International marine transportation, also known as "international marine cargo transportation", is the most important mode of transportation in international logistics. It refers to the use of ships to transport goods between ports in different countries and regions through sea lanes, and is the most widely used in international cargo transportation. At present, more than two-thirds of the total international trade volume, and about 90% of China's total import and export freight volume are transported by sea. Ocean transportation is a huge change for the world.

      Ocean transportation has the following characteristics:

1. Natural waterway
Ocean transportation is carried out by natural waterways, which is not restricted by roads and tracks, and has a stronger passing capacity. As the political, economic and trade environment and natural conditions change, routes can be adjusted and changed at any time to complete transportation tasks.
2. Large carrying capacity
With the development of the international shipping industry, modern shipbuilding technology has become increasingly sophisticated, and ships have become increasingly large. The ultra-giant tanker has reached more than 600,000 tons, and the fifth-generation container ship has a capacity of more than 5000 TEU.
Three, low freight
Maritime transportation channels are formed naturally, and port facilities are generally built by the government. Companies operating maritime transport can save a lot of investment in infrastructure. Ships have large carrying capacity, long service time, long transportation mileage, and low unit transportation cost, which provides favorable conditions for the transportation of low-value bulk cargo.
Fourth, the international nature of transportation
Ocean transportation is generally a kind of international trade, and its production process involves individuals and organizations in different countries and regions. Ocean transportation is also subject to international law and international management, as well as political and legal constraints and influences of various countries.
5. Slow speed and high risk
Ocean transportation is the slowest mode of transportation among various transportation vehicles. Because marine transportation is at sea, it is relatively affected by natural conditions. For example, a typhoon can drag a transport ship into the seabed, which is relatively risky. In addition, there are attacks such as pirates, and the risk is not small.
Six, incompleteness
Ocean transportation is only one link in the entire transportation process, and the ports at both ends of it must rely on the connection and cooperation of other transportation methods.
Ocean transportation also has obvious shortcomings: for example, ocean transportation is easily affected by natural conditions and climate, the flight schedule is not easy to be accurate, and the possibility of distress is also high.