Several incidents involving damage to break bulk cargo. These damage claims primarily fall into two categories:
- The first is inadequate loading, stowage and securing of break bulk cargoes which has resulted in cargo damage due to cargo shifting and stow collapsing. Additionally, it can cause stability problems for the ship.
- The second is when vehicles are incorrectly stowed, lashed and carried as non-dangerous cargo – for more detailed advice please see our guidance on the carriage of vehicles in bulk carriers/general cargo ships.
All ships carrying any type of cargo, except solid and liquid bulk cargoes, must have a Cargo Securing Manual (CSM) approved by the flag administration. The CSM must outline all lashing and securing arrangements, and devices onboard the ship, detailing their correct application and the recommended methods for securing of cargo.
Shipowners must ensure that they load, stow, and secure all non-bulk cargo in accordance with the ship’s approved CSM. They must always consider the applicable recommendations of the “Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing” (CSS Code), as well as the “International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code” (IMDG Code) for dangerous cargo in packaged form.
If a certain cargo is not covered or allowed to be loaded by the ship’s CSM, shipowners should consult the Classification Society to obtain approval and then amend the CSM accordingly. This may also necessitate altering the physical lashing arrangement and/or providing additional lashing equipment.
Contemporary break bulk and project cargo trading often includes specific requirements for stowing and securing cargo. When considering carrying such cargo on bulk carriers, it’s important to remember that these ships are generally not designed or equipped like general cargo or multi-purpose ships. Moreover, bulk carrier crews may lack experience in stowing and securing break bulk or project cargo, necessitating meticulous planning and supervision.
Full advisory at the following link.