Types of Ships and Cargo

Not all ships are built the same, and neither are the cargoes they carry. This chapter unpacks the logic behind matching vessel types with cargoes, showing why oil travels in tankers, grain in bulkers, and electronics in containers. It explores how key design features like size, draft, and tonnage are driven by the physical, operational, and commercial demands of each cargo type. From cavernous bulk holds to pressurized gas tanks and modular container stacks, readers will see how ship design reflects function and purpose. The chapter introduces major cargo categories, dry, liquid, containerized, breakbulk, and more, and explains how each shapes operations at sea and in port. It also highlights the practical implications for brokers, port agents, shipowners, and logistics professionals. Designed for students and newcomers to shipping, this chapter offers a clear and real-world guide to how the world’s goods move and why the right ship always matters.