general cargo

[ jen-er-uhl kahr-goh ]

noun

, Transportation.

1. goods that are shipped as components, loaded and unloaded piece by piece, transported in individual barrels, drums, crates, etc., or on pallets; break bulk cargo:

   Our stowage methods for household appliances, automotive parts, farm equipment, and other general cargo follow a strict code of practice.

Word History and Origins

Origin of general cargo¹

First recorded in 1835–40

Example Sentences

Coals again to Oregon, seven thousand miles, and nigh as many more with general cargo for Japan and China.

From Project Gutenberg

She was bound to a port in Jamaica, with a general cargo for new owners, and with a new captain and officers.

From Project Gutenberg

The ship proved to be the Vulcan, of and from Liverpool, bound to Kingston with a valuable general cargo and several passengers.

From Project Gutenberg

According to the manifest the Fanny was bound for Iceland with a general cargo, part of which was to be shipped at Bergen.

From Project Gutenberg

On that first voyage the Narcissus carried general cargo to northern ports on the West Coast.

From Project Gutenberg