Bulk Cargo

Bulk cargo refers to cargo that is shipped loose and unpacked, rather than as a package or in a container. Some typical examples of bulk cargo include oil, grain, iron ore, fertilizers, and other types of liquid/dry goods. 

Shipping bulk cargo requires specialized equipment depending on the type of cargo being shipped. Liquid bulk cargo, dry bulk cargo, and solid bulk cargo each come with their own handling requirements. 

Liquid bulk cargo can be pumped on and off of a tanker vessel, while dry bulk cargo such as grains or cement are typically loaded into a bulk carrier ship’s hold. Solid bulk cargo shipments do not require any special containers and can be loaded onto a vessel in its normal state. 

The Different Types of Bulk Cargo 

There are three general types of bulk cargo shipments that shippers need to be aware of when looking for the most effective form of bulk cargo for a shipment. 

Break Bulk Cargo

Break bulk cargo pieces are shipped individually, rather than being containerized or as typical bulk cargo. Break bulk shipping is used for large cargo, such as machinery, plane parts, large cable spools, and other items that don’t fit into a standard TEU or FEU container. 

Neo Bulk Cargo

Neo bulk cargo is cargo that a specialized bulk cargo vessel can carry in large quantities, such as grains, minerals, ores, and liquids. These bulk cargo vessels specialize in their particular cargo type, rather than carrying multiple, smaller shipments like a container carrier. 

Containerized Bulk Cargo 

While bulk cargo is not transported in standard TEU or FEU containers, it can be transported in specialized containers, or flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs). These containers are normally used for transporting loose, granular, or powdered materials in smaller quantities.