110+ Maritime and Shipping Terms – BT School

Discover essential Shipping terms, demystifying the language of the industry. Enhance your knowledge and sail with confidence!

Get ready to dive into the language of the shipping industry and unlock the mysteries behind the terminology used in this exciting field. From ships and ports to cargo and navigation, the maritime industry has its own unique set of terms and acronyms. We will demystify these concepts using clear and easy-to-understand explanations, allowing you to grasp the essentials of this complex domain.

By familiarizing yourself with these terms, you will gain a deeper understanding of this vital industry that drives international commerce and connects people across the seas.

Shipping Terms for Ports and Terminals

  1. Anchorage [ˈæŋkərɪdʒ]: A designated area where vessels anchor to wait for berth availability.
  2. Berth [bɜːθ]: A designated area in a port where a vessel can dock for loading or unloading.
  3. Breakwater [ˈbreɪkwɔːtər]: A protective barrier built offshore to provide calm waters for the port and shield vessels from waves and currents.
  4. Container Terminal [kənˈteɪnər ˈtɜːrmɪnl]: A specialized terminal equipped for handling containerized cargo.
  5. Dry Dock [draɪ dɒk]: A structure used for dry-docking vessels to facilitate maintenance and repairs.
  6. Jetty [ˈdʒɛti]: A structure that extends into the water to serve as a platform for vessels to load or unload cargo.
  7. Port [pɔːrt]: A facility on the coast or an inland waterway where ships can dock to load or unload cargo.
  8. Quay [kiː]: A solid, flat platform parallel to the shore where vessels can be moored.
  9. Terminal [ˈtɜːrmɪnl]: A facility within a port used for the handling of cargo, passengers, or both.

Cargo Handling

  1. Breakbulk Cargo [ˈbreɪkbʌlk ˈkɑːɡəʊ]: General cargo that is not containerized or bulk-loaded, usually packed in crates, pallets, or bundles.
  2. Bulk Carrier [bʌlk ˈkæriər]: A vessel designed for the transportation of unpackaged bulk cargo such as grain, coal, or ore.
  3. Container [kənˈteɪnər]: A standardized metal box used for transporting goods, easily transferable between different modes of transportation.
  4. Intermodal Transportation [ˌɪntərˈmoʊdəl ˌtrænspɔːrˈteɪʃən]: The movement of goods using multiple modes of transportation, such as truck, rail, and ship.
  5. Reefer Container [ˈriːfər kənˈteɪnər]: A refrigerated container used for transporting perishable goods that require temperature control.
  6. Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) [ˈroʊl-ɒn/ˈroʊl-ɒf]: A type of vessel or terminal where wheeled cargo, such as vehicles, can be driven on and off the ship.
  7. Stevedore [ˈstiːvəˌdɔːr]: A person or company responsible for loading and unloading cargo from ships.
  8. Stowage [ˈstoʊɪdʒ]: The arrangement and securing of cargo within a ship’s hold to ensure safe transportation.
  9. Transshipment [ˌtrænˈʃɪpmənt]: The transfer of cargo from one ship to another or from one mode of transportation to another at an intermediate port.

Shipping Documents and Procedures

  1. Bill of Lading [bɪl əv ˈleɪdɪŋ]: A legal document issued by the carrier to acknowledge the receipt of goods and evidence the contract of carriage.
  2. Charter Party [ˈtʃɑːrtər ˈpɑːrti]: A contract between a shipowner and a charterer for the hire of a vessel.
  3. Customs Clearance [ˈkʌstəmz ˈklɪərəns]: The process of getting official approval from customs authorities to import or export goods.
  4. Demurrage [dɪˈmɜːrɪdʒ]: A charge imposed on the shipper or receiver for delaying the use of a shipping container or the vessel beyond the agreed time.
  5. Freight Forwarder [freɪt ˈfɔːrwərdər]: A company or individual that arranges the transportation of goods on behalf of shippers.
  6. Letter of Credit [ˈlɛtər ʌv ˈkrɛdɪt]: A financial document issued by a bank, guaranteeing payment to the seller upon receipt of specified documents.
  7. Port Clearance [pɔːrt ˈklɪərəns]: The process of obtaining permission from port authorities for a vessel to enter or leave a port.
  8. Cargo Manifest [ˈkɑːrɡoʊ ˈmænɪfɛst]: A detailed list of all the cargo carried on a vessel, including information such as the description, quantity, and weight of each item.
  9. Commercial Invoice [kəˈmɜːrʃəl ˈɪnvɔɪs]: A document provided by the seller to the buyer, containing details of the goods sold, their value, and other relevant commercial terms.
  10. Free Trade Zone [friː treɪd zoʊn]: A designated area within a country where goods can be stored, processed, or manufactured without being subject to customs duties or other trade barriers.
  11. Letter of Indemnity [ˈlɛtər ʌv ˌɪndɛmˈnɪti]: A legal document issued by a shipper or charterer, indemnifying the carrier against any loss or liability arising from specific actions or circumstances.
  12. Proforma Invoice [proʊˈfɔːrmə ˈɪnvɔɪs]: An initial invoice provided to the buyer before the actual shipment, serving as a preliminary agreement on the terms and conditions of sale.
  13. Shipment Advice [ˈʃɪpmənt ədˈvaɪs]: A document or notification provided by the shipper or carrier to the consignee, informing them about the upcoming shipment, its details, and expected delivery.

