Choose the method before the machine
No method is always cheapest. The load, terrain, distance, base location, weather and deadline determine the balance.
Comparison
Figures without a route and load list can mislead. Here are the factors that usually guide the choice, rather than fixed answers.
When carrying often wins
On small one-off jobs, drone or helicopter mobilisation can account for a large part of the total price. Carrying is particularly relevant under tree cover, near cables, between scattered points or when people also need to set up, clear or position equipment.
Long and irregular objects may also be easier to handle on the ground than beneath a drone. The drawback is that each additional kilo over a long distance requires more working time.
When air transport wins
A cargo drone can quickly move many 30–85 kg items between two defined points. A helicopter can move around a tonne in one lift. Air transport can therefore clearly outperform manual carrying when quantities are large and the route is suitable.
It is wrong to assume that drones are always more expensive because the equipment is costly. Repeated shuttle operations spread capital costs across many kilos. Heavy cargo drones still require an approved operator, risk assessment and operation in the specific category.
Our role
ResupplyNorway provides manual and combined transport using carrying and simple equipment. We assess loads, terrain and access to plan staffing and delivery.
Our part of the job can include packing, setup, transport and positioning equipment, as well as practical work on site.
See how pricing works →Next step
Send the total weight, heaviest item, map location and photos. We can then assess whether ground transport suits your route.
