Stowage Changes
Consult First - Then Commit
A post-fixture change of cargo orders can affect a myriad of variables on board any tanker. Changing the stow of a bulk liquid cargo can be even more challenging, especially when that parcel is just one of twenty on board a specialized parcel carrier. Where that cargo involves an increased volume of a specialized grade which is not necessarily compatible with just any previous cargo - no matter how thorough the cleaning - then the consequences for your charter can be grave. Consult your SPI Marine broker before committing to cargo changes that you may not be able to actually meet the obligations for.
Stowage Considerations
Changes in cargo stowage are not necessarily guaranteed to be feasible, under certain circumstances. If your parcel is just one of many on board a vessel that has responsibility to many masters on one voyage, then you very well may be out luck. Here's why:
- Stability: Removing (planned) cargo from one end of the vessel and stowing it in another can create stability issues (hog/sag) that some vessels cannot tolerate. Depending on the volumes being shifted around, withdrawn or added to the planned stow, the changes may be impossible for the vessel to carry out, especially for safety reasons.
- Prior Cargoes/Quality: Adding additional quantities of cargo may eventually exceed the cubic capacity that the vessel had reserved for your cargo. Additionally, any empty spaces on the vessel may or may not be cleaned adequately for their inclusion to your stow plan - especially if you are loading edible vegetable oils.
- Draft: Maximizing loaded condition (full and down) is the goal of any ship's cargo officer. But, the addition of extra volume and weight may cause the vessel to exceed its maximum allowable draft for its loadline on a route, in a port or at a berth. Conversely, if you have chartered space on a vessel, and don't use it, you may have to pay for it anyway.
- Trim of Ship: Moving cargo around changes the trim of any vessel. And, while this issue can be addressed using ballast, a vessel nearing its maximum allowable draft will be reluctant or even unwilling to take on ballast to solve your problem.
- Volumes/Available Tankage: Additional volume means using additional tank space. Does the vessel even have room for the additional volume that you propose? It is best to find out before you book that additional trade volume.
- Changes to Charter Terms & Prices: Any change to any charter party can and usually does mean additional cost to the charterer. Carefully consider the financial ramifications of any changes to your fixture before changing the terms of your trade with others. The end result may very well be an unprofitable voyage.
What If?
The best way to effect cogent and profitable changes to a "stow" plan is to first contact your SPI Marine broker. Many times, these changes have to be made through the broker in any event. SPI Marine personnel will know whether a particular change is possible - and further advise you as to its wisdom. Take advantage of the experience and knowledge only available at SPI Marine.