# Bulk carrier

> A cargo ship built to carry unpackaged dry commodities such as grain, coal, and ore in its holds.

## Record

- Record type: Encyclopedia entry
- Canonical page: https://admiralsatlas.com/en/ship-types/bulk-carrier/
- Last updated: 2026-09-22

## Article

A **bulk carrier** is intended primarily to carry dry cargo loose in its holds rather than in containers or individual packages. Grain, coal, and mineral ores are familiar examples. The hold openings and cargo-handling arrangements are designed around loading and discharging large quantities of a single bulk commodity.

Some bulk carriers have onboard cranes, while others depend on shore equipment. This distinction matters when choosing ports and planning a voyage. A bulk carrier differs from a [general cargo ship](/en/ship-types/general-cargo-ship/), which is intended for more varied cargo handled as individual units.

Ore carriers are a specialized form of bulk carrier. Some regulatory definitions also include combination carriers, while commercial usage often distinguishes their liquid-cargo capability. [Further reading: IMO ship-type descriptions](https://www.imo.org/en/ourwork/safety/pages/regulationsdefault.aspx).

## Related records

- [Deadweight tonnage (DWT)](/en/maritime-units/deadweight-tonnage/index.md)
- [Dry bulk](/en/cargoes/dry-bulk/index.md)