GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 18, 2026
Heavy lift transport at sea
Moving industrial plant, wind turbine components, bridge sections, or ship parts by sea calls for heavy lift transport—a specialist segment where standard container vessels simply lack the capacity in terms of weight and dimensions.
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Moving industrial plant, wind turbine components, bridge sections, or ship parts by sea calls for heavy lift transport—a specialist segment where standard container vessels simply lack the capacity in terms of weight and dimensions. Dedicated heavy lift carriers deploy vessels with reinforced decks, semi-submersible heavy lift ships (which ballast down to float cargo aboard), and onboard cranes rated for extreme loads. Planning starts well before the loading date: the freight forwarder and shipper must establish precise weight, centre of gravity, and dimensions, identify suitable ports with adequate handling infrastructure, and arrange project cargo insurance. Freight rates run significantly above container shipping levels, but the need for costly disassembly is avoided. Unlike break-bulk transport—where general cargo is loaded piece by piece—heavy lift always requires individual lashing plans and close coordination with the terminal operator.
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