(Updated: 16 April 2023)
For many businesses looking to transport their cargo internationally, ocean freight is often seen as the most economical transportation method available. Ocean freight is not only a safe and efficient way to transport cargo of various sizes across the globe, but it also plays a vital role in the global supply chain.
However, with other forms of cargo transportation methods available, such as air, rail, or road, how will you know whether ocean freight is the right choice for your business? M6T takes a closer look at the advantages of ocean freight and explains how it can benefit your business.
What are the advantages of ocean freight forwarding?
Cost-effectiveness
Ocean freight offers the most competitive rates to businesses looking to transport their cargo anywhere around the globe. By comparison, some estimates show that ocean freight costs are generally four to six times less expensive than air freight. Therefore, it is easy to argue that ocean freight forwarding is the cheapest international shipping option.
Efficiency
Ocean freight provides businesses with a variety of ocean freight solutions including full containers (FCL), groupage (LCL), bulk, breakbulk, or project cargo to name but a few. This means businesses can easily transport their cargo regardless of size or weight as ocean freight companies can usually accommodate for your cargo transportation requirements.
Oversized, Heavy and Bulky Cargo Capability
Transporting oversized, heavy, or bulky cargo can be a challenge for many businesses looking to move items such as machinery, vehicles, industrial pieces, spare parts, mining equipment etc. This cargo is often too large or heavy to be supported by air freight or over-road-transportation methods, however this cargo is not seen as a problem on many shipping vessels. This allows businesses to transport their goods in one go without incurring significant transportation expenditures.
Safety
The ocean freight industry is well-versed in the handling of hazardous materials, important, or dangerous cargo safely around the globe. The industry adheres to stringent rules, regulations, and procedures to ensure the safety of the vessel, crew, cargo, and environment when transporting cargo anywhere around the world.
Eco-friendly
Although sustainability and environmental advances are still being made in the ocean freight sector, it can still be seen as a more environmentally friendly mode of cargo transportation when compared to air freight or various land transportation methods. Ships provide the most carbon-efficient mode of transportation and produce fewer grams of exhaust gas emissions for each ton of cargo transported than any other shipment method.
Is ocean freight a good choice for my business?
Ocean freight is considered one of the best cargo freight forwarding methods for companies looking to ship large quantities of cargo, or heavy-duty goods across the globe. Ocean freight provides a certain level of cargo and cost flexibility to business owners that are not pressed for time and are able to handle the extended transit times.
However, if a company requires faster delivery of their smaller or fragile cargo, then air freight may be a better option. It is important for you as a business owner to not only have a keen understanding of the pros and cons of ocean freight, but to also take into consideration of the following:
- The types of goods you are looking to transport.
- The weight of the goods you are looking to transport.
- The transit time requirements of your cargo.
- The cost of freight forwarding via different methods.
Once you have a clear understanding of what you want to transport and your companies budget, then you can make an informed decision.
Choosing a reliable ocean freight forwarding partner
Ocean freight is a great way to save money whilst getting your cargo to its’ destination safely, but it can be a daunting process. This is why it’s best to get a freight forwarding partner you can trust, as they will be able to help with the following:
- Document handling from start to finish.
- Consulting with your business and advising on the best mode of transportation for your goods based on available budget, best container types, environmental impact, and packaging requirements etc.
- Consulting with different carriers to get you the best price and optimal transit times.
- Assists with customs clearing procedures.
Essentially, a freight forwarding partner helps take the guesswork out of shipping, allowing you to focus on growing your business instead of on the nitty gritty of getting your cargo from here to there.
Conclusion
There are many advantages and disadvantages when it comes to the various modes of transportation. It will fall to you to decide which option is better for your business, as unreliable freight forwarding can negatively impact your brand in the long run.
If you are looking for a freight forwarding partner that can provide superior ocean freight for your small, medium, or enterprise business then consider M6T. Our experienced freight forwarding agents will strive to provide smooth ocean freight forwarding experience, where you can rest assured that your goods will be shipped safely and arrive on time.
M6T at our Johannesburg or Durban branch today and find out how we can help you find the best ocean freight services for you or your business.
