Introduction
Shipping is an essential part of international trade and involves the transportation of goods and commodities by sea. As a result, the shipping industry has its own set of unique terminologies and jargon that are used in day-to-day operations. In this blog post, we will explore some of the key terms related to ship transportation, their meanings, and how they are used in the shipping industry.
Types of Ships
Cargo ships: These are vessels designed to transport goods and commodities by sea. They come in various sizes, from small ships that can carry a few hundred tons of cargo to giant vessels that can carry several thousand tons.
Bulk carriers: These are specialized cargo ships designed to carry commodities such as coal, iron ore, and grains in bulk quantities. They carry the cargo in holds, which are open spaces within the ship’s hull.
Container ships: These are cargo ships designed to transport containers, which are standardized metal boxes that can be easily loaded and unloaded from ships, trains, and trucks.
Tankers: These are ships designed to transport liquid cargo such as crude oil, petroleum products, and chemicals.
Ferries: These are ships designed to transport passengers, vehicles, and cargo across water bodies.
Ship Terminologies
Port: A port is a facility that allows ships to load and unload cargo, refuel, and undergo maintenance.
Berth: A berth is a designated area in a port where a ship can dock to load and unload cargo.
Deadweight tonnage: Deadweight tonnage is the total weight that a ship can carry, including cargo, fuel, and other supplies.
Draught: Draught refers to the depth of water required for a ship to float freely and is measured from the waterline to the bottom of the hull.
Freight: This is the amount charged for carrying cargo by ship.
F.O.B: Free on Board refers to a type of shipping arrangement where the seller is responsible for delivering goods to a designated port and loading them onto the ship.
C.I.F: Cost, Insurance, and Freight is a type of shipping arrangement where the seller is responsible for the cost, insurance, and freight of the goods until they reach the buyer’s designated port.
Conclusion
The shipping industry is a complex and dynamic one, and it requires a good understanding of its specialized terminologies and jargon to operate effectively. Whether you are a shipper, a carrier, or an end-user of shipping services, understanding these terms will help you navigate the shipping process, negotiate favorable terms, and avoid costly mistakes.