IndustryDecember 20, 20243 min read

Hand-Carry vs Traditional Shipping: A Complete Comparison

When does hand-carry delivery make sense? We break down costs, speed, and reliability compared to FedEx, DHL, and air freight.

MW

Maximilian Weber

Editor

Hand-Carry vs Traditional Shipping: A Complete Comparison

Understanding Your Options

When you need to send something internationally, you have several options. Hand-carry delivery, also known as On Board Courier (OBC), offers the fastest option. Let's compare them objectively.

Speed Comparison

ServiceMexico to GermanyCost Range
OnFlyGo Hand-Carry12-18 hours$300-500
FedEx International Priority2-3 days$150-300
DHL Express2-3 days$150-300
Air Freight3-5 days$100-250
Standard Post7-14 days$30-80

When to Choose Hand-Carry

Ideal Scenarios

  • Time-critical medical samples that degrade within 24 hours
  • Legal documents requiring urgent signatures
  • Prototype parts needed to prevent production line shutdown
  • High-value items requiring personal handling

Cost-Benefit Analysis

If a 3-day delay costs your business more than $200, hand-carry often makes economic sense.

When Traditional Shipping Works

Better for:

  • Non-urgent shipments
  • Heavy items (over 20kg)
  • Regular, scheduled deliveries
  • Budget-conscious shipping

The Hybrid Approach

Many businesses use both:

  • Hand-carry for emergencies and critical items
  • Traditional shipping for routine deliveries

Real-World Example

Scenario: Auto parts manufacturer needs prototype to German partner

OptionDeliveryCostProduction Impact
Hand-carry18 hours$450None - on schedule
FedEx3 days$200$15,000 delay cost

ROI of hand-carry: 3,233%

Make the Right Choice

Consider your specific needs:

  • How urgent is the delivery?
  • What's the cost of delay?
  • What's the value of the items?

Learn more about OBC services and how they can solve your urgent delivery needs.

Get a Hand-Carry Quote

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