A practical comparison between air and sea shipping to help you make better logistics decisions for your business
Choosing how to move your international cargo isn’t just about how fast you need it. Each option — sea or air — has different implications when it comes to costs, timing, sustainability, and the type of goods you’re transporting. Understanding these differences helps you make more strategic decisions and avoid rushed choices. If you’ve ever hesitated between sending your products by plane or by ship, this guide will help you make the call with confidence.
1. Delivery speed
– Air freight: Best for urgent shipments. Delivery usually takes between 24 and 72 hours, depending on the origin and destination. Commonly used in Just-In-Time logistics or when speed is crucial to operations.
– Sea freight: Typically takes 15 to 45 days, depending on the route and number of stops. While slower, it works well for planned shipments.
2. Shipping costs
– Air freight: Can be up to five times more expensive per kilo than sea freight. Pricing is heavily influenced by weight and volume.
– Sea freight: Far more cost-effective for heavy or bulk shipments. A solid option for companies importing large quantities.
3. Types of goods
– Air freight: Ideal for goods with short shelf life (like fresh food or flowers),
electronics, high-value tech, or pharmaceuticals.
– Sea freight: Best for raw materials, machinery, textiles, vehicles, or large and heavy items.
4. Environmental impact
– Air freight: One of the highest carbon-emitting transport modes per ton moved. Faster delivery, but with a heavier environmental toll.
– Sea freight: More energy-efficient over long distances. When moving large volumes, emissions per unit are significantly lower.
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Choosing air or sea depends on your cargo, your timelines, your budget, and your goals. Knowing the trade-offs helps you ship smarter. Share this article with your logistics team and review together which option fits your operation best. Keep learning about international logistics on our Instagram profile and other blog articles.
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