Cargo
Operations
Expert guides to maritime cargo operations — bulk, container, dangerous goods, stowage planning, securing and all major cargo regulations including IMDG, IMSBC and CSS Code.
CARGO TOPICS
Cargo Operations Knowledge Base
From bulk carrier operations to container stowage plans and dangerous goods handling — comprehensive cargo knowledge for maritime professionals.
Bulk Cargo
Solid and liquid bulk cargo handling procedures
Container Cargo
Container ship operations and stowage planning
IMDG Code
International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code
Dangerous Goods
Classification, packaging and handling of hazmat
Loading Computer
Vessel stability and trim calculation software
Cargo Securing
Securing and lashing cargo to prevent shifting
Lashing
Types of lashing equipment and methods
Stowage Plan
Bay plan and container stowage arrangement
FAQ
Cargo Operations FAQ
What is the IMDG Code?
The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code is adopted by IMO and provides a standardised international approach to the safe carriage of dangerous goods by sea. It classifies dangerous goods into 9 classes (explosives, gases, flammable liquids, flammable solids, oxidizing substances, toxic substances, radioactive material, corrosives, and miscellaneous) and specifies packing, labelling, marking, stowage, and segregation requirements.
What is a stowage plan on a container ship?
A stowage plan (bay plan) is a schematic diagram showing the position of every container loaded on a vessel. It uses a coordinate system of bay, row and tier numbers to identify each slot. The plan includes container details such as size (20ft or 40ft), weight, contents, hazardous goods classification, and reefer requirements. Modern container ships use computer-based stowage planning systems to optimise load distribution and vessel stability.
What is cargo securing and why is it important?
Cargo securing prevents cargo from moving during the voyage due to ship motion in heavy weather. Unsecured cargo can shift and cause vessel instability, injury to crew, and damage. The CSS Code (Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing) provides guidelines. Each vessel must have a Cargo Securing Manual approved by the flag state, detailing approved securing methods and equipment for different cargo types.
What does a loading computer do?
A loading computer calculates the vessel's stability, trim, bending moments, and shear forces based on the cargo loaded. Officers input cargo weights and positions, and the computer calculates whether the vessel meets stability criteria (GM, GZ curve), maximum allowable bending moments, and required fuel and ballast. Under SOLAS, most cargo ships above 100 GT must carry approved stability information.
What is the IMSBC Code?
The International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code became mandatory under SOLAS in 2011. It classifies solid bulk cargoes as Group A (may liquefy), Group B (have chemical hazards), or Group C (neither). The code specifies moisture limits, testing requirements, and handling procedures for each cargo. Liquefaction of Group A cargoes (such as nickel ore or iron ore fines) has caused several vessel losses.