BRITANNIA LOSS PREVENTION MARCH 2025 BULK CARGO SHORTAGE CLAIMS ARE A COMMON YET COMPLEX ISSUE, THEY USUALLY OCCUR WHEN THERE IS A SIGNIFICANT DISCREPANCY BETWEEN THE QUANTITY OF CARGO NOTED ON THE BILL OF LADING (B/L) AND THE QUANTITY RECEIVED AT THE PORT OF DESTINATION. Such discrepancies can be attributed to various factors, including inaccurate measurement of cargo, improper stowage, mishandling during transport, spillage or even theft. Therefore, it is essential to accurately measure and record the cargo quantity during each phase of cargo transportation. To be read in conjunction with the below guidance, we include a helpful checklist that can be consulted during each stage of dry bulk cargo carriage, to not only protect the ship’s interests in the matter but also facilitate efficient preliminary investigations on board the ship should a claim occur. PREVENTING BULK SHORTAGE CLAIMS THE INTERNATIONAL MARITIME SOLID BULK CARGOES (IMSBC) CODE PROVIDES COMPREHENSIVE GUIDELINES FOR THE SAFE LOADING, STOWAGE AND TRANSPORTATION OF BULK CARGOES. The first step is to comply with the recommended guidelines stipulated. For example, the cargo hold preparation and cleanliness standards. PRIOR TO LOADING 2 | BRITANNIA LOSS PREVENTION | GUIDANCE Before any cargo is loaded, the ship’s crew must prepare to establish a solid foundation for accurate cargo measurement and documentation. Below are suggested preparations to take prior to loading: • Conduct risk assessments prior to loading cargoes with special emphasis on the type of cargo, geographical location and expected weather. For example, a cargo which is susceptible to wet damage will require enhanced weather forecasting and monitoring of conditions to obtain an early warning of rain. • Obtain detailed planning and instructions from the shipper for cargo stowage, segregation and whether the cargo can be handled in precipitation. The IMSBC Code provides accurate information about the cargo’s characteristics, including the weather precautions, flow moisture point and transportable moisture limit. • Identify if a Letter of Indemnity (LOI) is being offered for any reason during cargo handling, e.g. to accept an LOI for loading in the rain. If so, the Club should be consulted for technical advice to assess the potential risks and ensure that the terms of the LOI are clear and enforceable. • Maintain records of hold cleaning progress and consider keeping photographic evidence of the cleaned holds and bilges prior loading. Photographic evidence of cleaned holds and bilges prior to loading can serve as valuable documentation in the event of a dispute. • Regularly clean and dry bilge wells before loading, then cover them properly to stop cargo from falling in. This helps prevent blockages, protects the drainage system and reduces the risk of damage or contamination during the voyage. CARGO SHORTAGE CLAIMS OFTEN STEM FROM INADEQUATE MONITORING DURING THE LOADING PROCESS. Effective supervision should be in place to ensure the cargo is loaded correctly into the correct cargo hold, with the proper grade and quantity planned for. DURING LOADING • A designated officer or crew member should be assigned to carefully supervise loading and unloading operations, such as stevedores using appropriate cargo handling equipment like grab buckets or conveyors, and the proper placement of the cargo in the hold. For example, cargo may be lost if it spills from the grab while unloading, which can happen due to improper ha