1. What is a break bulk vessel?

The break bulk vessel is probably the oldest type of cargo carrier still operating at sea. Unlike today's versions of cargo ships, these types of ships, as the name suggests, are used to transport bulk cargo without loading it into containers. These vessels remained very popular until the late 1960s, but developments in the cargo ship and container ship segment led to a change in operator preferences.

Although no containers were used, a large amount of cargo was successfully loaded on break bulk vessels and transported across oceans. This is perhaps the most important feature of this class of cargo ships. But even if standardized containers are not used, other storage media can be used, just in case.

These cargo storage media include pallets - a movable platform on which cargo can be placed. Unload the pallets with the help of a crane while unloading the cargo from the boat. In addition to pallets, casks and barrels, drums and sturdy boxes are also widely used to store cargo in break bulk vessels after they have been stored.

If pallets, barrels and sturdy boxes are not used, the cargo is placed directly into the container without any medium to hold it.

This is probably the biggest disadvantage of break bulk vessels compared to container ships, as the latter ensures absolute assurance of the quantity and quality of the stored cargo. Since the goods are stacked directly, there is a high chance of being stolen or stolen if you are not careful with the stored goods. Likewise, due to weather and climatic conditions, there is a chance that the goods may not be suitable for use or consumption.

In addition, since the cargo is only stacked inside the ship, after a batch of cargo is unloaded, the entire ship needs to be cleaned in order to store the next batch of cargo. Lack of thorough cleaning can lead to unnecessary clutter, which can cause quality problems with stored goods. This type of boat works well in those less technologically advanced docks and ports. Alternatively, break bulk vessels can also be used as intermediate carriers to transport cargo between larger vessels and ports with shallower entrances.

2. The importance of break bulk vessel

Break bulk vessels remain an important part of the shipping industry. While their use may have diminished, there are questions about their redundancy in day-to-day maritime planning. Therefore, presumably, the future of these ships is very secure and there will be no redundant opportunities.

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