Key Takeaways
What is Bulk Cargo?
How to Ensure Safe Handling Of Bulk Cargo
Conclusion
We all know that transporting goods is no easy job. In freight logistics, the transit of materials, especially bulk or unconventional cargo, requires a more organized and planned approach.
As 2025 demands a more advanced, efficient and safe shipping of goods, proper handling and stowage have become more important than ever. This blog will walk you through some tips to foster the safe handling of bulk cargo.
Bulk cargoes are large quantities of goods which are typically unpacked.
It can be either dry bulk cargo, which includes grain, coal, iron ore, bauxite, cement, fertilizers, minerals, wood and liquid cargo, which are crude oil, petroleum products, chemicals and liquefied natural gas.
There are certain risks associated with bulk cargo transit. Unsafe loading methods can cause damage to the ships, cargo liquefaction can lead to capsizing, inadequate securing of liquid cargo can cause dangerous explosions and toxic release polluting the environment and can pose a serious risk of health issues to the crew members.
Hence, implement the necessary preventive strategies for the safe handling of bulk cargo.
Conduct a thorough inspection of the bulk cargo. Check its density, chances of liquefaction and moisture content.
Ensure that the moisture content doesn’t exceed the Transportable Moisture Limit (TML), as it will cause the solid cargo to behave like liquid and potentially lead to instability.
The density of the cargo determines how much it would fit the ship. Make sure that it is evenly distributed to prevent tilting or capsizing. Therefore, make sure to assess the cargo before initiating the freight processes.
Proper documentation is important for the hassle-free transport of cargo. It includes the following:
Commercial invoice
Packing list providing the weight and dimensions of the cargo.
Bill of lading
Certificate of origin
Cargo declaration
Material safety data sheet
Customs License
Compliance with the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) code is crucial, and this can only be achieved through accurate documentation.
Bulk cargos can come in different types and sizes, hence it is crucial to select the appropriate equipment to ensure their safe and efficient handling. Implement proper loading and unloading methods.
Depending on the nature of the cargo, forklifts, strapping, padding and custom-built crates can be utilized for its safe movement and stalking within the warehouse and the shipment.
Labeling is critical for safe and efficient transit, as it specifies in detail what the package contains. An ideal label should contain all the necessary details, which include:
Tracking number and barcode
Information of the sender and receiver
Logo and carrier information
Shipping method
Weight and dimensions of the cargo
Customs information
Unclear labeling can complicate the shipping process, causing delays, mishandling or even rejection of the cargo. So, ensure proper labeling.
It is quite evident from the discussions so far that the handling of bulk cargo requires a strategic approach. Therefore it is essential that the staff who handle the cargo are provided with proper training regarding the safe cargo management.
Communication is an important factor in cargo shipping. A clear communication between all the parties engaging including the shippers, port authorities, carriers and cargo handlers is important to ensure smooth cargo operation.
Choosing a professional and reliable freight forwarding agency will make the whole process easier as they will efficiently help in organizing the shipping process, reducing the costs and ensuring the timely delivery of the goods.
A systematic and organized approach is essential for the safe shipping of the cargo. Logistica is your trusted custom broker, dedicated to providing top-tier freight services that will streamline the entire shipment process from start to finish.
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