The advantages of maritime transport are undeniable, although you may not know them. And the importance of this kind of transport goes unnoticed. From the clothes we wear to the cell phones with we buy compulsively, they all have been in the sea at one point. Whatever they were as raw materials or final products.
Around the 90% of what we consume travels by the sea from the opposite part of the world1. How come is that possible? Let us get to know the advantages of maritime transport to answer this question.
Starting with its cost, maritime transport is cheaper compared to air transport. This is due to the huge cargo capacity transported in just one vessel Besides, the maritime shipping costs are generally very cheap and competitive.
Second, another advantage is its cargo capacity. As mentioned before, the each-time-bigger vessels are able to load tones. Huge quantities of all kind of materials that can reach whatever part of the world. And, of course, materials that can not be transported through the air or the road.
When it comes to types of merchandise, a cargo ship is able to store almost everything. Like liquids and dangerous goods, almost every product that exists can be carried through the sea. This is a flexibility that not all means of transport offer.
Another advantage is security. Opposite to land or air means, sea transport supports very adverse weather conditions. Ships are extremely resistant and strong. And cancellations of goods transportation due to weather reasons are almost inviable.
Finally we must underline polution. Just as whatever motorized transport, maritime transport pollutes. But it is true that is way more ecological that air transport. However, according to estimations by 2050 the world fleet will be less polluting. This is due to shipping lines investing in green energies that are more efficient and cheap.
