In the world of international trade, the transportation of vehicles is a crucial aspect. This is where car carrier ships come into play. These vessels are designed specifically to transport cars, trucks, and other vehicles across seas and oceans. In this article, we will explore the various terminologies associated with car carrier ships.
Basic Terminologies
Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo)
Roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) is a simple method of loading and unloading vehicles from the ship. The vehicles are driven onto the ship through a ramp and then parked on the lower decks. RoRo is considered to be the most efficient method of loading vehicles onto a ship.
Pure Car Carrier (PCC)
A pure car carrier (PCC) is a type of RoRo vessel that is designed to transport only cars. The decks are designed to accommodate the height and weight of the cars, ensuring maximum safety during transportation.
Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC)
A pure car and truck carrier (PCTC) is a type of RoRo vessel that is designed to transport both cars and trucks. These vessels have adjustable decks that can be configured to carry different types of vehicles.
Advanced Terminologies
High and Heavy (H&H)
High and heavy (H&H) refers to vehicles that are taller and heavier than regular cars. These vehicles require special handling and equipment during transportation.
Breakbulk
Breakbulk refers to cargo that is not containerized. It requires handling of individual pieces of cargo, which can be time-consuming and expensive.
LoLo
Lift-on/lift-off (LoLo) is a method of loading and unloading cargo using cranes. This method is used for cargo that cannot be loaded using RoRo vessels.
Containerization
Containerization is the process of packing cargo into standard-sized containers for transportation. This method has revolutionized the shipping industry, as it allows for quicker and more efficient loading and unloading of cargo.
Conclusion
Car carrier ships play a vital role in the transportation of vehicles across the world. Understanding the various terminologies associated with these vessels is crucial for anyone involved in the shipping industry. From basic terms like RoRo and PCC to advanced terms like H&H and containerization, this article aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the various terminologies associated with car carrier ships.