When importing goods from China to Singapore, one of the most critical decisions you’ll face is choosing between sea freight and air freight. Your cost structure, delivery schedules, and even customer satisfaction may all be greatly impacted by this decision. With Singapore’s status as a global logistics powerhouse—handling over 37.5 million TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit is a unit of volume, specifically referring to a 20-foot-long shipping container) by sea and 2 million tonnes of air cargo in 2024—the stakes are high for businesses seeking efficiency and reliability.
Let’s break down the key differences, real-world costs, and strategic considerations to help you make the best choice for your business—with insights tailored to the China–Singapore trade lane.
Understanding Sea Freight
Sea freight is the backbone of international trade, moving about 90% of global cargo by volume. It’s ideal for:
- Bulk shipments
- Heavy or oversized goods
- Non-urgent deliveries
Types of Sea Freight:
- FCL (Full Container Load): One shipper fills an entire container.
- LCL (Less than Container Load): Multiple shippers share a container, cost-effective for small shipments.
Want to learn more about our Sea Freight service? Click the link Sea Freight
Popular China–Singapore Sea Routes:
Major ports like Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Ningbo connect seamlessly with PSA Singapore, one of the world’s busiest container terminals.
Understanding Air Freight
Although air freight accounts for less than 1% of global trade by volume but more than 35% by value, it is the preferred method for speed and dependability. It suits:
- Time-sensitive shipments
- High-value or perishable goods
- Smaller, lighter consignments
Want to learn more about our Air Freight service? Click the link Air Freight
Key China–Singapore Air Hubs:
Beijing, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong are top origins, with Changi Airport as the region’s leading air cargo hub.
| Factor | Sea Freight | Air Freight |
| Cost per kg | SGD $0.15–$0.50 | SGD $2.50–$9.00 |
| Transit Time | 7–18 days (China–Singapore avg.) | 2–5 days |
| Carbon Emissions | Low (10g CO₂/ton-km) | High (500g CO₂/ton-km) |
| Volume Capacity | Very high (FCL/LCL) | Limited (dimensional weight) |
| Customs Handling | More complex | Simpler, faster |
| Insurance/Risk | Lower risk, less costly | Higher risk, higher cost |
| Reliability | Can face port delays/weather | Highly reliable, predictable |
Cost Comparison: How Much Can You Save?
- For comparable shipments, sea freight is four to five times less expensive than air freight.
For example, shipping a 200kg pallet from China to Singapore:- Sea Freight: SGD $30–$100
- Air Freight: SGD $500–$1,800
- LCL vs. FCL:
LCL lets you pay only for the space you use—perfect for SMEs or smaller shipments. - Hidden Costs:
Air freight may incur higher customs, fuel surcharges, and warehousing fees.
Actual Example:
A Singapore electronics importer switched a regular 500kg shipment from air to sea. Result:
- Logistics cost dropped by 70%
- Delivery time increased from 3 to 14 days, but savings enabled the company to offer more competitive prices.
Shipping Time: Speed vs. Planning
- Sea Freight: 7–18 days from China to Singapore (can extend to 20–45 days for other routes).
- Air Freight: 2–5 days, often including customs clearance.
When speed is crucial (e.g., product launches, perishable goods), air freight justifies its premium. For non-urgent or bulk shipments, sea freight is the clear winner.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
| Mode | Pros | Cons |
| Sea | Lowest cost, eco-friendly, bulk-friendly | Slower, risk of port delays |
| Air | Fastest, reliable, ideal for high-value/urgent goods | Expensive for large/heavy shipments |
Industry-Specific Recommendations
- E-commerce: Air freight for fast-moving SKUs, sea freight for restocking or slow movers.
- Machinery/Furniture: Sea freight for cost efficiency.
- SMEs: Hybrid approach—air for samples/urgent, sea for bulk.
Environmental Impact
Air freight emits up to 50x more CO₂ per ton-km than sea freight. If sustainability is part of your brand, sea shipping is the greener choice.
Why Global LACIS Logistics Singapore?
- Tailored Solutions: We analyze your cargo, timelines, and budget to recommend the optimal mode—or a hybrid solution.
- Cost Transparency: Real-time calculators and clear pricing ensure you never face hidden fees.
- End-to-End Support: From freight consolidation to customs clearance, we handle every step—so you don’t have to.
- China–Singapore Expertise: Our network covers all major Chinese ports and airports, ensuring seamless transit into Singapore.
Which Should You Choose?
- Choose Sea Freight if you prioritize cost, ship in bulk, or have flexible timelines.
- Choose Air Freight if speed and reliability are mission-critical, or for high-value, low-volume goods.
Still unsure? Most businesses benefit from a tailored mix—let Global LACIS Logistics Singapore help you find the right balance.
Request Your Free Shipping Consultation
Ready to optimize your China–Singapore supply chain?
Contact Global LACIS Logistics Singapore for a no-obligation consultation and discover how you can save costs, improve delivery, and grow your business—no matter which freight mode you choose.
