Cargo, Unboxed

Before containers changed the world of shipping, cargo had its own way of traveling – crate by crate, sack by sack. Curious how it worked? Watch and see.

Start reading
Watch the video

From Barrels to Boxes: The Dramatic Evolution of Cargo Handling

Ever wondered how goods were shipped before the age of containers? Our latest video takes you right onto the bustling docks of the past, where cargo in boxes, barrels, crates, and bales was loaded by cranes – and sometimes pure muscle power.

See how each shipment was a logistical adventure: crews balancing massive loads, every item meticulously arranged, and ports buzzing for days as ships were filled and emptied. Then witness how shipping changed forever: In 1967, Hapag and North German Lloyd became the first shipping companies in Europe to order full container ships – four pioneering vessels, each with a capacity of 736 TEU. It marked the beginning of a new era that slashed transport times and costs, and laid the foundation for today’s global trade.

Some materials used in this video are of unclear copyright status. They are shown for editorial purposes under fair use or comparable provisions. If you hold rights or have relevant information, please contact us.

Discover more of our New Horizons stories


A Quest for Quality

Join Luise Jacobs and Pia Dabelstein by unveiling the secret of quality and technology at Hapag-Lloyd.

Read more

Navigating Change

How Jayati Chakraborty redefines female leadership at Hapag-Lloyd's QSC India.

Read more

Your Photos

From portside sunsets to open-sea snapshots: These are the images that caught our colleagues’ eyes. Take a look through their lens.

Read more

On Art and the Algorithm of Happiness

Following the unique route of Ijeoma Nwoke from Lagos, via Aberdeen to Hapag-Lloyd in Hamburg.

Read more

Seafarer Stories

What’s it really like to live and work where the horizon never ends? Step aboard and discover a multitude of stories from life at sea.

Read more

"A Clean Ship is a Happy Ship"

How grooming technology is literally shaving emissions off Hapag-Lloyd’s fleet – keeping it clean and green.

Read more

Beyond the Helm

In this series, it’s the people behind the voyage who take the lead – sharing their own glimpses into everyday maritime life.

Read more

Catch of the Month

Feeling hungry? Our colleagues opened their kitchens to share dishes with a special connection to their homes. Discover what’s cooking.

Read more

New Edition

Stay tuned! Our brand-new edition of Logbook, coming in August 2025, is waiting just on the horizon.

Coming in August

You would like to share your story or feedback with us? Get in touch with us!

Email the Logbook team