7 Types of Cargo Vessels in the Philippines

Sea shipping plays a major role in global trading. It is the most used mode of transportation. 90% of goods from around the world are transported through fleets of vessels that cross oceans. The same goes for cargo shipping in the Philippines. Different types of cargo vessels are used for the transport of goods from one island to another. They are essential for commerce. Businesses need to be familiar with the different types of cargo vessels in the Philippines that can meet their trade requirements.

Different Types of Cargo Vessels in the Philippines

General Cargo Vessels

Designed with versatility in mind, general cargo vessels can be loaded with a wide range of cargo. These vessels are equipped with cargo holds. They may use cranes for cargo loading and unloading. Among the goods that they can carry include:

  • Dry goods
  • Packaged goods
  • Machinery
  • Vehicles
  • Containers

1. Container Ships

This type of cargo vessel is used for the transport of standardized containers in various sizes. They ply domestic routes in the Philippines with containerized cargo. Container ships come in different forms. They range from small feeder vessels to large, ultra-large container carriers.

 

2. Bulk Carriers

Another type of specialized cargo vessel, bulk carriers can transport cargo in bulk. Bulk carriers may be classified into two:

  • Dry bulk carriers – this bulk cargo vessel is used in the transport of unpackaged dry cargo such as grains, coal, and other raw materials.
  • Liquid bulk carriers – commonly referred to as tankers, they are used for the transport of liquid cargo including chemicals, gas, and oil.

 

3. RoRo Vessels

RoRo or Roll-on/Roll-off cargo vessels are commonly used to transport vehicles like cars, trucks, and buses. They are also used for wheeled cargo that can be rolled on and off vessels via ramps. RoRos are essential for passengers and goods movement from one island to another.

 

4. RoPax Vessels

RoPax stands for Passenger RoRo vessel. Unlike RoRos, RoPax vessels are not just for the transport of vehicles. They also have provisions to accommodate large numbers of passengers for both short and long  voyages. RoPax vessels have amenities for both passengers and cargo, They offer different types of accommodations for passengers ranging from 2nd class to deluxe, cabins, and private rooms.

 

5. Landing Crafts

Landing crafts are commonly used in areas without established ports. These cargo vessels have a flat bottom and bow ramp which allows loading and unloading on beaches or shallow shores. Landing crafts are also used in military and relief operations to reach areas surrounded by water.

 

6. Multipurpose Vessels

Multipurpose vessels, as the name suggests, offer versatility and adaptability. They are, also known as combination carriers. Some of the loads that this type of cargo vessel can carry include containers, bulk cargo, and general cargo. 

 

7. Coastal Tankers

Specifically designed for the transport of liquid, coastal tankers are commonly loaded with petroleum products, chemicals, and edible oils. These small to medium-sized vessels ply coastal routes. One of the most crucial uses of coastal tankers is the supply of fuel and other essential liquid products to remote areas and islands in the Philippines.

 

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As an archipelago, the Philippines is home to various types of cargo vessels that serve specific purposes for the safe and efficient transport of passengers and goods. For people in business who need to ship goods to another island province, your choice of cargo vessel is crucial. Learn more about them to ensure they meet your shipping requirements.

Trans-Asia Shipping Lines, Inc. is a Cebu shipping company with unsurpassed experience in the Visayas-Mindanao area. As one of the leaders in the field of cargo handling, passage, and route development, we offer a fleet of cargo vessels and ROPAX vessels that connect island destinations.

 

BOOK A PASSENGER TICKET OR A ROLLING CARGO NOW.