Bulk Carrier
Also known as: bulk carrier, bulk vessel, dry bulk carrier, bulker
A merchant vessel specifically designed to transport unpackaged dry bulk cargo in large cargo holds.
Bulk carriers are purpose-built ships designed to transport dry bulk commodities such as coal, grain, iron ore, bauxite, cement, fertilizers, and other loose cargoes. Their large cargo holds, hatch covers, and robust hull structures allow them to carry high-volume cargoes safely and efficiently over long distances. Bulk carriers are classified by size, including Handysize, Supramax, Panamax, Capesize, and Valemax, and they play a vital role in supporting global commodity trade and industrial supply chains.
Search the full Shipping Terms glossary