Safe cargo handling - Stevedoring

Blue Water’s Stevedoring team of professional stevedores and naval architects are specialised in handling all kinds of bulk products, project cargo, heavy lifts and general cargo

Loading, unloading and securing cargo

Our stevedore foremen, many of whom are experienced former chief officers and captains, arrange loading, stowage, lashing & securing of cargo on board the vessels as well as supervising discharge operations.

The stevedoring services provided by Blue Water’s professional teams include conventional loading, grab discharge, handling of ro/ro vessels and containers by stationary and mobile harbour cranes.

Other related stevedoring services comprise cargo planning, cargo control, project estimates, supercargo assistance, lashing, securing and warehousing.

We have the most modern processing equipment available to ensure a precise, efficient and smooth cargo handling. We never compromise on safety and quality - your cargo will always be in safe hands with us.

Supervising and safe operations

The responsibility of our Supercargoes is to ensure that the stevedores provide safe and effective unloading and loading operations. Our specialists travel around the world to supervise all stages of a project when operations are performed in the busiest ports worldwide.

Our aim is to ensure that the cargo is lifted, lashed, welded and secured properly and that everyone on site are safe before, during and after an operation.

Select stevedoring services

Oversized cargo

The bigger, the better. Our freight forwarding team, specialised in oversized cargo, likes challenges. They will never complain about your cargo being out-of-gauge. They are experienced and qualified to find a solution.

Bulk cargo

Our experienced stevedores make sure that all bulk cargo loading and unloading operations are carried out in a manner that protects both the cargo and the hull structure of the bulk carrier and themselves of course.

Wind turbines

When we develop ideas, they will benefit our clients. Innovative thinking is our way of keeping up with the requirements of the wind industry where turbines and wind components are becoming bigger and bigger.

Ro/Ro shipments

Rolling the cargo on and off the vessel must be carried out with attention to detail. We know that the slightest wrong turn or inattention may prove costly. We always keep an eye on the cargo and vessel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Stevedoring is the process of loading and unloading cargo between a ship and the quay at a port. It includes planning, handling and securing cargo during port operations to ensure it is moved safely and efficiently.

Stevedoring services cover a wide range of cargo types, including containers, breakbulk cargo, bulk commodities, heavy-lift cargo, project cargo and roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) cargo. The work is carried out by trained stevedores using specialised equipment and follows strict safety procedures and port regulations.

Efficient stevedoring helps minimise vessel turnaround times and ensures cargo is handled without unnecessary delays or damage.

Cargo handling refers to the movement, loading, unloading, storage and transfer of goods throughout the transport chain. It takes place in ports, terminals, warehouses, airports and distribution centres.

Cargo handling includes activities such as:

  • loading and unloading ships, trucks, trains and aircraft
  • moving cargo within terminals and warehouses
  • packing, palletising and securing goods
  • operating lifting and handling equipment
  • inspecting cargo for damage and verifying quantities
  • preparing cargo for onward transport.

Proper cargo handling helps protect goods from damage, improves operational efficiency and supports safe transport across the supply chain.

The loading and unloading of ships is a carefully planned process designed to ensure the safety of the vessel, crew, cargo and port personnel.

Before operations begin, a loading or discharge plan is prepared based on the cargo type, vessel stability, weight distribution, port facilities and destination. Cargo is then moved using cranes, forklifts, reach stackers, conveyors or other specialised equipment, depending on the type of goods.

During loading, cargo is placed according to the stowage plan to maintain the vessel's stability and ensure efficient unloading at subsequent ports. During discharge, cargo is removed in a planned sequence to maintain safe weight distribution throughout the operation.

Throughout the process, operators monitor cargo condition, lifting operations and safety procedures to reduce the risk of accidents or cargo damage.

Get in touch

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Let one of our dedicated colleagues from the Stevedoring department handle your request. Reach out to us via the form.

Service and Expertise

Customs

Customs formalities including customs clearance of goods

HSSEQ

Health, Safety, Security, Environment and Quality requirements

Mining Logistics

We provide mining logistics covering capital projects and mine supply globally

North Atlantic

Transport solutions to the North Atlantic region by sea, road and air

Port Agency

Port-related services to vessels in connection with port calls

Stevedoring

Loading/discharging of vessels including cargo planning and securing

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