Cosco Shipping in leasing deal for six heavy-lift newbuilds

A Strategic Move to Strengthen Specialized Cargo Capabilities
Cosco Shipping Specialized Carriers has taken a significant step to bolster its heavy-lift fleet by entering a leasing agreement for six new 60,000 dwt multi-purpose heavy-lift vessels. These state-of-the-art ships will be built by CSSC Chengxi Shipbuilding, commissioned by BOCOM Leasing, in a move that reflects the growing demand for specialized cargo transportation.
Meeting the Rising Demand for Special Cargo
Heavy-lift vessels are a core part of Cosco Shipping’s operational fleet, and this latest transaction is aimed at enhancing the company’s capability in transporting specialized cargo. “This transaction will better meet the company’s demand for transporting special cargo such as wind power equipment, machinery, and engineering project goods,” a spokesperson from Cosco Shipping Specialized Carriers stated.
With global emphasis on renewable energy and large-scale infrastructure development, the demand for transporting oversized and high-value equipment has surged. The introduction of these new vessels is expected to provide Cosco Shipping with the added flexibility and capacity to meet these logistics challenges efficiently.
Leveraging the Bareboat Charter Model
The deal is structured under a bareboat charter model, allowing Cosco Shipping to manage the leased vessels autonomously. This financial structure offers multiple advantages: it reduces the upfront capital expenditure typically required for newbuilds, enhances operational liquidity, and supports steady, long-term fleet growth.
By easing financial pressure and boosting cash flow, this model aligns well with Cosco’s strategic goal of maintaining a sustainable and competitive shipping operation.
Fleet Expansion and Continued Growth
This move follows a dynamic start to the year for Cosco Shipping Specialized Carriers. In the first quarter alone, the company added 13 new vessels to its growing fleet. These include seven pulp carriers, three multi-purpose heavy-lift vessels, and three car carriers demonstrating the company's broad investment in diverse shipping capabilities.
Conclusion
Cosco Shipping’s leasing deal for six new heavy-lift vessels underlines its commitment to innovation, financial prudence, and meeting specialized market demands. As global trade and energy logistics continue to evolve, Cosco is positioning itself at the forefront of reliable, specialized cargo transportation.