1. Why Is It Necessary to Distinguish Between the Three Modes?
International maritime shipping is not a "one-size-fits-all service." Depending on the type of cargo, shipment volume, and time requirements, carriers and shippers can choose from three distinct operational modes. Choosing the right one can both control costs and ensure timely delivery.
2. Liner Shipping
Liner shipping is the most commonly used mode of maritime transportation, referring to the service operated by shipping companies on fixed routes, at fixed schedules, and calling at fixed ports.
| Features | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Fixed Routes | Major routes such as "Far East → Europe," "Far East → Mediterranean," "Far East → Southeast Asia," etc. |
| Fixed Schedules | Sailings weekly or several times a week, with schedules published months in advance. |
| Fixed Ports | Calls only at major ports (base ports). |
| Charged per Container | Rates based on containers (20GP/40GP/40HQ). |
| Common Carrier | Anyone who pays the freight can book space. |
Major Shipping Lines
| Rank | Company | Capacity (10k TEU) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | MSC | ~560 |
| 2 | Maersk | ~410 |
| 3 | CMA CGM | ~370 |
| 4 | COSCO | ~310 |
| 5 | Hapag-Lloyd | ~200 |
| 6 | ONE | ~180 |
3. Chartering
Chartering refers to the mode where the cargo owner leases an entire vessel from the ship owner to transport bulk cargo.
| Type | Explanation | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Voyage Charter | Renting the vessel for a single voyage | One-time bulk cargo shipment |
| Time Charter | Renting for a period of time (month/year) | Long-term transport with stable volume |
| Bareboat Charter | Renting only the hull; crew provided by charterer | Large cargo owners operating their own fleet |
4. Selection Examples
| Case | Company Type | Choice | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
| Case 1 | Small/medium foreign trade company, 5-10 containers/month | Liner Shipping | Moderate volume, needs fixed schedules |
| Case 2 | Steel exporter, 5,000 tons/month | Chartering | Inefficient to containerize bulk cargo; chartering by ton is more cost-effective |
| Case 3 | Large paper company, millions of tons imported annually | Tramp (self-operated) | Raw material is the lifeline; need to ensure supply chain stability |
5. Decision-Making Guide
| Volume | Recommended Mode |
|---|---|
| <200 CBM | Liner (LCL or FCL) |
| 200-1000 CBM | Liner (FCL) |
| Thousands of tons of break bulk/bulk | Chartering |
| Long-term stable bulk raw materials | Self-operated or long-term charter |
Have cargo to ship? Send the product name/weight/volume/destination port to Bofeng Logistics, and we will provide an ALL-IN inclusive quote—one flat price with no hidden fees. With 20 years of international shipping experience, we help you save time and money.
📞 Get a Quote: 13075678958 | info@zhbfwl.com
Related Logistics Services
Bofeng Logistics offers the following related services, feel free to inquire:
