Whether it’s your first time moving abroad or you have done it before, there’s no denying the thrill and excitement that follows the prospect of starting a new life in a new place. 

But what lurks past this excitement is the extensive research to choose the right international shipping company, followed by the daunting task of deciding whether you should ship your belongings by sea or by air.

Both methods have their own advantages and disadvantages. And if you want to choose one that’s best for you, read on to find out the merits and demerits of each mode for comparison purpose:

Benefits of moving by air

It goes without saying, moving items overseas via an aircraft is the fastest way available.  There are rarely any delays involved and your belongings will reach you overnight.

Also, the goods are not normally lost or misplaced as is the case very often with land and sea shipments. 

Moreover, shipments by air are usually more secure in terms of damage to cargo or mishandling of packages. This is because unlike sea shipments, air shipments involve fewer transfers from one stop to another. The fewer hands that touch your goods, the lesser the chance of damage caused due to mishaps or improper handling of items.

Drawbacks of moving by air

Given the security and other benefits of this mode, it’s obvious that moving by air is much expensive than other options. 

Secondly, this method has more restrictions and limitations on the size and weight of goods that you can transport. 

Therefore, air freight will be best for you when you want to ship essential items like clothing and small and fragile household items as they will arrive faster and more securely than by sea.

Benefits of moving by sea

The lower costs, as well as low to no weight and size restrictions, make ocean freight an ideal choice. 

Although it takes longer, you have more time to reach the destination first and prepare your new house before the arrival of bulky furniture and other heavy items.

Drawbacks of moving by sea

Delivery time and handling of packages are the major demerits of sea shipment. 

Although the routes are being shortened and time gaps are reducing, compared to overnight delivery from air freight, ocean freight still takes ages to complete the journey. 

Moreover, given the rough seas and the various port inspections the cargo has to go through, it’s not unusual for goods to suffer minor to major damages during the transit.

While an international moving company can help you decide which option is better for you, it goes without saying that every mover will encourage you to choose the shipment method that they offer.

Only will a well-established international moving company that offers both modes, assist you in choosing the one that’s best for you.