VigorBuy Shipping: How to Compare Air and Economic Routes for Better Value
Master Your Logistics Costs by Tracking Speed and Weight in a Spreadsheet
At VigorBuy, we empower you to make smart shipping decisions. Choosing between Air FreightEconomic Sea Freight
The Core Trade-Off: Air vs. Economic Routes
| Factor | Air Freight | Economic Sea Freight |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Fast (5-10 days) | Slow (25-50 days) |
| Cost per Kg | High | Very Low |
| Best For | Urgent, high-value, or perishable goods | Bulky, heavy, non-urgent inventory |
| Price Volatility | Higher (fuel, capacity) | More Stable |
Build Your Comparison Spreadsheet in 4 Steps
Transform your decision-making from guesswork to data analysis. Create a sheet with the following columns:
Step 1: Input Key Variables
Create columns for: Item Description, Total Weight (kg), Package Dimensions, Item Value, and Required Delivery Date. These are your constants.
Step 2: Quote Collection
Add two main data blocks: Air Route QuoteEconomic Route Quote. For each, record the Total Shipping Cost, Estimated Transit Days, and any Surcharges.
Step 3: Calculate Hidden & Associated Costs
This is crucial. Add formulas for:
- Inventory Holding Cost:
- Cost per Kg:
- Speed-to-Cost Ratio:
- Cost per Kg:
Step 4: Visualize & Decide
Use charts or conditional formatting to highlight:
- Which items have a minimal time differencehuge cost savings
- Which items are urgent
VigorBuy Pro Tip: Dynamic Decision Model
Don't just compare once. Build a template where you can input a new quote and instantly see the comparison. Factor in your business context: a promotional item may need