Vessels and Equipment

  1. Deadweight Tonnage (DWT) [dɛdˌweɪt ˈtʌnɪdʒ]: The maximum weight a vessel can carry, including cargo, fuel, crew, and provisions.
  2. Handysize Vessel [ˈhændiˌsaɪz ˈvɛsəl]: A small-sized vessel suitable for ports with restrictions on size or draft.
  3. Lashing [ˈlæʃɪŋ]: The securing of cargo using ropes, wires, or chains to prevent it from shifting or falling during transit.
  4. Panamax [ˈpænəˌmæks]: The maximum size vessel that can pass through the Panama Canal.
  5. Shipbroker [ˈʃɪpˌbroʊkər]: A person or company that acts as an intermediary between shipowners and charterers to arrange the hiring of vessels.
  6. Supramax [ˈsuprəˌmæks]: A medium-sized dry bulk vessel with a capacity between that of a Handysize and a Panamax vessel.
  7. Tanker [ˈtæŋkər]: A vessel designed for the transportation of liquid or gas cargoes, such as crude oil or liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Shipping Terms for Freight and Rates

  1. Charter Rate [ˈtʃɑːrtər reɪt]: The amount of money paid by a charterer to hire a vessel for a specified period.
  2. Freight Rate [freɪt reɪt]: The price charged for the transportation of goods by sea.
  3. General Average [ˈdʒɛnərəl ˈævərɪdʒ]: A principle in maritime law where all parties involved in a maritime adventure share the losses proportionally in case of voluntary sacrifice to save the vessel or cargo.
  4. Liner Service [ˈlaɪnər ˈsɜːrvɪs]: A regular and scheduled shipping service that operates on fixed routes with published rates.

Maritime Safety and Security

  1. Ballast Water [ˈbæləst ˈwɔːtər]: Water taken into or discharged from a vessel’s ballast tanks to maintain stability or adjust the vessel’s trim.
  2. Collision Regulations [kəˈlɪʒən ˌrɛɡjʊˈleɪʃənz]: International rules for preventing collisions at sea, providing guidelines on navigation and the actions to be taken by vessels in various situations.
  3. International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code [ˌɪntərˈnæʃənəl ˈʃɪp ænd pɔːrt fəˈsɪlɪti ˈsɛkjʊrəti koʊd]: A comprehensive set of security measures developed by the IMO to enhance the security of ships and port facilities against acts of terrorism and unlawful activities.
  4. Maritime Security [mɑːˈrɪtaɪm sɪˈkjʊrəti]: The protection of vessels, ports, and maritime infrastructure from security threats, including piracy, terrorism, and smuggling.

Maritime Trade and Economics

  1. Balloon Freight [bəˈluːn freɪt]: Additional charges levied by carriers for oversized or irregularly shaped cargo that occupies excessive space.
  2. Cabotage [ˈkæbətɪdʒ]: The transportation of goods or passengers between two points within the same country by a domestic carrier.
  3. Freight Forwarding [freɪt ˈfɔːrwərdɪŋ]: The coordination and organization of shipments on behalf of shippers, including documentation, customs clearance, and transport logistics.
  4. Inland Waterways [ˈɪnlənd ˈwɔːtərweɪz]: Navigable water routes within a country used for transporting goods or passengers.
  5. Liner Terms [ˈlaɪnər tɜːrmz]: Standardized conditions and terms governing the transportation of goods by a liner service, including liability, demurrage, and free time.
  6. Trade Lane [treɪd leɪn]: A specific route or corridor followed by vessels engaged in trade between two or more ports.

