Heavy Lift Workshop at CTL BHP 2025 provided valuable insights on a structured approach to heavy lift planning
The CTL BHP 2025 Conference (March 11-12) at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai featured an insightful Heavy Lift Workshop on the first day led by Mr Karsten Behrens, Director of SAL Engineering. The session was packed with valuable insights into the world of heavy lift shipping and planning, providing both technical background and practical takeaways for industry professionals.
Understanding Heavy Lift shipping
The workshop kicked off with a deep dive into the fundamentals of heavy lift shipping. Mr Behrens took the attendees through the different types of heavy lift vessels and the methods used to load and unload cargo. These included:
* Lift on – Lift off (LoLo) – Using onboard cranes to lift cargo in and out.
* Roll on – Roll off (RoRo) – Where cargo is wheeled on and off the vessel.
* Float on – Float off (FloFlo) – Used for floating cargo, such as offshore structures, where the vessel submerges to allow the cargo to be floated on.
A major focus of this section was on shipboard heavy lift cranes, their working principles, capabilities and limitations. Attendees gained insights into the different lifting gear components and the importance of vessel stability, as even minor miscalculations can have major implications on a lift.
The 8 essentials of Heavy Lift planning
The second part of the workshop took a practical turn, covering what Mr Behrens referred to as "The 8 Essentials"—the key pieces of information required for proper heavy lift planning. A well thought-out plan is critical in this segment, not just to save time and money but also to reduce risks. The essentials covered included:
* Weight – Understanding the exact weight of the cargo is crucial.
* Dimensions – Length, width and height must be precise for a smooth operation.
* Center of Gravity (CoG) Position – Determines balance and stability.
* Lifting Point Position, Type and Dimension – Essential for choosing the right lifting method.
* Lashing Points – Securing cargo safely during transit.
* Supports and Footprint – Knowing how the cargo will be supported on the vessel.
* Port of Loading / Port of Discharging – Helps in route planning and feasibility checks.
* Deck Options – Determines placement and securing techniques on the vessel.
Mr Behrens emphasised that close cooperation between all involved parties is vital to ensure seamless execution. The session also covered common industry terms and abbreviations, providing clarity on technical jargon. Additionally, participants got a quick look at existing industry guidelines and an introduction to key seafastening components.
Takeaways
The workshop was a fantastic opportunity for professionals to expand their knowledge and gain a structured approach to heavy lift planning. With a mix of theory and real-world applications, attendees left with a clearer understanding of how to approach heavy lift operations efficiently and safely.
The Heavy Lift Workshop at the CTL & BHP 2025 Conference proved to be a must-attend session for anyone involved in project cargo and specialised transport. Those who participated walked away with practical knowledge that they could immediately apply in their own operations.