Sea or air: which should you actually choose?

The rule of thumb: if the consignment is under about 30 kg and needed within a fortnight, air usually wins on total cost once you account for the value of arriving on time. Above that weight, sea pulls ahead quickly, and the gap widens with every kilo.

Weight is not the only factor. Air freight is charged on volumetric weight as well as actual weight, so a light but bulky consignment — bedding, clothing, cushions — can cost far more by air than the scales suggest. Sea is far more forgiving of volume.

Deadlines matter more than people admit. If something has to be there for a wedding or an exam, book air and stop calculating. If it is household goods being sent ahead of a move, sea is the obvious choice.

Ask us to quote both. We do it as standard, so you can see the two numbers side by side before you decide.