With holiday e-commerce surging earlier and stronger than expected, major U.S. air gateways are now experiencing significant congestion and longer TSA screening times, creating new challenges for shippers moving time-sensitive cargo. Radius International is monitoring these developments closely to help clients plan ahead and avoid preventable delays.

Over the last two weeks, high-volume hubs including JFK, ORD, ATL, LAX, and EWR have reported elevated inbound cargo backlogs, with some terminals temporarily restricting same-day drop-offs. TSA screening partners are also seeing higher-than-normal volumes, leading to extended processing windows for freight moving under IAC and Known Shipper programs.

Industry data shows that average security screening times have increased by up to 6–12 hours, depending on airport, cargo type, and carrier volume. Select gateways are reporting screening cut-offs moving earlier in the day to keep pace with demand.

Compounding the issue, carriers are prioritizing parcel, express, and high-yield e-commerce freight, which reduces available space for general cargo and increases the likelihood of last-minute rollovers.

How This Impacts Shippers

  • Earlier cut-offs for tendering freight

  • Longer waits for screening and acceptance

  • Increased risk of shipment rollovers on heavily booked flights

  • Reduced weekend availability at some terminals

  • Potential rate surcharges during peak periods

Time-critical shipments — including fashion, retail replenishment, medical devices, and automotive parts — are being advised to move at least 24 hours earlier than usual whenever possible.

Radius Recommendations

Radius International is actively coordinating with airlines, ground handlers, and screening partners to support our clients during the peak season. To minimize risk and keep freight moving:

  • Tender shipments early to avoid screening bottlenecks

  • Build in extra transit time for holiday-season planning

  • Provide complete documentation to prevent processing delays

  • Ask about alternative airports when primary hubs are congested

  • Leverage Radius priority solutions for urgent cargo

Our air freight and compliance teams are available around the clock to help plan the most efficient routing, find capacity, and navigate TSA processing changes.

Your Cargo, Delivered with Confidence

As air gateways tighten and screening requirements intensify, Radius International remains committed to providing proactive communication, real-time updates, and strategic solutions to keep your supply chain moving.

For support with urgent air shipments or guidance on airport-specific requirements, reach out to your Radius representative at any time.