Understanding the SOLAS Convention and Their Role In Freight Shipping

Sea freight is one of the most significant aspects of freight forwarding, with around 90% of the world’s goods being transported via ocean freight. Therefore, regulating the freight industry and ensuring maritime safety measures are in place is vital.

One of the most important and globally recognised maritime regulations is the SOLAS Convention, which plays an essential role in ensuring the security and safety of ships, their crews, cargo and the environment. Let’s take a further look into what the SOLAS Convention is, why it exists and why it’s important to understand its role in freight shipping.

What is SOLAS?

SOLAS is an international treaty that was created to establish the standards for the safe
equipment, construction and operation of merchant ships. The initial version of the SOLAS
Convention was established following the Titanic disaster in 1914, however the treaty has been amended many times since. The current version that is in force today was created in 1974, often referred to as SOLAS 1974. The convention continues to be updated by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to recognise new safety concerns and advancements of technology in the maritime industry.

SOLAS is one of the three most important international regulations for maritime safety, alongside the MARPOL Convention and the STCW Convention.

What does SOLAS stand for?

SOLAS stands for The International Convention for The Safety of Life at Sea. The convention
covers a wide range of safety topics including ship design, life-saving appliances, the safe
navigation of vessels and the storage of shipping containers.

What is the main objective of the SOLAS Convention?

The IMO states that the main objective of the SOLAS Convention is to specify the minimum safety standards across various areas of merchant vessels. Some of these areas include;

● Construction – Defines the requirements for the structural integrity and stability of
shipping vessels.

● Fire protection – Includes regulations for fire safety provisions including the extinction,
detection and prevention of fire. This chapter of the Convention also covers the regulation
of fire safety equipment and appliances.

● Safety of navigation – Identifies regulations relating to the safety of navigation services
including meteorological services, routing of ships and the maintenance of search and
rescue services.

● Carriage of cargo – Regulations cover the requirements for the correct stowage and and
securing of cargo or containers on cargo ships.

● Carriage of dangerous goods – Regulations provide the requirements regarding
packaging, labelling, documentation and stowage of dangerous and hazardous cargo.

All merchant ships across the world need to be registered to a state of its choice. That ship is then required to carry the flag of that state, following the rules and regulations of the Flag State nation’s maritime law. The Flag State must ensure that ships carrying their flag comply with these requirements and a number of SOLAS Convention certificates are provided as proof that this has been done.

What does SOLAS mean in shipping?

Due to the large global scale of the sea freight industry, international regulations such as SOLAS ensure that safety standards are consistently enforced and don’t vary from one state to another. SOLAS sets a minimum standard of safety regulations for freight ships, no matter the types of goods they’re carrying, to maintain a high safety standard regardless of Flag State or route.

There are specific freight shipping regulations set out by the SOLAS Convention that carriers,
shipping companies and shippers should be aware of. These mostly refer to the packaging,
documentation and the verified gross mass (VGM) of cargo.

SOLAS Chapter VII is dedicated to regulations regarding the transportation of dangerous goods via sea, including solid, packaging and liquid forms. The SOLAS Convention also includes the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code, which became mandatory under SOLAS in 2004. The code covers the safe transport of dangerous goods in packaged form.

When importing or exporting dangerous goods internationally, shippers must make themselves aware of the IMDG Code and the detailed requirements that are applicable to individual substances or material. Each substance is subject to its own packing, container traffic, stowage and segregation regulations.

SOLAS and VGM Regulations

Under SOLAS VI regulations, every shipping container is required to have a VGM, Verified Gross Mass, as of 1st July 2016. If a packed shipping container is uploaded to a vessel without a VGM, this is a violation of SOLAS. The regulation was introduced due to a history of maritime accidents caused by unbalanced shipping containers which led to crew accidents, costly loss of cargo and instability on vessels.

By providing an accurate weight of shipping containers, vessels are now able to be loaded
correctly and the weight distributed evenly to prevent accidents.

What Is VGM

Verified Gross Mass is simply the total weight of a packed cargo container. The total number
should include the cargo, the packaging and the weight of the container itself.

The responsibility of obtaining and providing the VGM of a packed container lies with the shipper that is named on the Bill of Lading. The VGM must be provided in a shipping document, either as part of the shipping instruction or as part of a separate communication. In the absence of a valid VGM, a packed container will fail to be loaded onto the ship and lead to unnecessary delays.

