Depending on the type, bulk goods can be loaded and unloaded using a conveyor, grabber or bucket. The bulk is loaded into a hopper which passes it onto a conveyer belt system to deliver it to a stockpile. Gas or liquid bulk goods are pumped to or from the vessel along pipelines to or from storage tanks.

Some bulk cargoes such as scrap metal are loaded into big metal bins known as "skips" and lifted into the hold of the bulk carrier.

Vehicles are imported to Fremantle on purpose-built car carriers which can carry thousands of vehicles. These are loaded and unloaded by simply driving them on and off the carrier.

Ships specialising in transporting livestock also visit Fremantle and service routes between Australia and the Middle East. These fast, multistorey vessels accommodate sheep and beef cattle, along with fodder.

Can you answer these questions?

1. What is a portainer?

2. What are some examples of bulk goods?

3. What types of ships are cars carried on?

4. What types of ships carry livestock and fodder?

5. What countries do livestock ships come from?

6. What are the trade routes of the Ro-Ro's?

More Information

• Ship Movements
• Cargo Charges
• Dangerous Goods
• Container Movement Study