Feeder vessel
What is a feeder vessel in shipping?
A container feeder vessel, also known as a feeder ship, is a relatively small cargo vessel that is specifically designed for transporting containers between smaller ports or terminals to larger hub ports where mainline vessels operate. These vessels serve as a crucial link in the global shipping network by facilitating the distribution of cargo to and from regional ports that may not be accessible to larger ships due to navigational constraints or limited infrastructure.
Why are feeder vessels used?
Feeder vessels play a vital role in optimizing the efficiency of containerized cargo transportation by connecting smaller ports to major transshipment hubs or gateway ports. They enable the consolidation and distribution of cargo across various regions, contributing to the seamless flow of goods within the supply chain. Additionally, feeder vessels help to alleviate congestion at major ports and reduce transportation costs by offering more direct routes for containerized cargo. Container feeder vessels can be particularly useful in regions with diverse or underdeveloped port infrastructure.
What is the typical size of a feeder ship?
Feeder ships typically have a capacity ranging from 300 TEU to 1,200 TEU, although some larger feeder vessels may have capacities up to 2,000 TEU or more.