Realogistics Helps Client with Oversized Bulk Ship Shipment

In February 2023, we received a customer's request for a shipment of compressors, levers, and boiler accessories, all of which were ready for dispatch, with the destination being Shuaiba Port in Kuwait via sea freight from Qingdao Port in China.

1. Total items: 276 pieces

2. Total weight: 1,967 tons

3. Total volume: 16,830 cubic meters

4. Port of departure: Qingdao, China

5. Destination port: Shuaiba Port, Kuwait

6. Product categories: Levers, compressors, fire pumps, boilers, etc.

7. Involvement of manufacturers: 7 suppliers

8. Loading port: Qingdao Xilian Qianwan Port Area

1. Lack of Accurate Cargo Manifest:

Due to the peak shipping season for the KOC project in Kuwait, it was impossible to provide an accurate cargo manifest in advance. This uncertainty added complexity to cargo planning, port scheduling, and customs procedures.

Solution:

We communicated these issues to the manufacturers promptly, conducted on-site inspections, and closely monitored the shipping progress. We also introduced a system of numbering shipments by manufacturer and adopted a partial clearance model, allowing us to declare and release goods as they arrived at the port, minimizing delays.

2. Last-Minute Increase in Cargo Volume:

Manufacturers confirmed the final shipment quantities just one day before the vessel's arrival, significantly deviating from the initial tender data. Additionally, the non-stackable nature of the cargo increased the required deck space by 58%.

Solution:

After exploring various alternatives, including alternative vessels and partial shipments, we decided to build scaffolding inside the cargo holds to accommodate all the goods in a single shipment, ensuring complete sets of equipment are delivered to the project site while maintaining cost control.

3. Challenges in Implementing the Scaffold Solution:

The proposal to build scaffolding inside the cargo holds raised concerns about the safety of the ship's structure from the shipowner and the port authorities.

Solution:

Multiple meetings were held with port authorities, the shipowner, the ship's captain, and the scaffolding company to address safety concerns. We provided a comprehensive operational plan, safety measures, and certification of the scaffold's load-bearing capacity, ensuring the safety of personnel and the cargo. After three days of continuous meetings, the scaffolding solution was approved.

4. Direct Loading of Boilers onto a Barge:

Two 110-ton incineration boilers and two 56-ton reaction vessels needed to be transported to Qingdao Port via a barge. According to Qingdao Port regulations, the goods had to be lifted ashore before submitting arrival information and customs declaration.

Solution:

To ensure safety, minimize handling risks, and control costs, we applied for a "ship-to-ship" delivery, where the barge would be positioned alongside the vessel, and the ship's crane would directly load the heavy items onto the vessel's deck. All necessary approvals and safety plans were submitted to the port authorities and customs, reducing shipping risks and costs.

1. The execution of scaffolding inside the cargo holds at Qingdao Port was a groundbreaking achievement, providing valuable experience and insights for future operations at Qingdao Port's bulk cargo terminal, considering safety, technical, and operational efficiency aspects.

2. This shipment received significant attention from Qingdao Port and the Municipal Development Commission. The Publicity Department arranged for aerial footage of the loading process, which was published on popular Chinese news platforms, boosting the company's reputation and instilling confidence in China's foreign trade industry.