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Did you know that the shipping industry is one of the most important in the world? It’s responsible for transporting trillions of dollars worth of goods every year. In this blog post, we will discuss six interesting details about shipping that you probably didn’t know about. We will cover topics such as the history of shipping, the different types of shipping containers, and how technology is changing the shipping industry. We hope you enjoy it!
1. The History of Shipping
The first recorded shipping voyage took place in 1514 when the Portuguese explorer Vasco de Gama sailed from Lisbon, Portugal to India. Since then, shipping has become an integral part of the global economy. As international trade expanded, so too did the size and complexity of ships and vessels used for transporting goods.
In addition, shipping technology has improved drastically over the past century. The introduction of containerization in 1956 revolutionized the shipping industry and dramatically reduced costs. It also made it much easier to transport goods over long distances. When combined with advancements in satellite navigation and communication technology, it allowed the industry to become more efficient and reliable.
2. Types of Shipping Containers
Containers are used to transport goods around the world, from small packages to large cargo shipments. There are three main types of containers: dry containers, refrigerated containers, and flat rack containers.
Dry containers are the most common type of container used for shipped goods, such as clothes and electronics. Refrigerated containers are insulated and temperature-controlled to transport perishable items, like food and medicines. Flat rack containers, which have collapsible sides for easy loading, can be used for large items that
3. Shipping by Air
Shipping by air is a relatively new concept that has been made possible thanks to modern technology. Air shipping is much faster than traditional sea shipping, and it is used for time-sensitive items such as medicine and perishable goods. It also costs more than sea shipping, so it’s typically used when speed is of the utmost importance. Namely, air cargo jet charter is the only way to reach certain remote areas, or when air freight is simply unavoidable. It has become a very popular option for many businesses and it can give you access to a vast airport network. So, if you need to ship something quickly, air shipping is the way to go!
4. Container Tracking Technology
Technology has also revolutionized the way we track containers and shipments. Nowadays, most containers are equipped with GPS tracking systems that allow shippers to monitor the location of their cargo in real-time. This technology is especially useful for international shipments, as it allows shippers to quickly determine where a shipment is located at any given time.
For example, if a shipment is delayed due to customs issues, shippers can use the tracking system to monitor the progress of their cargo and adjust their schedules accordingly. The tracking system can also be used to ensure that the goods are delivered safely and on time.
5. Automated Loading and Unloading
Automation is changing the way goods are loaded and unloaded from ships and containers. Modern ports are now equipped with automated cranes, robotic arms, and other machines that can quickly move cargo in and out of containers without the need for manual labor. This technology reduces shipping times and costs, making it easier for cargo to move around the world.
A good example of this technology is the automated port in Rotterdam, Netherlands. This port uses fully-automated cranes to quickly load and unload cargo from containers, allowing for faster shipping times and greater efficiency. This technology is also being adopted by other ports around the world, making shipping faster and more efficient.
6. Environmental Impact of Shipping
The shipping industry has a significant impact on the environment. Large ships emit vast amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which contributes to global warming and climate change. In addition, many ships use fuel that contains sulfur, which can cause air pollution.
To reduce the environmental impact of shipping, many countries are now adopting new regulations and incentive programs to encourage ships to use cleaner fuels and more efficient engines.
Shipping is an essential part of the global economy and a key driver of international trade. Understanding how it works can help us make better decisions when selecting shipping methods for our goods. From the various types of containers to modern tracking technology, shipping today is faster and more efficient than ever before. But it also carries with it a responsibility to protect the environment from its negative impacts. With the right policies in place, we can ensure that shipping continues to be an important part of our lives for years to come.
