Back to Blog
Air Freight vs. Ocean Freight: Which Is Right for You?
Berkley Logistics Team • May 12, 2026
Air and ocean freight each have strengths. The right choice depends on urgency, budget, cargo type, and destination.
SPEED
Air freight is best for time-sensitive or perishable cargo, with many intercontinental shipments arriving in 1–5 business days. Ocean freight commonly takes 10–45 days depending on the ports and route.
COST
Ocean freight is usually more economical for large, non-urgent loads. Air freight costs more but can reduce transit time when speed matters.
CAPACITY AND CARGO SIZE
Container shipping is well suited to heavy, oversized, or high-volume cargo. Aircraft have tighter weight and dimensional limits.
CARBON FOOTPRINT
Ocean freight generally produces a lower carbon footprint per tonne-kilometre than air freight. We can provide a shipment-specific estimate on request.
OUR RECOMMENDATION
Choose air freight for high-value, urgent, or perishable goods. Choose ocean freight for bulk, non-urgent shipments where efficiency and scale are priorities.
SPEED
Air freight is best for time-sensitive or perishable cargo, with many intercontinental shipments arriving in 1–5 business days. Ocean freight commonly takes 10–45 days depending on the ports and route.
COST
Ocean freight is usually more economical for large, non-urgent loads. Air freight costs more but can reduce transit time when speed matters.
CAPACITY AND CARGO SIZE
Container shipping is well suited to heavy, oversized, or high-volume cargo. Aircraft have tighter weight and dimensional limits.
CARBON FOOTPRINT
Ocean freight generally produces a lower carbon footprint per tonne-kilometre than air freight. We can provide a shipment-specific estimate on request.
OUR RECOMMENDATION
Choose air freight for high-value, urgent, or perishable goods. Choose ocean freight for bulk, non-urgent shipments where efficiency and scale are priorities.