Air freight or expedited ground? Making the best logistics choice

For decades, air freight has been seen as the go-to solution for urgent deliveries. However, it’s not without challenges. High costs, delays, and multiple handling points can make it less efficient than it appears. In many cases, expedited ground shipping offers a more practical alternative, particularly for certain routes and shipment types.

Expedite All, a logistics company specializing in small truckload (STL) services, sheds light on when ground shipping might be a better option.

Challenges with Air Freight

Air freight is often associated with speed, but the process is more complex than it seems. Fixed schedules mean missed departures can delay shipments by a full day, while multiple handling points increase the risk of damage or loss.

Another consideration is cost. According to Mike Ernst, President of Expedite All, air freight rates are three to five times higher than ground alternatives, making it a pricey choice. "Most air freight shipments spend more time on the ground than in the air," Ernst points out, highlighting inefficiencies in the system.

For example, a typical next-day air freight quote for a shipment from Chicago to Atlanta is over $4,100. For New York City to Cincinnati, the cost exceeds $4,160. These rates can quickly strain logistics budgets, especially for companies shipping frequently.

Where Expedited Ground Shipping Excels

Expedited ground shipping, like the services offered by Expedite All, addresses many of air freight’s shortcomings. With a network of sprinter vans, box trucks, and straight trucks, ground shipping provides direct, same-day delivery without unnecessary stops or handling.

On routes under 1,000 miles, ground shipping often rivals or surpasses air freight in terms of speed. For the same Chicago-to-Atlanta shipment quoted at $4,100 by air freight, a ground solution costs approximately $800. The New York City-to-Cincinnati route sees similar savings, with ground shipping priced at $600.

Ground shipping also offers flexibility. Vehicles can be dispatched in as little as 30 minutes, and team drivers ensure continuous movement, eliminating downtime.

When to Choose Ground Over Air

While air freight remains essential for international shipments or extremely long distances, ground shipping is often the better choice for:

• Regional Shipments: For routes under 1,000 miles, ground shipping often matches or beats air freight delivery times.
• Cost Efficiency: For businesses managing tight budgets, ground shipping offers substantial savings without sacrificing reliability.
• Fragile or High-Value Goods: Ground services minimize handling, ensuring shipments remain secure and undisturbed during transit.

A Balanced Approach

Logistics isn’t one-size-fits-all, and both air freight and expedited ground shipping have their place. Understanding the strengths and limitations of each allows businesses to make informed decisions.

As Ernst notes, "Expedited ground is ideal for shorter distances, cost savings, and reducing handling risks, but air freight still plays a critical role for certain shipments."

For companies navigating regional or domestic logistics, exploring ground options could offer significant advantages in cost, speed, and security.

This article does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the AJOT editorial board or Fleur de lis Publishing, Inc. and its owners.