Determining the ideal shipping method for your shipment requires ongoing analysis. A one-time review of your supply chain needs is not enough to keep your supply chain efficient and cost-effective. Whichever method you choose, partnering with a provider that offers a full range of global logistics and technical services can help ensure that the method you need is available when you need it most.

I. Air freight shipping and shipping

1. Costs are based on freight characteristics. While it may seem that ocean shipping is always cheaper than air freight shipping, you first need to understand how each shipping fee is billed. Air freight shipping is billed by billable weight, which is an indicator calculated by combining the weight and dimensions of the shipment. But the actual shipping costs are just the beginning. You also need to calculate inventory costs.

2. Speed varies by mode. Air freight shipping is faster than sea freight, no doubt. Ocean freight can sometimes take weeks to arrive. Air freight shipping can reach the destination within a day or two. While ships are getting faster and shipping routes are being optimized, the speed of air freight shipping is still unmatched. Faster delivery times are quickly becoming an expectation in many industries, but before air freight shipping all your items immediately, take the time to strategically plan your shipping strategy. It will create long-term efficiencies and save you money.

3. The above two modes can achieve reliability. Airlines are generally better at handling schedule changes than ocean carriers. Factors such as weather conditions can affect flight schedules more than sea travel, but flights tend to be rescheduled and rescheduled quickly and efficiently. Additionally, there are often multiple daily flights between major cities, while ships tend to depart weekly.

II. Should you use air freight shipping or sea freight?

Usually, the number one reason for choosing air international freight services is the speed of delivery. Transporting your cargo by air can shorten the timetable compared to sea freight services. This is especially useful when shipping items with a short shelf life. However, the price of faster service is often higher shipping costs. It's up to you to decide what makes sense for your shipping strategy.

So, which should you choose? Assess when your shipments need to reach their destination, what your budget is, and how each mode will affect your business's highest demands. If your shipment has a tough, fast-approaching arrival deadline and your budget allows it, please ship by air freight shipping. If you have more arrival date flexibility or want to save money, ship by sea. JCtrans has rich resources in the logistics trade industry at home and abroad, and aims to create a centralized, safe and fast logistics transaction settlement platform. Traders can find freight forwarders on this platform to expand procurement channels, freight forwarders provide global partners with logistics solution services and establish long-term cooperative relationships.