Shipping goods to the United States can open up major growth opportunities for Sussex SMEs, but it also requires careful planning. Whether you’re exporting manufactured products, machinery, food and drink or supplements, the way your goods travel overseas can have a direct impact on delivery times, costs and customer expectations. 

Two of the most common options for shipping to the USA are air freight and ocean freight. Each serves a different purpose, and understanding the strengths of both can help Sussex businesses choose the right approach for their supply chain. We explore both options in this blog. 

Why freight choice matters when shipping to the USA 

The USA is a highly competitive market where reliability is expected. Customers want clear delivery timelines and consistent service, and delays can quickly affect relationships and repeat orders. 

The transport method you choose plays a role in: 

  • How quickly goods reach customers
  • Overall transport and storage costs
  • Stock planning and warehouse capacity
  • Cash flow and invoicing schedules 

For Sussex SMEs, particularly those newer to exporting, choosing the wrong option can lead to avoidable delays or higher costs. Understanding the differences between air and ocean freight helps businesses plan with confidence and at Express & Global we have the experience and expertise to guide you through this process. 

When to choose air freight

Air freight is the fastest way to move goods from the UK to the USA and is often used when timing is critical. Transit times are typically much shorter than sea transport, making it suitable for urgent or high-priority shipments. 

Reasons businesses often choose air freight are when: 

  • Orders need to arrive within a tight timeframe
  • Goods are high value or time sensitive
  • Production schedules depend on quick delivery
  • Customers require regular updates on shipment progress 

At Express & Global, we support SME’s across Sussex and beyond with USA air freight services, ensuring they receive reliable delivery to American customers. Our ability to track shipments in real time gives our partners greater confidence, allowing them to keep customers informed throughout the journey. 

Although the quicker option, air freight does come at a higher cost, particularly for heavier shipments, so it is usually best suited to situations where speed and reliability outweigh price considerations. 

When to use ocean freight 

Ocean freight is often chosen by businesses that need to ship larger volumes or heavier goods to the USA. While transit times are longer, ocean freight can be a practical and cost-effective solution when you have more flexibility with delivery deadlines. 

Businesses commonly use ocean freight when: 

  • Shipments are planned well in advance
  • Goods are bulky or shipped in volume 
  • Cost control is a priority 
  • Stock levels can be managed over longer lead times 

At Express & Global, our USA ocean freight services are well suited to Sussex SMEs that need a more economical approach to shipping to the United States. With careful planning, our ocean freight services can support you in achieving steady, predictable supply chains. 

Choosing between air and ocean freight

Essentially, there’s no single right answer for every shipment. The best choice depends on your business priorities and the nature of the goods you’re exporting. 

Air freight tends to suit businesses that value speed and flexibility, while ocean freight supports larger or less time-sensitive shipments at a lower cost. Many Sussex SMEs use a combination of both, selecting the most suitable option depending on the order and customer requirements. 

By working with an experienced logistics partner like Express & Global, we can help you weigh up the best option for your business and choose the most effective solution for every delivery. 

The advantage of working with a Sussex-based logistics partner 

International shipping involves more than just moving goods from one country to another. Documentation, customs requirements, coordination and onward delivery all need to be managed carefully, which takes time. This is where Express & Global come in, our expert team take care of everything to ensure your shipments are delivered without an issue. 

At Express & Global, we support Sussex SMEs by combining international freight with local services, including UK pallet and parcel delivery. Goods can easily be collected locally from Hailsham or Eastbourne and prepared for shipment to the USA – helping businesses keep their supply chain organised and efficient. Plus, having a local point of contact makes it easier to respond to changes, resolve issues quickly, and maintain visibility throughout the shipping process. 

Supporting Sussex SMEs with USA shipping 

With over 20 years of experience, we help Sussex businesses make informed decisions about shipping to the USA. By offering both air and ocean freight options, alongside integrated UK delivery services, we support SMEs at every stage of their export journey. 

From local collection through to delivery in the United States, our team works closely with businesses to ensure shipments are handled efficiently and reliably. 

For more information, get in touch with our team.