The import and export of goods are complex processes that require careful management to ensure fast and secure delivery. At ART Gabon, we offer personalized transport solutions tailored to the needs of each client, paying attention to every detail of the logistics process.
Understanding the factors that influence the cost of international delivery is essential to optimize your budgets and better anticipate your expenses.
The cost of fuel and its impact on delivery rates
Fuel is one of the most fluctuating and unpredictable elements in the transportation industry. The price of oil fluctuates based on geopolitical crises, fluctuations in supply and demand, and global energy policies. This volatility directly impacts transport costs, particularly for sea and air freight.
- Sea freight : Transport ships operate primarily on heavy fuel oil, a type of fuel that is affected by global price fluctuations. The more expensive the fuel, the higher the shipping rates;
- Air freight : Fuel represents a significant portion of airline operating costs. Price increases are often passed on to customers in the form of fuel surcharges.
To optimize costs, some companies choose to consolidate shipments or schedule deliveries during periods when prices are more stable.
Trade taxes and customs duties: An indispensable burden
Commercial taxes and customs duties are essential elements in international trade. These costs vary from country to country and are influenced by various trade agreements, local laws, and bilateral relations between nations.
- Customs Duties : These fees are applied to the importation of goods to protect local industries. They vary depending on the type of merchandise, its origin, and its destination;
- Taxes : In addition to customs duties, additional taxes, such as VAT or other indirect taxes, may be imposed.
These costs should be taken into account when estimating the overall budget for an international shipment. At ART Gabon, we offer personalized monitoring to guide you through customs procedures, in order to reduce delays and minimize costs.
Security and customs control measures
The safety of goods during transport is essential. Governments impose strict controls to prevent smuggling, terrorism, or other illegal activities. These reinforced customs controls may affect the cost of delivery, in particular by increasing shipping times or requiring specific insurance.
- Inspections : Some shipments may be subject to random inspections, resulting in unforeseen delays.
- Insurance : Businesses often need to purchase insurance to protect their goods against theft, damage, or loss during transport.
Shipments subject to rigorous controls may incur additional costs related to handling, temporary storage, or administrative formalities.
Sizing, tonnage and shipping cost
The size and weight of goods play a key role in determining shipping costs. Whether by air or sea, rates are often calculated based on the gross weight or volume of the goods.
- Bulky shipments : Bulky or high-volume goods are often more expensive to transport because they take up more space in containers;
- Weight : In the case of air travel, weight is a determining factor in rates because it affects the amount of fuel needed to complete the flight.
To reduce these costs, it is recommended to optimize the packaging of goods to maximize the use of available space. At ART Gabon, we offer optimized storage and loading solutions to minimize these costs.
Choice of mode of transport: Air or sea freight?
The chosen mode of transport has a direct impact on the cost and delivery times. Air freight and sea freight are the two main options, each with its advantages and disadvantages.
Comparison of costs between different modes of transport
- Ocean freight : This is generally the most economical option for large or long-distance shipments. However, it is slower than air shipping, with transit times varying from weeks to months;
- Air freight : ideal for urgent shipments, this mode of transport is significantly faster. However, it is also much more expensive, especially for large or heavy shipments.
The advantages of maritime transport: Slower, but more affordable?
Sea transport remains the preferred solution for large-scale international shipments. Although it is slower, it allows large quantities to be transported at a lower cost, particularly for non-perishable goods or heavy industrial equipment.
- Lower cost : compared to air freight, rates for sea transport are often more attractive, especially over long distances;
- High capacity : Container ships can carry hundreds of thousands of tons of cargo, providing increased volume flexibility.
Air freight: For those who want speed, but at what cost?
Air freight is essential when time is of the essence. This is the ideal option for perishable goods, electronic products, or shipments that need to arrive at their destination quickly.
- Speed : air transport allows goods to be delivered in a few days, or even a few hours, depending on the destinations.
- High cost : Due to fuel costs and the limited capacity of cargo planes, air freight rates are often much higher than shipping rates.
At ART Gabon, we put our expertise in logistics management at your disposal to offer you tailor-made solutions, guaranteeing speed, security, and optimized costs for your shipments.Do not hesitate to request a personalized quote online to accurately assess your transportation needs.