Cargo: meaning, definitions and examples

Generally used to refer to goods carried on a ship, aircraft, or large vehicle.

• The ship's cargo included electronics and machinery.
• They unloaded the cargo from the airplane.

Refers to goods transported in bulk by truck, train, ship, or aircraft, often indicating commercial or industrial transportation.

• The freight train was loaded with coal.
• Freight costs have increased due to rising fuel prices.

Used for goods sent by any mode of transport, frequently emphasizes the action of sending or the scheduled arrival of items.

• The shipment of medical supplies arrived on time.
• The company is expecting a new shipment of products next week.

Commonly used for any items that are being transported or carried, could be in smaller quantities and can refer to personal belongings.

• They packed the load into the car for the camping trip.
• He had to carry a heavy load up the stairs.

Use 'cargo' to refer to items being transported, typically by a large vehicle such as a ship, airplane, or truck.

• The ship's cargo included thousands of containers of electronics
• The airplane's cargo hold was filled with medical supplies

Use 'merchandise' to refer to commercial products available for sale, typically in a retail setting.

• The merchandise at the store includes clothing and accessories
• Retailers must ensure their merchandise is displayed attractively

Use 'goods' to indicate items that are produced for sale, encompassing a broad range of products.

• The store sells a variety of household goods
• Imported goods often have higher prices due to shipping costs

Use 'commodities' to refer to raw materials or primary agricultural products that can be bought and sold, like gold, oil, or wheat.

• The price of commodities like oil and wheat can fluctuate greatly
• Traders often invest in commodities to diversify their portfolios

Use 'cargo' when referring to goods or products transported, especially by ship, truck, or aircraft.

• The ship carried a large cargo of grain.
• The cargo was unloaded at the port.

Use 'passengers' when referring to people who are traveling in a vehicle but are not driving or operating it.

• The bus was filled with passengers headed to the city.
• The plane had over 200 passengers on board.

Use 'crew' when referring to a group of people working together, especially those operating a vehicle like a ship, aircraft, or spacecraft.

• The flight crew ensured all passengers were safe.
• The ship's crew worked tirelessly during the storm.

Use 'occupants' when referring to people who reside or are present in a space or vehicle.

• The occupants of the building were evacuated safely.
• The car was badly damaged, but all its occupants were unharmed.