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Coastal shipping has become an increasingly vital component of New Zealand’s logistics landscape. As businesses seek efficient and cost-effective ways to transport goods along the coast, the demand for reliable coastal freight services continues to grow. Stellar International, a shipping and logistics company based in New Zealand, has established itself as a leader in this field by offering comprehensive coastal shipping solutions that meet the diverse needs of businesses across the country.
Coastal shipping refers to the transportation of goods along the coastline of a country, primarily using coastal cargo ships and coastal freighters. This method of transport is an essential part of New Zealand’s supply chain, providing a flexible and eco-friendly alternative to road and rail transport. Coastal shipping is particularly advantageous for moving large volumes of goods, as it allows businesses to take advantage of New Zealand’s extensive coastline and numerous ports.
Stellar International’s coastal freight services are designed to provide businesses with a seamless and efficient way to transport their goods between key locations along the New Zealand coast. Whether you’re shipping bulk commodities, manufactured products or any other type of cargo, our coastal shipping solutions ensure your goods reach their destination safely and on time.
Our services
At Stellar International, we understand the needs of a wide range of industries, because we’re trusted by a dedicated group of business partners.
Our approach is customer-first, ensuring that every aspect of your cargo’s journey is personalised for the most seamless shipping experience possible.
Air Freight
Book air freight now, and get your cargo delivered as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Sea Freight
Stellar International offers a variety of sea freight options, so you’ll always find the right solution.
Logistics
If you’re ready to branch out, but lacking dedicated in-house logistics, we can help.
Why choose Stellar International for Coastal Freight?
Stellar International’s specialised coastal freight services ensure that your goods receive the care and attention they need, from loading to unloading at their destination.
Cost-effective solutions
Coastal shipping is often more cost-effective than other modes of transport, particularly for large volumes of goods. By leveraging our network of coastal cargo ships and freighters, we can offer competitive rates that help you optimise your shipping budget.
Environmental considerations
Coastal shipping is a greener alternative to road transport, reducing the carbon footprint of your supply chain. By choosing coastal freight, you’re contributing to a more sustainable future while still meeting your business’s shipping needs.
Reliability
With over two decades of experience in the shipping and logistics industry, Stellar International has built a reputation for reliability and safety. Our team of experts ensures that your goods are handled with care, from the moment they’re loaded onto a coastal cargo ship to their final delivery.
Scalability
Whether you’re a small business or a large corporation with ongoing coastal freight requirements, our services are scalable to meet your demands as they change. We work closely with you to develop customised solutions that fit your business’s specific needs.
Coastal Shipping vs. Rail Services vs. Road (trucking)
Coastal shipping should be considered the most reliable method of moving containers between NZ ports.
- Vessel schedules are generally reliable and a less impacted by extreme weather events (especially winter months). There are often multiple service options available for many port pairs allowing multiple departures during the week.
- Price competitive, especially for large or bulk shipments.
- Coastal Shipping should be considered Environmentally friendly. Coastal shipping has the lowest carbon footprint of all domestic options. Coastal shipping from Auckland to Christchurch is 7-8 times more efficient than road for example. Generally speaking, coastal shipping is almost twice as efficient as rail.
There are a number of service options to consider when using Coastal shipping – each option can offer different departure days and times as well varied length in transits, final delivery leg is usually completed within two days of vessel arrival.
Rail services do not offer as many options when compared to coastal shipping but are worthy of consideration. Rail services are often daily and final delivery is usually completed next day (after arrival). Rail is more expensive than coastal shipping but is often faster.
The rail network is subject to weather conditions however is generally considered a solid option. Service includes the pick-up and delivery of the empty and once loaded full container.
A recognised weak link is the Cook Straight where rail carriages are carried between the islands on ferries (ships). Rail should be considered as a sustainable option – with tonne of freight carried by rail having 70% fewer carbon emissions than road freight. In the year to June 2024 rail transported around 3.5 billion net tonne kilometres of freight, which equates to taking more than 1 million truck trips off the road, avoiding 229,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions. Rail carries around 12% of all inter-city cargoes and around 25% of all exports.
Road (trucking) should be considered the most flexible point to point delivery option. 93% of what is moved around New Zealand is done by trucks.
- Land trucking is often studied as to measure New Zealand’s domestic economic position. Same as rail our roading network is subject to extreme weather events and a recognised weak link is the Cook straight where cargo is carried between the islands on ferries (ships).
- Origin and destination start and finish point dependant but trucking services can offer multiple departures / arrivals within a single day.
- Special attention should be given to packing of cargo especially fragile cargoes need to be well packed to avoid damage in transit.
Your Partner in Coastal Shipping
As New Zealand’s logistics landscape continues to evolve, coastal shipping will continue to play an increasingly important role in the movement of goods across the country. Stellar International is proud to be at the forefront of this industry, offering reliable and efficient coastal freight services that meet the needs of businesses today and in the future.
Whether you’re looking to transport bulk commodities, manufactured goods or specialised cargo, Stellar International has the expertise and resources to ensure your shipment reaches its destination on time and on budget. Trust us to be your ongoing partner in coastal shipping, and take your business to new heights.
Get in touch with Stellar International to explore our comprehensive coastal shipping solutions and see how we can streamline your logistics operations along New Zealand’s beautiful coastline. Let us help you navigate the complexities of coastal shipping with ease and efficiency.
