Container shipping places cargo inside a sealed metal box. Break bulk ships cargo as individual pieces, typically on roll trailers or open platforms, without any enclosing container. Break bulk is necessary when cargo is too large, too heavy, too tall, or too long for a standard container — or when the nature of the cargo makes container loading impractical.

Traditional break bulk uses crane-equipped general cargo vessels, where cargo is lifted on and off by cranes at each port. RoRo break bulk uses roll trailers — cargo is wheeled aboard through a ramp, requiring no crane lift. RoRo is generally faster, lower-risk for cargo damage, and more cost-competitive for suitable cargo types.

On modern High & Heavy RoRo vessels, cargo up to 6.1 metres high, 12 metres wide, and 400 tonnes in weight can be accommodated. Lengths up to approximately 27 metres (90 feet) are achievable on specialized roll trailers.

Yes. K-Line and other carriers in our network operate vessels with stern ramps wide enough to load railroad cars. Rail cars are loaded via specialized railed roll trailers. Contact us with the railcar specifications — gauge, length, and weight.

Some industrial equipment is subject to U.S. Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and may require an Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) review and license. We work with a licensed customs broker to evaluate your cargo’s classification and advise on any license requirements before booking.

Yes. We regularly coordinate project cargo shipments involving multiple large pieces, consolidated on the same vessel sailing or spread across staggered departures. We manage all documentation, carrier communications, and destination coordination as a single point of contact.

Typically: commercial invoice, packing list with dimensions and weights, bill of sale or purchase contract, and government-issued ID or company letterhead. Export licenses if applicable. We provide a complete checklist with every booking.