Sea freight is generally cheaper than air freight or other modes of transportation for several reasons:

  1. Economies of scale: Sea freight involves the transportation of large volumes of goods, which can be more cost-effective than air freight or other modes of transportation for shippers with large shipments.
  2. Lower fuel costs: Sea freight ships consume less fuel per tonne of cargo transported than other modes of transportation, such as air or road, which reduces transportation costs.
  3. Infrastructure costs: Airports and other transportation infrastructure, such as highways and railways, are expensive to build and maintain. In comparison, seaports are often less expensive to operate.
  4. Reduced labor costs: Sea freight can often be less labor-intensive than air freight or road transport, as it involves fewer handling and loading/unloading procedures.
  5. Competition: The sea freight industry is highly competitive, which helps to keep prices low for shippers.
  6. Environmental considerations: With increased concerns about the impact of transportation on the environment, many shippers are opting for sea freight as a more environmentally-friendly option, which can help to keep prices competitive.

Overall, the cost-effectiveness of sea freight makes it an attractive option for shippers who have the time and flexibility to accommodate longer transit times. However, it is important to note that sea freight may not always be the best option for time-sensitive or high-value shipments, which may require faster and more secure transportation methods.