Air cargo plays a crucial role in global trade, providing fast, reliable, and secure transportation of goods. For businesses, e-commerce retailers, pharmaceutical companies, and travelers shipping pets or perishables, United Airlines Cargo offers a trusted logistics platform that spans more than 300 destinations worldwide.
From high-value goods to time-sensitive shipments, United Airlines Cargo integrates specialized handling, real-time tracking, and regulatory compliance to ensure cargo reaches its destination safely and efficiently.
What Is United Airlines Cargo and Who Uses It?
United Airlines Cargo is the freight division of United Airlines, utilizing the cargo space of its passenger fleet while also operating freighter aircraft on select routes. It serves both domestic and international destinations and caters to a wide range of industries.
Primary users include:
- Pharmaceutical manufacturers transporting vaccines, biotech products, and temperature-sensitive shipments.
- E-commerce businesses requiring fast, reliable air freight.
- Freight forwarders consolidating shipments for global delivery.
- Agricultural exporters shipping fresh produce, flowers, and seafood.
- Pet relocation services using United’s PetSafe® program for live animals.
United Cargo operates under global regulatory frameworks, including IATA, TSA, USDA, and other country-specific authorities, ensuring compliance for all shipments.
Types of Packages Accepted by United Airlines Cargo
United Cargo accepts a wide range of packages, each with specific handling requirements. Packages are categorized based on weight, size, and sensitivity.
| Cargo Type | Examples | Weight/Size Limits | Special Handling |
| General Cargo | Clothing, electronics, printed materials | Up to 300 kg (660 lbs) per piece, max 240 cm (94.5 in) | Standard air freight handling |
| Perishables | Fruits, seafood, flowers | Variable; palletized or boxed with insulation | TempControl required for freshness |
| Pharmaceuticals | Vaccines, blood plasma | TempControl required (2–8°C, 15–25°C, frozen) | Monitored cold chain, GDP compliant |
| Dangerous Goods | Lithium batteries, flammable liquids | Must follow IATA DGR | Special labeling and documentation |
| Live Animals | Household pets, lab animals, zoo species | IATA-compliant kennels | PetSafe program with climate control |
| Human Remains | Caskets or cremated remains | Variable | Documentation required, handled sensitively |
United Airlines Cargo Shipping Options
United Cargo provides several specialized shipping services tailored to urgency, cargo type, and temperature sensitivity.
1. QuickPak®
- Service: Expedited shipping for small packages up to 100 lbs (45 kg).
- Delivery: Same-day or overnight depending on route.
- Ideal for: Urgent business documents or critical spare parts.
2. UASecure™
- Service: Standard air cargo with guaranteed space on scheduled flights.
- Ideal for: General freight requiring reliable timing.
3. TempControl™
- Service: Temperature-sensitive cargo with three ranges:
- Controlled Room Temperature: 15°C – 25°C
- Cool: 2°C – 8°C
- Frozen: 0°C and below
- Ideal for: Pharmaceuticals, vaccines, perishables.
4. PetSafe®
- Service: Specialized handling for live animals, including climate-controlled kennels.
- Ideal for: Household pets, exotic animals, and small zoo species.
5. LifeGuard®
- Service: Prioritized handling for human organs, medical shipments, and other critical cargo.
- Ideal for: Hospitals and organ transplant logistics.
Pro Tip: For best rates and tracking, book via United’s eBooking system online.
Booking and Drop-off Process
United Airlines Cargo simplifies booking through its online platform and authorized freight forwarders.
Step-by-step process:
- Create an account or log in to United Cargo’s eBooking platform.
- Enter shipment details: origin, destination, commodity type, weight, and dimensions.
- Select the appropriate service level (QuickPak, TempControl, PetSafe, etc.).
- Generate Air Waybill (AWB) and prepare necessary documentation.
- Drop off cargo at a United Cargo facility before cutoff time.
Cutoff Times:
- Typically 2–6 hours before flight departure for domestic shipments.
- International shipments may require earlier drop-offs due to customs clearance.
Packaging and Labeling Requirements
Proper packaging and labeling are critical for acceptance and safe transit.
