Choosing the right international transport system is one of the most important decisions for any exporting business. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution—it all depends on your products, timelines, destinations, and logistics needs.
In this article, we provide a clear comparative guide to the main types of international transport to help you make more strategic decisions.
Does Your Company Have the Right Transport System?
Many companies begin exporting by choosing the most familiar or cheapest method… but not necessarily the most efficient one. A poor choice can lead to delays, unnecessary costs, or loss of competitiveness.
That’s why it’s essential to understand the available options and evaluate which best fits your operations.
Comparison of Main International Transport Modes
1. Road Transport
Ideal for shipments within Europe. Flexible, cost-effective, and allows door-to-door deliveries.
- Advantages: Speed, traceability, minimal handling.
- Limitations: Less suitable for very long distances or non-European destinations.
2. Sea Freight
Best suited for large volumes and intercontinental destinations.
- Advantages: Very cost-effective for full or consolidated loads.
- Limitations: Longer transit times, dependent on ports and schedules.
3. Air Freight
The fastest, but also the most expensive option. Used for urgent or high-value goods.
- Advantages: Speed and reliability for time-critical deliveries.
- Limitations: High cost and limited cargo capacity.
4. Rail Freight
An increasingly popular choice between Europe and Asia, especially for non-perishable goods.
- Advantages: More sustainable, good balance of cost and time.
- Limitations: Lower coverage and flexibility compared to road.
Key Factors for Choosing the Right Transport System
- Type of goods:
Are they perishable, fragile, high-value, or temperature-sensitive?
- Delivery deadlines:
Is it urgent, or can it be scheduled weeks in advance?
- Logistics costs:
Consider customs, storage, insurance, and fuel surcharges—not just transport.
- Destination and coverage:
Sending to Poland is not the same as shipping to Latvia or Romania. Knowing the real routes and delivery times is essential.
Our Recommendation: Combined Solutions & Expert Guidance
In many cases, the most efficient solution involves combining different transport modes at various stages of the logistics chain. For example, road transport to a port, sea freight to the destination country, and local distribution by road.
At ALTAMI Logistics, we analyze each case individually to design the best possible route. Our goal is not just to sell you transport, but to provide a reliable, cost-effective end-to-end solution.
Not Sure What You Need? We’re Here to Help
Exporting doesn’t have to be complicated. If your company needs a custom logistics solution for Eastern Europe, we’re here to support you.
- Talk to us and tell us about your business
- Explore our international transport services
- Discover how our end-to-end logistics support works
- Learn about our B2B Matchmaking service to expand into Eastern Europe
Still considering which logistics solution best suits your exports?
- Speak with our experts
- we’ll design the best plan together.