Choosing the right mode of transport is not just about the lowest price. The desired delivery time, volume, destination, product characteristics, and required documents also determine which solution fits best.
Road transport
Road transport is often a practical choice for shipments within the Netherlands and across Europe. It offers flexibility in pickup and delivery and is suitable for both single pallets and full loads.
Groupage is a good option when you do not need a full truckload. For larger volumes, a part or full load can be more efficient. When comparing, pay attention not only to the transport price but also to the transit time, delivery options, and any surcharges.
Sea freight
Sea freight is particularly suitable for larger, heavier, or less time-sensitive shipments. You can choose between a full container (FCL) or a shared container (LCL).
The transport costs per unit are often more favorable than with air freight. However, the lead time is longer, and port costs, documentation, customs clearance, and pre- and post-transport need to be well coordinated.
Air freight
Air freight is suitable for urgent, compact, or valuable goods. It is generally the fastest international mode of transport, but also more expensive.
The price is determined among other things by the actual weight, the volumetric weight, the route, and the available capacity. For time-critical parts, samples, or smaller commercial shipments, air freight can still be the most logical choice despite the higher price.
A combination of transport modes
Not every shipment needs to travel entirely by road, sea, or air. Sometimes a combination is more efficient, for example, sea freight to Rotterdam followed by road transport to the final destination.
In such a multimodal solution,the different carriers, documents and transfer stages must be properly coordinated.
How do you make the right choice?
Before booking, at least answer these questions:
• When must the goods arrive at the latest?
• What are the weight, volume, and dimensions?
• Are they pallets, boxes, machines, or temperature-sensitive goods?
• What customs and product documents are needed?
• What are the total costs, including pickup, transshipment, import, and delivery?
• What are the consequences if the shipment arrives late?
Cargo Nexus helps you compare
Cargo Nexus compares the available routes and transport modes based on your goods, schedule, and destination. We then coordinate the pickup, the documents, the international transport, and the delivery with the relevant partners.
Do you want to know which transport mode fits your next shipment? Contact us for a practical comparison.