What is the Difference Between Cargo and Freight?

The terms "cargo" and "freight" are often used interchangeably in the context of transportation, but they have distinct meanings:

• Cargo: Refers to commercial goods shipped by sea or plane, and also includes mail. In a traditional sense, cargo is associated with goods moved overseas via sea and air, which is why we have terms like cargo ship and cargo plane.
• Freight: Cargo moved overland in trucks or trains. Freight has a direct connection to the financial aspects of the transportation of goods, such as payment, charge, or rate for transportation services. In a traditional sense, freight is associated with products or goods moved overland via truck or train, and it is typically used for goods transported by truck or train.

Over time, the lines differentiating cargo and freight have blurred, and the terms are now used more interchangeably. However, logistics specialists and international freight forwarders are more likely to stick to their traditional meanings. In summary, the difference between cargo and freight depends on the mode of transportation and the context in which the terms are used.

Comparative Table: Cargo vs Freight

The main difference between cargo and freight lies in the mode of transportation used. Here is a table summarizing the differences:

Traditionally, "cargo" refers to goods transported by air or sea in planes or ships, while "freight" refers to goods transported over land via truck or train. The logistics industry is constantly evolving, and the lines differentiating freight and cargo are blurring as the two terms are used more interchangeably. However, logistics specialists and international freight forwarders are more likely to stick to their traditional definitions.