Introduction Cement cargoes, which account for about 5% of the dry bulk trade, can prove to be extremely problematic when carried in conventional bulk carriers as opposed to specialized cement carriers. If not dealt with in an appropriate manner, cement carriage can result in cleaning expenses of over USD 100,000 and delay the vessel for a significant period of time.   Loss Prevention BEFORE LOADING: The main problems with cement cargo arise when holds are not initially dry, clean and watertight. The majority of claims arising from cement cargo are caused by the following factors: Solidification when wet Contamination by residues of previous cargoes Retention of heat when loaded warm Packaging: Cement, if not carried in bulk, is usually shipped in 50 kg paper bags or one/two tonne polypropylene bags. These must be further packaged in water-proof material as absorption of moisture or carbon dioxide from the air can significantly deteriorate cement over time. The deterioration may not be visible but it significantly reduces its performance. Solidification: It is crucial to ensure all holds and bilges are completely dry prior to loading. It is also of paramount importance that all valves in the drain and bilge systems are thoroughly checked and confirmed to be operational. Dysfunctional valves can allow water to seep into holds through the bilge line system causing the cement in the holds to solidify. Cargo with temperatures of over 100°C must be allowed to cool down before the commencement of loading Partially wet cargo which must be rejected Contamination: Cargo holds must be clean and odour-free. It must be clarified in the charterparty what level of cleanliness is required on delivery and an independent surveyor can be employed to make sure the vessel is ready to load cement. Cargo residues such as sugar and fertilizers may result in the contamination of cement cargoes. Raw sugar reacts with cement and even small amounts seriously affect the setting and harden