# Combination carrier

> A ship designed to carry either liquid bulk or dry bulk cargo using its full deadweight capacity.

## Record

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

## Article

A **combination carrier** is designed to carry both liquid and dry cargoes in bulk, usually on different voyages. This dual capability distinguishes it from a conventional [bulk carrier](/en/ship-types/bulk-carrier/) or [oil tanker](/en/ship-types/oil-tanker/).

Its operational flexibility comes with cargo-change procedures: holds, tanks, and associated systems must be prepared for the next cargo. The classification describes design capability; it does not say which cargo a particular ship is carrying today.

[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)