liner trade

transport

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Last updated

June 17, 2026

Quick Summary

The liner trade involves ships that operate on a fixed schedule between designated ports, carrying general cargo at published rates. This system is managed by liner conferences, agreements between shipping companies to regulate competition and set rates. Unlike tramp steamers, which operate without a schedule and are hired for individual voyages, liners provide a predictable service.123

The development of containerization in the 1960s revolutionized ocean shipping, with specialized container ships designed for efficient loading and unloading of standardized containers. This method allows cargo to move seamlessly from truck to train to ship, minimizing costs and port time.45

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The liner trade
Other shipping is done by the “liner trade”—i.e., the passage of ships between designated ports on a fixed schedule and at published rates. Liner companies are able to provide such service through the liner conference system, which was first used on the Britain-Calcutta…
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Other shipping is done by the “liner trade”—i.e., the passage of ships between designated ports on a fixed schedule and at published rates. Liner companies are able to provide such service through the liner conference system, which was first used on the Britain-Calcutta…
Read More