| Basis of Difference | Road Transport | Water Transport |
| Speed | Speed is more compared to water transport. Also, it is suitable for both short and long distances. | It is the slowest mode of transport. Also, it suitable for long distances, especially international ones. |
| Transport charges | Transport charges are relatively high. | Transport charges are the lowest among all modes of transport. |
| Carrying capacity | Carrying capacity is comparatively less | Carrying capacity is comparatively huge. |
| Safety | Safety of goods is less, as they are exposed to bad weather conditions sometimes. | Goods in transit are packed with utmost care. Hence, they are comparatively more safe |
| Ownership | It is owned by private parties. | It is owned by both private and public sectors. |
| Door-to door service | It provides door-to door service. | It does not provide door-to door service. |
