Allcargo Logistics

GLOSSARY

NVOCC

Terms	Full Form	Defination
Acceptance of Goods		The process of receiving a consignment from a consignor, usually against the issue of a receipt. From this moment and from this place the carrier's responsibility for the consignment begins.
Act of God		Accidents of a nature beyond human control such as flood, lightning or hurricane usually quoted as 'force majeure'.
Ad Valorem		In proportion to the value: A phrase applied to certain freight or customs duties levied on goods, property, etc. set as a percentage of their value.
Advice Note		A written piece of information e.g. about the status of the goods.
Agency Fee		Fee payable by a shipowner or ship operator to a port agent.
Agent		A person or organisation authorised to act for or on behalf of another person or organisation An Agent is a corporate body with, which there is an agreement to perform particular functions on behalf of them at an agreed payment. An Agent is either a part of the organisation or an independent body.
Air Waybill		A document made out by or on behalf of the carrier(s) confirming receipt of the goods by the carrier and evidencing the contract between the shipper and the carrier(s) for the carriage of goods as described therein.
Allotment		A share of the capacity of a means of transport assigned to a certain party, e.g. a carrier or an agent, for the purpose of the booking of cargo for a specific voyage.
American Bureau of Shipping		American classification society which has established rules and regulations for the classification of seagoing vessels or equipment.
Abbreviation: ABS
Arbitration		The process of referring to an agreed person for judgement on issues of dispute, without requiring the use of courts.
Arrival Date		The date on which goods or a means of transport is due to arrive at the delivery site of the transport.
Arrival Notice		A notice sent by a carrier to a nominated notify party advising of the arrival of a certain shipment or consignment.
Assignment		The transfer of certain rights from one party to another.
Authorised Consignee /Consignor		A trader authorised by the European Commission (regulation 2454/93) to receive or despatch consignments under transit procedures without having to present goods and documents directly at the customs office.
Authorization		The commission to a certain person or body to act on behalf of another person or body. The person or body e.g can be authorised to issue Bills of Lading or to collect freight.
Average		In marine insurance: a loss or damage to or in respect of goods or equipment. The numerical result obtained by dividing the sum of two or more quantities by the number of quantities
Average Adjusters		In general average affairs average adjusters are entrusted with the task of apportioning the loss and expenditure over the parties interested in the maritime venture and to determine which expenses are to be regarded as average or general average.
Bill of Lading		A particular article, stipulation or single proviso in a Bill of Lading. A clause can be standard and can be pre-printed on the Bill of Lading.
Bank Guarantee		An undertaking by a bank to be answerable for payment of a sum of money in the event of non performance by the party on whose behalf the guarantee is issued.
Bar Coding		A method of encoding data for fast and accurate electronic readability. Bar codes are a series of alternating bars and spaces printed or stamped on products, labels, or other media, representing encoded information which can be read by electronic readers, used to facilitate timely and accurate input of data to a computer system. Bar codes represent letters and/or numbers and special characters like +, /, -, etc.
Bay		A vertical division of a vessel from stem to stern, used as a part of the indication of a stowage place for containers. The numbers run from stem to stern; odd numbers indicate a 20 foot position, even numbers indicate a 40 foot position.
Bay Plan		A stowage plan which shows the locations of all the containers on the vessel.
Berth		A location in a port where a vessel can be moored often indicated by a code or name.
Bilateral Transport Agreement		Agreement between two nations concerning their transport relations.
Bill of Exchange		An unconditional order in writing to pay a certain sum of money to a named person.
Bill of Health		The Bill of Health is the certificate issued by local medical authorities indicating the general health conditions in the port of departure or in the ports of call. The Bill of Health must have been visaed before departure by the Consul of the country of destination.When a vessel has free pratique, this means that the vessel has a clean Bill of Health certifying that there is no question of contagious disease and that all quarantine regulations have been complied with, so that people may embark and disembark.
Bill of Lading		A document which evidences a contract of carriage by sea. The document has the following functions:
		? A receipt of goods, duly signed by an authorised person on behalf of the carriers.
		? A document of title to the goods described therein.
		? Evidence of the terms and conditions of carriage agreed upon between the two parties.At the moment 3 different models are used:
		o A document for either Combined Transport or Port to Port shipments depending whether the relevant spaces for place of receipt and/or place of delivery are indicated on the face of the document
		o A classic marine Bill of Lading in which the carrier is also responsible for the part of the transport actually performed by himself.
		o Sea Waybill: A non-negotiable document, which can only be made out to a named consignee. No surrender of the document by the consignee is required.
Bill of Lading Clause		A particular article, stipulation or single proviso in a Bill of Lading. A clause can be standard and can be pre-printed on the Bill of Lading.
Bill of Material		A list of all parts, sub-assemblies and raw materials that constitute a particular assembly, showing the quantity of each required item.
Block Train		A number of railway wagons (loaded with containers), departing from a certain place and running straight to a place of destination, without marshalling, transhipping or any coupling or de-coupling of wagons.
Bona Fide		In good faith; without dishonesty, fraud or deceit.
Bonded		The storage of certain goods under charge of customs viz.customs seal until the import duties are paid or until the goods are taken out of the country.
		? Bonded warehouse (place where goods can be placed under bond)
		? Bonded store (place on a vessel where goods are placed behind seal until the time that the vessel leaves the port or country again)
		? Bonded goods (dutiable goods upon which duties have not been paid i.e. goods in transit or warehoused pending customs clearance)
Booking		The offering by a shipper of cargo for transport and the acceptance of the offering by the carrier or his agent.
Booking Reference Number		The number assigned to a certain booking by the carrier or his agent.
Break Bulk		? To commence discharge
		? To strip unitised cargo
Break Bulk Cargo		General cargo conventionally stowed as opposed to unitised, containerised and Roll On-Roll Off cargo.
Broker		Person who acts as an agent or intermediary in negotiating contracts.
Brussels Tariff Nomenclature BSI Container Specification
Buffer Stock		A quantity of goods or articles kept in store to safeguard against unforeseen shortages or demands.
Bulk Cargo		Unpacked homogeneous cargo poured loose in a certain space of a vessel or container e.g. oil and grain.
Bulk Carrier		Single deck vessel designed to carry homogeneous unpacked dry cargoes such as grain, iron ore and coal.
Bulk Container		A container designed for the carriage of free-flowing dry cargoes, which are loaded through hatchways in the roof of the container and discharged through hatchways at one end of the container.
Bunker Adjustment Factor		Adjustment applied by liner or liner conferences to offset the effect of fluctuations in the cost of bunkers.
Bunkers		Quantity of fuel on board a vessel.
Bureau Veritas		French classification society.
Business Process		A business process is the action taken to respond to particular events, convert inputs into outputs, and produce particular results. Business processes are what the enterprise must do to conduct its business successfully.
Business Process Model		The business process model provides a breakdown (process decomposition) of all levels of business processes within the scope of a business area. It also shows process dynamics, lower-level process interrelationships. In Summary it includes all diagrams related to a process definition that allows for understanding what the business process is doing (and not how).
Buyer		Party to which merchandise is sold.
Cabotage		? Transport of goods between two ports or places located in the same country.
		? Transport of cargo in a country other than the country where the vehicle is registered road-cargo
		? The carriage of a container from a surplus area to an area specified by the Owner of that container, in exchange of which and during which the operator can use this container.
CAD		Terms of payment: if the buyer of goods pays for the goods against transfer of the documents, entitling him to obtain delivery of the goods from the carrier.
CAF		Adjustment applied by P&O; Nedlloyd lines or liner conferences on freight rates to offset losses or gains for carriers resulting from fluctuations in exchange rates of tariff currencies.
Call
		The visit of a vessel to a port.
Call Sign		A code published by the International Telecommunication Union in its annual List of Ships' Stations to be used for the information interchange between vessels, port authorities and other relevant participants in international trade. Note: The code structure is based on a three digit designation series assigned by the ITU and a one digit assigned by the country of registration.
Capacity		? The ability, in a given time, of a resource measured in quality and quantity.
		? The quantity of goods which can be stored in or loaded into a warehouse, store and/or loaded into a means of transport at a particular time.
Cargo		? Goods transported or to be transported, all goods carried on a ship covered by a Bill of Lading.
		? Any goods, wares, merchandise, and articles of every kind whatsoever carried on a ship, other than mail, ship's stores, ship's spare parts, ship's equipment, stowage material, crew's effects and passengers' accompanied baggage (IMO)
		? Any property carried on an aircraft, other than mail, stores and accompanied or mishandled baggage, also referred to as 'goods' (ICAO)
Cargo Handling		All procedures necessary to enable the physical handling of goods.
Cargo Tracer		A document sent by the agent to all relevant parties, stating that certain cargo is either missing or over-landed.
Cargo Unit		A vehicle, container, pallet, flat, portable tank or any other entity or any part thereof which belongs to the ship but is not permanently attached to that ship.
Carriage		The process of transporting (conveying) cargo, from one point to another.
Carriage and Insurance Paid		(...named place of destination)
		Abbreviation: CIP
Carriage Paid To		(...named place of destination)
		Abbreviation: CPT
Carrier		The party undertaking transport of goods from one point to another.
Carrier Haulage		The inland transport service, which is performed by the sea-carrier under the terms and conditions of the tariff and of the relevant transport document.
Carriers Bill of Lading Ports		Terminal, Pre-terminal port or Post-terminal Port as per tariff, indicated on the Bill of Lading and which is not the port physically called at by Carriers' ocean vessels.
		Note: Under normal circumstances in the Bill of Lading only ports should be mentioned which are actually called at.
Carriers Lien		When the shipper ships goods 'collect', the carrier has a possessory claim on these goods, which means that the carrier can retain possession of the goods as security for the charges due.
Cartage		Abbreviation: CAD
		Terms of payment: if the buyer of goods pays for the goods against transfer of the documents, this entitles him to obtain delivery of the goods from the carrier.
Cash On Delivery		Abbreviation: COD
		Terms of payment: if the carrier collects a payment from the consignee and remits the amount to the shipper (air cargo).
Caveat Emptor		Let the buyer beware, purchaser must ascertain the condition of the goods to be purchased prior to the purchase.
Cellular Vessel		A vessel, specially designed and equipped for the carriage of containers.
CENSA		Council of European and Japanese National Shipowner's Associations.
Certificate of Classification		A certificate, issued by the classification society and stating the class under which a vessel is registered.
Certificate of Origin		A certificate, showing the country of original production of goods. Frequently used by customs in ascertaining duties under preferential tariff programmes or in connection with regulating imports from specific sources.
Charge		An amount to be paid for carriage of goods based on the applicable rate of such carriage, or an amount to be paid for a special or incidental service in connection with the carriage of goods.
Charge Type		A separate, identifiable element of charges to be used in the pricing/rating of common services rendered to customers.