Maritime Insurance and Risk Management

  1. Average Adjuster [ˈævərɪdʒ əˈdʒʌstər]: An independent specialist who assesses and determines the extent of average or partial losses in a maritime insurance claim.
  2. General Average Bond [ˈdʒɛnərəl ˈævərɪdʒ bɒnd]: A financial guarantee provided by the cargo interests to the shipowner, ensuring their contribution to a general average loss.
  3. Hull Insurance [hʌl ɪnˈʃʊrəns]: Insurance coverage that protects the vessel against damage or loss to its hull and machinery.
  4. Marine Insurance [məˈriːn ɪnˈʃʊrəns]: Insurance coverage that provides protection against risks associated with the transportation of goods by sea, including damage, loss, or liability.
  5. Salvage [ˈsælvɪdʒ]: The act of rescuing or recovering a vessel, its cargo, or property from perils such as sinking, fire, or grounding.

Environmental Considerations

  1. Ballast Water Management [ˈbæləst ˈwɔːtər ˈmænɪdʒmənt]: Practices and procedures implemented to minimize the transfer of harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens through ballast water discharge.
  2. Emission Control Area (ECA) [ɪˈmɪʃən kənˈtroʊl ˈeɪriə]: A designated area where stricter regulations on emissions from vessels are enforced to reduce air pollution and protect the environment.
  3. Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions [ˈɡriːnhaʊs ɡæs ɪˈmɪʃənz]: Gases released into the atmosphere from various sources, including ships, that contribute to global warming and climate change.
  4. Marine Pollution [məˈriːn pəˈluːʃən]: Contamination of the marine environment caused by human activities, such as oil spills, sewage discharge, or garbage dumping.
  5. Waste Reception Facility [weɪst rɪˈsɛpʃən fəˈsɪlɪti]: A designated facility in a port where ships can dispose of their waste, including garbage, sewage, and oily residues, in an environmentally responsible manner.

Maritime Technology and Automation

  1. Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) [ˈɔːtəˌmeɪtɪd ˈɡaɪdɪd ˈvɛhɪkəlz]: Self-propelled vehicles used in port terminals to transport containers or cargo without human intervention.
  2. Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) [ɪlɛkˈtrɒnɪk ˈdeɪtə ˈɪntərˌtʃeɪndʒ]: The computer-to-computer exchange of standardized documents and information between different organizations, facilitating efficient data transfer and communication within the shipping industry.
  3. Port Community System (PCS) [pɔːrt kəˈmjuːnɪti ˈsɪstəm]: A digital platform that enables the seamless exchange of information and data among various stakeholders in the port community, including shipping lines, customs authorities, and terminal operators.
  4. Remote Monitoring [rɪˈmoʊt ˈmɒnɪtərɪŋ]: The use of sensors, cameras, and communication technology to monitor vessel operations, cargo handling, or equipment performance from a remote location.
  5. Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) [ˈvɛsəl ˈtræfɪk ˈmænɪdʒmənt ˈsɪstəm]: A system that provides real-time information, surveillance, and management of vessel movements within a specific area or port, enhancing safety and efficiency.
shipping industry terms

Port Operations and Infrastructure

  1. Breakbulk Cargo [ˈbreɪkbʌlk ˈkɑːɡoʊ]: Goods that are shipped unpackaged, such as machinery, vehicles, or oversized cargo, and require individual handling and stowage.
  2. Container Terminal [kənˈteɪnər ˈtɜːrmɪnəl]: A specialized facility where containers are loaded, unloaded, and stored, equipped with container handling equipment and infrastructure.
  3. Dry Dock [draɪ dɒk]: An enclosed facility where vessels can be brought for maintenance, repairs, or inspections, allowing them to be submerged and the water to be pumped out.
  4. Port Operator [pɔːrt ˈɒpəreɪtər]: A company or entity responsible for the management and operation of a port, including terminal operations, cargo handling, and infrastructure maintenance.
  5. Stevedore [ˈstiːvədɔːr]: A person or company involved in the loading and unloading of cargo from vessels, responsible for efficient and safe cargo handling operations in port.

