When people think of Houston, they think of energy, aerospace, and global commerce. But behind the oil fields and NASA headlines lies a lesser-known powerhouse — one that quietly moves the world’s cargo with precision, scale, and care.
As one of United Cargo’s largest and most critical hubs, George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) serves as a dynamic connector between North America, Latin America, and the global market. From perishables and pharmaceuticals to aerospace components and high-tech equipment, Houston doesn’t just move freight — it powers international trade.
But what makes Houston so special?
6/9/2025
A Global Gateway with a Latin American Pulse
For United Cargo, Houston is more than a hub — it’s a vital gateway at the crossroads of the Americas. With direct connections to over 50 international destinations, IAH serves as a key transit point for high-volume, high-value cargo, especially between North America and Latin America.
It plays a critical role as a primary entry point for perishables, including fresh flowers and roses from Ecuador, seafood from Chile, and produce from Colombia and Peru. These shipments are time- and temperature-sensitive, relying on the speed, precision, and reliability that Houston consistently delivers.
Powered by our TempControl service, the IAH facility offers temperature-regulated storage, specialized cold chain handling, and a trained team equipped to manage urgent, sensitive cargo. Whether it’s Valentine’s Day flowers or weekly grocery staples, Houston ensures product integrity and rapid market access — making it one of the most essential links in our global network.
Powering Critical Industries Across the Americas
While perishables are a major focus, Houston supports a wide range of industries that rely on high-performance logistics. It’s a vital node in the energy sector, enabling the movement of large, heavy, and urgent equipment to sites across the globe.
It also supports the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, offering specialized handling through our LifeGuard product for vaccines, lab samples, and other sensitive medical goods. Meanwhile, our EXP and QuickPak services support time-critical deliveries across the aerospace and automotive sectors.
With all widebody aircraft operating daily from IAH (Boeing 767, 777, and 787), the hub offers strong lift capacity and operational flexibility. It’s equipped to handle everything from urgent parts to high-value shipments, with the responsiveness today’s global supply chains demand.
Built for Scale. Backed by Experts.
What makes Houston truly stand out is the team behind the operation. Running 24/7, the IAH cargo team manages thousands of shipments each week with focus, care, and agility. From the ramp to the warehouse and customer service to compliance, every role plays a part in ensuring success.
The facility is designed for efficiency. Cargo flows smoothly from aircraft to warehouse to ground transportation thanks to streamlined operations, quick ramp access, and well-coordinated logistics. Digital tracking tools and integrated systems support real-time visibility and planning, helping us deliver on our promises.
Whether responding to seasonal demand spikes or rerouting a critical shipment mid-journey, the Houston team leads with professionalism and a customer-first mindset. Their performance has earned IAH its reputation as one of United Cargo’s most reliable and capable hubs.
Houston is where global trade meets operational excellence.