Sea chartering transportation is widely recognized as the most advantageous method for delivering goods, particularly for international transport of bulky cargo. The benefits of sea logistics include time and cost savings, convenience, and reliability. The term "freight" is closely associated with this form of shipping, referring to the charge for the space the goods occupy on a particular ship. However, to fully understand the concept of chartering a ship, it is essential to be familiar with the processes that precede renting space on board and delivering goods.
It's important to note that while chartering can be notionally considered rental due to the similarity between the two processes, it also incorporates elements of a carriage contract. Both actions aim at the economic benefit of transporting goods to a specified destination.
Key differences between a charter agreement and ordinary cargo transportation and rental include:
- Irregular sea voyages
- Possibility of transporting passengers
- The shipowner not being responsible for the cargo during transportation
- Chartering being unavailable for all types of shipping
- The charterer being liable for late delivery and other faults until the end of loading
- The issuance of the bill of lading by the shipowner
Therefore, rental, shipping, and chartering are not equivalent. Chartering combines elements of both services.
Components of Successful Chartering
Successful chartering of a vessel requires:
- Finding the appropriate ship
- Agreeing on lease terms
- Calculating the estimated freight rate in advance
- Determining potential downtime
- Preparing the necessary documentation
Each of these steps demands careful analysis and professionalism. Only experienced specialists in maritime law and logistics can charter ships effectively and profitably, meeting the customer’s needs. These experts examine the specifics of the cargo, assess its volume, parameters, and route, and then propose a profitable charter plan to the client. Compiling the required documents necessitates knowledge of transport charters and codes specific to certain countries.
Arrangements for ship entry and exit, cargo unloading and loading, customs formalities, and dispatch are typically not included in the chartering service. These tasks are usually covered by a separate transport-forwarding contract.
