Zeevracht

Zeevracht is a Dutch term for the carriage of goods by sea. The word combines zee (sea) and vracht (freight or cargo). In logistics it denotes ocean freight, typically involving shipments by ship between ports on different continents or across regional seas. In English, terms such as ocean freight or seaborne freight are used.

Most zeevracht is carried by container ships in liner services. Freight can be full container load (FCL) or less-than-container-load (LCL). The shipment process often involves freight forwarders, shipping lines, and port terminals; door-to-door solutions may include inland transportation and customs clearance.

A contract of carriage, evidenced by a bill of lading, governs zeevracht. Rates are quoted per TEU or per metric ton and include base freight plus surcharges (fuel, currency, peak-season, port congestion). Incoterms define responsibilities between seller and buyer.

International regulation includes conventions such as Hague-Visby Rules, Hamburg Rules, and evolving Rotterdam Rules proposals. Liability for loss or damage is limited under these instruments, with cargo claims handled through carriers, insurers, and courts/arbitral tribunals.

Trends affecting zeevracht include globalization, container supply dynamics, and environmental concerns. Decarbonization efforts push for slower speeds, cleaner fuels, and more efficient vessels. Digitalization, e-Bill of Lading, and real-time tracking are shaping transparency and risk management in sea freight.