breakbulk

Breakbulk refers to goods that are not transported in intermodal containers and are not shipped as bulk commodities. These items must be loaded individually, often palletized, crated, or packaged, and are handled one piece at a time on ships and in ports. Historically, breakbulk was the standard form of cargo on general cargo ships; with the rise of containerization, containerized freight grew rapidly, and breakbulk volumes declined. Today it is mainly carried on multipurpose vessels, heavy-lift ships, or geared ships designed to handle outsized loads, and on specialized ports that have cranes capable of lifting heavy weights.

Handling and stowage require careful planning: cranes or derricks lift each unit, securing methods such as lashings, bands, nets, and dunnage are used to prevent movement during transit. The cargo can vary from steel products, lumber, and machinery to project cargo, wind turbine components, or military equipment. Because shipments are not containerized, documentation, labeling, weight distribution, and securing arrangements are critical to port safety and voyage performance. Evaluation of port infrastructure, including available crane capacity, load limits, and storage space, is essential.

Breakbulk cargo tends to be more expensive and slower to load and discharge than containerized freight, and it remains vulnerable to damage and weather exposure. It is increasingly focused on specialized trade lanes, oversized and heavy-lift logistics, and projects involving large equipment.