/Charter Contract		? A contract in which the shipowner agrees to place his vessel or a part of it at the disposal of a third party, the charterer, for the carriage of goods for which he receives a freight per ton cargo, or to let his vessel for a definite period or trip for which a hire is paid.
Charterer		The legal person who has signed a charter party with the owner of a vessel or an aircraft and thus hires or leases a vessel or an aircraft or a part of the capacity thereof.
Chassis		? A wheeled carriage onto which an ocean container is mounted for inland conveyance.
		? The part of a motor vehicle that includes the engine, the frame, suspension system, wheels, steering mechanism etc., but not the body.
Claim		A charge made against a carrier for loss, damage or delay.
Classification		Arrangement according to a systematic division of a number of objects into groups, based on some likeness or some common traits.
Classification Society		An Organisation, whose main function is to carry out surveys of vessels, its purpose being to set and maintain standards of construction and upkeep for vessels, their engines and their safety equipment. A classification society also inspects and approves the construction of containers.
Clean Bill of Lading		A Bill of Lading which does not contain any qualification about the apparent order and condition of the goods to be transported (it bears no stamped clauses on the front of the Bill of Lading). It bears no superimposed clauses expressly declaring a defective condition of the goods or packaging (resolution of the ICS 1951).
Clean on Board		When goods are loaded on board and the document issued in respect to these goods is clean.
		Note:Through the usage of the UCP 500 rules the term has now become superfluous.
Client		A party with which a company has a commercial relationship concerning the transport of e.g. cargo or concerning certain services of the company concerned, either directly or through an agent.
Co-loading		The loading, on the way, of cargo from another shipper, having the same final destination as the cargo loaded earlier.
Combined Transport		Intermodal transport where the major part of the journey is by one mode such as rail, inland waterway or sea and any initial and/or final leg carried out by another mode such as road.
Combined Transport		Abbreviation: CTD
Document		Negotiable or non-negotiable document evidencing a contract for the performance and/or procurement of performance of combined transport of goods.Thus a combined transport document is a document issued by a Carrier who contracts as a principal with the Merchant to effect a combined transport often on a door-to-door basis.
		Combined Transport Operator
		Abbreviation: CTO
		A party who undertakes to carry goods with different modes of transport.
Commercial Invoice		A document showing commercial values of the transaction between the buyer and seller.
Commodity		Indication of the type of goods. Commodities are coded according to the harmonised system.
Conditions		? Anything called for as requirements before the performance or completion of something else
		? Contractual stipulations which are printed on a document or provided separately
Conditions of Carriage		The general terms and conditions established by a carrier in respect of the carriage (air cargo).
Conditions of Contract		Terms and conditions shown on the Air Waybill (air cargo).
Conference		Accumulation of vessels at a port to the extent that vessels arriving to load or discharge are obliged to wait for a vacant berth.
Consignee		The party such as mentioned in the transport document by whom the goods, cargo or containers are to be received.
Consignment		A separate identifiable number of goods (available to be) transported from one consignor to one consignee via one or more than one modes of transport and specified in one single transport document.
Consignment Instructions		Instructions from either the seller/consignor or the buyer/consignee to a freight forwarder, carrier or his agent, or other provider of a service, enabling the movement of goods and associated activities. The following functions can be covered:
		? Movement and handling of goods (shipping, forwarding and stowage)
		? Customs formalities
		? Distribution of documents
		? Allocation of documents (freight and charges for the connected operations).
		? Special instructions (insurance, dangerous goods, goods release, additional documents required).
Consignment Note		A document prepared by the shipper and comprising a transport contract. It contains details of the consignment to be carried to the port of loading and it is signed by the inland carrier as proof of receipt.
Consignor		To group and stuff several shipments together in one container.
Consolidated Container		Container stuffed with several shipments (consignments) from different shippers for delivery to one or more consignees.
Consolidation		The grouping together of smaller consignments of goods into a large consignment for carriage as a larger unit in order to obtain a reduced rate.
Consolidation Point		Location where consolidation of consignments takes place.
Consolidator		A firm or company which consolidates cargo.
Consortium		Consortium is a form of co-operation between two or more carriers to operate in a particular trade.
Container		An item of equipment as defined by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) for transport purposes. It must be of:
		? a permanent character and accordingly strong enough to be suitable for repeated use.
		? specially designed to facilitate the carriage of goods, by one or more modes of transport without intermediate reloading.
		? fitted with devices permitting its ready handling, particularly from one mode of transport to another
		? so designed as to be easy to fill and empty
		? having an internal volume of 1 m3 or more
		The term container includes neither vehicles nor conventional packing.
Container Check Digit		The 7th digit of the serial number of a container used to check whether prefix and serial number are correct.
Container Depot		Storage area for empty containers.
Container Freight Station		Abbreviation: CFS
		A facility at which (export) LCL cargo is received from merchants for loading (stuffing) into containers or at which (import) LCL cargo is unloaded (stripped) from containers and delivered to merchants.
Container Lease		The contract by which the owner of containers (lessor) gives the use of containers to a lessee for a specified period of time and for fixed payments.
CLP	Container Load Plan	A list of items loaded in a specific container and where appropriates their sequence of loading.
Container Manifest		The document specifying the contents of particular freight containers or other transport units, prepared by the party responsible for their loading into the container or unit.
Container Number		Identification number of a container consisting of prefix and serial number and check digit. (E.g. KNLU 123456-7)
Container Prefix		A four letter code that forms the first part of a container identification number indicating the owner of a container.
Container Size Code		An indication of 2 digits of the nominal length and nominal height.
Container Terminal		Place where loaded and/or empty containers are loaded or discharged into or from a means of transport.
Container Yard		Abbreviation: CY
		A facility at which FCL traffic and empty containers are received from or delivered to the Merchant by or on behalf of the Carrier. Note: Often this yard is used to receive goods on behalf of the merchant and pack these in containers for FCL traffic.
Containerised		Indication that goods have been stowed in a container.
Contraband		Goods forbidden by national law for import or export.
Contract		An agreement enforceable by law between two or more parties stipulating their rights and obligations which are required by one or both parties to acts or forbearance by the other or both.
Conventional Cargo		General cargo conventionally stowed as opposed to unitised, containerised and Roll On-Roll Off cargo.
Cost and Freight		(...named port of destination)
		Abbreviation: CFR
Cost, Insurance and Freight		(...named port of destination) Abbreviation: CIF
Crew Member		Any person actually employed for duties on board during a voyage in the working or service of a ship and included in the crew list (IMO).
Cruise Ship		A ship on an international voyage carrying passengers participating in a group program and accommodated on board, for the purpose of making scheduled temporary tourist visits at one or more different ports, and which during the voyage does not normally: (a) embark or disembark any other passengers; (b) load or discharge any cargo.
Currency Adjustment Factor		Abbreviation: CAF
		Adjustment applied by lines or liner conferences on freight rates to offset losses or gains for carriers resulting from fluctuations in exchange rates of tariff currencies.
Customs		The department of the Civil Service that deals with the levying of duties and taxes on imported goods from foreign countries and the control over the export and import of goods e.g. allowed quota prohibited goods.
Customs Broker		An authorised agent specialised in customs clearance procedures on account of importers/exporters.
Customs Clearance Agent		Customs broker or other agent of the consignee designated to perform customs clearance services for the consignee.
Customs Invoice		Document required by the customs in an importing country in which an exporter states the invoice or other price (e.g.selling price, price of identical goods), and specifies costs for freight, insurance and packing etc., terms of delivery and payment, for the purpose of determining the customs value in the importing country of goods consigned to that country.
Customs Value		The worth of an item or group of items expressed in a monetary amount, within a consignment declared to Customs for duty and statistical reasons.
Damaged Cargo Report		A written statement concerning established damages to cargo and/or equipment.
Dangerous Goods		Goods are to be considered dangerous if the transport of such goods might cause harm, risk, peril, or other evil to people, environment, equipment or any property whatsoever.
Dangerous Goods Declaration		Document issued by a consignor in accordance with applicable conventions or regulations, describing hazardous goods or materials for transport purposes, and stating that the latter have been packed and labeled in accordance with the provisions of the relevant conventions or regulations.
Dangerous Goods Packing Certificate		A document as part of the dangerous goods declaration in which the responsible party declares that the cargo has been stowed in accordance with the rules in a clean container in compliance with the IMDG regulations and properly secured.
Deadfreight		Slots paid for but not used.
Deadweight		Abbreviation: DWT
		The total weight of cargo, cargo equipment, bunkers, provisions, water, stores and spare parts which a vessel can lift when loaded to her maximum draught as applicable under the circumstances. The dead-weight is expressed in tons.
Degroupage		Splitting up shipments into small consignments.
Delivered Duty Paid		(...named place of destination)
		Abbreviation: DDP
Delivered Duty Unpaid		(...named place of destination) Abbreviation: DDU
Delivered Ex Quay		(...named port of destination)
		Abbreviation: DEQ
Delivered Ex Ship		(...named port of destination)
		Abbreviation: DES
Delivery Instruction		Document issued by a buyer giving instructions regarding the details of the delivery of goods ordered.
Delivery Note		A document recording the delivery of products to a consignee (customer).
Delivery Order		? A carrier's delivery order (negotiable document) is used for splitting a Bill of Lading (after surrender) in different parcels and have the same function as a Bill of Lading.
		? The authorisation of the entitled party for the shipment to a party other than the consignee showed on the Air Waybill (air cargo)
Demurrage		? A variable fee charged to carriers and/or customers for the use of Unit Load Devices (ULD's) owned by a carrier beyond the free time of shipment
		? Additional charge imposed for exceeding the free time, which is included in the rate and allowed for the use of certain equipment at the terminal
Despatch Advice		Information sent by shippers to the recipient of goods informing that specified goods are sent or ready to be sent advising the detailed contents of the consignment.
Destination		? Place for which goods or a vehicle is bound
		? The ultimate stopping place according to the contract of carriage (air cargo)
Detention		Keeping equipment beyond the time allowed.
Detention Charge		Charges levied on usage of equipment exceeding free time period as stipulated in the pertinent inland rules and conditions.
Devanning		See Stripping, UnpackingDeviation from a Route A divergence from the agreed or customary route.
Dimensions		Measurements in length, width and height of the cargo.
Direct Delivery		? The conveyance of goods directly from the vendor to the buyer. Frequently used if a third party acts as intermediary agent between vendor and buyer.
		? Direct discharge from vessel onto railroad car, road vehicle or barge with the purpose of immediate transport from the port area (usually occurs when ports lack adequate storage space or when ports are not equipped to handle a specific cargo).
Direct Interchange		Transfer of leased equipment from one lessee to another (container).
Direct Route		The shortest operated route between two points.
Discharge		The unloading of a vehicle, a vessel or an aircraft.
