How to Choose the Right Shipping Method for Your Cargo
When you are looking to transport cargo from one destination to another, it can be pretty confusing. There are many methods to ship any cargo, and choosing the best method requires some knowledge. It's not easy to know what's good and what's not, but with this guide, you will get some advice that will help you make the right choice for shipping your cargo.
Consequently, choosing the right shipping method for your cargo can make all the difference. There are many factors to consider, so let's dig into what you should consider when choosing your shipping method.
Types of Shipping Methods
Sea Shipping (containers, break bulk, RoRo)
Sea shipping is a popular method of shipping containers and break bulk cargo on large ships having the highest transport volume increase in the last decades. However, it is considered to be a high-risk method because of the long transit time and the possibility of delays due to weather conditions. However, it is also the most economical way to transport cargo.
Containers are loaded onto ships in ports all over the world. The shipping process can take several days, depending on how far away from shore the container terminal is located and whether there are any customs regulations to contend with.
Break bulk cargo is loaded onto oil tankers from shipyards or refineries. These tankers may also carry dry bulk cargo like grain or coal and liquid bulk cargo like crude oil or liquefied natural gas (LNG). Break bulk cargos generally have a longer distance between their loading port and final destination than container cargo does, but their journey times are much shorter because they can be transported in larger vessels with more capacity.
Air Cargo Shipping
Air shipping is one of the most cost-efficient methods of transporting products from one place to another. According to IATA, “approximately 35% of the world's freight is transported by air with Over 52 billion tonnes of cargo transported by air annually”. Also, air shipping is faster than any other form of shipping, it is a great option for companies that have products that need to be delivered in a short amount of time.
It can also be used for heavy or fragile cargo, such as electronics and appliances, which require extra care during transport. The process of air shipping is extremely simple and easy to complete.
In fact, many companies choose to use this method because it's so convenient and fast compared to other methods. However, it cost more compared to other forms of shipping. Air shipping typically involves placing an order with a freight forwarder or airfreight company either online or by phone. The company then sends out an employee who will pick up your product at their warehouse location and take it directly to the airport where it will be shipped overseas.
Land Shipping (Rail & Truck)
Land shipping is the most common and cost-effective method of shipping. It involves moving an entire package from one location to another by truck or train, usually overnight. This method is ideal for deliveries that need to be made quickly and at a low cost.
This method of transportation is still used in many industries today, but it has been slowly replaced by other methods such as air freight and sea freight.
The trucking company may also be responsible for loading, unloading, and maintaining its own equipment. As a result, this type of transportation can be quite expensive if you're only sending small amounts of cargo.
Multi-modal (Combination of Different Methods)
Multi-modal shipping is a term used to describe the shipment of goods or commodities by more than one mode of transportation. Multi-modal shipments can include air, ocean, road, and even rail freight.
This type of shipping can be particularly useful if you need to send multiple items at once but don’t want to pay for separate shipments. For example, if you need to ship several packages of different sizes and weights, multi-modal shipping could be an ideal solution.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Shipping Method
1. Time-sensitivity of the cargo
The time sensitivity of the cargo is arguably the most important factor to consider when choosing a shipping method. If you plan on shipping something that needs to arrive in a specific time frame, then choose a method that can get it there in a timely manner.
If you don't need your goods shipped as quickly as possible, then your options are limited. This can be especially true if you're shipping internationally. The customs regulations for each country can vary greatly, so it's best to check with your post office or local carrier before you buy anything.
2. Cost & Distance
The cost of shipping can be a major factor in choosing a certain method. It is easiest to compare the cost of different methods by looking at their overall price, which takes into account all factors such as the weight of your package, its destination, and the type of service you choose.
The farther it needs to go, the higher the shipping cost will be unless you decide on a flat-rate shipping option instead of one based on weight or dimensions. Overall, The cost of shipping depends on the weight, size, and destination of your package.
3. Special Handling or Regulations
Some shipments require special handling or regulations. For example, if a shipment is going to a country that has banned the import of certain products, you may need to request special handling and shipping.
For example, if you are sending a package to Nigeria, you may need to check with the Nigerian Customs Services (NCS) regulations regarding their eligibility and requirements. You may also be required to provide documentation before the package can be sent.
Sometimes, regulations can also affect the cost of shipping.
4. Volume and Weight of Cargo
Volume and weight of cargo are the two key factors to consider when choosing a shipping method. These are the amount of space and weight, respectively, that your cargo will take up in the container. The higher the volume or weight, the more expensive it will be to ship by sea (or air).
Volume is measured in cubic feet or cubic meters. The larger the container, the more expensive it will be to ship by sea (or air). If you plan on shipping larger items such as books or furniture, then consider using a larger container.
Weight is typically measured in pounds or kilograms. The lighter your cargo is compared to other shipments, the less expensive it will be to ship by sea (or air).
How to Choose the Right Shipping Method
Choosing the right shipping method can be a difficult task. There are many factors to consider when choosing the best one for your project.
For example,
1. In the pharmaceutical industry, maintaining proper conditions such as temperature and humidity is crucial during transportation. As a result, shipping methods that include refrigerated containers or air freight are often used.
2. Automotive industry relies heavily on roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessels or specialized car carriers to transport cars and other large vehicles. This is because these methods are specifically designed to handle and transport large and heavy cargo.
3. Perishable goods, such as fresh produce or seafood, require minimal transit time to maintain freshness. As a result, air freight or refrigerated containers are commonly used in this industry.
4. The oil and gas industry requires specialized tankers for transportation as these products have specific containment and handling needs.
5. In the retail industry, items like clothing, electronics, and household goods are often consolidated and shipped via container ships or trucking as they are relatively small.
6. The heavy equipment industry frequently uses flat-rack containers or breakbulk vessels to transport large construction equipment, such as bulldozers and cranes, as they are too large for standard shipping containers.
Conclusion
If you found these tips helpful, let us know in the comments section. Have any shipping tips to share with your fellow readers? Let us know that too! Tons of companies ship cargo all over the world every day, and there's a right shipping method for every type of shipment. By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure that you'll be using the best shipping service possible for your needs.
