Introduction Preparation of cargo holds for the next intended carriage is a critical element of bulk carrier operations, requiring careful planning and competent execution. A lack of proper preparation not only leads to claims related to cargo quality, such as contamination, water ingress or shortage claims, but also contractual claims relating to failed or delayed surveys, off-hire claims and charter party disputes. Preparation starts well before the cargo first lands on the tank-top and a number of factors must be considered to ensure that the preparation is targeted, effective and correct. Sweeping out the hold and washing it down may be acceptable for one type of cargo, but may not be effective for another. Understanding exactly what is required is essential. It is important everyone involved in the 'cargo chain' from the chartering and operations team ashore, to the Master, Chief Officer and crew on-board understand the processes involved.   Fixing the cargo voyage Key Point: Chartering Teams and other shore members of the 'cargo chain' must understand the ships they manage and operate. In order to ensure that the voyage proceeds smoothly, it is very important to pay careful attention to the cargo during the fixing period. Otherwise the hoped for profits can turn into serious losses. Chartering Teams need to have a clear understanding of the proposed cargo lift and vessel to put the business on to the right track from the outset, in particular they must be: able to accurately assign a specific cargo to a ship, which the ship can safely carry; aware of the type and size of the ship, the hold construction and the normal standard of hold conditions, for example, understanding how difficult high-up areas of holds are to be accessed and cleaned on even relatively small bulk carriers is critical; familiar with a ship's cargo carrying capabilities and ensure that potential cargoes are properly understood prior to concluding any fixtures. This would include the pr