OBC Services

On Board Courier (OBC) Services Explained

Discover how OBC services work and why companies rely on hand carry logistics for urgent international shipments.

On Board Courier (OBC) Services Explained

An On Board Courier (OBC) service is a premium logistics solution where a professional courier travels on a commercial flight with a shipment, ensuring maximum speed, security, and end-to-end control.

OBC services are designed for urgent international deliveries where traditional courier or freight options introduce unacceptable delays or risk.

How On Board Courier Services Work

An OBC operation typically follows these steps:

  • Immediate pickup at the origin
  • Courier travels on the fastest available commercial flight
  • Shipment remains under personal custody at all times
  • Active handling of airport security and customs
  • Direct delivery to the final destination

This approach eliminates hubs, warehouses, and multiple handoffs.

Why Companies Choose OBC Services

Companies choose On Board Couriers when:

  • A delay could stop production or operations
  • The shipment is critical, sensitive, or irreplaceable
  • Time-to-delivery is measured in hours, not days
  • Human oversight is required during transport

In these cases, certainty and speed matter more than cost.

On Board Courier vs Express Courier

AspectOn Board Courier (OBC)Express Courier
Delivery modelCourier flies with shipmentNetwork-based
SpeedImmediateSchedule-dependent
CustodyPersonal, end-to-endMultiple handoffs
RiskVery lowMedium

For high-impact shipments, OBC services provide predictability that express couriers cannot guarantee.

When Should You Use an On Board Courier?

OBC services are ideal when:

  • Delivery must occur within 24–72 hours internationally
  • A shipment cannot be delayed or rerouted
  • Customs processes require active management
  • The cost of failure exceeds the cost of service

For a general explanation, see What is an On Board Courier (OBC)?

Industries That Rely on On Board Couriers

OBC services are commonly used in:

  • Pharmaceutical & life sciences
  • Aerospace & aviation
  • Automotive manufacturing
  • Electronics & semiconductors
  • Legal and confidential documentation

Each industry depends on OBC for different operational risks, but the objective is always the same: certainty.

Is On Board Courier (OBC) Legal?

Yes. OBC services are legal when:

  • Airline regulations are followed
  • Customs documentation is complete and accurate
  • Import/export laws of both countries are respected

Professional OBC operations evaluate route feasibility, airline policies, and customs constraints before dispatch.

On Board Courier vs Hand Carrier

These terms are closely related and often used interchangeably:

  • On Board Courier (OBC): focuses on the courier flying with the shipment
  • Hand Carrier: focuses on continuous personal custody

In practice, most OBC services are also hand carrier operations.

Learn more about hand carrier logistics

Evaluating OBC Services?

Choosing the right OBC solution depends on urgency, route availability, and risk tolerance. Platforms like OnFlyGo help companies evaluate options before committing to an urgent shipment.