Discrepancy		Difference between the particulars given and the particulars found.
Distribution Centre		A warehouse for the receipt, the storage and the dispersal of goods among customers.
Distribution Channel		The route by which a company distributes goods.
Door to Door Transport		The transport of cargo from the premises of the consignor to the premises of the consignee.
		Note: In the United States the term 'Point to Point Transport' is used instead of the term 'Door to Door Transport', because the term 'house' may mean 'customs house' or 'brokers house', which are usually located in the port.
Double Stack Train		A number of railway wagons, usually a block train, on which containers can be stacked two- high.
Draft		The draft of a vessel is the vertical distance between the waterline and the underside of the keel of the vessel. During the construction of a vessel the marks showing the draft are welded on each side of the vessel near the stem, the stern and amidships.
Drawback		Repayment of any part of customs or excise duties previously collected on imported goods, when those goods are exported again.
Drayage		? The hauling of a load by a cart with detachable sides (dray).
		? Road transportation between the nearest railway terminal and the stuffing place
Drop off Charge		Charge made by container owner and/or terminal operators for delivery of a leased, or pool container into depot stock. The drop-off charge may be a combination of actual handling and storage charges with surcharges.
Dunnage		Stowage material, mainly timber or board, used to prevent damage to cargo during carriage.
Duty Free Zone		An area where goods or cargo can be stored without paying import customs duties awaiting further transport or manufacturing.
EDI For Administration, Commerce and Transport		Abbreviation: UN /EDIFACT
		The ISO application level syntax rules for the structuring of user data and of the associated service data in the interchange of messages in an open environment.
Electronic Data Interchange		Abbreviation: EDI
		The transfer of structured data, by agreed standards from applications on the computer of one party to the applications on the computer of another party by electronic means.
Electronic Data Processing		Abbreviation: EDP
		The computerised handling of information (e.g. business data).
Embargo		? A government order prohibiting the entry or departure of commercial vessels or goods at its ports
		? The refusal by a carrier, for a limited period, to accept for transport over any route or segment thereof,and to or from any area or point, of a connecting carrier, any commodity, type of class of cargo duly tendered (air cargo)
Emergency Medical Service		Abbreviation: EMS
		Medical procedures in case of emergencies on board of vessels.
Endorsement		The transfer of the right to obtain delivery of the goods of the carrier by means of the consignee's signature on the reverse side of a bill of lading. If the name of the new consignee (transferee) is not stated, the endorsement is an open one which means that every holder of the document is entitled to obtain delivery of the goods.
Equipment Interchange Receipt		Abbreviation: EIR
		Physical inspection and transfer receipt.
Estimated Time of Arrival		Abbreviation: ETA The expected date and time of arrival in a certain airport.
Estimated Time of Departure		Abbreviation: ETD
		The expected date and time when a certain airport is left.
Ex Works (...named place)		Abbreviation: EXW
		The process of carrying or sending goods to another country or countries, especially for purposes of use or sale in the country of destination. The sale of products to clients abroad.
Export Licence		Document granting permission to export as detailed within a specified time.
Exporter		The party responsible for the export of goods.
Factory Delivery		The delivery of goods by a factory whereby the goods are put at the disposal of another (internal) party such as a commercial department.
Feeder		A vessel normally used for local or coastal transport (for carriage of cargo and/or containers) to and from ports not scheduled to be called by the main (ocean) vessel, directly connecting these ports to the main (ocean) vessel.
Flag		An indication of the country in which a means of transport is registered through a reference to the ensign of this country.
Flammable		Capable to be set on fire under given circumstances. (Amendment 25 IMO DGS).
Flash Point		The lowest temperature at which a good produces enough vapour to form a flammable mixture with air.
Flat Rack Container		A container with two end walls and open sides.
Fleet		Any group of means of transport acting together or under one control.
FMC		Federal Maritime Commission (Control of Shipping acts USA)
Force Majeure		Circumstance which is beyond the control of one of the parties to a contract and which may, according to the terms and conditions, relieve that party of liability for failing to execute the contract.
Fork Lift Truck		A three or four wheeled mechanical truck with forks at the front designed for lifting, carrying and stowing cargo.
Forty Foot Equivalent Unit		Abbreviation: FEU
		Unit of measurement equivalent to one forty foot container.
Forwarder		The party arranging the carriage of goods including connected services and/or associated formalities on behalf of a shipper or consignee.
Forwarding Charge		Charges paid or to be paid for preliminary surface or air transport to the airport of departure by a forwarder, but not by a carrier under an Air Waybill (air cargo).
Forwarding Instruction		Document issued to a freight forwarder, giving instructions to the forwarder for the forwarding of goods described therein.
FTL		Full Truck Load, an indication for a truck transporting cargo directly from supplier to receiver.
Gang		A number of workmen acting together especially for loading and/or discharging operations of a vessel in combination with the necessary gear. (On a vessel for instance 6 gangs can be ordered to discharge or load.)
Garments On Hangers		Clothes in containers on hangers and hung from rails during transit, reducing the handling required for the garments.
Gateway		? A point at which cargo is interchanged between carriers or modes of transport
		? A means of access, an entry
General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade		Abbreviation: GATT
		Major international agreement on trade and tariffs between many nations all over the world. The discussions are now held by the WTO.
General Average		Abbreviation: G/A
		Intentional act or sacrifice which is carried out to safeguard vessel and cargo. When a vessel is in danger, the master has the right to sacrifice property and/or to incur reasonable expenditure. Measures taken for the sole benefit of any particular interest are not considered general average.
General Average Act (York-Antwerp Rules)		There is a general average act when, and only when any extraordinary sacrifice or expenditure is intentionally and reasonably made or incurred for the common safety for the purpose of preserving.
General Cargo		? Cargo, consisting of goods, unpacked or packed, for example in cartons, crates, bags or bales, often palletised. General cargo can be shipped either in break bulk or containerized.
		? Any consignment other than a consignment containing valuable cargo and charged for transport at general cargo rates (air cargo)
General Purpose Container		A container used for the carriage of general cargo without any special requirements for the transport and or the conditioning of the goods.
Goods		? Common term indicating movable property, merchandise or wares
		? All materials which can be used to satisfy demands.
		? Whole or part of the cargo received from the shipper, including any equipment supplied by the shipper
Goods in Transit		The goods which have departed from the initial loading point and not yet arrived at the final unloading point.
Goods Receipt		Document issued by a port, warehouse, shed, or terminal operator acknowledging receipt of goods specified therein on conditions stated or referred to in the document.
Groupage		The collection of several small consignments and the formation of one large shipment thereof (road cargo).
Hague Rules		International convention for the unification of certain rules, relating to Bills of Lading (1924). These Rules include the description of responsibilities of Shipping Lines.
Hague-Visby Rules		Set of rules, published in 1968, amending the Hague Rules.
Hamburg Rules		United Nations Convention on the carriage of goods by sea of 1978 adopted in 1992.
Harmonized System		Abbreviation: HS
		It is a numeric multipurpose system, the international convention on the HS was established under auspices of the World Customs Organisation in 1983, for the classification of goods with its six digits covering about 5000 descriptions of the products or groups of products most commonly produced and traded. It is designed for customs services, but can also be used for statistics, transport purposes, export,mport and manufacturing.
Haulage		The inland carriage of cargo or containers between named locations/points.
		? Merchant inspired Carrier Haulage or customer nominated Carrier Haulage or shipper preferred Carrier Haulage service performed by a sub-contractor of the merchant.
		? Carrier inspired Merchant Haulage means Haulage service performed by a sub- contractor of the Carrier
Haulier		Road carrier.
House to House Transport		The transport of cargo from the premises of the consignor to the premises of the consignee. Note:In the United States the term 'Point to Point Transport' is used instead of the term 'Door to Door Transport', because the term 'house' may mean 'customs house' or 'brokers house', which are usually located in the port.
Hub		The central transshipment point in a transport structure,serving a number of consignees and/or consignors by means of spokes. The stretches between hubs mutually are referred to as trunks.
Idle Time		The amount of ineffective time whereby the available resources are not used e.g. a container in a yard.
In Transit		The status of goods or persons between the outwards customs clearance and inwards customs clearance.
Incoterms		Trade terms in coded form as established by the International Chamber of Commerce in 1953, whereafter they have been regularly updated. The terms represent a set of international rules for the interpretation of the principal terms of delivery used in trade contracts.
		Incoterms 2010 are in effect as on January 1st, 2011. Since the last revision, Incoterms 2000, there have been a number of changes in both global and domestic trade, this revision addresses those changes.
		In contrast to the previous four classes, E, F, C and D, Incoterms will now be separated into 2 groups, those applicable to all modes of transport and those only applicable to sea and inland waterway transport.
		There will now be a total of 11 terms instead of 13, with 2 new additions, DAP and DAT and 4 deletions, DAF, DDU, DEQ and DES.
		Incoterms 2010 applicable for all modes of transport:
		EXW : ex works
		FCA : free carrier
		CPT : carriage paid to
		CIP : carriage and insurance paid to
		DAT : delivered at terminal ? NEW!
		DAP : delivered at place ? NEW!
		DDP : delivered duty paid
		Incoterms 2010 only applicable for sea and inland waterway transport:
		FAS : free alongside ship
		FOB : free on board
		CFR : cost and freight
		CIF : cost, insurance and freight
Inland Waterways Bill of Lading		Transport document made out to a named person, to order or to bearer, signed by the carrier and handed to the sender after receipt of the goods.
Insurance		A system of protection against loss under which a party agrees to pay a certain sum (premiums) for a guarantee that they will be compensated under certain conditions for loss or damage.
Insurance Certificate		Proof of an insurance contract.
Insurance Company		The party covering the risks of the issued goods and/or services that are insured.
Inter Modal Transport		The movement of goods (containers) in one and the same loading unit or vehicle which uses successively several modes of transport without handling of the goods themselves in changing modes.
International Air Transport Association		Abbreviation: IATA
		An international organisation of airlines, founded in 1945,with the aim of promoting the commercial air traffic. Parties should achieve this by co-operation between the parties concerned and by performance of certain rules, procedures and tariffs, regarding both cargo and passengers.
International Association of Classification Societies		An organisation in which the major classification societies, among others like American Bureau of Shipping, Lloyd's Register of Shipping and Germanischer Lloyd, are joined, whose principal aim is the improvement of standards concerning safety at sea.
International Chamber of Shipping		Abbreviation: ICS
		A voluntary organisation of national shipowners associations with the objective to promote interests of its members, primarily in the technical and legal fields of shipping operations.
International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code		Abbreviation: IMDG Code
		A code, representing the classification of dangerous goods as defined by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in compliance with international legal requirements.
