Chicago, IL - 1UP CARGO (Chicago)
1UP CARGO is a family-owned and operated freight forwarder and customs broker with a transnational presence through its own offices in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Based in Chicago, Illinois, the company emphasizes a hands-on, owner-led approach to international supply chain management, aiming to deliver reliable, time-sensitive transportation solutions to clients across multiple sectors.
The company highlights a commitment to taking ownership of the international supply chain on behalf of its customers. This approach is designed to ensure that clients receive consistent, best-in-class service that fosters ongoing relationships. 1UP CARGO places emphasis on staying at the cutting edge of innovations in the global transport sector and maintaining agility to adapt to market changes as opportunities arise. A key aspect of their service model is the proactive engagement of all stakeholders within the supply chain, including nurturing and maintaining relationships with Tier 1 carrier contacts. These relationships are presented as a means to remain competitive while providing reliable support to both agents and clients.
From a personnel perspective, 1UP CARGO describes a blended team composition of industry veterans and younger staff. The mix is portrayed as enhance the ability to understand client needs and respond effectively, even before clients articulate them. The company notes accreditations with peak industry bodies, presenting itself as a quality-assured agent that operates under strict KPIs to facilitate smoother, more successful business engagements.
Key service lines highlighted by 1UP CARGO include general freight forwarding for both export and import activities, time-critical transport, and the handling of dangerous goods. The company also notes capabilities in FBA and e-commerce fulfillment, which positions it to support online retailer operations and direct-to-consumer distribution. Project cargo and out-of-gauge (OOG) shipments are identified as core competencies, signaling the ability to manage complex, oversized, or specialized cargo requiring tailored logistics solutions. Additional services include food and beverage cargo handling, which can entail specific regulatory and temperature-controlled considerations, as well as purchase order management to streamline procurement and shipment coordination.
Communication capabilities are highlighted as a differentiator, with 24/7 contact availability via email, WhatsApp, WeChat, and traditional landlines. This emphasis on around-the-clock access aims to provide clients with continuous visibility and rapid response, regardless of location or time zone. While the profile does not enumerate every operational detail, the combination of freight forwarding, customs brokerage, specialized cargo handling, and robust client communication points to a full-spectrum logistics partner capable of supporting diverse supply chains across industries.
In terms of compliance and quality, the company refers to accreditations with “peak industry bodies” and a KPI-driven approach, suggesting adherence to recognized standards and performance benchmarks. This framing implies that clients can expect structured performance management, documentation accuracy, timely deliveries, and reliable customs clearance processes as part of the service offering.
Overall, 1UP CARGO presents itself as a multi-faceted logistics partner with a regional base in Chicago and a global network that enables it to coordinate complex shipments for import and export. The company’s stated focus on customer-centric supply chain ownership, stakeholder collaboration, and a blend of experienced and younger professionals indicate an organization that seeks to balance reliability with innovation. While specific operational metrics or client case studies are not provided in the available materials, the described capabilities align with core freight forwarding functions, including handling time-sensitive shipments, hazardous materials, e-commerce fulfillment, and large-scale project cargo, all underpinned by ongoing client support and robust communication channels.
Notes for prospective clients: Given the combination of freight forwarding, customs brokerage, and specialized cargo services, clients planning cross-border movements or complex shipments—especially those involving e-commerce, time-critical timelines, or dangerous goods—may find 1UP CARGO to be a suitable partner within the U.S. and international logistics network. As with any freight forwarder, interested parties may wish to verify specific accreditations, carrier networks, and clearance capabilities relevant to their cargo profile and destinations.