How Do I Work Out VGM?

Once a container has been packed with goods, the container should be placed on a weighbridge to work out the loaded weight of the container.

Alternatively, a shipper can weigh all of their cargo prior to loading the container, including the packaging and dunnage, and add this amount to the tare weight of the container to determine the total weight.

Understanding SOLAS and VGM

For carriers and shipping companies, understanding and complying with SOLAS is essential to maintaining a safe, reliable and sustainable operation. While shippers don’t need to understand the full ins and outs of SOLAS, being compliant with the IMDG Code and consistently providing the VGM of containers is vital for efficient global trade.

At Jenkar Shipping, our friendly team of experts are always on hand to help you understand the complexities of these regulations and ensure that your shipments always meet the necessary requirements. We offer comprehensive guidance and solutions that are tailored to your business’ exact needs, ensuring that your experience is as seamless as possible. By partnering with us at Jenkar, you’ll benefit from smooth and seamless shipping solutions that take your business beyond borders, getting your goods to where they need to be safely and on time. Get in touch today to get started.

Keep in the know

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The post Understanding the SOLAS Convention and Their Role In Freight Shipping appeared first on Jenkar Shipping.

What Is Project Cargo?: The Ultimate Guide

Handling project cargo shipments isn’t easy. It comes with a range of complexities and detailed planning is required to move items, both domestically and internationally. From coordinating multiple types of transportation methods to navigating international laws and regulations, project cargo shipments require specialised and expert solutions. In our comprehensive guide to project cargo, we’ll explore everything you need to know including challenges, solutions and what you need to consider before arranging delivery for oversized freight.

What Is Project Cargo?

Project cargo is a term used to describe the transportation of large, heavy-duty, complex or
high-value pieces of equipment via road, sea or air. Project cargo is most often found in the
engineering, construction and wind power industries. The most common types of project cargo that are transported include turbines, generators, machinery, and military equipment.

Project cargo is known to be one of the most complex kinds of transportation in the freight
industry as these items often require specialised handling, meticulous planning and coordination and bespoke solutions to ensure safe delivery. Project cargo often tends to have specific delivery dates and time-frames that make these shipments more complex than others. Transporting cargo of this kind requires an understanding of engineering principles, route surveys and potential obstacles, such as time constraints and safety requirements.#

What To Consider When Shipping Project Cargo

Planning and Coordination

When it comes to arranging project cargo, proper planning is essential. Each project is different and has its own unique demands and requirements. Therefore it’s important to understand the complexity of the cargo, as well as its dimensions and weight. Potential obstacles must then be identified to ensure that strategic plans are in place to overcome them.

Transportation Method

Next, careful consideration must be given to the transportation method that is going to be used to move the cargo. This may be via roads using specialised vehicles, ocean shipping, air freight or a combination of all depending on the type of cargo.

Route Planning

Once the transportation method has been determined, consideration should then be given to the choice of route. Factors such as road conditions, weight restrictions, weather conditions and access to ports and unloading points must be taken into account.

Laws and Regulations

When transporting oversized and heavy cargo, especially across borders, additional permits and custom clearance is usually required. It’s important to ensure that the project cargo complies with international standards and safety requirements to avoid delays, fines or hazards.

The Challenges of Project Cargo

Complexity of Logistics

We’re sure you’ve gathered by now that the biggest challenge project cargo presents is the
complexity of the logistics and arrangements. Project cargo can’t be transported via conventional methods, meaning alternative and expert solutions must be used. As this can involve multimodal transportation, coordinating multiple types of transport can be a complex process that involves detailed planning and attention to detail.

Infrastructure Limitations

Some regions lack the proper infrastructure to be able to efficiently transport project cargo. This could be a lack of suitable ports or roads to handle the oversized cargo. This can lead to logistical challenges and delay timelines while increasing costs. This is why route planning is an essential step during the planning process to ensure project cargo can effectively reach its destination with minimal disruptions.

Risk Management

Due to the complexity, size and value of project cargo, there’s an extra level of risk associated with its transportation. Risk assessments and contingency plans must be put in place ahead of the shipment to minimise potential disruptions and damage.

Regulations and Compliance

As previously mentioned, part of the process of arranging project cargo shipments involves
obtaining the correct permits, documentation and customs clearance and adhering to many
regulatory requirements. Navigating this can be complex and overwhelming with the potential to lead to delays and fines if not done correctly.

