Breakbulk Shipping Essentials | How to Choose the Right Vessel Type

Breakbulk or heavy-lift ocean shipping refers to the transportation of cargo that significantly exceeds standard container size or weight. This includes oversized (over-height, over-width, over-length) and irregularly shaped or overweight items.

一、 Common Types of Breakbulk Cargo & Recommended Vessel Types

1.Large Construction Structures / Building Materials
These often involve sectional exports of heavy structures weighing from several hundred to several thousand tons, with varying shapes and large dimensions. Due to the high demand for securing and fastening, it is recommended to use deck barges or semi-submersible vessels designed for heavy-lift operations.

2.Large Chemical Containers
These containers often carry chemical substances and require sealed, leak-proof, and isolated conditions. As they’re transported by road from factories to ports and can’t be containerized, it is recommended to use heavy-duty chemical tankers or liquefied gas carriers, along with proper lifting or roll-on techniques for loading.

3.Large Equipment
Global energy demands have increased the shipment of oversized energy equipment, with individual pieces weighing thousands to tens of thousands of tons. These cannot be loaded via standard containers. It is best to use Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off) vessels, allowing for roll-on or float-on boarding methods.

二、 Key Considerations in Breakbulk Ocean Transport

1. Technical Shipping Plan

From supplier coordination to final delivery, the key operations include lifting, stowage, securing, and ocean transport. Each stage must follow strict technical standards. Assign onsite supervisors to ensure compliance, record operations, and monitor the vessel’s status and delivery progress in real-time.

2. Lifting Operation Requirements

Understand cargo characteristics (e.g. blueprints or specs)

Ensure equipment capacity meets lifting needs

Develop a detailed lifting/unloading technical plan

Follow all vessel or floating crane operation protocols strictly

三、 Additional Critical Points

1) Booking

Confirm port of discharge, sailing schedule, container type and quantity

Provide cargo details (e.g. hazardous or oversized status)

For reefer containers, confirm temperature and ventilation

Check for split shipments or transshipment needs

2) Customs Declaration

Ensure consistency across manifest, customs forms, and cargo specs

Dangerous goods require relevant certification; general chemicals require a non-hazardous statement

3) Port Delivery (CY Gate-in)

Confirm the correct terminal for the shipping line

4) Bill of Lading (B/L)

Ensure accuracy of vessel name, voyage, cargo dimensions, and weight

Follow rules for original B/L or telex release depending on consignee type

For L/C shipments, strictly comply with all letter of credit terms

5) Letter of Indemnity (LOI)

Different carriers have varying LOI requirements—check format, signature, and original copy needs in advance

四、Conclusion

Breakbulk shipping involves complex operations and high technical requirements. Selecting the right vessel type and following strict procedures are key to safe and efficient delivery. It is highly recommended to work with experienced heavy-lift logistics providers for tailored solutions.

For tailored shipping plans or vessel recommendations, feel free to contact us for professional support.