Indian Colloquial Terms

  1. Bunker [ˈbʌŋkər]: The fuel used to power a vessel, often referring to heavy fuel oil or marine diesel oil.
  2. Chota Bhai [ˈtʃoʊtə ˈbaɪ]: A colloquial term used to refer to a smaller vessel that assists larger ships in berthing or maneuvering within a port.
  3. NVOCC (Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier) [ˈɛnvɒk]: A shipping intermediary that arranges the transportation of goods but does not operate its own vessels.
  4. P&I Club (Protection and Indemnity Club) [ˈpiː ənˈdaɪ klʌb]: A mutual insurance association that provides liability coverage and related services to shipowners and operators.
  5. Port Trust [pɔːrt trʌst]: An autonomous government body responsible for the administration, development, and management of a specific port in India.

Port Facilities and Services

  1. Container Freight Station (CFS) [kənˈteɪnər freɪt ˈsteɪʃən]: A facility where containers are consolidated, deconsolidated, or temporarily stored before being transported to or from the port.
  2. Customs Warehouse [ˈkʌstəmz ˈwɛəˌhaʊs]: A facility authorized by customs authorities for the storage of imported goods under customs supervision, before clearance or further distribution.
  3. Reefer Plug [ˈriːfər plʌɡ]: An electrical outlet on a terminal or vessel, used to power refrigerated containers (reefers) and maintain the desired temperature of perishable goods.
  4. Ro-Ro Terminal [roʊ roʊ ˈtɜːrmɪnəl]: A specialized terminal where Roll-on/Roll-off vessels can load and unload cargo, typically consisting of wheeled or self-propelled units like cars, trucks, or trailers.
  5. Stevedoring Company [ˈstiːvədɔːrɪŋ ˈkʌmpəni]: A company that provides labor and equipment for the loading and unloading of cargo onto or from vessels in port.

Shipping Finance

  1. Freight Rate Index [freɪt reɪt ˈɪndɛks]: An index or benchmark used to track and monitor changes in freight rates over time, providing a reference for pricing negotiations in the shipping industry.
  2. Hire Purchase [ˈhaɪər ˈpɜːrtʃɪs]: A financial arrangement where the buyer pays for goods in installments and gains ownership of the goods after completing the payment.
  3. Ship Mortgage [ʃɪp ˈmɔːɡɪdʒ]: A legal arrangement where a vessel is used as collateral for a loan, giving the lender the right to claim the vessel in case of default.
  4. Time Charter [taɪm ˈtʃɑːrtər]: A contractual agreement in which a vessel is hired for a specific period, with the charterer having control over the vessel’s operations and commercial use.

Maritime Regulations and Compliance

  1. Customs Clearance [ˈkʌstəmz ˈklɪərəns]: The process of complying with customs requirements and obtaining official permission for the import or export of goods.
  2. International Maritime Organization (IMO) [ˌɪntərˈnæʃənəl ˈmærɪˌtaɪm ˌɔrɡənɪˈzeɪʃən]: A specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for developing and maintaining international maritime regulations and safety standards.
  3. Port State Control [pɔːrt steɪt kənˈtroʊl]: The inspection and enforcement activities carried out by port authorities to ensure that visiting vessels comply with international maritime regulations and safety standards.
  4. SOLAS (International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea) [ˈsoʊləs]: An international treaty that sets minimum safety standards for the construction, equipment, and operation of merchant ships.
  5. International Maritime Organization (IMO) [ˌɪntərˈnæʃənəl ˈmærɪˌtaɪm ˌɔːrɡəˈnaɪˌzeɪʃən]: A specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for the safety and security of shipping and the prevention of marine pollution.
  6. Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) [mɑːˈrɪtaɪm ˈleɪbər kənˈvɛnʃən]: An international labor standard for the protection of seafarers’ rights, covering a wide range of employment conditions and welfare issues.
  7. Port State Control [pɔːrt steɪt kənˈtroʊl]: The inspection and enforcement of international shipping regulations by port authorities to ensure compliance with safety, security, and environmental standards.
  8. Shipping Act [ˈʃɪpɪŋ ækt]: Legislation governing the maritime industry, covering various aspects such as vessel operations, cargo handling, and commercial practices.

