The choice between air and sea freight can be challenging because of the variables in each shipment. Given your shipments’ complexity, you should consider multiple shipping modes. To pick the most suitable way of delivery, it is worth analyzing complex factors influencing your supply chain operations. 

Air and sea freight differences

Sometimes, you may hesitate over multiple transportation modes to move your goods. We offer you to review the pros and cons of air and ocean freight shipping to find the perfect logistics fit.

Delivery speed  

Transportation speed is one of the most critical factors when deciding on a freight shipping mode. Air cargo delivery is undoubtedly the fastest, which makes it perfect for moving time-sensitive shipments such as perishables or urgently needed products.   

Air deliveries typically take only a few days, but sometimes carriers manage to deliver products to their destination on the same day. There is no better option for deliveries on a tight deadline than air. Additionally, air transportation provides increased security for valuable loads due to the intense airport control.  

Conversely, sea freight speed needs more time to complete the delivery, up to several weeks. However, this shipping mode can accommodate a larger scale of shipments, many of which are bulky and sizeable, at a cheaper rate. You can confidently choose sea freight delivery as long as you calculate the delivery time for your logistics operations.  

Air and sea freight volumes  

Another concern shippers face when deciding on a transportation method is cargo volume capacity. Evaluating your freight’s size and weight characteristics is critical regarding this question. If your items do not occupy too much space and do not exceed the weight permissions, air freight transportation can work for you.  

However, shipping large items requires an extended area for loading and unloading operations. It is easier to handle bulk and volumetric shipments using a vessel’s space, which often includes ship decks and container yards.   

Shipping cost  

For carrier services, shipping speed and cargo characteristics form the price of service. Since air freight transportation is faster along with greater product safety levels, the cost to you is typically more. However, shippers should consider it reasonable to book an air shipment as long as the transit price does not exceed 15-20% of the value of the items.  

Generally, ocean cargo delivery is more cost-effective, especially when moving large and heavy objects. Often, sea carriers don’t factorize the shipment’s weight when calculating the price. Instead, they evaluate the volume of items by containers and bill them differently depending on the container’s fullness. Such an approach makes moving substantial loads via sea freight even more profitable.  

You must consider customs fees for international shipments regardless of the chosen shipping mode. Air and ocean cargo fall under customs regulations and entail additional charges for import and export operations.  

Supply chain organization  

External factors can modify even the best delivery plan, requiring shippers to react dynamically to the shifts in schedule. For example, unpredictable weather conditions or technical malfunctions can cause severe disruptions in air freight transportation. Fortunately, air deliveries are manageable to reschedule due to the high frequency of the flights.  

Ocean freight logistics is usually more resistant to harsh weather and other disruptions. However, rearranging sea freight deliveries becomes time-consuming because of the scale and complexity of required actions. Port congestion can also seriously affect the duration of actual delivery. Try to keep updated on the capacity at target ports and consult with your carrier regularly.  

To avoid extended delays, you can redirect your sea freight to other carriers operating on the same lane during supply chain breakdowns. In doing so, it is essential to discuss the commodity permissions when transferring your load to a different sea carrier to avoid possible freight exclusion.  

Hazmat transportation  

Today’s air and ocean cargo transportation cover numerous logistics services, but strict regulations for shipping dangerous goods can narrow your choice of delivery method. The IMDG Code restricts many hazmats from air freight shipping, including flammable and corrosive materials, toxic items, and compressed gases.   

Delivery restrictions can also apply to certain types of hazmat packaging. Thus, it is important to research the transit requirements for your products before selecting the carrier service. Items prohibited from air travel will have to ship via ocean freight transportation.  

Environmental impact  

Regulating the logistics industry’s carbon footprint has become a significant issue over the last few decades. Today, more businesses are looking for opportunities to soften the environmental impact of their transportation activity.   

Of all options, sea freight transportation appears to be less damaging to the environment. Recent statistics show air cargo emissions are 20 to 30 times higher than sea freight. However, air and sea cargo transporters continue to search for ways to make their deliveries friendlier to the environment. 

Air and sea freight with PLS Logistics Services

Any shipping mode needs high-quality execution to deliver the best results. PLS Logistics Services can help you seal the deal with the most qualified and reliable carriers to deliver your goods on time and in perfect condition. Our straightforward quoting process will provide you with a seamless logistics experience and enhanced customer satisfaction. Get your quote today!