Shipping cargo overseas, air and ocean freight are the two most popular options for sending household goods, vehicles, and other items around the globe. While most India to the USA courier companies do offer both options, one may be more suitable for your shipping needs than the other is. Provided below is a concise list of pros and cons to help you make the best determination of which form of shipping is right for you and your goods:
Air Freight Pros and Cons
Pros: Faster, more efficient, less stops, more reliable
Cons: More expensive, charges by weight (though this may be beneficial to some)
Air freight is a top choice for anyone who needs cargo from India to be delivered to the USA quickly and efficiently. Given that there are less stops along the way, there is also an increased chance of your package arriving unscathed, and a reduced chance of it becoming lost in any transfers. Depending on what you’re shipping, air freight will also more than likely be conveniently delivered to an inland and easily accessible airport, whereas shipping by ocean may require you to pick up your parcel or cargo at a loading warehouse near the item’s port of origin.
Ocean Freight Pros and Cons
Pros: Cost effective, can often handle greater quantity of goods
Cons: Less reliable, slower, charges by volume, subject to weather/climatic delays (this may be beneficial to some)
For an individual who is on a tight budget or who doesn’t require a parcel or piece of cargo to be received quickly, then ocean freight is a solid and economical shipping solution. Though less reliable than air freight, the number of items lost during this form of shipment are still incredibly low, and the likelihood of your package being lost is minimal. One important consideration for those thinking about choosing ocean freight with an India to the USA courier is that ocean freight liners are exposed to climatic conditions, such as extreme weather and water currents, which can increase the chance of your item becoming damaged or delayed.
The Bottom Line
Generally speaking, if the item you’re trying to transfer is prone to damage, or bulky and heavy, then air freight is the safest and most reliable option. But for many household goods that you do not need immediately, ocean freight is likely the best and most sensible option. Regardless of the shipping method you choose, give yourself peace of mind by choosing a courier that offers tracking (preferably with a tracking number that can be followed online) and strongly consider investing in shipping insurance for your items.