Freight and Logistics

  1. Freight Forwarder [freɪt ˈfɔːrwərdər]: A company or agent that organizes the transportation of goods on behalf of the shipper, handling various logistics aspects such as booking cargo space, arranging documentation, and coordinating with carriers.
  2. Inland Container Depot (ICD) [ˈɪnlənd kənˈteɪnər ˈdiːpoʊ]: A facility located inland, typically near major transport hubs, where containers are received, stored, and dispatched for transport to or from the port.
  3. Last Mile Delivery [læst maɪl dɪˈlɪvəri]: The final stage of the logistics chain where goods are delivered to the end recipient, often involving transportation from a distribution center to the customer’s location.
  4. Multimodal Transport [ˈmʌltimoʊdəl ˈtrænˌspɔːrt]: The movement of goods using multiple modes of transportation, such as a combination of road, rail, air, and sea, under a single contract and with a single point of responsibility.
  5. Third-Party Logistics (3PL) [θɜrd ˈpɑːrti ˈlɒdʒɪstɪks]: A company that provides outsourced logistics services, including transportation, warehousing, and distribution, on behalf of other businesses.

Maritime Labor and Personnel

  1. Able Seaman [ˈeɪbəl ˈsiːmən]: A skilled deckhand who is proficient in various seafaring tasks and responsibilities on board a vessel.
  2. Cadet [kəˈdɛt]: A trainee or apprentice seafarer who is undergoing practical training and education to become a qualified officer.
  3. Chief Engineer [tʃiːf ˌɛndʒɪˈnɪr]: The senior officer responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of a vessel’s engine and machinery.
  4. Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) [ˈmærɪˌtaɪm ˈleɪbər kənˈvenʃən]: An international labor standard that establishes minimum working and living conditions for seafarers, covering areas such as employment contracts, accommodation, and welfare provisions.
  5. Ship Chandler [ʃɪp ˈtʃændlər]: A supplier of provisions, equipment, and various goods and services to vessels in port, catering to the needs of the ship and its crew.

Freight and Logistics

  1. Freight Forwarder [freɪt ˈfɔːrwərdər]: A company or agent that organizes the transportation of goods on behalf of the shipper, handling various logistics aspects such as booking cargo space, arranging documentation, and coordinating with carriers.
  2. Inland Container Depot (ICD) [ˈɪnlənd kənˈteɪnər ˈdiːpoʊ]: A facility located inland, typically near major transport hubs, where containers are received, stored, and dispatched for transport to or from the port.
  3. Last Mile Delivery [læst maɪl dɪˈlɪvəri]: The final stage of the logistics chain where goods are delivered to the end recipient, often involving transportation from a distribution center to the customer’s location.
  4. Multimodal Transport [ˈmʌltimoʊdəl ˈtrænˌspɔːrt]: The movement of goods using multiple modes of transportation, such as a combination of road, rail, air, and sea, under a single contract and with a single point of responsibility.
  5. Third-Party Logistics (3PL) [θɜrd ˈpɑːrti ˈlɒdʒɪstɪks]: A company that provides outsourced logistics services, including transportation, warehousing, and distribution, on behalf of other businesses.

Maritime Labor and Personnel

  1. Able Seaman [ˈeɪbəl ˈsiːmən]: A skilled deckhand who is proficient in various seafaring tasks and responsibilities on board a vessel.
  2. Cadet [kəˈdɛt]: A trainee or apprentice seafarer who is undergoing practical training and education to become a qualified officer.
  3. Chief Maritime Engineer [tʃiːf ˌɛndʒɪˈnɪr]: The senior officer responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of a vessel’s engine and machinery.
  4. Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) [ˈmærɪˌtaɪm ˈleɪbər kənˈvenʃən]: An international labor standard that establishes minimum working and living conditions for seafarers, covering areas such as employment contracts, accommodation, and welfare provisions.
  5. Ship Chandler [ʃɪp ˈtʃændlər]: A supplier of provisions, equipment, and various goods and services to vessels in port, catering to the needs of the ship and its crew.

From understanding the different types of vessels to deciphering essential acronyms like SOLAS and AIS, you have gained insights into the inner workings of global shipping and trade. Whether you aspire to become a sailor, have an interest in international commerce, or simply want to expand your horizons, this knowledge will serve you well.

As you continue to explore the maritime industry, remember that the world of ships and oceans is vast and ever-evolving. Stay curious, keep learning, and let your passion for the seas guide you on an exciting journey filled with endless opportunities. Bon voyage!

To send your feedback, suggestions, or requests for including new words in our shipping terms dictionary, please comment below or reach out to us on LinkedIn at BusinessTenet.

Definitions and pronunciations are for informational purposes only and may slightly for different contexts or regions.

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