Air and sea transport are not interchangeable labels. The appropriate discussion depends on the product, condition, volume, packing, destination and required timing for the programme.
1. Confirm product condition and handling needs
State whether the product is intended to ship fresh, chilled or frozen, as applicable. Discuss the relevant handling and temperature requirements with the supplier and logistics parties for the specific product and route.
For example, a fresh produce enquiry and a chilled whole lamb carcass enquiry begin with different product conditions even when both are time-sensitive.
2. Define the required timing
Share the target shipment and delivery window, including any fixed receiving date. Avoid using “as soon as possible” as the only timing information. The supplier needs to understand the commercial deadline before discussing an available programme.
3. State volume and packing
Order size and pack format affect how a shipment can be planned. Give the volume, buying frequency, carton or pack format, net weight and whether consolidation is being considered.
- Target cartons, pallets, tonnage or container basis
- Spot shipment or repeat buying programme
- Carton, pack format and net weight
- Any agreed handling or temperature discussion points
4. Identify the destination point
Name the destination country and the relevant airport, seaport or delivery point. Include any known receiving-day, warehouse or documentation constraints that may affect planning.
5. Compare the commercial discussion
| Discussion point | Air planning | Sea planning |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Discuss when a shorter transit programme is required. | Discuss the available sailing and arrival window. |
| Volume | Confirm the commercially suitable shipment size. | Confirm container, pallet or consolidation requirements. |
| Packing | Confirm packing against handling and freight requirements. | Confirm packing against container and receiving requirements. |
| Documents | Confirm the Air Waybill and other agreed shipment documents. | Confirm the Sea Waybill or Bill of Lading and other agreed documents. |
This comparison frames the questions; it does not state that one mode is always faster, cheaper or more appropriate. The available route and commercial terms must be confirmed for the particular shipment.
Questions to send with the enquiry
- What product condition and packing are being quoted?
- What origin and shipment window are available?
- Which destination airport or seaport is being used?
- Which transport document will apply?
- Which documentation, handling and commercial terms are included or still to be confirmed?