Roll-on roll-off (ro-ro) operator, Höegh Autoliners, has signed a contract with a Japanese construction equipment manufacturer to transport heavy construction equipment from Asia to Europe.
The development highlights a trend for ro-ro vessels to be used for breakbulk and project cargo.
Höegh said the deal has a term of five years with its Aurora class vessels currently under construction, expected to feature significantly in the deal.
While the exact price tag of the deal was not disclosed, the Norwegian carrier said its mutual rate and volume commitments exceeded a total value of $100m (R1.8bn). Commenting on the agreement, Höegh Autoliners CEO, Andreas Enger, said the liner’s vessels are built with high and heavy capacity.
“The Aurora class vessels, scheduled for delivery from 2024 onwards, will feature a significantly enhanced capacity for high and heavy cargo.
“When the new vessels are delivered, our customers will reap the benefits of transporting their cargo with industry-leading vessels that boast the lowest carbon footprint in the industry,” Enger said.