Project Cargo Shipping Solutions

Breakbulk Solutions

Breakbulk shipping is a method used for cargo that is too large to fit in a standard shipping
container or can’t be disassembled. Project cargo is then assembled in smaller, individual pieces such as pallets, crates or barrels. Breakbulk solutions are often used for machinery, vehicles and other industrial equipment.

Out of Gauge Cargo

Out of Gauge (OOG) cargo is freight that exceeds standard shipping container dimensions, such as width, height or length. Cargo of this type is usually loaded onto flat-rack or open-top
containers to accommodate its size. Wind turbine blades, large industrial pipes or construction equipment usually fall under this category.

Specialised Vessels and Vehicles

The use of specialised vessels and vehicles are essential in the transportation of project cargo. For example, Roll On/Roll Off (RoRo) vessels and heavy-lift vessels are ideal for transporting heavy and oversized shipments. These vessel types are equipped with cranes, ramps and deck configurations that are required to lift, load and store project cargo. When shipping via road, specialised vehicles such as multi-axle and low-bed trailers are used to effectively transport long, large pieces of freight.

Work With An Experienced Freight Forwarder

One of the most effective solutions for arranging complex project cargo shipments is to partner with an experienced freight forwarding company. A freight forwarder will understand the ins and outs of international shipping, including laws and regulations, the optimal transportation methods and the challenges posed by project cargo. This means that they have the expertise to navigate all of the complexities on your behalf, sorting out transport, routes, risk assessments and documentation to ensure your shipment is delivered on time and without complications.

Moving Project Cargo With Jenkar Shipping

For all your project cargo shipping needs, look no further than Jenkar Shipping. We can become your trusted project cargo freight forwarders, offering personalised freight solutions that are tailored to meet the exact needs of your project. Our expert knowledge and global network of partners enable us to handle even the most complex shipping challenges with ease. Request a free freight quote today to start moving your goods, and your business, forward with Jenkar.

Keep in the know

Stay up to date with the latest trends, news and updates in the freight forwarding industry to ensure that your logistics operations are always optimised for efficiency.

Jenkar warehousing and delivery support for the Trinity Leeds glass roof

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The post What Is Project Cargo?: The Ultimate Guide appeared first on Jenkar Shipping.

Sea vs Air vs Road Freight -Which Is Best For Your Business?

When organising international shipping, there’s a lot that you need to take into consideration to find the best solution for your business. These include the cost, the size of your cargo, the destination you’re shipping too and the documentation required. The first place you need to start however is by deciding on the best transportation mode for your cargo.

The most common freight transportation methods include sea freight, air freight and road freight. Each of these methods of transportation come with their own advantages and disadvantages which help you to determine which is the best solution for you.

We’ve put together the ultimate guide to all three transportation methods, covering advantages and disadvantages of both to ensure that you make the right choice for your business and shipping needs.

Sea Freight

What is Sea Freight?

Sea freight is the method of transporting goods across the ocean using carrier/cargo ships. These vessels are designed to carry large amounts of cargo and heavy goods in shipping containers, including Out of Gauge (OOG) equipment.

Sea freight is known to be a cost-effective method to transport high volumes of goods internationally and it’s therefore no surprise that around 80% of goods are transported by ships

There are a number of ways to transport freight by sea including Full Container Load (FCL) and Less Than Container Load (LCL). FCL means choosing to purchase an entire shipping container (or more) just for your goods. LCL on the other hand is where your goods are loaded into a container with another party’s goods. This is the preferred solution for when you may not have enough cargo to fill a container and can work out as being more cost-effective.

Advantages of Sea Freight

● Heavy and bulky goods can be transported with ease via sea freight, including Out of Gauge (OOG) cargo. This refers to cargo that exceeds the standard size or weight limits and therefore requires special handling and equipment. This could be oversized machinery or unique shipments that require innovative solutions to ensure safe and efficient transport.
● Sea freight is more cost-effective than other transportation methods, especially over long distances.
● It’s the most carbon-efficient and sustainable transportation method.
● Due to the large capacity of cargo ships, there is often availability for container space.

Disadvantages of Sea Freight

● Transit times can be slow, making sea freight inefficient for urgent and time sensitive shipments.
● Bad weather can add further delays.
● Multi-mode transportation (such as road freight) is usually required to reach the final destination.

