Shipment vs. Cargo: What is the Difference?

What are some key differences between shipments and cargo?

Key differences include size and scale (shipments are smaller, cargo is bulkier), specialized handling requirements (cargo needs more), and regulations (cargo has more compliance rules). Cargo also tends to use slower but cheaper transportation methods like ships, trains, trucks rather than air transit.

What kind of items are usually shipped as cargo?

Typical cargo items are raw materials like metal, wood, and oil as well as finished goods like clothing, food, and electronics. Cargo may also include dangerous or delicate substances that require careful handling.

What are the main benefits of transporting cargo by air?

Benefits of air cargo include speed, lower insurance costs, no warehousing needs, and shipment tracking. Air is the fastest way to transport freight long distances.

What are the advantages of transporting goods by sea?

Sea cargo transport is more sustainable, secure, accessible, and affordable. Recent innovations have also increased the speed of ocean shipping. Sea freight works well for high volume, heavy cargo.

Is cargo the same as freight?

Cargo and freight refer to similar concepts - the transportation of commercial goods. However, freight is specifically for business purposes while cargo can also refer to personal possessions. All freight shipped by air, sea, rail or truck is considered cargo.

What does an air waybill do?

An air waybill is a shipping document that provides details about cargo, origin/destination points, and freight charges. It allows the airline to track the shipment and accompanies the goods throughout transit.

How are shipments tracked?

Parcel delivery services allow customers to track shipments in real-time through automated systems and shipment tracking numbers. Barcodes, RFID, and GPS provide updates on the location and status from pickup to final delivery.

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