Choosing Between Air Shipping and Ocean Shipping
With the many factors involved, shipping packages internationally can seem a little complicated for some senders.
Aspiring online sellers planning to accommodate buyers from different countries will need to understand how the process works. Additionally, those who often need to send packages to loved ones located abroad should take the time to check out available options, too.
There are numerous shipping companies that offer their services to interested clients. As for the type of transport used in the actual shipping, the choices can be reduced to two namely ocean freight and air freight.
What are the differences between these two alternatives? Which one is a better pick for you? This article aims to provide some basic information for those who want to make the best decision.
Shipping Rates
The first thing you have to consider is the cost. International shipping is often costly and so it always helps to do some comparisons. Make calls, visit online websites or drop by the local offices to find out how top provides in your area charge for their air freight and ocean freight services.
Of course, the common misconception among the uninformed is that shipping by air is more expensive than ocean. However, a closer look at the rates will indicate that this is not always the case.
Air freight is influenced both by the weight and size of your shipment. The price of ocean freight, on the other hand, is mostly determined by the size. If you are shipping large and heavy objects, sea is a better choice. For smaller items, air freight will be more practical.
Speed of Service
This is where air freight really defeats the competition because it is significantly faster. Ideally, ocean shipping takes somewhere around 8 days to at least a month but air merely takes at least one or two days.
Air shipping is most ideal if you are sending for business purposes. Ocean shipping is only recommended if you don't mind the long wait. For example, moving to a different country may mean you have to send some household goods in advance. Sending them via sea freight is a good idea.
Dependability
Most importantly, you have to go with a company that has a good reputation. There are some shipping firms, whether air or sea freight, that get a lot of negative feedback from many of their clients so you have to watch out for that. Try to stay away from those sources and go with ones that are often praised by most customers.
Posted on November 13, 2018
