English Maritime Terminology on Ship and Cargo Handling

Solid Cargo

Solid cargo forms the backbone of international trade being transported around the globe.  

From the raw materials that fuel industries to the finished goods that fill store shelves, merchant vessels play a critical role in transporting these goods across the seas.

Types of Solid Cargo

Solid cargo encompasses a vast array of goods, broadly categorized into two main types:

• Bulk Cargo: This refers to unpackaged cargo loaded loose in a vessel's hold. Examples include:
• Minerals and Ores: Iron ore, coal, bauxite (aluminum ore), and phosphates, essential for industrial processes.
• Grain: Wheat, corn, barley, and rice.
• Fertilizers: Chemical compounds vital for agricultural production.
• Break Bulk Cargo: This refers to individual pieces of cargo loaded and unloaded individually. Examples include:
• Machinery and Equipment: From construction equipment to industrial machinery, these require careful handling.
• Vehicles: Cars, trucks, and motorcycles are often shipped in large quantities.
• Lumber and Wood Products: Timber, plywood, and finished wood products require secure storage.

 Loading and Unloading Solid Cargo

Efficient loading and unloading are crucial for smooth operation and safety.

• Bulk Cargo: Specialized equipment is used for each type. For example, iron ore is loaded using conveyor belts, while grains are often loaded pneumatically (using pressurized air). Unloading typically involves grabbing machines or suction unloaders.
• Break Bulk Cargo: Forklifts, cranes, and winches are employed for lifting and maneuvering individual pieces. Cargo can be secured using straps, chains, and lashings to prevent shifting during transport.

 Dedicated Cargo Vessels

Different cargo types necessitate specialized vessels for optimal transport:

• Bulk Carriers: These are the giants of the seas, with massive holds designed for bulk cargo. They come in various sizes, with some exceeding 400,000 deadweight tonnage (DWT), a measure of cargo capacity.
• Multi-Purpose Dry Cargo Ships: Offering versatility, these ships can carry a combination of containerized cargo and break bulk cargo. They often have cranes onboard for loading and unloading.
• Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) Ships: Designed for wheeled cargo, these vessels have ramps that allow vehicles to drive on and off the ship. This facilitates efficient loading and unloading.

 Safety First: Considerations for Solid Cargo Transport

Safety is paramount when transporting solid cargo. Here are some key factors:

• Cargo Weight Distribution: Improper weight distribution can affect a ship's stability. Careful planning ensures the cargo is evenly distributed throughout the hold.
• Securing Cargo: Loose cargo needs proper securing to prevent shifting during rough seas. This can cause damage to the cargo and the vessel itself.
• Environmental Concerns: Dust control measures are essential for bulk cargo like coal to minimize air pollution during loading and unloading.

 Transport of Containers

SOLAS Chapter VI addresses the transport of cargo and mentions containers:

• Container Weight Verification (VGM): Shippers are required to verify the gross mass of containers before loading them onto a ship. This ensures the safe and stable stowage of containers on board.
• Container Safety and Security: SOLAS mandates specific safety standards for container construction, testing, and repair. Additionally, it addresses security measures to prevent acts of terrorism and other malicious activities.
• Container Stowage and Securing: The convention provides guidelines for the proper stowage and securing of containers on board ships, taking into account factors such as weight distribution, stability, and weather conditions.

International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code

While not specifically focused on container transport, the IMDG Code plays a crucial role in the safe carriage of dangerous goods, including those transported in containers. It provides detailed classification, packaging, marking, labeling, documentation, and emergency response procedures for dangerous goods.