Unitized cargo is the main method by which imports and exports are brought in and out of the island of Ireland. Within the unitized cargo sector, cargo is transported either through Lo/Lo channels through Irish ports or alternatively for time sensitive consignments, cargo is moved through Ro/Ro channels.

Lo/Lo Cargo Sector

The Lo/Lo cargo sector is one of the three main cargo sectors facilitating imports and exports to the Republic of Ireland from Great Britain, mainland Europe and the Mediterranean. There are also worldwide transhipment services available from the Republic of Ireland.

Within the Republic of Ireland, the three main ports that handle Lo/Lo cargo are Dublin Port Company, the Port of Cork and the Port of Waterford. Lo-Lo Cargo as a rule is lifted on and lifted off vessels by port’s cranes and derricks. Some Lo/Lo vessels are “self-geared” vessels and have deck mounted cranes that facilitate loading cargo. Unladen cargo is where the container is empty. In order to give a true indication of cargo levels, the Irish Maritime Development Office do not include unladen cargo volumes in our annual reporting.

Over the period of a year the Irish Maritime Development Office collate quarterly statistics for each main cargo sector in order to provide accurate representation of maritime freight movements through Irish ports throughout the year. The annual statistics are published in the Irish Maritime Transport Economist. These figures are regularly updated and the most recent quarterly Lo/Lo figures are available below:

Ro/Ro Cargo Sector

The Ro/Ro cargo sector connects Ireland to the UK and Continental Europe’s transport networks. This facilitates the transhipment of time sensitive, perishable and agri-business cargoes moving through Irish ports.  Dedicated short-sea routes link Ireland to Continental Europe and the UK, ensure frequent service to both Irish exporters and importers. Within the Republic of Ireland, Dublin Port Company, Port of Cork and Rosslare Europort are the main entry and exit ports for the Ro/Ro sector.

The Ro/Ro cargo volumes provide an accurate indication of import and export volumes passing through Irish ports at any given time and can be an indicator of overall national performance in the context of economic activity and productivity.

Over the period of a year the Irish Maritime Development Office collate quarterly statistics for each main cargo sector in order to provide accurate representation of maritime freight movements through Irish ports throughout the year. The annual statistics are published in the Irish Maritime Transport Economist. These figures are updated regularly and the most recent quarterly Ro/Ro figures are available below:

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Past quarterly statistical bulletins can be accessed the press release section of our site.