break bulk shipping

Important Info about Bulk Cargo and Break Bulk Shipping

If you are in need of shipping goods and materials that require bulk cargo or break bulk shipping, then the chances are good and items are shipped by the sea with bulk or break bulk carriers. Transportation of goods through the sea is the most economical type used for the international transport of goods and materials. People usually get confused between the terms bulk cargo and break bulk cargo, but both of these cargoes are different in terms of things and goods that are transported through the sea. In bulk cargo, mostly dry cargoes are transported, such as grain, salt, iron ore, coal, alumina, phosphate, metal concentrates, fertiliser, forest products, gravel, and food items.

And when it comes to break bulk cargo, there are a lot of things involved. It even includes the crew that is on board are trained enough to navigate the ship and can upkeep the equipment. Loading and unloading of the bulk cargo are also involved. And in bulk cargo, there can be dangerous and hazardous materials present. So for handling such materials safely, experienced staff is required that must be able to understand regulations and safe handling procedures.

break bulk shipping

In the transportation of bulk cargo, different types of ships are used that are distinguished by size. The most common ships that are used for the transportation of bulk cargo are Panamax ships and the Capesize vessels. Moreover, such carriers mostly make use of special equipment for the loading and unloading of the cargo. And for the purpose of loading and unloading safely, large cranes and conveyor belts are used that make the entire process efficient and safer.

Breakbulk is categorised as major or minor bulk. The major bulk is the type of bulk in which things like grain, ore, and coal are involved, whereas the minor bulk includes cement, agricultural materials, and minerals. It can be shipped in different ways. In its shipping, IBC is intermediate bulk containers that are used to ship different break bulk items in which liquids are also included. IBC containers are either made out of steel or plastic material. Furthermore, a skid box, pallet box, or bulk box is also used for the transportation of such items.

 For the transportation of liquids, cylinder-shaped shipping containers are mostly used, which are also called drums. These are used for the materials that required insulation in order to maintain their stability. So if you are interested in break bulk shipping, then you need to find a sea shipping logistics professional who better understands how to safely transport breakbulk cargo internationally. Visit our website for more information.