When it comes to shipping goods internationally, there are a few different options to choose from. Each one has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs and priorities.

In this blog post, ISS Shipping takes a look at the most common international shipping options to help you decide which one is best for you.

Air Freight

Air freight is the fastest way to ship goods internationally, and it's a good option if you need to get your items to their destination quickly. However, it's also the most expensive option, and it's not suitable for very large or heavy items. Air freight is usually handled by specialised cargo airlines, and it can involve multiple flights and connections to reach its final destination.

Sea Freight

Sea freight is the most cost-effective way to ship goods internationally, and it's a good option if you're shipping large or heavy items. However, it's also the slowest option, with transit times ranging from a few days to several weeks depending on the distance and the route. Ocean freight is usually handled by cargo ships, and it can involve multiple ports and transhipments along the way.

Courier Services

Courier services are a good option if you're shipping smaller, less time-sensitive items. They offer faster transit times than ocean freight, but they're still typically slower than air freight. Courier services usually handle packages that are less than 68 kg (150 lbs) and less than 274 cm (108 inches) in length and girth combined. They offer a range of services, from standard delivery to expedited shipping and same-day delivery.

Other Options

There are also a few other options to consider, such as rail freight and road freight. Rail freight is a good option for domestically shipping goods across Australia, and it's faster and more environmentally friendly than trucking. Road freight is a good option for shipping goods within smaller regions, and it's more flexible and customisable than other options.

Conclusion

When it comes to international shipping, there are a few different options to choose from. Air freight is the fastest but most expensive option, sea freight is the most cost-effective but slowest option, and courier services offer a range of services for smaller items. Each option has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs and priorities.

For more information, get in touch with the ISS Shipping team today!