What term describes a vessel designed to take on cargo at any location without a predetermined route?

A vessel designed to take on cargo at any location without a predetermined route is referred to as a tramp vessel. Tramp vessels operate on an as-needed basis, meaning they do not follow a regular schedule or fixed routes like scheduled liners. Instead, they provide flexible transportation, often responding to the demands of the market or specific cargo consignments.

This operational model allows tramp vessels to move goods to various ports depending on the availability of cargo, which can be advantageous during times of fluctuating demand or regional shortages. Their adaptability makes them vital to industries that require transportation services outside the constraints of regular shipping lines.

In contrast, shuttle vessels are typically used for a specific set route, demurrage relates to charges for delayed cargo handling or loading, and scheduled vessels operate on a predetermined schedule with set departure and arrival times. These other terms emphasize different aspects of maritime operations, but they do not accurately describe the flexible and non-scheduled nature of tramp vessels.