Sea Freight vs Air Freight: Which one is best for you?

One of the most important decisions a business or an individual can face is choosing between Sea freight and Air freight as a shipping method for goods coming into the country. Both options have their pros and cons and offer unique advantages in international shipping. 

What is Sea Freight?

Sea Freight, which is also known as ocean freight is a method of shipping goods via ocean using cargo ships. This method of shipment is mostly used for bulky goods, especially for big businesses that ship goods in large volumes. It is also used for non-urgent goods 

What is Air Freight?

Air freight is the transportation of goods via airplanes. It is fastest way of shipping goods from point of origin to its destination. This method of shipment is mostly used for shipping time-sensitive goods such as perishable goods. It is the more expensive method of shipment and often used for high-value products.

Factors to consider before choosing Air or Sea Freight

1. Budget: Air freight is more costly than Sea freight in international shipping since airplanes are faster than ships, require strict handling of products bringing convenience unlike ships and have a much little cargo space compared to ships.
2. Timeline: For an individual or a business international shipping can be a time sensitive ordeal with order restock and fulfilment of deliveries. Air freight is much faster than sea freight with a timeline of 1 to 7 days as compared to several weeks by Sea. 
3. Volume of cargo: Sea shipping is way better than air freight in heavy cargo since ships carry a bigger capacity compared to planes. Large suppliers prefer ocean freight for goods shipment since it is cheaper to import products in bulk via sea as opposed to air.
4. Restrictions of Cargo: Some goods cannot be shipped into the country via air freight, such goods include; flammable liquids and solids, explosives and ammunitions, radioactive materials, batteries and other perishable goods. These goods are better shipped into the country legally via Sea.
5. Loss of Goods: International shipping can be susceptible to theft and piracy especially goods transported via Sea. To prevent loss of goods, air freight is recommended due to the strict security policies that govern airlines and specialized handling for high-level goods.

Depending on the importers’ needs and preferences, both Air and Sea freight are good shipping methods and will deliver. At Assure cargo, we provide expert freight forwarding services tailored to your needs. Whether you’re shipping a full container by sea or need express delivery by air, we ensure your cargo is handled with professionalism and care.