Which Method of Freight Is Best?

When shipping bulk items from A to B there is a lot to consider. The size, weight, and type of goods you need to transport will go some way in dictating the best method for you. However, your timeframe will likely play a primary role in your decision as to whether land, sea, or air is the answer to your logistical needs.

Freight operations take thorough planning and a high level of detail to ensure items reach their national or global destination safely and seamlessly. Typically, the following steps will be followed when any freight booking is made:

• A request is made by a company or organisation to order goods
• An arrangement is made to agree exportation
• The booking of the freight takes place, whether that is via air, sea or road
• Goods are then transported to the international depot/port
• Goods are finally processed through export customs clearance and placed in transit
• The goods arrive in the buyer’s country for import clearance
• The final part of the journey is transporting the goods from the port to the buyer

What are the different types of freight available?

There are three main options when it comes to shipping; Air Freight, Sea Freight, Road Freight. Each method has pros and cons, average transit times, and varying costs. Furthermore, each method used is tailored specifically to the cargo being transferred in order to make the process as efficient and convenient as possible.

Air Freight

Air Freight is the method of transporting cargo to and from countries via air travel. PBS International has over 20-years of experience in the logistics industry and is based at the UK’s biggest airports – Gatwick and Heathrow. Generally, air freight is used mainly for items that cannot be imported or exported to other countries via sea/road travel.

Sea Freight

Sea Freight is the method of transporting goods to and from countries via large cargo ships. This method offers economical solutions to move larger and bulky shipments that are not affected by long transit delivery times.

Road Freight

PBS offer road freight services across the UK, with door-to-door solutions, including same-day deliveries to selective locations. In addition, PBS also offer international road freight across Europe where routes are accessible, which can prove to be more of a cost-effective solution.

Which method of freight is the most affordable?

Time is money and you’ll inevitably want to know which shipping option is going to be the quickest. Air freight is much faster than sea or road but comes with a premium price tag that reflects its efficiency.

Road freight offers a happy midpoint in terms of speed and affordability. Transit times from the UK to European destinations is usually 10 to 14 days, with some companies offering ‘fast’ services if time is of the essence.

Lastly, sea freight can take anywhere from 8 to 12 weeks. However, if there is no hurry for the shipment to be delivered you can save a serious amount of money by opting for this method of freight.

If you’re in a quandary over what method of freight would be best for you get in touch with PBS International today. We specialise in the fastest movement of cargo to any destination on the globe and provide specialised services. You can request a quote online today or visit our contact us page to find the best port of call for your query.