Sea or air freight?

Do you want to send your goods out into the big wide world? Then you’re faced with an exciting decision: sea or air freight? Both options have their own superpowers – and a few weaknesses too. In this article, we’ll tell you when each option will optimise your shipping so that you can perfectly combine costs, speed and reliability.

When every second counts and your goods need to arrive safely, air freight is often the best choice. Sure, it’s usually a bit more expensive, but for certain products and situations, it’s simply unbeatable. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons together. 

• Lightning-fast: Forget about waiting times of weeks! Air freight gets your shipment to its destination in a few days or even hours. Perfect for urgent shipments.
• Utter reliability: Flight schedules are punctual and reliable. This allows you to plan your logistics precisely. 
• Less stress for your goods: Fewer reloading steps mean less risk of damage or loss. 
• The whole world as your destination: Whether it’s a big city or an island, you can reach almost any place with air freight. 
• Lower storage costs: Thanks to fast delivery, you can minimise your storage costs. 

• High price: Air freight is more expensive than sea freight, especially for heavy or bulky goods. This is because cargo space is limited.
• Not everything fits on a plane: There are restrictions on weight, size and certain products.
• Not so environmental friendly: Air freight causes more CO2 emissions than sea freight. 

• If it’s urgent or your products are perishable (e.g. medicines, food).
• For just-in-time deliveries or events.
• For valuable goods that need to arrive quickly and safely (e.g. technology, jewellery).
• If your destination is difficult to reach (e.g. islands, countries without a coast).

 When you’re dealing with really large quantities, sea freight is often your best friend. Not only is it cost-saving, but also surprisingly green – even if your goods are on the high seas for a bit longer.

• Smart shopper disptach: Sea freight is super cheap, especially for large quantities. 
• Endless space: Containers offer plenty of space for large shipments. 
• Better for the environment: Fewer CO2 emissions than air freight.
• Flexible and versatile: From huge machines to sensitive refrigerated goods, sea freight makes it possible.

• Long waiting times: It can take 15 to 60 days for your goods to arrive, depending on the country of origin and the sea routes taken.
• Unforeseen delays: Weather, traffic jams, customs problems or detours can delay delivery.
• Complex transport: Many parties involved and frequent reloading increase the risk of errors and damage.

• For bulky or heavy goods (e.g. furniture, machinery).
• When price is more important than speed.
• For shipments that are not urgent.
• For large quantities to save costs.

The choice depends on your priorities. Air freight is fast and safe, while sea freight is cheaper and more environmentally friendly. Make your choice:

• Air freight: When speed is of the essence (perishable goods, emergencies, events).
• Sea freight: When you want to save costs (large quantities, non-perishable goods).

Final tip: Combine both options! Air freight for urgent items, sea freight for the rest. This way you save time and money.

👉 For example: part of the goods by air freight for a quick start to the sales season, the rest by sea freight for low-cost reorders.

Still unsure? We can help! At LetMeShip you will find the best shipping method for your business.

👉 Contact us and optimise your logistics!