We will explore breakbulk cargo, its benefits, differences from other shipping methods, and how Daguer Logistics can help you handle breakbulk shipments effectively.
When shipping oversized, heavy, or irregularly shaped goods overseas, traditional containers may not be suitable. Large industrial equipment, construction materials, and other bulky cargo often exceed standard size limits. At the same time, chartering an entire vessel can be too expensive for a single shipment.
The solution? Breakbulk shipping. This method allows businesses to transport large cargo efficiently without the need for containerization. In this article, we will explore breakbulk cargo, its benefits, differences from other shipping methods, and how Daguer Logistics can help you handle breakbulk shipments effectively.
Breakbulk cargo includes goods that are too large, heavy, or uniquely shaped to fit in standard shipping containers. These shipments are transported individually in the ship’s hold or on deck rather than in containers.
Historically, "break bulk" referred to breaking down large shipments into smaller units for transport. Today, it simply means non-containerized cargo that requires specialized handling.
Breakbulk shipping is ideal for industries that need to transport massive goods.
Excavators, bulldozers, cranes, turbines, and presses.
Trains, locomotives, trams, yachts, boats, and aircraft fuselages.
Steel beams, bridge parts, windmill blades, and tower sections.
Silos, tanks, boilers, pipes, and cylinders.
If a product won’t fit into a standard shipping container, breakbulk shipping is often the best choice.
Breakbulk and bulk cargo may sound similar, but they differ in key ways:
Out-of-Gauge (OOG) cargo refers to shipments that exceed standard container dimensions. The key differences between OOG and breakbulk cargo are:
· Containerization: OOG cargo is shipped in non-standard containers like flat racks or open tops. Breakbulk cargo is not containerized at all.
· Size & Weight: OOG cargo must exceed standard container limits, while breakbulk cargo is often large but not necessarily outside container limits.
· Handling Needs: Both require specialized equipment, but breakbulk cargo demands more manual lifting and securing.
Breakbulk shipments require customized logistics solutions. This includes:
· Cargo is wrapped or crated to prevent damage.
· Protective materials like steel frames and wooden pallets provide stability.
· Breakbulk cargo requires dedicated ports with cranes and heavy-duty lifting equipment.
· Heavy cranes, forklifts, or manual labor are used to move the cargo.
· Cargo is lifted individually, rather than packed in a container.
· Dunnage and lashing prevent shifting during transport.
· Cargo is securely fastened to the vessel’s hold or deck.
· Specialized trailers or barges move breakbulk cargo from the port to the final destination.
· Road permits may be required for oversized loads.
The break of bulk point is where cargo changes transport modes (e.g., ship to truck). Unlike containerized shipping, breakbulk cargo must be individually handled at these transfer points, requiring specialized infrastructure.
✅ Ideal for oversized or irregular shipments.
✅ No weight restrictions, unlike containerized freight.
✅ Cargo is secured in closed ship holds.
✅ Specialized vessels and equipment prevent damage.
✅ More cost-effective than chartering an entire vessel.
❌ More manual handling leads to higher labor costs.
❌ Requires specialized port infrastructure.
❌ Higher risk of damage or theft due to individual handling.
❌ Slower loading/unloading compared to container shipping.
❌ Less frequent sailings than standard container vessels.
Breakbulk cargo is more vulnerable to damage and theft because it is individually handled.
Solution: Work with a trusted logistics partner like Daguer Logistics to ensure your cargo is securely packed and monitored.
Breakbulk shipping involves more labor, equipment, and permits, making it costlier than containerized shipping.
Solution: Provide accurate cargo details (dimensions, weight) to get the best shipping rates. Use an experienced freight forwarder to optimize costs.
Oversized cargo may require special permits and customs clearance, delaying shipment.
Solution: Plan in advance and work with logistics experts to handle paperwork efficiently.
Daguer Logistics specializes in efficient and cost-effective breakbulk shipping solutions. Our services include:
We assess your cargo’s weight, size, and requirements to create a tailored shipping strategy.
Our team ensures safe and secure handling of heavy and oversized cargo.
We partner with trusted carriers to provide competitive shipping rates.
We help navigate complex regulations and permits for smooth international shipping.
Our logistics solutions provide full visibility and tracking for your shipments.
Yes, because it requires more manual handling, permits, and specialized equipment. However, it’s cheaper than chartering an entire vessel for oversized cargo.
Industries like construction, energy, mining, and manufacturing rely on breakbulk shipping for large equipment and materials.
· Work with experienced freight forwarders.
· Provide accurate cargo measurements.
· Choose optimized shipping routes.
If your cargo is too large, heavy, or irregularly shaped for standard containers, breakbulk is likely the best option.
