break-bulk

break-bulk (not comparable)

1. Of cargo: heterogeneous in size, shape, and handling requirements; neither bulk nor containerized.

   Hypernym: noncontainerized (often synonymous)

   • 2006, Brian J. Cudahy, Box Boats: How Container Ships Changed the World, page 9:

     Break-bulk cargo is characterized by its multiplicity and diversity. […] In break-bulk service, a cargo ship might carry barrels of cooking oil, ... cartons..., bales ..., bags ..., and so on.

break-bulk (plural break-bulks)

1. A ship that carries cargo in miscellaneous small containers.