By Maria Kalamatas | The Logistic News
April 17, 2025
In an era where consolidation and automation dominate the logistics narrative, 1UP Cargo offers a refreshing alternative: global reach without sacrificing the human element. Founded in 2017 from a fusion of established freight forwarding units across Canada, Australia, the U.S., South Africa, and New Zealand, the company is redefining what it means to be a modern logistics provider—tech-enabled, people-centered, and globally agile.
Strategic Foundations with Global Vision
While many logistics startups focus narrowly on digitization, 1UP Cargo has taken a dual-pronged approach: scale internationally while maintaining full-service capabilities rooted in decades of freight forwarding expertise. With offices spanning Toronto, Vancouver, Los Angeles, Chicago, Sydney, Melbourne, Durban, and beyond, the company ensures proximity to key ports and trade corridors across four continents.
“From day one, we wanted to build a network that truly works across time zones, cultures, and shipping realities,” says CEO Matthew Calcott. “Our growth isn’t about planting flags—it’s about creating seamless, strategic value.”
A Service Suite Designed for Real-World Complexity
The core of 1UP Cargo’s offering includes:
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Air, ocean, and ground freight forwarding
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Customs brokerage and regulatory compliance services
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Supply chain consulting for specialized industries
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Real-time tracking solutions integrated via CargoWise One
Their client roster includes high-stakes sectors like aerospace, FMCG, manufacturing, and cold chain, where delivery delays can cause millions in losses. With its CargoWise One Certified Partner status, 1UP gives clients end-to-end digital visibility—without the red tape often seen in larger freight conglomerates.
Excellence Through Internal Discipline
What distinguishes 1UP Cargo is its operational rigor. Every client file goes through two levels of internal QA review. Staff in each location are trained to follow a standardized process while retaining flexibility for local customs and regulations. Biannual evaluations of strategic vendors ensure quality is not a variable—it’s the baseline.
This attention to detail has earned 1UP widespread recognition within the FIATA, IATA, CIFFA, and NCBFAA communities. These global credentials bolster the company’s credibility in negotiations and joint ventures with multinational importers and exporters.
Technology, Without the Disruption
Unlike logistics tech unicorns that often alienate traditional shippers, 1UP Cargo is evolving with its clients, not ahead of them. Their platform strategy blends user-friendly portals, automated tracking, and dedicated customer service reps—a combination that appeals to both tech-savvy startups and legacy trading houses.
“We didn’t want to create a system that required three months of training to use,” explains COO Natalie Jensen. “Our model is: plug in, go live, ship smart.”
The Next Horizon: Deepening Partnerships, Not Just Expanding Reach
Looking ahead, the company is exploring entry points in Southeast Asia and Latin America, but growth is being tempered with a commitment to relationship-first expansion. No office is opened without deep partner engagement and local expertise on the ground.
This methodical approach reflects 1UP Cargo’s ethos: build strong, build smart, build together.
