Cargo

Cargo refers to goods and commodities transported for commercial gain. In logistics, cargo is the tangible items carried by ships, aircraft, trains, or trucks from a supplier to a customer. The term emphasizes the items being moved rather than the transport service or vehicle itself. Cargo can be subject to freight charges and handling practices that vary by mode and type.

Types of cargo include bulk cargo, which consists of unpackaged commodities such as coal, grain, or chemicals; break bulk, which is goods loaded individually (often still palletized); and containerized cargo, packaged into standardized containers for intermodal transport. Other categories include perishable cargo that requires temperature control, hazardous or dangerous goods, and project cargo, which comprises oversized or heavy-lift items.

Handling and transport involve packaging, labeling, and stowage to protect the cargo and optimize space. Containerization and pallets enable efficient loading and intermodal transfer. Cargo is moved via sea, air, rail, or road, and modern supply chains often combine several modes. Documentation such as a bill of lading and cargo manifests records what is loaded, where it came from, and where it is headed.

Security, regulation, and risk management are important. Cargo is subject to safety rules for hazardous goods, including explicit packaging, labeling, and documentation. Insurance, such as marine cargo insurance, protects against loss or damage. Port and terminal security, customs controls, and compliance with international standards help reduce theft, damage, or delays.

In logistics, cargo economics shape trade patterns. Advances in containerization, logistics software, and global ports have reduced handling costs and transit times. Key terms to know include freight, Incoterms, and the bill of lading, which collectively define responsibilities, risk transfer, and payment obligations in a cargo shipment.