International Maritime Organisation		Abbreviation: IMO
		A United Nations agency concerned with safety at sea. Its work includes codes and rules relating to tonnage measurement of vessels, load lines, pollution and the carriage of dangerous goods. Its previous name was the Inter-Governmental Maritime Consultative Organisation (IMCO).
Invoice		An account from the supplier, for goods and/or services supplied by him.
Jetsam		Goods thrown or lost.
Jettison		The act of intentionally throwing cargo overboard e.g. with the objective of lightening a vessel, which has run aground, such for the common good of all interests: vessel, crew and remaining cargo.
Jetty		A mole or breakwater, running out into the sea to protect harbours or coasts. It is sometimes used as a landing-pier.
Jib		? Projecting arm of a crane
		? Attachment connected to the top of a crane boom
Job		That work which is undertaken to meet a customer or production order and, for production control purposes and has a unique identification.
Joint Venture		A joint activity of two or more companies usually performed under a common name.
Journey		A voyage from one place, port or country to another one, in case of a round trip, to the same one.
Jurisprudence		Juridical decisions used for explanation and meaning of law.
Just In Time		Abbreviation: JIT
		The movement of material/goods at the necessary place at the necessary time. The implication is that each operation is closely synchronised with the subsequent ones to make that possible. A method of inventory control that brings stock into the production process, warehouse or to the customer just in time to be used, thus reducing stock piling.
Kyoto Convention		The convention for the International Customs Co-operation Council held in Kyoto in 1974 for the simplification and harmonisation of national customs procedures.
		On 25th of June 1999 the updated and restructured International Convention on the simplification and harmonisation of Customs Procedures (Kyoto Convention) was unanimously adopted by 114 customs administrations.
		This convention was restructured to deal with computerised controls and to ensure better co- operation between customs authorities mutually and with trade in general.
Label		A slip e.g. paper or metal attached to an object to indicate the nature, ownership, destination, contents and/or other particulars of the object.
Lash		To hold goods in position by the use of, e.g., wires, ropes, chains and straps.
Less than Container Load		Abbreviation: LCL
		? A general reference for identifying cargo in any quantity intended for carriage in a container, where the Carrier is responsible for packing and/or unpacking the container.
		? For operational purposes an LCL (Less than full container load) container is considered a container in which multiple consignments or parts thereof are shipped.
Lessee		The party to whom the possession of specified property has been conveyed for a period of time in return for rental payments.
Lessor		The party who conveys specified property to another for a period of time in return for the receipt of rent.
Letter of Credit		Abbreviation: L/C
		A written undertaking by a bank (issuing bank) given to the seller (beneficiary) at the request, and on the instructions of the buyer (applicant) to pay at sight or at a determinable future date up to a stated sum of money, within a prescribed time limit and against stipulated documents.
Letter of Indemnity		Written statement in which one party undertakes to compensate another for the costs and consequences of carrying out a certain act. The issue of a letter of indemnity is sometimes used for cases when a shipper receives a clean Bill of Lading while a carrier is not allowed to do so.
Liability		Legal responsibility for the consequences of certain acts or omissions.
Lien		A legal claim upon real or personal property to pay a debt or duty.
Liner Conference		A group of two or more vessel-operating carriers, which provides international liner services for the carriage of cargo on a particular trade route and which has an agreement or arrangement to operate under uniform or common freight rates and any other agreed conditions (e.g. FEFC = Far Eastern Freight Conference).
Liner In Free Out		Abbreviation: LIFO
		Transport condition denoting that the freight rate is inclusive of the sea carriage and the cost of loading, the latter as per the custom of the port. It excludes the cost of discharging.
Liner Terms		Condition of carriage denoting that costs for loading and unloading are borne by the carrier subject the custom of the port concerned.
Lloyd's Register of Shipping		British classification society.
LTL		Abbreviation: LTL
		A term used if the quantity or volume of one or more consignment(s) does not fill a standard truck. Main-line Operator
		Abbreviation: MLO A carrier employing vessel(s) in the main or principal routes in a trade but not participating within a consortium.
Manifest		Document, which lists the specifications of goods, loaded in a means of transport or equipment for transportation purposes. As a rule, agents in the place of loading draw up manifests for cargo. For P&O; Nedlloyd a manifest represents a cumulation of Bills of Lading for official and administrative purposes.
Marine Insurance Policy		An insurance policy protecting the insured against loss or damage to his goods occurred during ocean transport.
Mate's Receipt		A document signed by the chief officer of a vessel acknowledging the receipt of a certain consignment on board of that vessel. On this document, remarks can be made as to the order and condition of the consignment.
Medical First Aid Guide		Abbreviation: MFAG
		Instructions to be consulted in case of accidents involving dangerous goods.
Merchant Haulage		Inland transport of cargo in containers arranged by the Merchant. It includes empty container-moves to and from hand-over points in respect of containers released by the Carrier to Merchants.Note: Carrier's responsibility under the Bill of Lading does not include the inland transport stretch under Merchant Haulage.
Multi Modal Transport		The carriage of goods (containers) by at least two different modes of transport.
Multi Modal Transport Document		Negotiable or non-negotiable document evidencing a contract for the performance and/or procurement of performance of combined transport of goods.
		Thus a combined transport document is a document issued by a Carrier who contracts as a principal with the Merchant to affect a combined transport often on a door-to-door basis.
Multi Modal Transport Operator/Carrier		Abbreviation: MTO/Carrier
		The person on whose behalf the transport document or any document evidencing a contract of multi Modal carriage of goods is issued and who is responsible for the carriage of goods pursuant to the contract of carriage.

EQUIPMENT HIRING

Terms	Full Form	Defination
EXW	Ex-Works	The title and risk passes on to the buyer including the payment of all transportation and insurance cost from the seller's point. It can be used for any mode of transport.
FCA	Free Carrier	The title and risk passes on to the buyer included the transportation and insurance cost if the seller delivers the goods cleared for export to the carrier. In this case the seller is obligated to load the goods on the buyer's collecting vehicle but it is the buyer's obligation to receive the seller's arriving vehicle unloaded.
FAS	Free Alongside Ship	The title and risk passes on to the buyer, included the transportation and insurance payment, once the goods are delivered alongside shipby the seller. It is only used for the sea or inland waterway transportation and the export clearance obligation rests with the seller.
FOB	Free On Board	In FOB the risk passes to the buyer, including the transportation and insurance payment, once delivered on board the ship by the seller. It is only used for sea or inland waterway transportation.
CFR	Cost and Freight	The title, risk and the insurance cost passes on to the buyer if delivered on board the ship by seller who paid the transportation cost to the destination point. It is only used for sea or inland waterway transportation.
CIF	Cost, Insurance and Freight	The title and risk passes on to the buyer if delivered on board the ship by the seller who paid the transportation and insurance cost to the destination port. It is used for sea or inland waterway transportation
CPT	Carriage Paid To	The title, risk and insurance cost passes to the buyer if the goods delivered to carrier by the seller who pays transportation cost to the destination. It can be used for any mode of transportation.
CIP	Carriage and Insurance Paid To	The title and risk passes to the buyer if the seller delivers the goods to carrier by the seller and he pays transportation and insurance cost to destination. It can be used for any mode of transportation.
DAF	Delivered at Frontier	The title, risk and responsibility for the import clearance passes on to the buyer if the seller delivers the goods to named border point. It can be used for any mode of transportation.
DES	Delivered Ex Ship	The title, risk, responsibility for the vessel discharge and the import clearance passes on to the buyer when the seller delivers it on board the ship to destination port. It is used for sea or inland waterway transportation.
DEQ	Delivered Ex Quay - Duty Paid	The title and risk passes to the buyer if the goods are delivered on board the ship at the destination point by the seller who on his part delivers the goods on dock at the destination point cleared for import. It is used for sea or inland waterway transportation.
DDU	Delivered Duty Unpaid	The title, risk and responsibility of the import clearance passes on to the buyer if the seller delivers the goods to the named destination point. It can be used for any mode of transportation. Here the buyer is obligated for import clearance.
DDP	Delivered Duty Paid	The title and risk passes on to the buyer when the seller delivers the goods to the named destination point cleared for the import. It is also used for any mode of transportation

PROJECTS

Terms	Full Form	Defination
EXW	Ex-Works	The title and risk passes on to the buyer including the payment of all transportation and insurance cost from the seller's point. It can be used for any mode of transport.
FCA	Free Carrier	The title and risk passes on to the buyer included the transportation and insurance cost if the seller delivers the goods cleared for export to the carrier. In this case the seller is obligated to load the goods on the buyer's collecting vehicle but it is the buyer's obligation to receive the seller's arriving vehicle unloaded.
FAS (Free Alongside Ship)
FOB	Free On Board	In FOB the risk passes to the buyer, including the transportation and insurance payment, once delivered on board the ship by the seller. It is only used for sea or inland waterway transportation.
International Carriage Paid by the Seller
CFR	Cost and Freight	The title, risk and the insurance cost passes on to the buyer if delivered on board the ship by seller who paid the transportation cost to the destination point. It is only used for sea or inland waterway transportation.
CIF	(Cost, Insurance and Freight)	The title and risk passes on to the buyer if delivered on board the ship by the seller who paid the transportation and insurance cost to the destination port. It is used for sea or inland waterway transportation.
CPT	Carriage Paid To	The title, risk and insurance cost passes to the buyer if the goods delivered to carrier by the seller who pays transportation cost to the destination. It can be used for any mode of transportation.
CIP	Carriage and Insurance Paid To	The title and risk passes to the buyer if the seller delivers the goods to carrier by the seller and he pays transportation and insurance cost to destination. It can be used for any mode of transportation.
Arrival At Stated Destination
DAF	Delivered at Frontier	The title, risk and responsibility for the import clearance passes on to the buyer if the seller delivers the goods to named border point. It can be used for any mode of transportation.
DES	Delivered Ex Ship	The title, risk, responsibility for the vessel discharge and the import clearance passes on to the buyer when the seller delivers it on board the ship to destination port. It is used for sea or inland waterway transportation.
DEQ	Delivered Ex Quay - Duty Paid	The title and risk passes to the buyer if the goods are delivered on board the ship at the destination point by the seller who on his part delivers the goods on dock at the destination point cleared for import. It is used for sea or inland waterway transportation.
DDU	Delivered Duty Unpaid	The title, risk and responsibility of the import clearance passes on to the buyer if the seller delivers the goods to the named destination point. It can be used for any mode of transportation. Here the buyer is obligated for import clearance.
DDP	Delivered Duty Paid	The title and risk passes on to the buyer when the seller delivers the goods to the named destination point cleared for the import. It is also used for any mode of transportation.

