Sea vs air vs rail: which freight mode fits your cargo?
A side-by-side look at cost, speed, capacity and carbon to help you choose the right mode.
Cost and speed
Sea freight is the most economical for volume but the slowest. Air is the fastest but the most expensive. Rail sits in between on the Asia–Europe corridor.
Capacity and cargo type
Sea handles the largest and heaviest loads, including project cargo. Air suits lighter, urgent and high-value goods. Rail carries containers and palletised freight on scheduled departures.
Carbon footprint
If sustainability is a priority, sea and rail emit far less CO2 per tonne-kilometer than air. We can factor emissions into your mode choice.
Get a tailored recommendation
Tell us your cargo, budget and deadline and we'll recommend the optimal mode — or blend of modes — for your supply chain.