Unlike container ships that carry packaged goods, bulk carrier ship transports loose, unpackaged cargo directly in their holds. In this blog, we’ll examine the different types of bulk carriers, their capacity, and the kinds of cargo they carry. As well as how they benefit throughout the shipping process.
What is a bulk carrier ship? What does it carry?
Bulk carrier ships, also called bulk vessels, dry bulk ships, or simply bulker, serve one prime purpose. They move massive volumes of cargo that don’t fit into containers.
So, what do bulk carrier ships carry?
A typical dry bulk carrier ship hauls raw materials like grain, coal, cement, iron ore, and fertilizers. For example, a bulker might transport coal from China to South Korea or deliver cement from China to Mexico. These loose materials are loaded directly into the ship’s holds using chutes, grabs, or conveyor belts.
For more complex or oversized shipments, break bulk cargo vessels step in. Apart from granular materials, they handle non-containerized items, such as industrial generators, construction modules, or pre-assembled piping systems. They’re also perfect for heavy-duty vehicles-think semi-trailers, clean energy trucks, or even entire wind turbine blades.
In short, whether you’re shipping dry bulk by the ton or moving heavy lift cargo across oceans, there’s a bulk carrier cargo ship built for the job. The cargo type determines the vessel, the loading gear, and even the port terminal involved.
Common vessel types used in bulk shipping
Here’s a practical breakdown of the most common types based on deadweight tonnage (DWT):
Handysize Bulk Carriers (10,000–40,000 DWT)
Compact and flexible, Handysize vessels can access smaller ports with shallow drafts. They’re widely used in regional trades. For example, transporting grain from China to Southeast Asia or cement to remote island ports.
Panamax Bulk Carriers (60,000–80,000 DWT)
Sized to pass through the Panama Canal, Panamax bulkers run on major trade lanes. You’ll often find them transporting coal, soybeans, or bauxite between the Americas and Asia.
Capesize Bulk Carriers (100,000+ DWT)
Too large for both the Panama and Suez Canals, Capesize ships must reroute via the Cape of Good Hope or Cape Horn. These bulkers transport massive loads of iron ore and thermal coal, typically from Brazil or Australia to China.
Mini-Bulkers (<10,000 DWT)
Small but mighty, mini-bulkers specialize in niche coastal trades, feeding smaller ports with fertilizers, cement, or construction materials.
Each vessel type fills a specific niche in the bulk carrier ship ecosystem. The right choice depends on cargo type, destination, and port access. At ASLG, we help you match the right bulker to your shipment. With end-to-end coordination, expert bulk carrier ship management, and flexible routes, our team ensures your cargo reaches its destination securely and on time.
Bulk carrier vs. other vessels: What's the difference?
Bulk carrier vs. cargo ship
A bulk carrier ship features deep cargo holds and a strong hull structure designed to transport heavy, loose cargo that may shift during transit.
In contrast, a general cargo ship usually transports packaged or palletized goods in the form of sacks, barrels, crates, or bundles. These ships prioritize flexibility over volume. Although they can move break bulk cargo, they do not handle large volumes of a single material as efficiently as a dry bulk carrier ship.
Bulk carrier vs. container ship
The primary difference between a bulk carrier ship and a container ship lies in the type of cargo and how it is handled. Container ships transport standardized containers, typically 20 or 40 feet long. Additionally, gantry cranes handle the loading and unloading at dedicated terminals, which streamlines operations and shortens delivery times.
On the other hand, a bulker does not use containers. Instead, it carries loose cargo directly in its holds. This process requires more time for loading, relies on different port equipment, and demands careful balance to prevent shifting during the voyage.
From China to Australia: A real bulk carrier success story
Recently, a leading construction materials distributor in Australia approached ASLG with a time-critical request. The company needed to ship over 30,000 metric tons of cement clinker from Qingdao Port, China, to Fremantle, Australia.
After assessing the cargo specifications, port conditions, and delivery timeline, our logistics experts recommended a Handymax dry bulk carrier ship.
The vessel departed Qingdao within three days of booking and arrived at Fremantle Port in just 14 sailing days, keeping the project on schedule. During transit, ASLG provided real-time tracking, cargo condition monitoring, and coordinated closely with the discharge terminal to avoid berth delays.
Partnering with ASLG means smarter shipping solutions tailored to your cargo. From bulk carrier ship management to flexible routing and end-to-end coordination, we handle every step with precision. Whether you’re shipping cement, grain, or industrial equipment, we have the right bulk vessel ready to deliver—on time, on budget, and with zero stress.
