What proportion of global movement is handled by ocean freight?

What proportion of global movement is handled by ocean freight?

• A. One third.
• B. Two thirds.
• C. All, 100%.
• D. Less than half.

Answer: (B)

Ocean freight moves the majority of global movement because ships deliver enormous volumes at the lowest cost per ton-mile, especially for bulk goods and manufactured products shipped long distances. This cost efficiency means ocean transport handles roughly two-thirds of international movement, making it the dominant mode. The rest is spread among faster, more expensive modes like air for time-sensitive goods and land-based transportation (truck and rail) or pipelines for specific commodities. Since not everything can or needs to be shipped by sea, the share isn’t 100%, and two-thirds is the most accurate general estimate.

Ocean freight moves the majority of global movement because ships deliver enormous volumes at the lowest cost per ton-mile, especially for bulk goods and manufactured products shipped long distances. This cost efficiency means ocean transport handles roughly two-thirds of international movement, making it the dominant mode. The rest is spread among faster, more expensive modes like air for time-sensitive goods and land-based transportation (truck and rail) or pipelines for specific commodities. Since not everything can or needs to be shipped by sea, the share isn’t 100%, and two-thirds is the most accurate general estimate.