What is Short Sea Shipping?
Short sea shipping is a highly efficient method of transporting cargo between coastal ports, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional road-based logistics. By leveraging roll-on, roll-off vessels and truck trailers, short sea shipping provides a practical and eco-friendly solution for moving goods across short distances—particularly valuable for regions like Europe and beyond.
Keelspot: The World’s First Marketplace for Short Sea Shipping
Keelspot is proud to be the world’s first digital marketplace dedicated specifically to short sea shipping. Our platform is designed to connect cargo owners with the best matching carriers across Europe and beyond. While our sweet spot lies in breakbulk and project cargo, we also cater to traditional bulk cargoes, making Keelspot the go-to platform for all short sea shipping needs.
The Benefits of Short Sea Shipping
For companies accustomed to relying on road transport to move goods over long distances, such as from Southern Europe to the Nordics or across the Mediterranean, short sea shipping offers a transformative alternative. By shifting cargo from congested highways to the sea, businesses can significantly reduce their transportation costs, lower emissions, and avoid road-related delays.
One of the key advantages is its ability to reduce carbon footprints—by as much as 80% compared to road transport. This environmental benefit is crucial as countries worldwide strive to meet ambitious sustainability goals. Additionally, short sea shipping alleviates pressure on road networks, addressing issues like the truck driver shortage and rising fuel prices.
A Versatile Solution for Multiple Industries
Short sea shipping is highly adaptable, capable of handling a wide range of cargo types, including containers, dry and liquid bulk, and oversized loads. This versatility makes it an ideal choice for various industries, from manufacturing and agriculture to retail and energy. Whether transporting goods across Europe, the Mediterranean, or other coastal regions, short sea shipping provides a reliable and sustainable option for businesses looking to optimize their logistics.
Investing in the Future of Short Sea Shipping
As short sea shipping gains traction globally, governments and industry stakeholders are investing in the necessary infrastructure to support its growth. Enhanced port facilities, improved navigational channels, and better intermodal connections are key to facilitating seamless cargo movement between coastal ports. These developments are essential for integrating short sea shipping into modern supply chains and ensuring its continued success.
Conclusion
Short sea shipping is not just a regional solution; it’s a global approach to sustainable logistics. By taking advantage of existing waterways, businesses can reduce costs, lower emissions, and contribute to a more sustainable future. With its focus on efficiency and environmental responsibility, short sea shipping is set to play a pivotal role in the logistics strategies of companies around the world.
At Keelspot, we’re committed to making short sea shipping accessible and straightforward for everyone. As the world’s first digital marketplace dedicated to this sector, we’re here to help you unlock the benefits of short sea shipping—whether for breakbulk, project cargo, or traditional bulk. Contact us today to explore how we can help you optimize your logistics and contribute to a greener future.