When shipping parcels from Calgary to Europe, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing between air shipping and sea freight. Each method has distinct advantages and considerations that can significantly impact your shipping experience, timeline, and budget.
Understanding Air Shipping
Air shipping is the premium option for international deliveries, offering unmatched speed and reliability. At Polimark Shipping, our air service delivers parcels from Calgary to European destinations in just 2-3 weeks. This expedited service is ideal when time is of the essence, whether you're sending urgent business documents, time-sensitive gifts, or essential items to loved ones abroad.
The advantages of air shipping extend beyond speed. Air cargo faces fewer handling points during transit, reducing the risk of damage or loss. Additionally, air shipments typically have more predictable delivery schedules, making it easier to plan around arrival times. For valuable or fragile items, the reduced transit time and careful handling make air shipping the preferred choice.
The Benefits of Sea Freight
Sea freight, also known as surface shipping, is the most economical option for international deliveries. While it takes longer - typically 7-9 weeks for expedited surface or 10-14 weeks for regular surface shipping - the cost savings can be substantial, especially for larger or heavier shipments. This makes sea freight an excellent choice for non-urgent items, bulk shipments, or when budget is the primary consideration.
Sea freight is also more environmentally friendly, with a significantly lower carbon footprint per kilogram shipped compared to air transport. For environmentally conscious shippers, this can be an important factor in the decision-making process. Additionally, sea freight can accommodate larger and heavier items that might be restricted or prohibitively expensive to ship by air.
Making the Right Choice
The decision between air and sea shipping ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities. Consider air shipping when you need fast delivery, are shipping valuable or fragile items, or when the higher cost is justified by the urgency of the shipment. Choose sea freight when cost is the primary concern, you're shipping large or heavy items, or when you have flexible timing requirements.
At Polimark Shipping, our experienced team can help you evaluate your options and choose the best shipping method for your specific situation. With over 30 years of experience in European shipping, we understand the nuances of both air and sea freight, ensuring your parcels reach their destination safely and efficiently, regardless of which method you choose.
Need help deciding?
Contact our shipping experts for personalized advice on the best shipping method for your specific needs. We're here to help you make the right choice for your European delivery.