Forward Air

Forward Air Corporation operates as an asset-light freight and logistics company, specializing in surface transportation for the North American air freight and expedited Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) market. Headquartered in Greeneville, Tennessee, the company was established in 1981 and has since grown into a significant player in the logistics industry. The company's roots trace back to Landair Transport, co-founded by Scott M. Niswonger, who, with a background in aviation technology, identified an opportunity in ground transport for the air cargo industry following trucking deregulation. Forward Air Corporation was officially formed in 1998 when Landair Services spun off its Truckload business unit.

The company's business model centers on providing time-definite, cost-effective alternatives to air transportation. Revenue is primarily generated through its Expedited Freight segment, which includes LTL services, local pick-up and delivery, truckload services, and warehousing. Another significant revenue stream comes from its Intermodal segment, which offers drayage services to and from seaports and railheads. The acquisition of Omni Logistics has also become a key contributor to revenue, expanding the company's offerings in contract logistics and warehousing. Forward Air serves a diverse client base that includes businesses of all sizes, freight forwarders, integrated air cargo carriers, and airlines across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Forward Air's core service is its expedited LTL shipping, designed for palletized shipments that require faster transit than standard LTL. This service leverages a comprehensive network of over 100 terminals located near major U.S. and Canadian airports and 12 regional sorting hubs. The company's offerings have expanded to include full truckload, intermodal drayage, brokerage, and final mile services. A key feature is the use of technology for real-time tracking and efficient freight management. The company has pursued growth through both organic expansion of its network and strategic acquisitions, such as Towne Air Freight and Omni Logistics, to strengthen its service capabilities and market presence.

Keywords: Less-Than-Truckload (LTL), expedited freight, intermodal drayage, logistics services, freight transportation, asset-light, supply chain solutions, freight forwarding, ground transportation, North American logistics