What exactly is Breakbulk?
Breakbulk, also known as piece goods, refers to cargo transported not in containers or other standard packages, but in individual units such as boxes, drums, crates, or pallets. Unlike containerized cargo, where goods are loaded and transported in large quantities, breakbulk is handled and loaded on ships, trains, or trucks in smaller quantities.
Why is breakbulk important in logistics?
Breakbulk plays an important role in the logistics industry for several reasons:
- Flexibility: It allows companies to transport a wide range of goods not suitable for container transport.
- Cost savings: For certain cargoes, breakbulk can be a more cost-effective option than container shipping, especially if the goods are large or irregularly shaped.
- Specific requirements: Some goods require special handling or storage facilities that are only possible with breakbulk.
- Industrial projects: For large industrial projects such as plant or facility construction, breakbulk is often the only practical option for transporting heavy machinery and equipment.
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How does Breakbulk work?
Breakbulk cargo is often loaded and unloaded individually, making it suitable for goods that are too large, heavy, or fragile to be transported in containers. Examples of breakbulk cargo include machinery, equipment, steel, lumber, project cargo, and other non-containerizable goods.
Transportation and shipping of Breakbulk
Transporting and shipping breakbulk goods requires thorough planning, special packaging techniques and sophisticated handling equipment. Companies dedicated to efficient logistics understand the importance of these processes and invest in high-quality materials and methods to protect cargo contents. From selecting the best transportation routes to complying with regulations and optimizing transportation processes, efficient logistics is the key to success in transporting and shipping breakbulk.
Frequently asked questions about Breakbulk:
How is breakbulk loaded on ships?
Breakbulk is usually loaded by cranes or other lifting equipment directly from the wharf onto the ship. In some cases, goods are first loaded on pallets or in crates before being lifted onto the ship.
What is the difference between bulk cargo and Breakbulk?
Bulk cargo consists of homogeneous goods such as grain, oil or ores, which are transported in large quantities without individual packaging or protection. On the other hand, breakbulk cargo are individual items that do not fit into standard intermodal containers, so they are packed and transported separately. Breakbulk cargo is often packed in large wooden boxes or on wooden skids to prevent damage. Packing, handling and transporting breakbulk cargo requires special attention, equipment and packaging techniques to safeguard the contents of the cargo.
