Translation guide
The English word 'cargo' refers to goods carried by a ship, plane, truck, or other vehicle. In Japanese, the most common and natural equivalent is 貨物 (kamotsu), which covers freight, goods, and cargo in general. Other terms like 積み荷 (tsumini) and カーゴ (kāgo) are used in specific contexts.
To refer to goods transported commercially, especially by ship, plane, or truck.
The standard word for cargo, freight, or goods. Used in logistics, transportation, and everyday contexts.
この港では多くの貨物が取り扱われている。
A lot of cargo is handled at this port.
貨物列車が駅を通過した。
A freight train passed through the station.
Refers specifically to cargo loaded onto a vehicle or vessel. Often used for ships and trucks.
船の積み荷は無事に届いた。
The ship's cargo arrived safely.
Loanword from English, used in compound terms like カーゴパンツ (cargo pants) or in brand names. Not commonly used alone for general cargo.
カーゴパンツが流行っている。
Cargo pants are in fashion.
To refer specifically to cargo transported by air.
The standard term for air cargo or air freight.
航空貨物の需要が増えている。
Demand for air cargo is increasing.
Loanword used in industry contexts, often seen in company names or services.
To refer to cargo carried by a ship.
Specifically means ship's cargo or freight. Common in maritime contexts.
船荷が港に到着した。
The ship's cargo arrived at the port.
Also used for ship's cargo, but more general (any loaded goods).
貨物 (kamotsu) is the most versatile and common word for cargo or freight. 積み荷 (tsumini) emphasizes goods that have been loaded onto a vehicle/vessel. カーゴ (kāgo) is a loanword mainly used in compounds or brand names, not as a standalone term for cargo.
エアカーゴサービスを利用する。
We use an air cargo service.
The work of unloading the cargo began.