Ocean freight means sending goods via a shipping vessel. The cargo is packed into boxes or crates, and then loaded onto shipping containers which are booked by the likes of freight forwarders/shipping agents such as Transco Cargo Australia. Based on the shipping terms you agree on when choosing ocean freight, the cargo is loaded onto a truck and then moved to the warehouse which will be loaded onto a container and later taken to the port of origin. The shipping terms may be port-to-port, pickup/delivery, door-to-port, door-to-door, or port-to-door.
When opting for ocean freight, the journey of the cargo unfolds according to the chosen shipping terms. The cargo, securely packed and labeled, is first transported to a warehouse, where it undergoes consolidation and organization. Subsequently, it is meticulously loaded into the designated shipping container. This container, once fully loaded and sealed, is then transported to the port of origin. The flexibility of shipping terms comes into play at this stage, with options like port-to-port, pickup/delivery, door-to-port, door-to-door, or port-to-door influencing the extent of logistical involvement.
Often, air freight is the expensive alternative to ocean freight, and that is one way why customers opt to plan in advance when needing to send something overseas. The size of the cargo also plays a factor in the consideration, as large cargo would prove to be difficult to air freight or it would be extremely expensive. There are some items that are on the restricted air cargo list, and must be sent via ocean freight but perishable items such as fruits/vegetables, you may not choose ocean freight over air freight due to the expiry date.
Thus le’ts look at the ocean freight over air freight pointers below.
Ocean Freight | vs. | Air Freight |
Low Cost | Cost | High Cost |
Slower | Time | Faster |
Any size | Size of cargo | The size of the cargo will determine the feasibility of airfreight |
No restrictions. | Restricted cargo | Some cargo is restricted from airfreight. |
Perishable cargo | Perishable cargo may have to travel by air to keep from spoiling |