Ocean freight is significantly cheaper per unit but takes 3–6 weeks port to port on most major trade lanes. Air freight is 5–10x more expensive but delivers in 3–7 days. The choice depends on your product margin, demand predictability, and inventory buffer.
For stable SKUs with predictable demand and high volume, ocean freight almost always wins on cost. Plan inventory 8–10 weeks ahead, account for port delays, and let ocean freight carry the bulk of your supply.
For fast-moving SKUs, new product launches, or inventory replenishment emergencies, air freight is the correct choice — the higher per-unit cost is offset by the revenue you would miss waiting for ocean freight.
Some brands run a hybrid: ocean freight for the bulk of their inventory, air freight for initial launch units or replenishment bridges while ocean freight is in transit. This optimizes both cost and in-stock rate.