N,
E
Bulk shipping
that just works
Fast, realistic answers. Clear options. One accountable partner. From first indication to final laytime. Reliability is earned in the details, with a Plan B when conditions change.
Bulk cargo, handled properly
We help move dry bulk cargo across European and international routes. From first enquiry to final follow-up.
Clear process. Fewer surprises
We clarify cargo, timing, documents and port conditions early, so the shipment is planned on realistic terms.
Talk to us before you fix
Every shipment is different. Share your cargo, timing and route, and we’ll help you assess the best way forward.
800
cargoes yearly
A steady flow of fixtures—handled with clear ownership from first indication to close-out.
6.000.000
tons of cargo
Experience across high-volume bulk flows—where reliability is earned in the details.
ABT 90
different ship owners
A wide network of shipowner relationships—helping us find realistic options when it matters.
How we work
We start by clarifying what matters—cargo, timing constraints, and practical limits at each port.
Then we assess the market and discuss the realistic ways forward — whether spot, COA or another setup makes most sense for your cargo, timing and risk profile.
Before anything is fixed, we clarify the important details: documents, responsibilities, port limitations, loading/discharging terms and possible risk areas.
Once the agreement is in place, we stay close to execution, follow up with the parties involved and help keep the shipment moving if conditions change.
What we move
Typical cargoes include biomass, grain, cementitious materials, minerals, and selected recycling fractions (including waste-derived fuels).
Biomass
Reliable bulk flows with tight timing and port constraints.
Grain
Predictable execution and clear documentation from start to close-out.
Cementitious materials
Careful planning for clinker, slag and related bulk materials.
Recycling fractions Practical handling and early checks to avoid costly friction.
Small surprises can make bulk shipping expensive
The freight rate is only one line. What hurts margins is what happens around it: unclear constraints, port friction, waiting time, and late document checks.
Before you request an indication, a few basics make a big difference.
Start here before you request an indication
The FAQs to the right cover the essentials in plain English—what we do, when to contact us, what information we need, and what you can expect from first indication to final laytime.
Frequently asked questions
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Do you only cover Northern European sea routes or also longer bulk routes?
We work with bulk shipping across a range of sea routes, including longer ones. If you share your ports and cargo, we’ll confirm fit and options.
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How fast can you respond with an indication?
We aim to respond quickly - often with an initial view the same day - depending on corridor, timing, and how complete the input is. If something is unclear, we’ll tell you what’s missing and why it matters.
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What information do you need to give a realistic indication?
Cargo type and quantity, loading/discharging ports, target dates or windows, any constraints (draft, gear, berth limits), and any special requirements (moisture, sampling, documentation). If you don’t have it all, we’ll help you clarify what matters.
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When should we contact Holst in the process?
The earlier, the better—especially when timing, port constraints, or cargo requirements matter. Early involvement gives more options, clearer trade-offs, and fewer last-minute surprises.
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What does Holst actually do?
We are a bulk shipping freight desk and trusted advisor. We don’t operate vessels ourselves - we find realistic options, explain trade-offs, coordinate the parties involved, and stay accountable from first indication to final laytime.
Latest insights
Beyond the Freight Rate: What Can Add Cost to a Bulk Shipment?
A good freight agreement is the foundation. Clear planning helps reduce the risk of extra costs during execution.
Front Haul vs Back Haul: Why Direction Matters in Bulk Shipping
Why the same route can be expensive one way — and only make commercial sense the other.
COA vs Spot: What to Consider Before You Choose
A plain-English guide to flexibility, freight cost stability and the reality of your cargo flow.
Let's talk
Share a few details about your cargo and timing, and we’ll get back with clear next steps. Fast, realistic answers—without the noise.