Interview with
Ms. Kellie Irias
Director of Commercial Services
First of all Kellie, what can you tell our readers about the history of KOGA? Where does the name come from?
King Ocean Gulf Alliance. LLC (KOGA) was founded in February 2020, in the midst of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the challenging circumstances, our vision was to establish a lean and highly experienced team to redefine excellence in the breakbulk project market and be a reliable partner to our clients. As carriers expanded, they became less responsive to individual client needs. We noticed that clients prefer working directly with decision-makers, rather than sales reps who might not have all the information or the ability to make important decisions quickly.
Our name KOGA was established as a strategic extension of the two driving forces of the company – King Ocean Services of Miami and the management group that leads the company.
Can you outline the shipping services that you provide in the market, your type of tonnage, and whether you are covering “global” or are more specialized in certain route segments?
We specialize in handling breakbulk and bulk cargoes. This includes a wide range of industrial and project cargoes such as heavy machinery, oversized construction materials, large industrial components, and other non-containerized items. In addition to breakbulk, we also manage bulk cargoes, including commodities like grains, metal products, and other raw materials that are transported in large quantities without packaging.
Our expertise in both areas allows us to mix and match different types of cargo on our voyages. We operate vessels ranging from 3,000 to 40,000 deadweight tons (dwt), including multi-purpose and handy size ships. Our active fleet is 7-12 vessels depending on our level of activity – some on long and short time charters.
While we offer global services, our heart really lies in the Americas. We know this region inside and out, which helps us tackle even the trickiest routes with confidence.
What is the KOGA Shipping policy towards freight forwarders? Do you support freight forwarders, do you prefer direct customers, or is it a mix?
At KOGA, we fully support all our clients, including freight forwarders, brokers, and direct customers. Forwarders are the drivers of breakbulk cargo. Maintaining an excellent working relationship with forwarders and supporting their needs is of primary importance to KOGA. These partners are crucial to our business, and we make it a point to respect the established roles and boundaries in the industry. Our aim is to be a trusted partner, not a competitor, ensuring that we work together to achieve shared success. While most of our business is controlled by freight forwarders and brokers, we also maintain a direct relationship with end customers.
In summary, KOGA supports and respects freight forwarders and brokers, focusing on collaboration and being a reliable partner while avoiding competition.
Would you have some pictures and/or videos depicting your vessels in action? Are there some particular projects that you have handled and that you would like our readers to know about?
With pleasure! Please see these examples below.
M/V KOGA Revolution (10,581dwt) discharging Power Generation piece of 82mt in Houston, TX.
M/V Franbo Progress (11,004dwt) loading in Houston Machinery in Houston, TX.
M/V Karvuna (21,179dwt) loading Heavy Haul Equipment in St. John, Antigua.
M/V Frisian Octa (8,284dwt) loading Oilfield Equipment in Houston, TX.
How would it be best for people to reach you?The best way to reach the team is to send an email to our individual or group email at chartering@kogaship.com or contact our direct cell number +1(281) 323 2658