Air Freight

What is Air Freight?

Air freight, also known as air cargo, is shipment of goods via an air carrier which is either charter or commercial. Air freight is known to be a highly efficient and reliable transportation and is the fastest method for shipping goods internationally.

The air cargo industry has grown exponentially, contributing to the global economic development by transporting over $6 trillion worth of goods and accounting for approximately 35% of world trade by value.

Advantages of Air Freight

● Shipping by air is the fastest form of freight transportation and is the best solution for time sensitive (such as perishable items) and urgent deliveries.
● Air freight is also highly reliable, with multiple arrivals and departures occurring each day meaning shipments are likely to arrive on time.
● Due to tight airport security and regulations, it’s unlikely that cargo will go missing or incur damage.
● With airports available in destinations worldwide, you can ship to even the remotest location.
● Air shipments use less packaging, have a lower insurance premium and require less warehouse storage due to quick transit times, meaning costs can be saved in these areas.

Disadvantages of Air Freight

● Air freight is a considerably more expensive transportation method due to fuel prices.
● Aircrafts have limited capacity and are unable to carry heavy or large amounts of goods.
● Many hazardous materials are unable to be transported by air.
● Air freight produces a lot of CO2 and emits more greenhouse gases than sea freight.

Road Freight

Road freight is the transport of goods via a road network using motor vehicles. The type of motor vehicle may differ depending on the type of goods being transported and the road freight regulations of each country. Road freight is typically used when shipping goods nationally or to destinations in Europe.

In certain cases, such as delivering to rural areas, road freight may be the only transportation method available or may need to be combined with air or sea freight to reach its final destination.

Advantages of Road Freight

● Road freight can be highly cost-effective, especially when shipping across small distances.
● Road freight allows for a complete door-to-door shipping service and is highly flexible.
● No other mode of transport has access to a similar infrastructure and the road network is the largest transport infrastructure there is.
● Road freight isn’t reliant on logistics hubs such as airports or sea ports.

Disadvantages of Road Freight

● Air pollution from trucks and lorries can be high and therefore not as sustainable as sea freight.
● Capacity on trucks can be limited and they are unable to transport heavy cargo.
● There can be traffic delays and vehicle breakdowns, slowing down shipments.
● Shipping to long distances overland can take more time.

Freight Solutions Comparison

Determining which method is right for you ultimately comes down to the needs and requirements of your business. Factors such as the time constraints of your delivery, the size of your cargo and the cost of the shipping method must be taken into consideration to determine which is the right transportation method for you.

The best way to determine the right method for you is to do your research and work alongside a freight forwarding company who will provide all of the guidance and information you need.

That’s where we come in. Here at Jenkar Shipping, we’ve got years of experience in sea, air and road freight services. Our dedicated and friendly team members are always ready to provide you with bespoke solutions tailored to your specific shipping needs. No matter your destination, our experts will ensure a seamless and efficient delivery process from start to finish.

Let us take the stress out of shipping and be your trusted freight partner. Contact us today to start your journey with Jenkar.

Keep in the Know

Stay up to date with the latest trends, news and updates in the freight forwarding industry to ensure that your logistics operations are always optimised for efficiency.

Jenkar warehousing and delivery support for the Trinity Leeds glass roof

Have you ever seen Trinity Leeds‘ domed glass roof? Behind the scenes, the project required careful warehousing, stock management and time-critical deliveries of architectural glass panels. The construction team needed reliable storage facilities and coordinated delivery services to manage hundreds of fragile, high-value components. Jenkar provided the warehousing and distribution services that supported the build, […]

Read More

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What is Driving Air Freight Prices in 2025?

The air freight sector has entered 2025 with a complex mix of rising capacity, shifting demand and regulatory changes. For businesses that rely on air cargo to move goods across borders, understanding the latest trends is essential. At Jenkar, we are closely monitoring the key drivers behind air freight pricing to help our customers stay […]

Read More

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Peak Season Shipping Surcharges Announced for North America

With peak season shipping approaching, global shipping lines are beginning to implement temporary surcharges to manage demand, ensure service reliability, and respond to increasing operational costs. Hapag-Lloyd is the first major carrier to introduce a Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) on cargo destined for ports in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, with implementation set to begin […]

Read More

---

The post Sea vs Air vs Road Freight -Which Is Best For Your Business? appeared first on Jenkar Shipping.