Back to Top of page Commodity being Shipped Shipments that lend themselves to air freight tend to have a relatively high value per pound. One would not send milk via air from Miami, because the cost of shipment would exceed the value of the milk. However, air freight costs would normally be only a fraction of the value of items such as cameras, electronics, and auto parts. Certain kinds of perishables such as fresh-cut flowers usually must go by air, since they are severely time limited. A dwindling stock of Cadillac tires, however, could probably tolerate a few days lead time.
Large shipments are considerably less expensive to ship by ocean.
Under about 200 pounds, the difference is less than you may think. Sometimes, it may pay to reorder frequently by air, rather than warehouse and insure a large inventory, and incur the associated carrying costs. Whether you decide to use air or ocean freight, you should arrange for your shipping locally. Virgin Islands freight companies all have relationships with counterparts in the States and around the world. They can make arrangements to expedite your cargo.