Rolled cargo is a term used in the shipping industry, particularly in relation to the logistics and scheduling of cargo transport via sea. The term “rolled” refers to cargo that was scheduled to be loaded onto a vessel but was not loaded and hence “rolled” to a subsequent sailing. This phenomenon occurs in various circumstances and can impact the shipping schedules and overall supply chain timelines.

Reasons for Cargo Being Rolled

Several factors can cause cargo to be rolled, including:

Overbooking: Shipping lines might overbook a vessel, similar to airlines, betting on the fact that some shipments might not arrive in time or be cancelled. If all or more cargo arrives than expected, some cargoes are rolled to the next available vessel.
Space and Weight Constraints: Each vessel has a limited capacity in terms of weight and space. If the operational limits are reached, additional cargo cannot be loaded and gets rolled to future sailings.
Priority of Cargo: Some cargoes, due to their nature (e.g., perishables, hazardous materials) or based on higher freight rates paid, might get priority over other cargoes, leading to less urgent or lower-paying cargoes being rolled.
Logistical Challenges: Issues like delays in cargo arrival at port, documentation problems, or customs issues can lead to cargo missing its scheduled loading and being rolled.
Vessel Operations: Changes in vessel schedules due to maintenance, weather conditions, or rerouting can also result in cargo being rolled.

Implications of Rolled Cargo

Rolled cargo can have several implications for shippers, consignees, and the overall supply chain:

Delays: The most direct impact is a delay in the delivery of goods. This can affect the downstream supply chain and lead to potential losses, especially for time-sensitive goods.
Increased Costs: Rolling of cargo might result in additional storage and handling costs at the port. For businesses, there could be larger financial implications due to delays in production or sales.
Planning and Scheduling Disruptions: For businesses that rely on just-in-time delivery, rolled cargo can disrupt production schedules and operations, requiring rapid adjustments and rescheduling.

Managing the Risk of Rolled Cargo

To minimize the risk and impact of rolled cargo, businesses and logistics managers can adopt several strategies:

Advance Planning: Booking cargo well in advance and providing accurate and complete documentation can help in securing space on a vessel.
Building Relationships with Carriers: Establishing good relationships with shipping lines and freight forwarders can help in negotiating priorities and better handling during overbooking situations.
Flexible Logistics Planning: Having contingency plans and flexibility in logistics planning can help accommodate unexpected delays or rolled cargo.
Insurance and Contracts: Ensuring that contracts and insurance policies cover scenarios like delays due to rolled cargo can help mitigate financial risks.
Regular Communication: Maintaining clear and continuous communication with shipping lines and port agents can provide early warnings of potential rolling and allow for preemptive actions.

Conclusion

Rolled cargo is a challenge in the shipping industry that stems from various operational and logistical issues. While it can cause significant disruptions in the supply chain, understanding the reasons behind cargo rolling and implementing effective management strategies can help businesses reduce its occurrence and mitigate its impact.

Read More:

What is Rolled Cargo | Comprehensive Guide | FreightAmigo