What are the transportation methods of international logistics?

International logistics transportation refers to logistics that occurs between two or more countries or regions.

There are several ways to use this type of logistics, including sea freight, air freight, express delivery, etc. Below, we will introduce the advantages and disadvantages of these logistics methods, so that everyone can choose the one that suits them more clearly.

The advantages of international shipping

International shipping is the most important mode of transportation in international trade, with the advantages of large volume, low cost, and convenience. The transportation volume of goods in this category alone accounts for more than two-thirds of the total international trade volume.

Many countries, especially those in coastal areas, are willing to adopt sea transportation. The coastline of our country is about 18000 kilometers long, and there are many excellent non freezing ports along the coast, which have favorable conditions for the development of maritime transportation.

The advantages of international air transportation

International air freight service providers cooperate directly with major airlines, resulting in relatively low costs, so freight rates are naturally lower than express shipping.

The main body of air transportation is that major international airlines can do it as long as they have an airport, with almost no blind spots. Unlike express delivery, which charges based on distance, express delivery sometimes also charges based on the quantity of local trade.

In some countries where domestic transportation is not well-developed, it is more appropriate for us to choose air transportation.

The advantages of international express delivery

The main business of international express delivery is documents and small packages, so the starting price is lower than air freight and the delivery time is faster. International express delivery companies have their own networks, making tracking and querying goods more convenient, and there will be detailed transfer records.

Express delivery services are also door-to-door, which can replace customers in handling customs clearance, customs clearance, inspection and other procedures.

The difference between bulk cargo and containers

LCL (Less than Container Load) goods are loaded into containers because their cargo is less than a standard container, making LCL more cost-effective. On the contrary, FCL goods have a higher cost-effectiveness.

Loose cargo is not loaded into containers, but directly loaded onto cargo hold or deck. Here, loose packaging does not mean that the goods are not packaged, they are simply not placed in the container. In contrast, the box is intact, so its concealment and safety are relatively high.