Debunking Top Myths about Ocean Freight Services

One of the most lifelines for easy and cheap transportation to cross continents is ocean freight. Still, despite this, different ocean freight myths and misconceptions appear and have always confused the minds of businesses and individuals about shipping. Rail freight transport services have also been a part of business progress, and you can get everything from Moov Logistics.

Here, we are going to unveil five of the most common myths about ocean freight services.

Myth 1: Ocean Freight is Too Slow

Reality: Ocean freight does indeed take longer than air freight, but much advancement has been made in the logistics and shipping routes so it can take place faster. In addition, ocean freight usually supports an efficient planning scenario that works well within production and inventory timelines, making it a feasible and economical option for a good number of shipments.

Shipping companies now offer route optimization and cutting-edge technology, such as routing algorithms, to reduce transit times. For example, shipping from China to the West Coast of the United States may take around 14-20 days depending on a port and route. While air freight is much faster, ocean freight is also very efficient for those shipments that are not time-sensitive, including bulk and heavy cargo, where cost is going to be much more of a factor.

Myth 2. Ocean Freight is too Expensive

Reality: Ocean freight services are quite inexpensive and one of the most cost-effective modes for moving huge and weighty goods overseas. Of course, the base rate might be high, but you should factor in the unit cost per kilo. Ocean freight can become significantly cheaper than air freight if goods are shipped in massive quantities.

Basic ocean freight costs are essentially the base freight charge, port fees, fuel surcharges, as well as other costs that are charged by the shipping company, and serve as an add-on on various shipment routes, weight, and volume of cargo. Hence, one more choice in terms of containers-whether the shipment would be an FCL or LCL-up to the business to decide on the most cost-effective solution for its size of shipment. Ocean freight will incur a little more in terms of handling and customs; still, generally speaking, ocean freight is still cheaper for a large shipment.

Myth 3: Ocean Freight Too Risky

Reality: Ocean freight services bear significant risks of damage, loss, and delay in weather conditions. Today, though, most modern advances in shipping technology and innovations in packaging, containerization, and tracking considerably reduce the risk factors. Most good shippers all over the world are keen to abide by the rules of strict regulations and trace cargo right from the port of departure to delivery.

Ocean freight insurance is another helpful mitigation tool. Shippers can even protect their cargo from possible damage, loss, or theft with such coverage, thus alleviating possible anxieties. Furthermore, very strong and reinforced containers are employed by ocean freight companies for protecting the cargo, while freight forwarders offer most of the time secure warehousing options to guarantee that the goods’ safety is guaranteed prior to loading onto the ship.

Myth 4: Ocean Freight is Bad for the Environment

Reality: Ocean freight does produce carbon, which again, is actually much more sustainable than air freight, especially for large consignments. As per a study carried out by the International Chamber of Shipping, it emits less per tonne of cargo compared to other modes of transport; hence, ocean freight is one of the most environmentally friendly ways of shipping goods around the globe.
Many ocean freight companies are doing their part in achieving sustainability. Several eco-friendly technologies, including cleaner fuel alternatives, energy-efficient ship designs, and optimized routing systems, have been used by the industry to minimize fuel consumption. Moreover, the use of larger, more fuel-efficient vessels increases cargo capacity while lowering the number of tons emitted per container.

Myth 5: Only Large Businesses Can Use Ocean Freight

Reality: Ocean freight is accessible to all size businesses due to flexible options such as LCL shipping. Large business often ship full containers, but smaller businesses can share container space with other shippers by shipping an LCL, which makes ocean freight more accessible in smaller quantities.

LCL shipping is ideal for companies that would not need an entire container, foremost because this only saves businesses the amount of space they occupy. SMEs or startups love to have their goods shipped in a consolidated LCL shipping, for it is a more affordable way to have their products shipped rather than renting out an entire container. Consolidation and deconsolidation also make shipping easier for smaller companies through LCL services.

Summary!

Ocean freight services remain a bedrock in international trade – a reliable and economical option to ship commodities worldwide. Whether it’s your big corporation or your small business, you can always get in touch with Moov Logistics for their best services, be it for ocean freight or rail freight transport services. Get in touch with Moov Logistics now!