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Entrepreneurship related to purchasing goods from China has long ceased to be an exotic venture. Ukrainian businesses, from local shops to online platforms, actively work with Chinese manufacturers, choosing optimal supply options. But what should you do when the key logistics question arises: ship by air or by sea?
At first glance, the choice seems obvious. Air freight is fast and convenient but expensive. Sea freight takes longer and is cheaper, though it comes with additional considerations. But is it really that simple? To understand what suits you best, you need to look a little deeper — something the specialists at Dragon Logistics can assist with.
When every day counts
If you have a shipment ready to ship, the season is about to end, or customers are waiting for restocks, air delivery is often the only viable option. The main advantage is clear: speed. Sometimes goods arrive at your door in just 7–10 days. This not only keeps you competitive but can give you an edge over rivals.
In addition, air freight offers predictability. There are fewer links in the chain:
- cargo is not packed into containers and left waiting for weeks at port;
- shipments are less dependent on weather conditions such as wind or fog;
- lower risk of damage — minimal physical handling and strict weight restrictions ensure more careful treatment of cargo.
However, with every kilogram, your delivery costs increase. Air freight can become a significant part of the product’s final cost, especially if profit margins are slim. That’s why this option is not always about saving money — it’s about efficiency where it truly matters.
When saving is a priority
Sea freight is like a strategic game of chess. It requires planning, patience, and a clear understanding of volumes. If you order large batches or are not tied to strict deadlines, this option is your best ally.
Sea transportation is significantly more cost-effective: large volumes can be shipped for a fraction of the price of air freight. This is especially important when dealing with bulky or heavy goods such as furniture, textiles, or machinery. With the same budget, you can ship far more by sea.
But savings come at the cost of time. In the best case, delivery takes about a month; in the worst, a month and a half or even two. Many factors influence this:
- customs clearance;
- loading at the port;
- weather conditions;
- holiday seasons in Asia.
And the most frustrating part — it’s difficult to predict. Shipments can be delayed, damaged, or even lost somewhere along the logistics chain.
What to choose: rationality or flexibility?
If you’re just starting out and every dollar counts, sea shipping seems like the better choice. But be prepared for surprises. If you need speed and handle high-value orders, air freight is not just justified — it’s often indispensable.
In reality, businesses increasingly avoid choosing “either-or” and instead strike a balance between speed and cost: part of the shipment goes by air for quick sales, while the rest travels by sea for long-term goals. This approach avoids excessive costs while maintaining market momentum. Flexibility is key. Sometimes it’s worth paying more for delivery to be first to market. Other times, it’s better to protect your margins, even if it means waiting a little longer.
The choice between air and sea shipping is not a technical decision but a strategic one. And while neither option is perfect, each has strengths that — when used wisely — can work in your favor. So don’t hesitate to experiment. Test different options, compare costs and results, and work with trusted logistics providers like Dragon Logistics. Over time, you’ll know exactly what works best for you.