3-D Cargo Management Software
One of the key tools that equips Rickmers-Linie to do so is the world's first three-dimensional cargo management software, Rickmers Cargo Operations Simulation System (RICOSYS). In a realistic computer-aided design model, large and heavy cargo items are digitised and the lifting, handling and bedding of these items is simulated on a shipment by shipment basis. Designed to optimise cargo flow, this software solution revolutionises stowage planning and cargo management by creating efficiencies, maximising vessel stability and improving customer service. Janssen explains: 'This software is a fantastic instrument. It helps to protect cargo, facilitates adherence to vessel schedules and thus to decrease waiting times. Furthermore it contributes to reducing inventory carrying costs.'
Verena Braeunl, Key Account and Project Sales Manager at Rickmers-Linie elaborates: 'A very good example is the recent shipment of a catamaran, weighing 200 tonnes. This is not exactly a lightweight, but the main challenge was caused by its dimensions: 44.4 metres in length and 16.4 metres in width. In combination with a height of eight metres these dimensions were clearly outstanding.'
The catamaran had to be shipped from Providence, USA, to Falmouth in the UK onboard Rickmers New Orleans. Even though those ports are not included in Rickmers-Linie's regular liner network Round-the-World Pearl String Service, the schedule is flexible enough to allow for deviation in case of need.
Precious Cargo
Every cargo is treated with utmost attention, but to ensure an especially precious cargo like this yacht reaches its destination safely, every aspect of the shipping process was examined closely. Braeunl illustrates: 'The first step was the digitalisation of this cargo in RICOSYS. The implemented stowage planning tools RICSTOW and RICLASH, which simulates lashing in three dimensions, were applied and lifting, handling and bedding as well as lashing requirements were calculated with the system. In this case the shipper provided a model of the catamaran, which proved to be very useful for getting as close to reality as possible.'
During the planning process, shipper and client work as closely together as possible to guarantee that every distinctive feature of the cargo is taken into account and looked at from every angle. Rickmers invites their clients to participate in feasibility studies from day one and takes on their advice and comments.
Regarding the catamaran, the big challenge was loading it safely onto Rickmers New Orleans, part of Rickmers' fleet of nine of Superflex Heavy Multipurpose vessels. All ships are identical and have a deadweight of 30.000 tonnes, a maximum speed of 19.5 knots and two cranes that can individually lift 320 tonnes, or 640 tonnes if combined. The ships have flexible tweendecks and dehumidifying devices in all holds. On top of that, they are equipped with an extendable lifting beam. Braeunl: 'The length of this lifting beam is nine metres, which was obviously not sufficient for the width of the catamaran of 16.4 metres. However, just by clicking the lengthening pieces at both sides, we got an extended length of 15.7
