When it comes to moving goods quickly and securely, the terms courier and cartage often get mixed up. While both play a critical role in logistics, they serve very different needs — depending on whether you’re a business shipper or a freight forwarder.
Courier Services: Designed for Businesses and Shippers
Courier services are built around direct, on-demand deliveries for companies that need speed, flexibility, and reliability. If you’re a retailer, healthcare provider, law firm, or manufacturer, a courier ensures your shipments go straight from point A to point B — often same-day or overnight.
At On The Clock Logistics, our Courier Services in Denver cover everything from medical specimens and legal documents to hot-shot freight and multi-stop routed deliveries. These solutions are designed for businesses and organizations that need fast, final-mile transportation they can count on.
Cartage Services: Built for Freight Forwarders, Airlines, and 3PLs
Cartage, on the other hand, is geared toward the freight side of logistics. Freight forwarders, airlines, and 3PLs rely on cartage agents to handle first-mile pickups and last-mile deliveries connected to air and ocean freight.
For example, if a shipment lands at Denver International Airport, a cartage provider retrieves it from the cargo terminal and delivers it to the consignee — ensuring all chain-of-custody and TSA requirements are met. Likewise, for export freight, the cartage team ensures cargo reaches the airline dock on time for flight tender.
That’s why we offer specialized solutions through our Denver Cartage Agent Services, tailored specifically for forwarders, brokers, airlines, and 3PL partners who need a trusted local representative at the airport.
Which One Do You Need?
- If you’re a business shipper moving goods to customers, clients, or other facilities → Courier services are the right fit.
- If you’re a freight forwarder, broker, or airline managing import/export shipments → Cartage services are designed for you.
Both are essential parts of the supply chain, but the choice depends on who you are and what type of freight you’re moving.
Final Word
Courier services keep businesses moving. Cartage services keep freight moving. Together, they ensure cargo and deliveries make it where they need to be — on time, every time.
Looking for fast business deliveries? Explore our Courier Services in Denver.
Need a reliable airport partner? Learn more about our Denver Cartage Agent Services.
