Forward Air

Forward Air operates as a trucking and logistics provider that focuses on expedited freight movement across the United States. The company offers services such as less‑than‑truckload (LTL) shipping, truckload transportation, intermodal solutions, and pool distribution. In addition to moving goods, Forward Air handles customs documentation for shipments that cross international borders, a function highlighted during a recent cyber incident. Its core market consists of manufacturers, retailers, and distributors that require time‑critical delivery of goods. The firm positions itself as a specialist in speed‑dependent supply chains, emphasizing reliability and rapid transit times. By integrating transportation with customs processing, Forward Air aims to provide a seamless door‑to‑door experience for its clients.

Headquartered in the United States, Forward Air is characterized in public reporting as a trucking giant, indicating a notable presence in the freight transportation sector. The company’s core activities include moving expedited freight and managing customs documentation for international shipments. This dual focus was highlighted when a ransomware attack by the Hades group on December 15, 2020 forced the temporary shutdown of systems that support those documentation processes. In response, Forward Air engaged law enforcement and third‑party cybersecurity experts to investigate the breach and restore normal operations. The attackers used REvil‑style ransom notes that directed victims to unique Tor sites and Tox communication channels for negotiation. The incident illustrates the cybersecurity risks faced by logistics firms that handle sensitive customs and trade data.