Key guidelines:
- Durable, stackable packaging to withstand turbulence.
- Labels must include shipper and consignee info, destination airport codes, and hazard indicators.
- Live animals must be in IATA-compliant kennels with absorbent bedding.
- Perishable items must use gel packs, dry ice, or insulated containers depending on temperature needs.
- Non-compliance can lead to rejection or damage claims.
Cost and Rate Calculation
United Cargo calculates charges based on chargeable weight, which is the greater of actual weight or dimensional weight.
| Factor | Notes |
| Weight & Dimensions | Larger or heavier shipments cost more |
| Service Type | QuickPak vs. TempControl or LifeGuard |
| Destination | International routes may have additional fees |
| Commodity Type | Dangerous goods or perishable items may incur extra handling charges |
| Additional Fees | Fuel surcharge, security, customs handling |
Tip: Use United Cargo’s online rate calculator for accurate estimates.
Policies Governing United Airlines Cargo Shipments
United Cargo follows IATA and U.S. regulations, alongside its Contract of Carriage for liability, claims, and documentation.
Required Documents:
- Air Waybill (AWB)
- Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods
- Health certificates for animals
- Commercial invoice and import/export licenses (international)
Liability:
- Standard liability is limited under the Montreal or Warsaw Convention.
- Optional insurance is available for higher coverage.
International Cargo Handling
United Cargo operates to 100+ countries, often partnering with other carriers to expand global reach.
Customs & Documentation:
- Pro forma or commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Import permits (if required)
- Customs declaration forms
Transit Considerations:
- Expedited customs clearance is available for pharmaceuticals and cold-chain items.
- Transit time varies depending on service type and destination.
Tracking United Airlines Cargo Shipments
All shipments receive an Air Waybill Number (AWB) for real-time tracking.
Tracking features:
- Flight status updates
- Temperature monitoring for TempControl shipments
- Location scans at each checkpoint
- Proof of delivery timestamps
Customers can receive notifications for delays or status changes and access 24/7 support via United Cargo.
Safety and Compliance Measures
United Cargo ensures compliance and safety through multiple layers:
- TSA-certified screening for all cargo
- IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) adherence
- GMP/GDP standards for pharmaceutical shipments
- USDA/APHIS compliance for live animals
- Temperature-controlled containers monitored during transit
- Staff trained in HAZMAT, live animal handling, and secure chain-of-custody
Competitive Advantages of United Airlines Cargo
United Airlines Cargo stands out in the air freight market for its:
- Global network with hubs at Chicago O’Hare (ORD) and Newark (EWR)
- Specialized services like PetSafe, TempControl, and LifeGuard
- 24/7 operational support and real-time tracking
- Compliance excellence for regulated shipments
- Integration with freight forwarders for seamless international shipping
Compared to competitors:
| Feature | United Cargo | Delta Cargo | American Airlines Cargo |
| Network | 300+ destinations | 250+ | 150+ |
| Specialized Pharma | Yes | Limited | Limited |
| Live Animal Shipping | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Online Tracking | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Global Partnerships | Extensive | Moderate | Limited |
Key Takeaways: United Cargo for Air Freight Solutions
United Airlines Cargo provides comprehensive air freight solutions for a variety of shipments, from general goods to pharmaceuticals, perishables, and live animals. With specialized services, global reach, real-time tracking, and rigorous compliance standards, it remains a reliable choice for shippers worldwide.
Whether you’re a business shipping high-value products or an individual relocating pets internationally, understanding United Cargo’s services, policies, and procedures ensures your shipment is handled efficiently and safely.
Frequently Asked Questions: United Airlines Cargo
What is the maximum weight for a QuickPak® shipment?
Up to 100 lbs (45 kg).
How do I track my shipment via United Cargo?
Use the AWB number via United Cargo’s tracking portal.
Can I ship live animals internationally?
Yes, through PetSafe®, following IATA and USDA guidelines.
Are temperature-controlled shipments available?
Yes, TempControl™ supports frozen, cool, and room temperature ranges.
How are dangerous goods handled?
All DG shipments follow IATA DGR and require proper documentation.