Air and ocean freight are different shipping modes but are not so different choices for a user. The cost and time are the only two significant points of difference between them as far as a customer is concerned. That oftentimes puts them in a dilemma. The debate between shipping by air and sea is common. There is no straight cut answer as to which is a better shipping option. The more important question is which is a better option for you. The answer may be one for you, but different for another. Of course, if cost is the concern, then ocean freight makes a cheaper alternative, but one must not make that decision entirely based on the point of cost. There are other things also that need to be taken into consideration when deciding between the ocean and air cargo service.
Calculating the Cost
Since this article focuses on the cost factor, let’s talk about that. Sea cargo service is surely cheaper than shipping by air as far as flat rates are concerned, but the price you pay also depends on the volume of goods you have. In order to be sure, you need to calculate the cost of your shipment on a freight rate calculator. Pick the number of containers and their sizes and name the origin and destination with the preferred mode of shipping. The number you get is the price you pay for the concerned shipment. In all likelihood, this would be higher for air freight than the ocean, but it’s best to get it computed before assuming anything.
Some Handy Tips
If you are confused between air and sea freight and which to avail for your next shipment, then here are some guidelines that can help you arrive at the right decision.
Do not dismiss air freight categorically just on the point of price. It is a perfectly advisable shipping option when the shipping cost and the value of goods have a difference of 15% to 20%, the former being lesser than the latter. But before calculating out the cost, you need to figure out if your air freight company in UAE will charge by weight or dimensions of your cargo when shipping.
Between air and sea, the air is obviously faster and therefore a more preferred mode of
shipping. What’s more, it is also safer and relatively more reliable. However, the only catch is that along with better and safer, it is also costlier. However, ocean freight is not a lesser dependable choice by any means. It may not match the speed of air freight, but it offers the price advantage which is equally lucrative for users.