Vessel Type
Breakbulk & Multi-Purpose Vessels
Breakbulk vessels, also called multipurpose vessels (MPV), are ships equipped with onboard cranes designed to load and discharge non-containerized cargo.
Overview
Breakbulk or multipurpose vessels (MPVs) are the workhorses of project cargo shipping. Unlike container ships, these vessels have onboard cranes (typically 60-700 tons capacity) and open holds that can accommodate almost any cargo shape and size. They handle everything from steel coils and lumber to complete industrial plants. Modern MPVs often have box-shaped holds and can also carry containers when needed.
Specifications
Crane Capacity
60-700+ tons
Hold Types
Open box-shaped
Deck Strength
10-25 tons/m²
Hatch Covers
Pontoon or folding
Vessel Sizes
5,000-40,000 DWT
Container Capacity
Varies (500-2,000 TEU)
Common Use Cases
Heavy-lift project cargo
Steel products (coils, plates, beams)
Lumber and forest products
Bagged commodities
Industrial plant equipment
Yachts and boats
Wind turbine components
Over-dimensional cargo
Best For
- Cargo too large for containers
- Heavy lifts over 30 tons
- Ports without shore cranes
- Mixed cargo shipments
- Project cargo with multiple pieces
Advantages
- Handles almost any cargo type
- Self-sufficient (own cranes)
- Flexible loading patterns
- Can call smaller ports
- Combine different cargo types
- Heavy-lift capability onboard
Limitations
- Slower than container ships
- Higher per-ton costs for small cargo
- Irregular sailing schedules
- Weather impacts operations
- Requires cargo-specific planning
- Stowage expertise needed
Loading & Handling Tips
1Provide detailed stowage plans
2Specify lift points and COG
3Arrange cargo to minimize shifts
4Use appropriate dunnage
5Consider port crane availability
6Plan load/discharge sequence
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Equipment
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