Sea freight, by far: LCL groupage from $25–60 per CBM for small lots, full containers from ~$1,300 (20ft from China) for volume. The cheapest total cost adds smart routing — the port nearest your destination — and clearance prepared before arrival to avoid storage charges that erase freight savings.
Road freight wins for GCC origins (Dubai–Riyadh from SAR 3,500). Air is never the cheapest per kilo above courier weights.