The International Code for the Safe Carriage of Grain in Bulk (Grain Code), mandatory under SOLAS Chapter VI, is undergoing a significant update to enhance safety and operational flexibility in the maritime transport of bulk grain. Adopted by the IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 108) in May 2024 via Resolution MSC.552(108), these amendments are set to enter into force on January 1, 2026. Image for representation purpose only They address a specific, previously undefined, partly filled cargo condition, bringing the regulatory framework in line with loading operations on modern bulk carriers. The new requirements apply to both new and existing ships that intend to carry grain under this newly defined loading condition starting from that date. The New Fourth Loading Condition The core of the amendments is the introduction of a fourth permissible loading condition to the Grain Code. Previously, the Code recognised three main conditions: Filled compartment, trimmed Filled compartment, untrimmed Partly filled compartment The new amendment formally introduces and defines: A specially suitable compartment, partly filled in the way of the hatch opening, with ends untrimmed. This new condition is specifically designed for a cargo hold that: Is defined as a “specially suitable compartment” (which may be exempted from trimming requirements under specific conditions). is not filled to the maximum extent possible. Is filled to a level equal to or above the bottom edge of the hatch end beams. Has untrimmed ends outside the periphery of the hatch opening, where the grain can rest at its natural angle of repose (typically 30 degrees is assumed for stability calculations). Requires only the free grain surface in the way of the hatch opening to be level (trimmed). This provision provides increased flexibility for ship operators, particularly when the vessel cannot be loaded to full capacity (due to draft restrictions, port limits, or cargo volume) but the ends of the hold would otherwise require trimming under the previous “partly filled” condition. Stability Calculation Updates in Part B To ensure the new loading condition does not compromise vessel safety, Part B of the Grain Code, which governs the calculation of assumed heeling moments and general assumptions, has been updated. Revised Heeling Moment Assumptions The amendments mandate new calculation assumptions for the volumetric heeling moment in this new loading condition. Assumed Slope: For the untrimmed ends, the grain surface is assumed to slope in all directions away from the filling area at an angle of 30 degrees from the horizontal. This assumption is crucial for accurately calculating the potential heeling moment caused by grain shifting during the voyage. Vertical Shift Allowance: For both standard “partly filled compartments” and the new condition, the adverse effect of the vertical shift of grain surfaces must be taken into account by multiplying the calculated transverse heeling moment by a factor of 1.12. New Curves: Shipowners must now include additional curves for the grain shift moment and volume in the vessel’s approved Grain Loading Manual to cover this new “specially suitable compartment, partly filled…” scenario Action Required for Existing Vessels To utilise the new, flexible loading condition, shipowners and operators of existing vessels must: Update the Grain Loading Manual: The vessel’s approved Grain Loading Manual must be revised or have an Addendum prepared to incorpor