Vrachtruim

Vrachtruim refers to the cargo hold of a ship, aircraft, or spacecraft. In maritime contexts, it is the space within a vessel where goods are stored for transport. This area is designed to be secure and often includes provisions for temperature control or specialized handling depending on the nature of the cargo. Ships have various types of vrachtruim, such as bulk carriers for loose materials like grain or ore, container ships with standardized cells for shipping containers, and tankers for liquids. The capacity of the vrachtruim is a key factor in determining a vessel's economic viability for freight transport.

In aviation, vrachtruim is the designated area within an airplane for carrying cargo. This can range from mail and express packages to larger freight items. Aircraft cargo holds are typically located below the main passenger deck or in dedicated cargo planes. The design of the vrachtruim in aircraft prioritizes weight distribution and efficient loading and unloading procedures. Specialized equipment like roller beds is often used to facilitate the movement of cargo.

For spacecraft, vrachtruim is the section designated for carrying payloads, which can include scientific instruments, supplies for astronauts, or components for space station construction. The constraints of spaceflight mean that vrachtruim in spacecraft is meticulously planned and optimized for volume and weight. The term emphasizes the practical function of carrying goods or equipment, regardless of the mode of transportation.