What are the Types of Cargo Handled in Marine Ports?

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In today’s global economy, the goods we use or need are transported both domestically and internationally. Typically, each product might need a specific type of handling and carriage.

Here is an overview of the types of cargo that can be handled in marine ports.

1. Shipping Containers

With different sizes (8’6” & 9’6” heights and 20′, 40′, 45′ feet lengths) and different types (standard dry, refrigerated, open top, open side, flexi-tank and flat rack) people ship various goods inside containers. Container vessels carry these containers and they are very easy to handle.

2. Automotive/Roro Cargo

This type of cargo could be cars, buses, trucks, agricultural vehicles and cranes. If cargo is self-propelled, it could just be driven inside a roro vessel. But if it is not, the cargo is placed on self-propelled handling equipment. Just a note: there are very large roro vessels built in Japan to export their manufactured cars.

3. Bulk Cargo

These can be dry or liquid. They are not packed and they are carried in large quantities in bulk vessels. Some examples are grain, coal, iron ore, sugar, crude oil, and vegetable oil.

4. Breakbulk Cargo

Breakbulk cargo could be carried in both containers or on general cargo vessels. They could be packed in many ways such as palletized, bagged, boxed, barreled or unpacked. Or, they can be general cargo like rolled steel, steel rods, wood, wind tribune wings, etc.

5. Refrigerated Cargo