Cargo ships rarely have superstructure (above the main deck). There is a pilot bridge with a chimney on board. There are engines and living quarters under the bridge. The rest of the ship can hold as much cargo as possible.

Although modern transport ships are of various types and structures, they are all composed of hull (including superstructure) and power plant (see ship power plant), and are equipped with various outfitting equipment and systems. The hull and its superstructure are the main body of the transport ship, providing space for passengers, crew, cargo, power plants, oil, water and other materials.