What is Shortsea Shipping?

Shortsea Shipping involves the movement of cargo or passengers by water over relatively short distances. It can occur within lakes and river systems and along coast lines. It consists of mainly domestic shipping but can also include cross-border traffic (Canada - US - Mexico). It does not consist of shipping across the world's major oceans.

• Efficient and economic
• Safe, and
• Environmentally friendly

By transporting more goods over relatively short distance by water, shippers reduce costs and Canada becomes more competitive, prosperous and environmentally sustainable.

Shortsea Shipping Applications

Shortsea shipping operations include a range of applications:

• Containers (Lift-on/Lift-offt)
• Road/truck trailers (Roll-on/Roll-off)
• Dry or wet bulk cargo
• Conventional and general cargo
  Neo-bulk cargo (such as paper, wood or steel, etc.), and
• Passenger vehicles and people

It may involve a regularly scheduled service, charter service through term contracts, or on a short-term contract covering a specified number of voyages, days or given quantity of cargo.

Further information:  Read Transport Canada's insightful publication on Shortsea shipping in Canada, called "Making Connections"