The flooding in Texas has disrupted dry bulk transportation at the ports of Corpus Christi, Houston, and Galveston, leading to ship backlogs and transportation delays. This is expected to increase regional freight rates and impact supply chain stability. Market participants need to enhance their preparedness to handle future uncertainties and potential economic fluctuations.
This article provides a detailed overview of the definition and characteristics of break bulk transportation, highlighting its differences from other cargo transport methods. It explores the challenges and advantages faced in break bulk transportation, as well as its future development prospects, offering practical information and insights for professionals in the industry.
This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the characteristics, applicable scenarios, and operational processes of three main international shipping methods: Full Container Load (FCL), Less than Container Load (LCL), and Break Bulk. Through comparative analysis, it helps businesses choose the optimal sea freight solution based on factors such as cargo type, quantity, timeliness, and budget. This ultimately aims to effectively reduce logistics costs and improve supply chain efficiency.
Flexitanks, a novel soft packaging solution for non-hazardous liquid cargo, are revolutionizing ocean freight. Compared to traditional packaging methods, flexitanks offer significant advantages in cost control and operational convenience. Widely used in food, industrial, and chemical sectors, they help foreign trade enterprises reduce costs and increase efficiency. Their ease of installation and maximized cargo capacity within standard containers make them a cost-effective and sustainable alternative for transporting bulk liquids globally, contributing to streamlined supply chains and enhanced export capabilities.
This article explores the differences between gross weight and net weight in bulk transportation, highlighting that their relationship can vary based on packaging methods. For packaged bulk goods, there is a significant distinction between gross and net weight, whereas unwrapped bulk items have the same gross and net weight. Additionally, bulk cargo in maritime transport often consists of unpackaged goods, making the understanding of these concepts crucial for effective logistics management.
This article explores the importance of roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) ships in international shipping and their unique designs. With flexible loading and unloading methods, RO/RO ships efficiently transport various types of cargo, enhancing their carrying capacity while facing challenges related to stability and the loading and unloading process. Understanding these characteristics is essential for grasping the dynamics and development of modern maritime transportation.
Leveraging over four decades of experience and a global network, Maersk provides customized transportation solutions for oversized cargo, encompassing In Gauge, Out of Gauge, and Break Bulk shipments. Through expert assessment, tailored equipment, global resources, and data-driven operations, Maersk ensures the safe and efficient delivery of various specialized cargoes worldwide. They offer end-to-end tracking, risk management, and convenient booking services, providing comprehensive support for complex logistics requirements.
Mardafu, the managing director of Hutchison Port Holdings Group, stated that the group intends to invest in bulk terminal projects, marking a diversification in its business activities. Additionally, the group will strengthen its supply chain management and build distribution centers to enhance logistics efficiency. The demand for modernization in Chinese ports presents promising opportunities for future investments.
JD.com announced that its self-developed unmanned delivery vehicles will start trial operation in October, with large-scale commercialization expected by 2017. These vehicles are designed for last-mile delivery, capable of obstacle avoidance and route planning, while notifying users via an app for pickup. This initiative aims to optimize urban logistics efficiency, reduce reliance on delivery personnel, and address the market changes resulting from a declining demographic dividend.
In the first half of 2025, cargo volume at the Port of Rotterdam decreased by 4.1%, with significant declines in both dry bulk and liquid bulk shipments. Although there was a slight increase in bulk throughput and a 2.7% growth in container transport, overall competitiveness remains under severe pressure. The port authority expressed concerns about low investment levels, highlighting the importance of revitalizing trade vitality for the future.
