If you want to send something huge and heavy to your loved ones, you probably will hear about the terms courier and cargo. These two terms always bring the “courier vs cargo” topic among the public to discuss.✨
So if you’re wondering whether to use courier or cargo for your next delivery, this blog will help you to make your decision.😎
Contents
What is Courier Service?

Source: Pexels
You can think of courier service as the express delivery guy. They are focused on speed, reliability and door-to-door service. To ship something quickly and safely either domestically or internationally, courier service is your ideal alternative.🚚
Aspects | Descriptions |
Cost | Higher per kg but faster |
Service Provided | Domestic delivery International delivery On-Demand delivery (For Urgent Shipment) Door-to-door pick up Drop-off service Parcel tracking |
Shipment limit | Usually up to 30kg or 70kg per parcel ( Depending on the courier) |
Delivery Speed | Very fast ( Within 3 working days) |
Giant Brands | J&T Express, DHL eCommerce, Pos Laju and to know more can refer here |
Best Used For | Personal shipment, micro and SME businesses and urgent delivery |
What is Cargo Service?

Source: Pexels
Nowadays, cargo service is more likely to focus on big, heavy, or bulk items shipments. It usually ships things that cannot fit in the courier vehicle. Cargo doesn’t move as fast as couriers, but it’s your perfect option for large-scale shipping especially for wholesales businesses or import/export needs 🌏.
Aspects | Descriptions |
Cost | Lower per kg for big volume |
Service Provided | Dry Bulk Delivery Break Bulk Delivery Liquid Bulk Delivery |
Shipment limit | Usually can ship any items with any shapes or sizes and up to 3.9 million tons in weight. |
Delivery Speed | Slower (Usually it takes 2 weeks for domestic shipping and 1 month for international shipping) |
Giant Brands | MSC, COSCO, Evergreen and so on |
Best Used For | Import and export shipments, industrial shipments, warehouse shipments, stock shipments and shipments for items that heavy enough which require a forklift or crane to handle |
Courier vs Cargo: Which One Should You Choose?
✅ Courier will be the best if:
- You are sending personal gifts, gadgets or small and medium size items.
- Need fast or urgent delivery.
- Want easy booking and doorstep or drop off services.
✅ Cargo will be the best if:
- You have to ship, export or import items in bulk with a lower shipping budget.
- Your items are oversized or too heavy for courier delivery
- Can accept a longer delivery time.
If you are still not sure about which service especially for courier services to choose, platforms like EasyParcel can let you compare rates and services for courier before you book. Super conveniet!👍
Bonus: Packing Tips for Both Services
Proper packaging can ensure your parcel arrives safely whether by courier or cargo. Here are some tips for you, let’s dive in!☺️
✅ For Courier:
- Use an appropriate sturdy box based on your item’s weight and size.
- Cushion it with bubble wrap, packing peanuts or crumpled paper to prevent movement inside the box.
- Seal all seams securely with strong packing tape.
To understand more about good parcel packaging, you can refer to this guideline.
✅ For Cargo:
- Opt for heavy-duty crates or pallets for oversized or very heavy goods.
- Ensure items are secured to pallets using stretch wrap, bands or strapping to prevent shifting.
- Distribute the item’s weight evenly to maintain stability during transit.
Let’s Ship with Your Ideal Courier and Cargo Services
Now you know the differences between courier or cargo. It all depends on your delivery needs. If you’re just sending small items then the courier is fast, convenient, and helps you to ship them without the wait. But if you want to ship for heavy weight items, cargo is your best option. 💪
Don’t know where to find courier or cargo services? No worries! EasyParcel is here to make this super simple by letting you compare prices and book both types of these services in just one place. Welcome to join our family and take your FREE RM10 coupon for your shipments. Happy shipping!🥰
FAQs
1. Does EasyParcel offer insurance coverage for my shipment if I use cargo services?
Yes! No matter if you’re using courier services or cargo services, you can try our EasyCover to cover your parcel that is valued up to RM10,000 for the parcel lost.
2. Where can I track my parcel if I’m using EasyParcel to ship?
You can track up to 15 parcels in one time using our EasyTrack. Just entering the tracking numbers and it is super easy to use.
3. Any items that are prohibited to ship if I plan to use both of these services?
Wow, to make sure you are shipping the right items, you can refer to our prohibited item list.
4. What are the top courier or cargo services suggested to use?
Here are the suggestions for shipments either using the courier services or cargo services.