ABSTRACT
There are many different types of cargo that are transported around the world such as general cargoes, unitised or containerised cargo, bulk cargo in liquid or solid form, refrigerated cargoes, and RORO cargo. Due to their nature, these require varying degrees of attention. Underpinning the basic principles of handling, stowing, and carrying cargo are four main factors, which must be considered:
Full use should be made of the vessel’s carrying capacity with broken stowage kept to an absolute minimum.
Damage to the vessel must be prevented at all reasonable costs; this includes ensuring adequate stability and reducing structural stresses.
Damage to cargo must be prevented or reduced to the absolute minimum.
Proper segregation and equal distribution of cargo within the ship’s holds must be maintained to reduce the risks of cargo damage and facilitate efficient cargo discharge.
In this chapter, we will discuss the loading, carriage, and discharge of general, unitised, and containerised cargoes.