GUIDANCE ON PREPARING CARGO HOLDS AND LOADING OF SOLID BULK CARGOES

The proper preparation of the cargo holds of the vessel for the intended carriage is deservedly considered one of the key elements of the bulk carrier operations. Subject preparation requires very careful and thorough planning followed by the competent execution.

It shall be understood that the lack of due preparation will not only lead to the claims relating to the cargo quality, e.g. its contamination/water ingress or shortage claims, but may also result in the different contractual claims related to the delayed or failed surveys, charter-party disputes and off-hire claims.

The process of preparation of the cargo holds commences well in advance, even before the intended cargo lands on the tank top for the first time and there are numerous factors to be considered in order to ensure that the preparation has been conducted in a correct and efficient manner. Some of the cargoes may require just sweeping out of the cargo hold plus washing, while for the other cargoes such preparation would not be considered sufficient.

It is very important to have a clear understanding of what exactly is required; note that all people on board including crew members and Master shall be aware of all processes involved. To ensure smooth voyage, careful attention shall be paid to the cargo at the time of fixing. ..