SHIP OWNING

Terms	Full Form	Defination
F/ D/ D	Freight / Demurrage / Dead freight
NTC	Not To Count
UTC	Universal Co-ordination of Time
FHS	Final Hire Statement
ETR	Estimated Time of Readiness
ETC/ D	Estimated Time of Completion and Discharge
GEO ROT	Geographical Rotation
DLORP	Dropping Last Outward River Pilot
UTC	Universal Time Clock
AWRIP	Additional War Risk Insurance Premium
AA	Always Afloat
AAAA	Always Accessible Always Afloat
AAOSA	Always Afloat or Safe Aground. Condition for a vessel whilst in port
AARA	Amsterdam-Antwerp-Rotterdam Area
ABAFT		Toward the rear (stern) of the ship. Behind.
ABOARD	On or within the ship
ABOVE DECK	On the deck
ABT	About
ADCOM	Address Commission
ADDENDUM		Additional chartering terms at the end of a charter party
AFSPS	Arrival First Sea Pilot Station (Named Place/Port
AFFREIGHTMENT		The hiring of a ship in whole or part
AFT	At or towards the stern or rear of a ship
AGROUND	Touching or fast to the bottom
AGW	All Going Well
AHL	Australian Hold Ladders
AIDS TO NAVIGATION	Artificial objects to supplement natural landmarks indicating safe and unsafe waters
ALOFT	Above the deck of the ship
AMIDSHIPS	In or toward the center of the ship
ANCHORAGE	A place suitable for anchorage in relation to the wind, seas and bottom
ANTHAM	Antwerp-Hamburg Range
APS	Arrival Pilot Station
ARAG	Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp Gent Range
ARBITRATION	Method of settling disputes which is usually binding on parties. A clause usually in a charter party
A/S	Alongside
ASBA	American Shipbrokers Association
ASPW	Any Safe Port in the World
ASTERN	In the back of the ship, opposite to the stern of a vessel
ATDNSHINC	Any Time Day/Night Sundays and Holidays included
ATHWARTSHIPS	At right angles to the center line of the ship
ATUTC	Actual Times Used to Count
BACK LETTER	Where a seller/shipper issues a 'letter of indemnity' in favour of the carrier in exchange for a clean bill of lading
BAF	Bunker Adjustment Factor. A Fuel Surcharge expressed as a percentage added or subtracted from the freight amount, reflecting the movement in the market place price for bunkers.
BALE CAP	Cubic capacity of a vessels holds to carry packaged dry cargo such as bales/pallets
BALLAST	Heavy weight, often sea water, necessary for the stability and safety of a ship which is not carrying cargo
BALLAST BONUS	Compensation for a relatively long ballast voyage
BAREBOAT CHTR	Bareboat Charter - Owners lease a specific ship and control its technical management and commercial operations only. Charterers take overall responsibility for the operation of the vessel and expenses for the duration.
BBB	Before Breaking Bulk. Refers to freight payments that must be received before discharge of a vessel commences
BDI	Both Dates Inclusive
BEAM	The maximum breadth or the greatest width of a ship
BELOW	Beneath the deck
BENDS	Both Ends (Load & Discharge Ports)
BI	Both Inclusive
BIMCO	The Baltic and International Maritime Council
BL1	Bale
BL2	(Bill of Lading) A document signed by the carrier which acts as a Contract of Affreightment, a receipt and evidence of title to the cargo.
BM	Beam
BN	Booking Note
BOB	Bunker on Board
BOFFER	Best Offer
Bow	The forward part of a ship
BROB	Bunkers Remaining on Board
BROKERAGE	Percentage of freight payable to broker (by owners in c/p's) or applicable to sale or purchase
BSS	Basis
BSS	1/1Basis 1 Port to 1 Port
BT	Berth Terms
BULKHEAD	A vertical partition separating compartments
BUNDLING	This is the assembly of pieces of cargo, secured into one manageable unit. This is relevant to items such as Structural Steel, Handrails, Stairways etc. Whilst this is a very flexible description, a rule of thumb is to present cargo at a size easily handled by a large (20 tonne) fork lift.
BUNKERS	Name given for vessels Fuel and Diesel Oil supplies (Originates from coal bunkers)
BUOY	An anchored float used for marking a position on the water or a hazard or a shoal and for mooring
BWAD	Brackish Water Arrival Draft
CBM	Cubic Metres
CBFT	(or CFT) Cubic Feet
CFR	(or C&F; -) Cost and Freight
CHART	A map used by navigators
CHOPT	Charterers Option
CHTRS	Charterers
CIF	Cost, Insurance & Freight. Seller pays all these costs to a nominated port or place of discharge.
CKD	Completely Knocked Down
COA	Contract of Affreightment - Owners agree to accept a cost per revenue tonne for cargo carried on a specific number of voyages.
CIP	Carriage and Insurance paid to
COACP	Contract of Affreightment Charter Party
COB	Closing of Business
COBLDN	Closing of Business London
COD	Cash On Delivery
COGSA	Carriage of Goods by Sea Act
CONGESTION	Port/berth delays
CONS	Consumption
C/SNEE consignee	Name of agent, company or person receiving consignment
COP	Custom Of Port
CP	(or C/P)Charter Party
CPD	Charterers Pay Dues
CPT	Carriage Paid To
CQD	Customary Quick Despatch
CR	Current Rate
CROB	Cargo Remaining on Board
CRN	Crane
CRT	Cargo Retention Clauses, introduced by charterers based on shortage of delivered cargo because of increased oil prices
CST	Centistoke
DA	Disbursement Account
DAF	Deliver At Frontier
DAPS	Days all Purposes (Total days for loading & discharging)
DAMFORDET	Damages for Detention. Penalty if cargo is not ready when ship arrives for working (1st day of Laycan). This is not detention which is charged for ships time on delay. If the cargo is ready there is no DAMFORDET.
DDU	Delivered Duty Unpaid.
DDP	Delivered Duty Paid.
DECK	A permanent covering over a compartment, hull or any part thereof
DEM	Demurrage (Quay Rent). Money paid by the shipper for the occupying port space beyond a specified "Free Time" period.
DEQ	Delivered Ex Quay
DES	Delivered Ex Ship
DESP	Despatch. Time saved, reward for quick turnaround- in dry cargo only
DET	Detention (See DAMFORDET)
DEV	Deviation. Vessel departure from specified voyage course
DFRT	Deadfreight. Space booked by shipper or charterer on a vessel but not used
DHDATSBE	Despatch Half Demurrage on All Time Saved Both Ends
DHDWTSBE	Despatch Half Demurrage on Working Time Saved Both Ends
DISCH	Discharge
DK	Deck
DLOSP	Dropping Last Outwards Sea Pilot (Norway)
DO	Diesel Oil
DOLSP	Dropping Off Last Sea Pilot (Norway)
DOP	Dropping Outward Pilot
DOT	Department of Transport
DNRCAOSLONL	Discountless and Non-Returnable Cargo and/or Ship Lost or Not Lost
DRAUGHT (or DRAFT )	Depth to which a ship is immersed in water. The depth varies according to the design of the ship and will be greater or lesser depending not only on the weight of the ship and everything on board, but also on the density of the water in which the ship is lying.
DRK Derrick
Dunnage	Materials of various types, often timber or matting, placed among the cargo for separation, and hence protection from damage, for ventilation and, in the case of certain cargoes, to provide space in which the tynes of a fork lift truck may be inserted.
DWAT (or DWT )	Deadweight. Weight of cargo, stores and water, i.e. the difference between lightship and loaded displacement.
EBB	A receding current
EC	East Coast
EIU	Even If Used
ELVENT	Electric Ventilation
ETA	Estimated Time of Arrival
ETC	Estimated Time of Completion
ETD	Estimated Time of Departure
ETS	Estimated Time of Sailing
EXW	Ex Works
FAC	Fast As Can
FAS	Free Alongside Ship. Seller delivers goods to appropriate dock or terminal at port of embarkation and buyer covers costs and risks of loading
FCA	Free to Carrier. A modern equivalent of FAS used in intermodal transport where goods are transferred at a nominated forwarders premises, depot or terminal but not actually on board vessel.
FD	(FDIS) Free Discharge
FDD	Freight Demurrage Deadfreight
FDESP	Free Despatch
FDEDANRSAOCLONL	Freight Deemed Earned, Discountless And Non-Returnable (Refundable) Ship And Or Cargo Lost Or Not Lost
FENDERA	cushion, placed between ships, or between a ship and a pier, to prevent damage
FEU	Standard 40 Container
FHEX	Fridays/Holidays Excluded
FHINC	Fridays/Holidays included
FILO	Free In/Liner Out. Seafreight with which the shipper pays load costs and the carrier pays for discharge costs.
FIO	Free In/Out. Freight booked FIO includes the seafreight, but no loading/discharging costs, i.e. the charterer pays for cost of loading/discharging cargo.
FIOS	Free In/Out Stowed. As per FIO, but excludes stowage costs.
FIOST	Free In/Out and Trimmed. Charterer pays for cost of loading/discharging cargo, including stowage and trimming.
FIOT	Free In/Out and Trimmed. As per FIOS but includes trimming, e.g. the levelling of bulk cargoes. FIOS includes seafreight, but excludes loading/discharging and stowage costs.
FIT	Free In Trimmed
FIW	Free In Wagon
FIXING	Chartering a Vessel
FIXTURE	Conclusion of shipbrokers negotiations to charter a ship - an agreemen
FLATPACKING		Cargo to be presented stacked and secured as an integral unit.
FLT	Full Liner Terms
FMC	Federal Maritime Commission
FME	Force Majeure Excepted
FMS	Fathoms
FO1	For Orders
FO2	(IFO)Fuel Oil/Intermediate FO
FO3	Free Out
FOB	Free on Board. Seller sees the goods "over the ships rail" on to the ship which is arranged and paid for by the buyer
FOFFER	Firm Offer
FOG	For Our Guidance
FOQ	Free On Quay
FOR	Free On Rail
FORCE MAJEURE		Clause limiting responsibilities of the charterers, shippers and receivers of cargo.
FOREANDAFT		In a line parallel to the keel
Forward		Toward the bow of the ship
FOT	Free On Truck
FOW1	First Open Water
FOW2	Free On Wharf
FP		Free Pratique. Clearance by the Health Authorities
FR		First Refusal. First attempt at best offer that can be matched
Freeboard		The minimum vertical distance from the surface of the water to the gunwale
FRT		Freight. Money payable on delivery of cargo in a mercantile condition
FREE DESPATCH		If loading/discharging achieved sooner than agreed, there will be no freight money returned.
FREE EXINS	Free of any Extra Insurance (Owners)
FREE OUT		Free of discharge costs to owners. Includes sea freight only.
FRUSTRATION		Charterers when cancelling agreement sometimes quote 'doctrine of frustration' i.e. vessel is lost, extensive delays.
