving Expedited Freight
- Real-time tracking – Businesses monitor shipments every step of the way.
- Automated warehouse processes – Robotics speed up sorting and loading.
- Mobile logistics apps – Shippers and carriers coordinate deliveries instantly.
The demand for speed, flexibility and sustainability is reshaping the industry. Logistics firms, including XPO, are investing in low-emission transport and alternative fuels to reduce environmental impact.
Future Trends in Expedited Freight
Electric and hybrid vehicles – Lower emissions for road freight.
Carbon offset programs – Businesses balance expedited shipping’s footprint.
Automation in warehouses – AI and robotics boost efficiency.
Multimodal transport – Combining road, rail and air for speed and cost-effectiveness.
Digital customs clearance – Streamlined cross-border logistics reduces delays.
When Every Second Counts, Expedited Freight Delivers
Expedited freight is the adrenaline shot of supply chain management, helping businesses meet urgent demands. Whether it’s an urgent shipment of auto parts to keep production running or medical supplies heading to a hospital, speed is paramount.
While traditional freight is cost-effective for routine deliveries, when minutes matter, businesses need a reliable express solution. XPO’s ExpressNow delivers high-speed logistics when every second counts, keeping businesses ahead.