Bulktonnage

Bulktonnage is a term used in various industries, primarily shipping and logistics, to describe the quantity of goods transported as a mass rather than in discrete units. It refers to cargo that is loose, unpackaged, or shipped in large, undifferentiated quantities. Examples include commodities like grain, coal, iron ore, sand, gravel, and cement. This type of cargo is typically loaded and unloaded directly into or from the hold of a vessel, or into large containers or storage facilities.

The measurement of bulktonnage is usually in units of mass, such as metric tons or long tons. This contrasts with break-bulk cargo, which consists of goods that are packaged, crated, or palletized and handled as individual items. Bulktonnage often requires specialized equipment for loading and unloading, such as conveyor belts, grabs, or pumps, depending on the nature of the material.

The economic efficiency of transporting bulktonnage is a significant factor in global trade. Shipping large volumes of raw materials and commodities in bulk allows for lower per-unit transportation costs. This makes it a vital component of industries that rely on the global supply chains for essential resources. The infrastructure for handling bulktonnage, including specialized ports and terminals, is a critical part of the world's economic backbone.