Cargo Operations
Cargo Operations connects loading/discharging plans, stowage and securing, tank cleaning and records, enclosed-space entry, and cargo quantity and condition. Start from the task and cargo type to identify the relevant documents, checks and evidence.
Use Loading/Discharging Plan and BLU for the ship/terminal interface within their respective scope; CSM, Ro-Ro, Heavy Lift and Break Bulk for configurations, supports and securing. Cargo Record Book, Tank Cleaning and Enclosed Space Entry address NLS records, cleaning and access with distinct purposes. IMDG and Reefer address specific hazards and conditions; Draft Survey, Cargo Claim and Charter Party help reconstruct quantities, facts and contractual conditions. Reporting containers lost or observed drifting has its own recipients and messages.
Loading/Discharging Plan
For solid bulk cargoes within the applicable scope of SOLAS VI/7, the Master and terminal representative agree the loading or unloading plan. The BLU Code guides the bulk-carrier/terminal interface; other cargoes follow their own regime, manuals, SMS and applicable procedures.
Cargo Record Book (Record Book for Noxious Liquid Substances)
MARPOL Annex II requires the Cargo Record Book for every ship certified to carry NLS in bulk, with defined signatures, availability and retention, and prewash control by the surveyor authorised by the competent Government.
Tank Cleaning
Tank cleaning requires three distinct checks: environmental handling of washing and residues, operational safety, and suitability for the next cargo. The MARPOL regime, P&A Manual or Crude Oil Washing (COW) manual, SMS procedures and acceptance criteria determine the checks and records needed for the particular case.
Cargo Securing Manual and Cargo Lashing
The approved Cargo Securing Manual (CSM) connects the actual cargo with the ship’s stowage arrangements, limits and securing devices. It is used before departure and during the voyage; applicability follows the ship and cargo, while the 2026 CIC checks existing requirements.
Enclosed Space Entry
Enclosed-space entry connects hazard assessment, authorisation, atmosphere testing and controls while the space is occupied. The rescue plan and two-monthly drill for personnel with entry or rescue duties prepare an organised response: an open or previously ventilated tank is not thereby safe.
Draft Survey and Determining Cargo Quantity
A draft survey determines cargo quantity by comparing displacement before and after the operation, accounting for changes in non-cargo weights. Readings, corrections and deductions must be traceable; comparison with shore figures, tolerance and surveyor appointment follow the protocol and applicable conditions.
IMDG Code — Carriage of Dangerous Goods in Packaged Form
Managing dangerous goods in packaged form connects the consignment declaration, IMDG entry, documents and actual cargo with space suitability, stowage and segregation. Amendment 42-24 applies in 2026; preparation for 43-26 must distinguish its dates and the status of the official texts.
Ro-Ro Cargo Securing
Ro-ro securing connects the vehicle’s mass, centre of gravity and position with the securing points and lashings specified by the Cargo Securing Manual. Check the actual configuration and installation; variants or cargo not covered require a competent assessment using the data, method and checks required by the applicable process.
Reefer Container Monitoring
Reefer monitoring connects readings, alarms, unit status and carriage instructions. Local checks and telematics help reconstruct deviations: distinguish the set point from measured temperature and retain checks, actions and authorisations for changes.
Managing Cargo Claims
Managing a cargo claim means promptly collecting facts and evidence on cargo quantity, apparent condition and chronology, linking them to the bill of lading, reservations and records. The Master, Company and P&I use the prescribed channels; the regime, liability and deadlines require competent case-specific assessment.
Heavy Lift Cargo and Project Cargo
For heavy lift and project cargo, reliable data, supports and securing must match the CSM and ship limits. Annex 13 also assists competent ship’s staff in assessing arrangements outside the manual; calculations, acceptance and checks follow the particular case.
Break Bulk Cargo: Stowage, Dunnage and Damage Prevention
For break bulk, reliable weight, dimensions and centre-of-gravity data guide stowage, dunnage and securing by item or homogeneous group. Tally and apparent-condition records document different aspects of receipt; the evidence package follows the cargo and contract.
Charter Parties and Cargo-Specific Clauses
Reading a charter party means connecting the fixture recap and riders with Notice of Readiness (NOR), port-call facts and times. The actual contract determines how laytime, demurrage, despatch or hire/off-hire apply and which port, berth, afloat and NAABSA conditions need checking.
BLU Code: Safety in the Loading and Unloading of Bulk Carriers
SOLAS VI/7 contains the Convention requirements for bulk-carrier loading and unloading; the BLU Code is linked operational guidance and the IMSBC Code governs solid bulk cargo under a distinct framework.
Mandatory Reporting of Containers Lost at Sea (SOLAS 2026)
Reporting containers lost or observed drifting connects the event, recipients and available data with a timely message. From 1 January 2026 SOLAS V/31–32 distinguishes loss and observation: a loss also requires follow-up information, safe verification and a final report.
Certified substantive revision: 16 October 2026 · page fingerprint 8f8836f80ecd