FWAD	Fresh Water Arrival Draft
FWDD	Fresh Water Departure Draft
FYG	For Your Guidance
FYI	For Your Information
GA	General Average
GEAR		A general term for ropes, blocks, tackle and other equipment
GLS	(GLESS) Gearless
GNCN	Gencon (GENERAL CONDITIONS)
GN	(or GR) Grain (Capacity)
GO	Gas Oil
GP '	Grain Capacity. Cubic capacity in 'grain
GR	Geographical Rotation. Ports in order of calling
GRD	Geared
GRT	Gross Registered Tonnage
GSB	Good, Safe Berth
GSP	Good, Safe Port
GTEE	Guarantee
GUNWALE	The upper edge of a ship's sides
2H	Second Half
HA	Hatch
Hague Rules		Code of minimum conditions for the carriage of cargo under a bill of Lading
Hatch		An opening in a ship's deck fitted with a watertight cover
HBF	Harmless Bulk Fertilizer
HDLTSBENDS	Half Despatch Lay Time Saved Both Ends
HDWTS	Half Despatch Working (or Weather) Time Saved
HHDW	Handy Heavy d.w. (Scrap)
HIRE	T/C Remuneration
HMS	Heavy Metal Scraps
HO	Hold
Hold		A compartment below deck in a large vessel, used solely for carrying cargo
HULL		The main body of a ship
HW	High Water
ICW		Intercoastal Waterway : bays, rivers, and canals along the coasts (such as the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coasts), connected so that vessels may travel without going into the sea
IMDG	International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code
IMO	International Maritime Organisation
IN		&/OR OVER Goods carried below and/or on deck
IND	Indication
INTERMODAL		Carriage of a commodity by different modes of transport, i.e. sea, road, rail and air within a single journey
INCOTERMS		International Commercial Terms. Incoterms are a set of uniform rules codifying the interpretation of trade terms defining the rights and obligation of both buyer and seller in an international transaction, thereby enabling an otherwise complex basis for a sale contract to be accomplished in three letters. Incoterms are drafted by the International Chamber of Commerce. ITF International Transport Workers Federation (Trade Unions). Complies on crewing
ITINERARY		Route Schedule
IU	If Used
IUHTAUTC	If Used, Half Time Actually To Count
IWL	Institute Warranty Limits
KEEL		The centreline of a ship running fore and aft; the backbone of a vessel
KNOT		A measurement of speed equal to one nautical mile (6,076 feet) per hour
LANE METER		A method of measuring the space capacity of Ro/Ro ships whereby each unit of space (Linear Meter) is represented by an area of deck 1.0 meter in length x 2.0 meters in width.
LASH		To hold goods in position by use of Ropes, Wires, Chains or Straps etc.
LAT		Latitude. The distance north or south of the equator measured and expressed in degrees.
LAYCAN	Laycan (Layday Cancelling Date)
LAYTIME		Time at Charterers disposal for purpose of loading/discharging
L/C	Letter of Credit
LCR	Lowest Current Rate
LEE		The side sheltered from the wind
LEEWARD		The direction away from the wind. Opposite of windward
LEEWAY		The sideways movement of the ship caused by either wind or current
LF		Load Factor. Percentage of cargo or passengers a vessel carries- e.g. 4,000 tons carried on a vessel of 10,000 capacity has a load factor of 40%
LIEN		Retention of property until outstanding debt is paid
LNG	Liquefied Natural Gas
LOA	Length Overall of the vessel
LOAD LINE		An internationally recognized line painted on the side of merchant ships. When a ship is loaded, the water level is not supposed to go above the line. Water can reach different parts of the line as its temperature and saltiness varies with the season and location.LOF Lloyds Open Form
LOG		A record of courses or operation. Also, a device to measure speed
LOI	Letter of Indemnity
LONGITUDE		The distance in degrees east or west of the meridian at Greenwich, England
LOW	Last Open Water
LS		(or LUMPS) Lumpsum Freight. Money paid to Shipper for a charter of a ship (or portion) up to stated limit irrespective of quantity of cargo
LSD	Lashed Secured Dunnaged
LT1	Liner Terms
LT2	Long Ton = 1,016.05 kilogram (2,240 lbs)
LTHH	Liner Terms Hook/Hook
LW	Low Water
LYCN	Laycan (Layday Cancelling Date)
MANIFEST		Inventory of cargo on board
MB	Merchant Broker
MDO	(DO) Marine Diesel Oil
Midship	Approximately in the location equally distant from the bow and stern
MIN/MAX Minimum/Maximum		(cargo quantity)
MOA	Memorandum of Agreement
MOLCHOPT	More or Less Charterers Option
MOLOO	More or Less Owners Option
Mooring		An arrangement for securing a ship to a mooring buoy or pier
MT	Mertic Tonne (i.e. 1,000 kilos)
M/V	Motor Vessel / Merchant Vessel
NAABSA	Not Always Afloat But Safely Aground
NM	Nautical Mile.	One minute of latitude; approximately 6,076 feet - about 1/8 longer than the statute mile of 5,280 feet
NAVIGATION		The art and science of conducting a ship safely from one point to another
NCB	National Cargo Bureau
NESTING		Implies that cargo is presented stacked in the contour of similarly shaped cargo, it may be likened to a stack of plates. This is particularly relevant in the presentation of tankage strakes for transport
NONREVERSIBLE		(Detention). If loading completed sooner than expected, then saved days will not be added to discharge time allowed.
NOR	Notice of Readiness
NRT	Net Restricted Tonnage
NYPE	New York Produce Exchange
OO	Owners Option
OBO	Ore/Bulk/Oil Vessel
OSH	Open Shelter Deck
OVERBOARD		Over the side or out of the ship
OWS	Owners
P&I;	Protection and Indemnity Insurance
PASTUS	Past Us
PC	Period of Charter
PCGO	Part Cargo
PCT	Percent
PDPR	Per Day Pro Rata
PERDIEM	By the Day
PER SE	By Itself
PHPD	Per Hatch Per Day
PORT		The left side of a ship looking forward. A harbour.
PRATIQUE		Licence or permission to use a port
PREAMBLE		Introduction to a charter party
PROFORMA		Estimated Account
PUS	Plus Us
PWWD	Per Weather Working Day
RCVR	Receiver
RECAP	Recapitulation of the terms and conditions agreed
REVERSIBLE		(Detention). If loading completed sooner than expected at load port, then days saved can be added to discharge operations.
ROB	Remaining On Board
RT	Revenue Tonne	(i.e. 1.0 metric tonne or 1.0 cubic meter, whichever greater). The overall RT is calculated on a line by line basis of the Packing List using the largest amount. The overall freight liability is calculated on the total RT amount, multiplied by the freight rate.
SATPM	Saturday P.M.
SB	Safe Berth
SD	(or SID) Single Decker
SEAFREIGHT		Costs charged for transporting goods over the sea. This does not cover haulage or loading/discharging costs but the sea transport only
SEAWORTHINESS		Statement of condition of the vessel (valid certificates, fully equipped and manned etc.)
SELFD	Self Discharging
SEMITRAILERS		Are usually 12.0 meter flat bed road trailers
SF	Stowage Factor.	Cubic space (measurement tonne) occupied by one tonne (2,240 lbs/1,000 kgs) of cargo
SHINC	Sundays/Holidays included
SHEX	Sundays/Holidays Excluded
SKIDS		Are bearers (timber or steel) positioned under the cargo to enable forklift handling at port, and for ease of rigging and lashing on board ship.
SN	Satellite Navigation -	A form of position finding using radio transmissions from satellites with sophisticated on-board automatic equipment
SOC	Shipper Owned Container
SOF	Statement of Facts
SP	Safe Port
SPIDERING		Is the strengthening of circular tanks for transport, this prevents the tanks from becoming warped. The tanks are strengthened with steel or wood crossbeams giving a "spider" appearance
SRBL	Signing and Releasing Bill of Lading
SSHEX	Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays Excluded
SSHINC		(or SATSHINC) Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays included
STABILITY		It is paramount that a vessel is stable in all aspects at all times. When cargo is loaded/discharged, the stability is monitored by a computer, which takes into account the weight and position of cargo within the vessel.
STARBOARD		Right side of a ship when facing the front or forward end.
STEM		Subject to Enough Merchandise (Availability of cargo). Also, the forward most part of the bow.
STERN		The aformost or after part of a ship
SUB		Subject (to). Depending upon as a condition
SUPERCARGO		Person employed by a ship owner, shipping company, charterer of a ship or shipper of goods to supervise cargo handling operations. Often called a port captain.
SWAD	Salt Water Arrival Draft
SWDD	Salt Water Departure Draft
THWARTSHIPS		At right angles to the centreline of the ship
TIDE		The periodic rise and fall of water level in the oceans
Time bar		Time after which legal claims will not be entered
TBN	To Be Named / To Be Nominated
TC	Time Charter -	Owners agree to hire a particular ship for aset length of time and provide technical management, crewing etc.
TCP	Time Charter Party
TEU		Standard 20' Container
Topsides		The sides of a ship between the waterline and the deck; sometimes referring to onto or above the deck
TRIM		Fore and aft balance of a ship
TTL	Total
TW	Tween Decker
USC	Unless Sooner Commenced
UU	Unless Used
UUIWCTAUTC	Unless Used In Which Case Time Actually Used To Count
VPD	Vessel Pays Dues
WATERLINE		A line painted on a hull which shows the point to which a ship sinks when it is properly trimmed
WAY		Movement of a ship through water such as headway, sternway or leeway
WCCON	Whether Customs Cleared Or Not
WIBON	Whether In Berth Or Not
WIFPON	Whether In Free Pratique Or Not
WINDWARD		Toward the direction from which the wind is coming
WIPON	Whether In Port Or Not
WLTOHC	Water Line-To-Hatch Coaming
WOG	Without Guarantee
WP	Weather Permitting.	That time during which weather prevents working shall not count as laytime
WPD	Weather Permitting Day

3PL & WAREHOUSING

Terms	Full Form	Defination
ABC Classification		A defined strategy for grouping parts within the Warehouse, based on the algorithms a User may define.
Active Stock		Any product that is 'live' and in demand currently on a regular basis, where the Regularity is defined by the User.
Aisle		A corridor or passageway within a Warehouse.
Allocated Stock		Inventory that has been blocked or allocated for a specific Customer or Use.
Annual Physical Inventory		The activity of conducting a Count of the Physical Inventory in a Warehouse on an Annual Basis, usually done as a part of Financial Reporting
AS/RS		Automated Storage & Retrieval System .
Assemble to Order		A technique to postpone inventory that can be utilized as components and/or finished goods.
Assembly Area		This is akin to a Staging Area, where the goods are under Receipt or Despatch /. Pre Despatch activities
Available Stock		Inventory that is available on a Ready to Go Basis
Average Stock r		The average stock holding in a system where the Minimum and Maximum Stock Levels are defined by the Use
Batch		Quantities of the same product number are collected together in line with the Receipts / Production Numbers to enable FIFO systems.
