Bulk vessels, commonly referred to as bulk carriers, are specialized ships designed to transport unpackaged dry bulk cargo, such as ores, coal, grain, and cement. Their size can vary greatly depending on their specific design and the type of cargo they are intended to carry, but the largest among them are truly enormous.
A large bulk carrier can be characterized by the following approximate dimensions:
| Characteristic | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Tonnage | Up to 400,000 DWT (Deadweight Tonnage) |
| Length | 300 meters (980 feet) |
| Height | 40 meters (130 feet) |
These vessels are critical components of global supply chains, enabling the efficient and economical transport of vast quantities of raw materials across the world's oceans. Their substantial capacity allows for significant economies of scale, making them the backbone of industrial and agricultural trade. For a broader understanding of these maritime workhorses, refer to resources such as the Wikipedia article on bulk carriers.
