Introduction

The general cargo sector is probably the most strongly connected to the age-old traditions of merchant shipping. And still today, the transport of dry cargoes makes up a large part of the Dutch shipping industry. The general cargo sector also includes many ‘SME’ shipowners who operate with relatively small seagoing vessels.

Some ships have a height-adjustable bridge, allowing them to travel far inland. Most shipowners, however, are active in short sea shipping in European coastal waters.