Breaking into Breakbulk: My Rotterdam Revelations
Last week, I found myself amidst the massive booths and cargo chatter of Breakbulk Europe 2025 in Rotterdam. As someone who's spent 22 years navigating the lanes of over-the-road (OTR) freight, diving into the world of breakbulk and project freight was like swapping my trusty Fiat for a monster truck, very intimidating, but so energizing.
1. A Whole New (Logistics) World
Project freight and breakbulk logistics are vast, intricate, and, frankly, a bit mind-boggling. Before this conference, my knowledge was limited to the occasional oversized load story I read on LinkedIn. But walking through the exhibition halls, I realized just how expansive this sector is. With over 600 exhibitors and more than 11,000 industry professionals from 126 countries, the scale was both impressive and a tad overwhelming. I've only scratched the surface, but I'm eager to delve deeper and share more insights as I learn.
2. The Sisterhood of the Shipping Pants
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the conference was the camaraderie among women in the industry. The Women in Breakbulk program was a standout, featuring exclusive events like a networking breakfast, a dinner-boat cruise through the Port of Rotterdam, and even a dedicated lounge on the show floor. These spaces weren't just about networking; they were about genuine connection, mentorship, and mutual upliftment. The women in this space embody the concept of collaboration over competition in the most authentic way. I left with a new circle of freight friends who generously shared their knowledge and experiences.
3. Stranger in a Strange Land
Despite my extensive experience in OTR transportation, attending Breakbulk Europe felt like stepping into an entirely different universe. I was surrounded by thousands of professionals, yet I didn't recognize a single face. It was a humbling reminder of how siloed our industry can be and the importance of stepping out of our comfort zones to broaden our horizons. While I won’t be moving a windmill any time soon, I can say learning more about breakbulk has deepened my understanding of global supply chains and that can only make me a better contributor to this industry.
4. Time: A Different Dimension
In the OTR world, timelines are tight, and delays are dreaded. But in project freight, time operates differently. Planning spans months, even years, and flexibility is key. For an OTR veteran like me, this approach was both baffling and enlightening. It challenged my perceptions and underscored the importance of adaptability in logistics.
5. Less Show, More Tell
While some conferences lean into high-tech demos and cool robots (which definitely have their place), Breakbulk Europe had a different vibe. This event was more about announcements, in-depth conversations, and meaningful networking. Instead of watching robot forklifts and inventory drones, attendees were deep in discussion, making deals, building partnerships, and catching up on industry shifts. It was practical, purposeful, and all about connection over showmanship.
In Conclusion
Attending Breakbulk Europe 2025 was more than just another conference to cover; it was a transformative experience for me. It challenged my assumptions, expanded my network, and ignited a newfound passion for a sector I had previously overlooked. To my fellow logistics professionals: if you ever get the chance to attend, do it. And to the incredible women of breakbulk, thank you for the warm welcome. Here's to new adventures and the roads (and seas) ahead.
