Get to know the vital terms of Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
A LASH is a type of cargo ship designed especially to carry the smaller barges referred to as lighters, which at the time of their installation on board the main vessel, already come loaded with their cargo. This form of logistics is very helpful where it becomes shallow, or the port facilities are otherwise restricted. This is of great use in places where bigger cargo ships cannot dock. The lighters used by LASH vessels have increased flexibility and reach in maritime logistics.
Loading Process: In the case of LASH, the cargo is loaded directly onto the individual lighters or small, self-contained barges. This may include bulk goods, industrial equipment, and oversized items that are often cumbersome to transport using standard containers.
Lifting Aboard the Ship: As soon as the lighters are ready, cranes at the LASH vessel lift them on the ship’s deck for safe transportation. As this is a modular system, each type of cargo is separately preloaded into the various types of lighters and thus saves time in loading and unloading.
Direct Offloading Upon Arrival: At arrival in the port of destination, the lighters are returned to the water and can make their own ways to final destinations or adjoining facilities. This flexibility makes LASH ships especially useful for covering ports that lack Deepwater docking facilities.
Flexibility in Cargo Handling: LASH ships are very versatile and can handle different types of cargo, thus offering solutions for mixed and non-standard freight.
Port Access Is Improved: LASH vessels can access areas that are port less due to shallow waters as lighters can navigate through such shallow waters.
Effective Turn Around Time: LASH vessels have preloaded lighters, and thus, they stay at port for minimal time thereby reducing congestion and quickening up activities.
LASH vessels offer essential supplies that improve global logistics in supporting cargo movements into ports with less developed infrastructure. It supports the implementation of a flexible, modular shipping technique for efficient global trade and optimization of supply chains.
