If you’re serious about building, scaling, or elevating your courier or logistics company, attending the right conferences is not optional. It’s essential. Whether you’re operating a cargo van, a Sprinter, a box truck, or a growing fleet, networking, staying informed, and aligning with industry leaders will help you stand out in a competitive space.
As someone who started from the ground up and now proudly serves on the Board of Directors for the Customized Logistics and Delivery Association (CLDA), I want to share the top U.S. logistics conferences every courier business, especially startups and new operators, should consider.
Let’s start with the organization that’s leading the charge in shaping the future of our industry: CLDA.
CLDA Final Mile Forum & Expo (FMF)
Austin, TX – February 18–20, 2026
If you’re a courier company aiming to elevate your business, build strategic relationships, and stay ahead of policy changes—this is the #1 event you need to attend. As a board member of the Customized Logistics and Delivery Association (CLDA), I can say with confidence: this is where the industry connects and gets stronger together.
CLDA is built on three core pillars:
Networking. Advocacy. Education. And the Final Mile Forum brings them all to life in a dynamic, high-level environment.
Why Attend FMF?
- Network with top-tier shippers, carriers, and tech providers
- Gain exclusive access to our renowned Shipper Roundtables and Carrier
- Roundtables—some of the most valuable, no-fluff sessions where real conversations and real opportunities happen
- Stay informed on legislation that directly affects your operations—from labor classification to independent contractor rules
- Learn from experienced logistics leaders and experts on how to scale, streamline, and win contracts
And beyond the sessions and networking? CLDA is constantly advocating for YOU in Washington, D.C.
We are your voice on Capitol Hill—working year-round to protect and advance the rights of independent courier companies, 1099 operators, and final mile entrepreneurs.
Want to support the mission? Help us continue to advocate and create access for logistics entrepreneurs nationwide:
Make a donation to CLDA Advocacy https://clda.org/advocacy/advocacy-fund/
Best for: Cargo vans, sprinter vans, box trucks, straight trucks, regional/national couriers.
ECA MarketPlace (Express Carriers Association)
Typically held in April
This isn’t just another logistics conference—it’s a matchmaking opportunity between shippers and carriers. ECA’s MarketPlace is ideal for startup courier businesses ready to secure direct contract work and grow fast.
What Makes It Special?
You’ll walk into the conference with pre-scheduled one-on-one meetings with shippers actively looking for partners. No fluff, no waiting. Just business.
Best for: Cargo vans, box trucks, regional/national couriers, straight trucks
Air Cargo Conference
Usually held in May
Looking to get into airport pickups, time-sensitive freight, or air cargo logistics? This is the conference for you. Air Cargo Conference connects forwarders, airport ops, and carriers across the U.S., and it’s especially valuable if you’re transitioning from courier work into freight or expedited delivery.
Best for: Sprinter vans, box trucks, airport delivery contractors
Keyword focus: air freight logistics, expedited shipping, courier business expansion, cargo vans at airports
Manifest
Las Vegas – typically in February
This is the tech-forward logistics event you don’t want to miss. Manifest brings together the future of freight, automation, robotics, and AI for logistics businesses. Whether you’re automating your fleet or just starting your courier service, you’ll leave with actionable strategies to future-proof your operations.
Best for: All vehicle types—from electric vans to regional fleets
Parcel Forum
Typically held in the fall
Parcel Forum is built for professionals in parcel shipping, residential delivery, and e-commerce fulfillment. From packaging insights to last-mile performance optimization, it’s ideal for startup courier companies delivering high volumes of small-to-medium packages.
Best for: Cargo vans, Sprinter vans, box trucks
TIA 3PL Conference
Usually in April
TIA is the place to be if you’re looking to expand from courier work into freight brokering or third-party logistics. You’ll meet logistics professionals focused on freight movement, capacity management, and brokerage services.
Best for: 18-wheelers, dispatchers, freight brokers
Georgia Logistics Summit
Savannah, GA – typically in April
One of the most powerful regional conferences in the U.S., this event offers incredible insights for couriers operating in the Southeast or near port cities. You’ll hear from port authorities, warehouse developers, and regional shippers.
Best for: All vehicle types (especially if you operate in Georgia or surrounding states)
Home Delivery World
Nashville – usually in May
If you handle big & bulky home deliveries or eCommerce residential delivery, this conference is a goldmine. The expo is packed with technology solutions, routing tools, and partners looking to improve the customer delivery experience.
Best for: Box trucks, cargo vans, residential couriers
My Final Thoughts
As a logistics entrepreneur and advocate, I can tell you, your next contract, client, or coach could be sitting next to you at one of these conferences. These events offer more than panels and coffee—they offer leverage.
Whether you’re just starting your courier company, managing a handful of cargo vans, scaling your business, or looking to lock in regional or national contracts, make space in your calendar for these logistics conferences.
And if you’re serious about advocating for your future and the sustainability of our industry, join us at CLDA and support the mission. We’re building something powerful—and we want you at the table.