Batch Picking		A method of picking a single SKU to be distributed across multiple orders, in a Batch
Bay		A designated area within a section of the warehouse.
Bay Storage		The use of a large designated area for storage.
Bin		A space that is designated to hold inventory
Bin Card		A bin card is a manual stock record indicating the inventory details in a Bin.
Blind Counts		Describes an option that is utilized in cycle counts and physical counts, where the counters are provided the Inventory Details in a Storage Location, without providing Quantity.
Blind Receiving		A Blind Receipt is the process of receipt without any pre intimated data.
Bonded Warehouse		A Warehouse approved by the Customs for the deposit of goods liable to excise duties where the payment of such duty will be at the time of removal.
Buffer Stock		Safety Stock.
Bulk Storage		Storage of goods and materials in large quantities.
Carousel		An automated delivery system to move product from storage to picker, without any travel by the Picker.
Carton		A protective outer case that contains products.
Case		A container that has units of a specific product.
Contract Warehouse		A Warehouse that receives, handles, despatches and stores products on a contract basis.
Cube Utilization		Percentage of Occupied Space vs Available Space.
Cycle Counting		Cycle counting is the physical counting of stock on a perpetual basis, based on an algorithm defined by the User.
Cycle Time		The total time required to perform a measure of work.
DC	Distribution Center	A modern warehouse that holds Inventory and performs all jobs as akin to a Warehouse.
Dock Leveler		A manually or hydraulically operated plate, located at the dock entrance, that can be adjusted to height differentials between a Truck and Warehouse Dock
Facility		Commonly a Warehouse is referred to as a Facility.
FIFO	First In, First Out	An Inventory allocation process, where material is processed on a First Come First Serve basis.
FILO	First In, Last Out.	Reverse of the above
First Pick Ratio		The percentage of lines completely filled from stock, as specified on the orders.
Flow Rack		Type of a rack, where FIFO is in-built in the design, providing for replenishment of the bin from one side and pick from the other side.
Fork Lift		Type of Material Handling Equipment.
Hand Pallet Truck		Type of Material Handling Equipment, used to manually shift goods / pallets from one location to another.
Haz Mat		Hazardous Material requiring special handling
Inventory		Stock of Material Stored in a Warehouse.
Inventory Management		Processes involved in Managing Inventory in a Warehouse, in line with the requirements of the Use
Kit / Kitting		Process of combining various materials into one SKU.
Location		Commonly referred to as an area within a Warehouse designated for a part or set of parts.
Marshalling		Process of verification of products prior to setting them ready for despatch.
Mezzanine		A storage area that is created between the Floor and Ceiling of a Warehouse.
Minimum Stock Level		The level of stock before a Replenishment mark.
MinMax Levels		The Minimum and Maximum levels of Inventory to be maintained at any point of time.
Moveable Unit		The receptacle that would carry an inventory and one that could be moved from one place to another in a Warehouse facility.
Net Storage Area		Net Area available for Storage, after providing for Common Areas in a Warehouse facility.
Order Assembly Area		Area in a Warehouse earmarked for consolidation and grouping of orders for a Shipment.
Order Cycle Time		Lead time for Processing an Order in a Warehouse from the time an Order is received, to the time it is ready for Shipment.
Pack Size		The number of pieces in a Pack.
Packaging		The activity of keeping the material in a ready to ship condition.
Packing List		List of items in a Consignment / Pack.
Palletisation		The activity of bundling a set of boxes on to a Pallet
Perpetual Inventory Count		The process of subjecting the Inventory to a Continuous count on the basis of a set algorithm.
Pick Face		Area from where the Picker retrieves the Products.
Piece Picking		Activity of picking individual items.
Pipeline Stock		Stock in Transit.
Putaway		Shifting of inventory from Receipt to a designated Storage Area.
Rack		A storage system.
Reach Truck		A Material Handling Equipment used to retrieve material from a Rack.
Refrigerated Warehouse		A Warehouse used for Temperature Controlled Storage.
Reverse Logistics		The activity of planning the returns to the Warehouse facility
Selective Pallet Racks		A type of Storage System usually used for Pallet Storage, giving selectivity of Storage and Picking.
Sequencing		The activity where inventory is set in a sequential order that is required for use in that order
Shelf Life		The maximum time for storage, after which the utility of the item expires.
Slow Movers		The velocity at which an item is ordered, determined by a set algorithm
Sortation		Separation of items / packing units according to their Destination or point of use.
Staging Area		A designated area in a Warehouse, where items are kept for further movement
Stock Keeping Unit		A unique part number assigned by a Manufacturer based on an absolute attribute or a Variant.
Stock Turns		Defines the velocity of the Inventory during a period.
Third Party Warehouse		Warehouse operated by a 3 PL service provider.
Unit Load Size / Weight		Overall dimensions of a Unit of Storage
Unit of Measure		Reference to a measure of the inventory.
Unitization		Grouping or Consolidation of several parts into one Unit.
Value Added Services		Usually services like Kitting, etc., primarily adding value to the end product in terms of its utility.
Vendor Managed Inventory		Inventory held by a Vendor on behalf of a Buyer, where the Vendor manages the replenishments, etc.
Warehouse		A storage facility.
Warehouse Management System		A software that defines and controls the activities within a Warehouse.
CHTRS	Charterers
CIF	Cost, Insurance & Freight. Seller pays all these costs to a nominated port or place of discharge.
CKD	Completely Knocked Down
COA	Contract of Affreightment - Owners agree to accept a cost per revenue tonne for cargo carried on a specific number of voyages.
CIP	Carriage and Insurance paid to
COACP	Contract of Affreightment Charter Party
COB	Closing of Business
COBLDN	Closing of Business London
COD	Cash On Delivery
COGSA	Carriage of Goods by Sea Act
CONGESTION	Port/berth delays
CONS	Consumption
C/SNEE consignee	Name of agent, company or person receiving consignment
COP	Custom Of Port
CP	(or C/P)Charter Party
CPD	Charterers Pay Dues
CPT	Carriage Paid To
CQD	Customary Quick Despatch
CR	Current Rate
CROB	Cargo Remaining on Board
CRN	Crane
CRT	Cargo Retention Clauses, introduced by charterers based on shortage of delivered cargo because of increased oil prices
CST	Centistoke
DA	Disbursement Account
DAF	Deliver At Frontier
DAPS	Days all Purposes (Total days for loading & discharging)
DAMFORDET	Damages for Detention. Penalty if cargo is not ready when ship arrives for working (1st day of Laycan). This is not detention which is charged for ships time on delay. If the cargo is ready there is no DAMFORDET.
DDU	Delivered Duty Unpaid.
DDP	Delivered Duty Paid.
DECK	A permanent covering over a compartment, hull or any part thereof
DEM	Demurrage (Quay Rent). Money paid by the shipper for the occupying port space beyond a specified "Free Time" period.
DEQ	Delivered Ex Quay
DES	Delivered Ex Ship
DESP	Despatch. Time saved, reward for quick turnaround- in dry cargo only
DET	Detention (See DAMFORDET)
DEV	Deviation. Vessel departure from specified voyage course
DFRT	Deadfreight. Space booked by shipper or charterer on a vessel but not used
DHDATSBE	Despatch Half Demurrage on All Time Saved Both Ends
DHDWTSBE	Despatch Half Demurrage on Working Time Saved Both Ends
DISCH	Discharge
DK	Deck
DLOSP	Dropping Last Outwards Sea Pilot (Norway)
DO	Diesel Oil
DOLSP	Dropping Off Last Sea Pilot (Norway)
DOP	Dropping Outward Pilot
DOT	Department of Transport
DNRCAOSLONL	Discountless and Non-Returnable Cargo and/or Ship Lost or Not Lost
DRAUGHT (or DRAFT )	Depth to which a ship is immersed in water. The depth varies according to the design of the ship and will be greater or lesser depending not only on the weight of the ship and everything on board, but also on the density of the water in which the ship is lying.
DRK Derrick
Dunnage	Materials of various types, often timber or matting, placed among the cargo for separation, and hence protection from damage, for ventilation and, in the case of certain cargoes, to provide space in which the tynes of a fork lift truck may be inserted.
DWAT (or DWT )	Deadweight. Weight of cargo, stores and water, i.e. the difference between lightship and loaded displacement.
EBB	A receding current
EC	East Coast
EIU	Even If Used
ELVENT	Electric Ventilation
ETA	Estimated Time of Arrival
ETC	Estimated Time of Completion
ETD	Estimated Time of Departure
ETS	Estimated Time of Sailing
EXW	Ex Works
FAC	Fast As Can
FAS	Free Alongside Ship. Seller delivers goods to appropriate dock or terminal at port of embarkation and buyer covers costs and risks of loading
FCA	Free to Carrier. A modern equivalent of FAS used in intermodal transport where goods are transferred at a nominated forwarders premises, depot or terminal but not actually on board vessel.
FD	(FDIS) Free Discharge
FDD	Freight Demurrage Deadfreight
FDESP	Free Despatch
FDEDANRSAOCLONL	Freight Deemed Earned, Discountless And Non-Returnable (Refundable) Ship And Or Cargo Lost Or Not Lost
FENDERA	cushion, placed between ships, or between a ship and a pier, to prevent damage
FEU	Standard 40 Container
FHEX	Fridays/Holidays Excluded
FHINC	Fridays/Holidays included
FILO	Free In/Liner Out. Seafreight with which the shipper pays load costs and the carrier pays for discharge costs.
FIO	Free In/Out. Freight booked FIO includes the seafreight, but no loading/discharging costs, i.e. the charterer pays for cost of loading/discharging cargo.
FIOS	Free In/Out Stowed. As per FIO, but excludes stowage costs.
FIOST	Free In/Out and Trimmed. Charterer pays for cost of loading/discharging cargo, including stowage and trimming.
FIOT	Free In/Out and Trimmed. As per FIOS but includes trimming, e.g. the levelling of bulk cargoes. FIOS includes seafreight, but excludes loading/discharging and stowage costs.
FIT	Free In Trimmed
FIW	Free In Wagon
FIXING	Chartering a Vessel
FIXTURE	Conclusion of shipbrokers negotiations to charter a ship - an agreemen
FLATPACKING		Cargo to be presented stacked and secured as an integral unit.
FLT	Full Liner Terms
FMC	Federal Maritime Commission
FME	Force Majeure Excepted
FMS	Fathoms
FO1	For Orders
FO2	(IFO)Fuel Oil/Intermediate FO
FO3	Free Out
FOB	Free on Board. Seller sees the goods "over the ships rail" on to the ship which is arranged and paid for by the buyer
FOFFER	Firm Offer
FOG	For Our Guidance
FOQ	Free On Quay
FOR	Free On Rail
FORCE MAJEURE		Clause limiting responsibilities of the charterers, shippers and receivers of cargo.
