Break bulk shipping is a method of transporting cargo that does not fit into standard or special shipping containers. Instead, the cargo is loaded individually or in smaller units, such as bags, boxes, crates, drums, or barrels. Break bulk shipping is also used for items that are too large, heavy, or irregularly shaped to be containerized, such as machinery, equipment, vehicles, steel, and project cargo.
Break bulk shipping has some advantages and disadvantages compared to container shipping. Some of the benefits are:
- Break bulk shipping can handle a wider range of cargo types and sizes than container shipping.
- It can reduce the cost of packaging and handling for some cargoes that do not require special protection or isolation.
- Break bulk shipping can offer more flexibility and customization for shippers and consignees, as they can choose the best loading and unloading methods and equipment for their cargo.
- Break bulk shipping can provide faster transit times for some routes and destinations that have less frequent or direct container services.
Some of the drawbacks are:
- Break bulk shipping can be more expensive than container shipping for some cargoes that can be easily containerized and benefit from economies of scale.
- Break bulk shipping can be more prone to damage, loss, theft, and delays than container shipping, as the cargo is exposed to more handling and environmental factors.
- Break bulk shipping can require more coordination and documentation than container shipping, as the cargo has to comply with different regulations and customs procedures for each country and port of origin and destination.
- Break bulk shipping can have a higher environmental impact than container shipping, as it consumes more fuel and emits more greenhouse gases per ton of cargo transported.
How Does the Process Work?
The break bulk shipping process involves several steps, from planning and booking to loading and unloading. Here is a general overview of the main stages:
- Planning and booking: The shipper or their freight forwarder contacts a break bulk carrier or agent to request a quotation and book a space for their cargo on a suitable vessel. The shipper or their freight forwarder also prepares the necessary documents and permits for their cargo, such as invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, certificates of origin, insurance policies, etc.
- Loading: The cargo is delivered to the port of origin by truck, rail, or barge. The cargo is then loaded onto the vessel by cranes, forklifts, ramps, or other equipment. The cargo is secured and stowed in the vesselās holds or on its deck according to its weight, size, shape, and nature. The loading process may take several hours or days depending on the quantity and complexity of the cargo.
- Transporting: The vessel departs from the port of origin and sails to the port of destination. The vessel may stop at one or more intermediate ports along the way to load or unload other cargoes. The transporting process may take several days or weeks depending on the distance and weather conditions.
- Unloading: The vessel arrives at the port of destination and docks at a suitable berth. The cargo is then unloaded from the vessel by cranes, forklifts, ramps, or other equipment. The cargo is inspected by customs officials and cleared for delivery. The cargo is then transferred to the consigneeās warehouse or facility by truck, rail, or barge. The unloading process may take several hours or days depending on the quantity and complexity of the cargo.
What are Some Break Bulk Service Companies in China?
China is one of the largest exporters and importers of break bulk cargo in the world. There are many break bulk shipping companies in China that offer various services and solutions for different types of cargo. Here are some examples:
- Xiaorong Global Import & Export Co, Ltd: This company specializes in ocean shipping and international truck freight services for break bulk cargo. It has a network of partners in over 100 countries and regions. It also provides LCL (less than container load) services for small shipments.
- Shenzhen Rich Fun Railway Logistics Supply Chain Co., Ltd: This company focuses on railway transportation between China and Europe and CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) countries for break bulk cargo. It has a fleet of over 1,000 railcars and operates regular trains along several routes.
- Greatmicro Supply Chain Co.,Ltd: This company offers freight forwarding, container trading, trucking, transloading, warehousing, customs clearance, and insurance services for break bulk cargo. It has branches in major ports and cities in China.
- ASB Logistics Co. Ltd: This company provides project logistics solutions for break bulk cargo. It handles complex cargoes such as wind turbines, power plants, oil rigs, etc. It has offices in Shanghai, Tianjin, Qingdao, and Dalian.
- Cohesion Freight Agency Ltd: This company is a member of the Project Cargo Network, a global network of break bulk and project cargo specialists. It offers multimodal transportation, chartering, heavy lift, and door-to-door services for break bulk cargo. It has offices in Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Shanghai.
