Sea and coastal freight water transport

NACE code 50.2, 'Sea and coastal freight water transport', encompasses the transportation of freight by vessels on seas and coastal waterways. This industry plays a vital role in global trade and logistics, facilitating the movement of goods between domestic and international markets. As a key component of the broader transportation and logistics sector, sea and coastal freight water transport is essential for the efficient flow of raw materials, intermediate goods, and finished products around the world.

The primary production techniques in this industry involve the operation of various types of cargo vessels, such as container ships, bulk carriers, and tankers. These vessels are designed to transport specific types of freight, from containerized goods to bulk commodities like coal, oil, or grains. The loading, unloading, and storage of cargo are critical aspects of the production process, often involving specialized equipment and infrastructure like ports, terminals, and warehouses.

The main inputs required for sea and coastal freight water transport include the vessels themselves, which can range from small coastal freighters to large ocean-going ships. These vessels require fuel, maintenance, and crew to operate effectively. Additionally, the industry relies on port infrastructure, such as docks, cranes, and storage facilities, as well as supporting services like pilotage, towage, and cargo handling. The availability of navigable waterways, as well as regulatory frameworks and policies governing maritime transportation, are also crucial inputs for this industry.

The primary output of the sea and coastal freight water transport industry is the delivery of goods and materials to their intended destinations. The cargo transported can encompass a wide range of products, from raw materials like 07.1 Mining of iron ores and 08.1 Quarrying of stone, sand and clay to manufactured goods and consumer products. The outputs of this industry are then consumed by various other NACE codes, such as 46.1 Wholesale on a fee or contract basis, 46.7 Other specialised wholesale, and 52.2 Support activities for transportation.