When using Winnipeg courier companies for international shipping, there are two primary transport methods to choose from: air freight or ocean freight. The delivery service of choice and optimal mode of transport will depend upon several factors that need to be considered. As with anything else, there are advantages and disadvantages inherent in each option. Weighing these factors together will help you determine the right choice for you.

As a rule, air freight tends to be more expensive than ocean freight. The difference in pricing, however, can vary depending on the size and weight of the items to be shipped. Sea carrier rates are based on container shipments. Weight is not factored in, as is the case with air freight. So if your shipment is smaller than a full-size container (20' or 40' length), pricing will likely be based on its size in cubic meters. With air freight, prices are according to chargeable weight, which factors both the size and the weight of the cargo. This is due to fuel costs and limited space.

How quickly does the shipment need to arrive at its destination? Air freight is obviously the faster method, but the added cost may not be necessary if you're not in a big hurry to get it there. Sea carriers work on schedules measured in days. However, certain shipments can take weeks, even months to get from Point A to B. If you're shipping perishables or time-sensitive material, then air freight is your only viable option.

You want to be sure your that your goods get where they're going safely and reliably. Both Air and ocean freight shipping are good alternatives, provided they meet your other criteria. Air freight is less likely to result in loss or damage, as the cargo is handled less and doesn't sit for long durations, as is often the case with ocean freight, which can also be delayed at ports of entry.

So once you've done a bit of homework and numbers crunching, it's simply a matter of choosing the mode of transport that suits your needs, cargo and budget.