Shipping methods compared
Sea, air or land? Compare the pricing unit, the time and the fit for your shipment.
Comparison details
The time varies with the destination and the season. Not sure of the volume? Work it out with the CBM calculator.
| Method | Pricing unit | Basis for your shipment | Usual time | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Choose the destination and enter the weight or volume to see the comparison. | ||||
| Criterion | Sea | Air | Land |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost level | Lowest per cubic metre | Highest per kilogram | Medium |
| Pricing unit | Cubic metre | Chargeable weight | Volume or load |
| Suited to | Furniture and heavy goods | Urgent and high-value parcels | Neighbouring countries by land |
| Common restrictions | Needs clearance at the port | Strict limits on liquids and batteries | Depends on the land crossings being open |
This tool only identifies the unit the price is charged on, and does not issue a final price. The price is fixed in a written quote once the shipment’s details and destination are known. The comparison is based on market averages. The differences change with the season and the space carriers have available.
Request the written quote
Send the unit shown here with the details of the goods, and receive a quote showing the price, the time and what it includes.
Three methods, and each case has the one that suits it best. This is a direct comparison, with no marketing.
When do you choose sea?
- Your shipment is bulky: a home’s furniture, a car, a container of goods.
- You are in no hurry — it can take weeks.
- You want the lowest possible cost for a large volume.
Charged by volume in cubic metres. Distance matters less than you expect — volume is the first factor.
When do you choose air?
- The shipment is urgent.
- It is small in size and high in value.
- It can bear a higher cost in return for time.
Charged by chargeable weight — the greater of actual and volumetric weight. This is why you may pay more for a light, bulky box than for a heavy, small one.
When do you choose land?
- The destination is in the Gulf, Jordan or Iraq.
- You want a balance between price and time.
- You would rather your shipment was not handled more than once.
The shipment stays in one vehicle from door to door, which lowers the chance of damage.
A quick table
- Most economical for large volumes: sea.
- Fastest: air.
- Least handling: land.
- Best for cars: sea (RoRo or container), and land for neighbouring countries.
- Best for small parcels: air if urgent, and shared sea freight if not.
The common mistake
Comparing two quotes by the figure alone. Always ask: does it include inland transport? Does it stop at the port or reach the door? And what charges are expected on arrival?