FOREANDAFT		In a line parallel to the keel
Forward		Toward the bow of the ship
FOT	Free On Truck
FOW1	First Open Water
FOW2	Free On Wharf
FP		Free Pratique. Clearance by the Health Authorities
FR		First Refusal. First attempt at best offer that can be matched
Freeboard		The minimum vertical distance from the surface of the water to the gunwale
FRT		Freight. Money payable on delivery of cargo in a mercantile condition
FREE DESPATCH		If loading/discharging achieved sooner than agreed, there will be no freight money returned.
FREE EXINS	Free of any Extra Insurance (Owners)
FREE OUT		Free of discharge costs to owners. Includes sea freight only.
FRUSTRATION		Charterers when cancelling agreement sometimes quote 'doctrine of frustration' i.e. vessel is lost, extensive delays.
FWAD	Fresh Water Arrival Draft
FWDD	Fresh Water Departure Draft
FYG	For Your Guidance
FYI	For Your Information
GA	General Average
GEAR		A general term for ropes, blocks, tackle and other equipment
GLS	(GLESS) Gearless
GNCN	Gencon (GENERAL CONDITIONS)
GN	(or GR) Grain (Capacity)
GO	Gas Oil
GP '	Grain Capacity. Cubic capacity in 'grain
GR	Geographical Rotation. Ports in order of calling
GRD	Geared
GRT	Gross Registered Tonnage
GSB	Good, Safe Berth
GSP	Good, Safe Port
GTEE	Guarantee
GUNWALE	The upper edge of a ship's sides
2H	Second Half
HA	Hatch
Hague Rules		Code of minimum conditions for the carriage of cargo under a bill of Lading
Hatch		An opening in a ship's deck fitted with a watertight cover
HBF	Harmless Bulk Fertilizer
HDLTSBENDS	Half Despatch Lay Time Saved Both Ends
HDWTS	Half Despatch Working (or Weather) Time Saved
HHDW	Handy Heavy d.w. (Scrap)
HIRE	T/C Remuneration
HMS	Heavy Metal Scraps
HO	Hold
Hold		A compartment below deck in a large vessel, used solely for carrying cargo
HULL		The main body of a ship
HW	High Water
ICW		Intercoastal Waterway : bays, rivers, and canals along the coasts (such as the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coasts), connected so that vessels may travel without going into the sea
IMDG	International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code
IMO	International Maritime Organisation
IN		&/OR OVER Goods carried below and/or on deck
IND	Indication
INTERMODAL		Carriage of a commodity by different modes of transport, i.e. sea, road, rail and air within a single journey
INCOTERMS		International Commercial Terms. Incoterms are a set of uniform rules codifying the interpretation of trade terms defining the rights and obligation of both buyer and seller in an international transaction, thereby enabling an otherwise complex basis for a sale contract to be accomplished in three letters. Incoterms are drafted by the International Chamber of Commerce. ITF International Transport Workers Federation (Trade Unions). Complies on crewing
ITINERARY		Route Schedule
IU	If Used
IUHTAUTC	If Used, Half Time Actually To Count
IWL	Institute Warranty Limits
KEEL		The centreline of a ship running fore and aft; the backbone of a vessel
KNOT		A measurement of speed equal to one nautical mile (6,076 feet) per hour
LANE METER		A method of measuring the space capacity of Ro/Ro ships whereby each unit of space (Linear Meter) is represented by an area of deck 1.0 meter in length x 2.0 meters in width.
LASH		To hold goods in position by use of Ropes, Wires, Chains or Straps etc.
LAT		Latitude. The distance north or south of the equator measured and expressed in degrees.
LAYCAN	Laycan (Layday Cancelling Date)
LAYTIME		Time at Charterers disposal for purpose of loading/discharging
L/C	Letter of Credit
LCR	Lowest Current Rate
LEE		The side sheltered from the wind
LEEWARD		The direction away from the wind. Opposite of windward
LEEWAY		The sideways movement of the ship caused by either wind or current
LF		Load Factor. Percentage of cargo or passengers a vessel carries- e.g. 4,000 tons carried on a vessel of 10,000 capacity has a load factor of 40%
LIEN		Retention of property until outstanding debt is paid
LNG	Liquefied Natural Gas
LOA	Length Overall of the vessel
LOAD LINE		An internationally recognized line painted on the side of merchant ships. When a ship is loaded, the water level is not supposed to go above the line. Water can reach different parts of the line as its temperature and saltiness varies with the season and location.LOF Lloyds Open Form
LOG		A record of courses or operation. Also, a device to measure speed
LOI	Letter of Indemnity
LONGITUDE		The distance in degrees east or west of the meridian at Greenwich, England
LOW	Last Open Water
LS		(or LUMPS) Lumpsum Freight. Money paid to Shipper for a charter of a ship (or portion) up to stated limit irrespective of quantity of cargo
LSD	Lashed Secured Dunnaged
LT1	Liner Terms
LT2	Long Ton = 1,016.05 kilogram (2,240 lbs)
LTHH	Liner Terms Hook/Hook
LW	Low Water
LYCN	Laycan (Layday Cancelling Date)
MANIFEST		Inventory of cargo on board
MB	Merchant Broker
MDO	(DO) Marine Diesel Oil
Midship	Approximately in the location equally distant from the bow and stern
MIN/MAX Minimum/Maximum		(cargo quantity)
MOA	Memorandum of Agreement
MOLCHOPT	More or Less Charterers Option
MOLOO	More or Less Owners Option
Mooring		An arrangement for securing a ship to a mooring buoy or pier
MT	Mertic Tonne (i.e. 1,000 kilos)
M/V	Motor Vessel / Merchant Vessel
NAABSA	Not Always Afloat But Safely Aground
NM	Nautical Mile.	One minute of latitude; approximately 6,076 feet - about 1/8 longer than the statute mile of 5,280 feet
NAVIGATION		The art and science of conducting a ship safely from one point to another
NCB	National Cargo Bureau
NESTING		Implies that cargo is presented stacked in the contour of similarly shaped cargo, it may be likened to a stack of plates. This is particularly relevant in the presentation of tankage strakes for transport
NONREVERSIBLE		(Detention). If loading completed sooner than expected, then saved days will not be added to discharge time allowed.
NOR	Notice of Readiness
NRT	Net Restricted Tonnage
NYPE	New York Produce Exchange
OO	Owners Option
OBO	Ore/Bulk/Oil Vessel
OSH	Open Shelter Deck
OVERBOARD		Over the side or out of the ship
OWS	Owners
P&I;	Protection and Indemnity Insurance
PASTUS	Past Us
PC	Period of Charter
PCGO	Part Cargo
PCT	Percent
PDPR	Per Day Pro Rata
PERDIEM	By the Day
PER SE	By Itself
PHPD	Per Hatch Per Day
PORT		The left side of a ship looking forward. A harbour.
PRATIQUE		Licence or permission to use a port
PREAMBLE		Introduction to a charter party
PROFORMA		Estimated Account
PUS	Plus Us
PWWD	Per Weather Working Day
RCVR	Receiver
RECAP	Recapitulation of the terms and conditions agreed
REVERSIBLE		(Detention). If loading completed sooner than expected at load port, then days saved can be added to discharge operations.
ROB	Remaining On Board
RT	Revenue Tonne	(i.e. 1.0 metric tonne or 1.0 cubic meter, whichever greater). The overall RT is calculated on a line by line basis of the Packing List using the largest amount. The overall freight liability is calculated on the total RT amount, multiplied by the freight rate.
SATPM	Saturday P.M.
SB	Safe Berth
SD	(or SID) Single Decker
SEAFREIGHT		Costs charged for transporting goods over the sea. This does not cover haulage or loading/discharging costs but the sea transport only
SEAWORTHINESS		Statement of condition of the vessel (valid certificates, fully equipped and manned etc.)
SELFD	Self Discharging
SEMITRAILERS		Are usually 12.0 meter flat bed road trailers
SF	Stowage Factor.	Cubic space (measurement tonne) occupied by one tonne (2,240 lbs/1,000 kgs) of cargo
SHINC	Sundays/Holidays included
SHEX	Sundays/Holidays Excluded
SKIDS		Are bearers (timber or steel) positioned under the cargo to enable forklift handling at port, and for ease of rigging and lashing on board ship.
SN	Satellite Navigation -	A form of position finding using radio transmissions from satellites with sophisticated on-board automatic equipment
SOC	Shipper Owned Container
SOF	Statement of Facts
SP	Safe Port
SPIDERING		Is the strengthening of circular tanks for transport, this prevents the tanks from becoming warped. The tanks are strengthened with steel or wood crossbeams giving a "spider" appearance
SRBL	Signing and Releasing Bill of Lading
SSHEX	Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays Excluded
SSHINC		(or SATSHINC) Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays included
STABILITY		It is paramount that a vessel is stable in all aspects at all times. When cargo is loaded/discharged, the stability is monitored by a computer, which takes into account the weight and position of cargo within the vessel.
STARBOARD		Right side of a ship when facing the front or forward end.
STEM		Subject to Enough Merchandise (Availability of cargo). Also, the forward most part of the bow.
STERN		The aformost or after part of a ship
SUB		Subject (to). Depending upon as a condition
SUPERCARGO		Person employed by a ship owner, shipping company, charterer of a ship or shipper of goods to supervise cargo handling operations. Often called a port captain.
SWAD	Salt Water Arrival Draft
SWDD	Salt Water Departure Draft
THWARTSHIPS		At right angles to the centreline of the ship
TIDE		The periodic rise and fall of water level in the oceans
Time bar		Time after which legal claims will not be entered
TBN	To Be Named / To Be Nominated
TC	Time Charter -	Owners agree to hire a particular ship for aset length of time and provide technical management, crewing etc.
TCP	Time Charter Party
TEU		Standard 20' Container
Topsides		The sides of a ship between the waterline and the deck; sometimes referring to onto or above the deck
TRIM		Fore and aft balance of a ship
TTL	Total
TW	Tween Decker
USC	Unless Sooner Commenced
UU	Unless Used
UUIWCTAUTC	Unless Used In Which Case Time Actually Used To Count
VPD	Vessel Pays Dues
WATERLINE		A line painted on a hull which shows the point to which a ship sinks when it is properly trimmed
WAY		Movement of a ship through water such as headway, sternway or leeway
WCCON	Whether Customs Cleared Or Not
WIBON	Whether In Berth Or Not
WIFPON	Whether In Free Pratique Or Not
WINDWARD		Toward the direction from which the wind is coming
WIPON	Whether In Port Or Not
WLTOHC	Water Line-To-Hatch Coaming
WOG	Without Guarantee
WP	Weather Permitting.	That time during which weather prevents working shall not count as laytime
WPD	Weather Permitting Day