Which of the following is commonly moved by ships?

• A. Crude oil
• B. Grass
• C. Live stock
• D. Fresh produce

Answer: (A)

Moving bulk liquids across oceans is a fundamental activity in international shipping. Crude oil fits this pattern perfectly: it’s produced in large volumes in a few regions and consumed worldwide, so it needs to travel long distances efficiently. Tankers are specifically built to carry these vast quantities safely and economically, making maritime transport the primary method for moving crude oil.

Grass isn’t shipped in bulk by sea because it spoils quickly and isn’t a bulk commodity. While live animals and fresh produce are moved by ship in some cases, they require specialized handling, strict welfare standards, and controlled conditions, which makes them far less common as the standard ocean freight compared with crude oil.