{"id":831,"date":"2025-06-13T08:00:53","date_gmt":"2025-06-13T08:00:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/visionzone.designswebs.com\/airtiger\/?page_id=831"},"modified":"2025-06-13T10:51:16","modified_gmt":"2025-06-13T10:51:16","slug":"shipping-terms","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/visionzone.designswebs.com\/airtiger\/shipping-terms\/","title":{"rendered":"Shipping Terms"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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Shipping Terms<\/h1><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
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Glossary<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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A list of common terms, abbreviations, or words used in the freight forwarding industry.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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Abaft<\/h3>

A point beyond the mid-point of a ship\u2019s length, toward the stern relative to an object or point of reference (\u2018abaft the fore hatch\u2019).<\/span><\/p><\/div>

Abaft the beam<\/h3>

Further aft than the beam: a relative bearing of greater than 90 degrees from the bow: \u2018two points abaft the port beam\u2019.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

Abandon<\/h3>

An action wherein a shipper\/consignee seeks authority to abandon all or parts of their cargo.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

Abatement<\/h3>

A discount allowed for damage or overcharge in the payment of a bill.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

Abeam<\/h3>

On the beam, a relative bearing at right angles to the centerline of the ship\u2019s keel.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

Able Bodied Seamen\u00a0(A.B.)<\/strong><\/h3>

Some modern references claim that AB stands for able-bodied seaman as well as, or instead of, able seaman. Able seaman was originally entered using the abbreviation AB instead of the more obvious AS in ships\u2019 muster books or articles. Such an entry was likely to avoid confusion with ordinary seaman (OS). Later the abbreviation began to be written as A.B., leading to the folk-etymological able-bodied seaman. The correct term, able seaman, remains in use in legal documents, in seaman\u2019s papers, and aboard ship.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

Able Seaman\u00a0(A.B.)<\/strong><\/h3>

An Able Seaman (also AB) is an unlicensed member of the deck department of a merchant ship. An AB may work as a watch-stander, a day worker, or a combination of these roles.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

Aboard<\/h3>

On or in a vessel (see also \u2018close aboard\u2019). Referring to cargo being put, or laden, onto a means of transport.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

Above board<\/h3>

On or above the deck, in plain view, not hiding anything.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

Above-water hull<\/h3>

The hull section of a vessel above waterline, the visible part of a ship. Also, topsides.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

Absentee pennant<\/h3>

This is a special pennant flown to indicate the absence of a commanding officer, admiral, his chief of staff, or officer whose flag is flying (division, squadron, or flotilla commander).<\/span><\/p><\/div>

Absolute bearing<\/h3>

The bearing of an object in relation to North. This can be either a true bearing, using the geographical or true North, or magnetic bearing, using magnetic North. For more information see \u2018bearing\u2019 and \u2018relative bearing\u2019.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

Absorption<\/h3>

The assumption that the carrier will cover extraordinary or other special charges without increasing the price to the shipper.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

Acceptance<\/h3>
  1. A time draft (or bill of exchange) which the drawee (the person or organization, typically a bank, who must pay a draft or bill) has accepted and is unconditionally obligated to pay at maturity. Drawee\u2019s act in receiving a draft and thus entering into the obligation to pay its value at maturity.<\/li>
  2. An agreement to purchase goods under specified terms.<\/li><\/ol><\/div>

    Acceptance of Goods<\/h3>

    The process of receiving a consignment from a consignor, usually against the issue of a receipt. As from this moment the carrier bears responsibility for the consignment.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

    Accessorial\u00a0(AC)<\/strong><\/h3>
    1. Accessorial Charges \u2013 Charges made for additional, special or supplemental services, normally over and above the line haul services.<\/li>
    2. Accessorial Service \u2013 Service rendered by a carrier in addition to transportation services. (e.g. sorting, packing, precooling, heating and storage).<\/li><\/ol><\/div>

      Accessorial Charges<\/h3>

      Charges that are applied to the base tariff rate or base contract rate, e.g., bunkers, container, currency or destination\/delivery.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Accommodation ladder<\/h3>

      A portable flight of steps down a ship\u2019s side.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Account Party\/Accountee<\/h3>

      The purchasing party, the importer, the buyer involved in any transaction.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Acknowledgement of Receipt<\/h3>

      A notification relating to the receipt of e.g. goods, messages and documents.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Acquiescence<\/h3>

      When a Bill of Lading is accepted or signed by a shipper or shipper\u2019s agent without protest, the shipper is said to acquiesce to the terms, giving a silent form of consent.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Act of God<\/h3>

      Accidents of a nature beyond human control such as flood, lightning or hurricane, which are usually quoted as \u2018force majeure\u2019.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Act of Man<\/h3>

      In water transportation, the deliberate sacrifice of cargo to make the vessel safe for the remaining cargo. Those sharing in the spared cargo proportionately cover the loss.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Act of Pardon\/Act of Grace<\/h3>

      A letter from a state or power authorising action by a privateer. For more information see \u2018Letter of marque.\u2019<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Activity Based Costing\u00a0(ABS)<\/strong><\/h3>

      An accounting system that measures the cost and performance of specific activities performed within an organisation. For example, an ABC approach might measure the cost incurred by the accounts receivable department in handling calls for billing errors, whereas the traditional accounting approach ignores the activity and measures the cost of the accounts receivable department as a percentage of revenue.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Activity Based Costing\u00a0(ABC)<\/strong><\/h3>

      An accounting system that measures the cost and performance of specific activities performed within an organisation. For example, an ABC approach might measure the cost incurred by the accounts receivable department in handling calls for billing errors, whereas the traditional accounting approach ignores the activity and measures the cost of the accounts receivable department as a percentage of revenue.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Ad Hoc Charter<\/h3>

      A one-off charter operated at the necessity of an airline or charterer.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Ad Valorem<\/h3>

      This is a Latin term meaning \u2018according to value.\u2019 Import duty applied as a percentage of the cargo\u2019s dutiable value. Ocean Freight can be assessed based on the value of the merchandise as well.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Add-Ons<\/h3>

      Additional charges above ocean freight.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Admiral<\/h3>

      This is a senior naval officer of Flag rank. In ascending order of seniority: Rear Admiral, Vice Admiral, Admiral and Admiral of the Fleet (Royal Navy). The term derives from the Arabic, Amir al-Bahr (ruler of the sea).<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Admiralty<\/h3>

      A high naval authority in charge of a state\u2019s Navy or a major territorial component. In the Royal Navy (UK) the Board of Admiralty, executing the office of the Lord High Admiral, promulgates Naval law in the form of Queen\u2019s (or King\u2019s) Regulations and Admiralty Instructions.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Admiralty Court<\/h3>

      A court which has jurisdiction over maritime questions pertaining to ocean transport, including contracts, charters, collisions, and cargo damages.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Admiralty Law<\/h3>

      Admiralty law (also referred to as maritime law) is a distinct body of law which governs maritime questions and offences. It is a body of both domestic law governing maritime activities, and private international law governing the relationships between private entities which operate vessels on the oceans. It deals with matters including marine commerce, marine navigation, shipping, sailors, and the transportation of passengers and goods by sea. Admiralty law also covers many commercial activities, although land-based or occurring wholly on land, that are maritime in character.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Adrift<\/h3>

      Afloat and unattached in any way to the shore or seabed, but not under way\/power. It implies that a vessel is not under control and therefore goes where the wind and current take her (loose from moorings, or out of place). Also refers to any gear not fastened down or put away properly. It can also be used to mean \u2018absent without leave\u2019.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Advance<\/h3>

      To move cargo up-line to a vessel leaving sooner than the one initially booked.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Advance Against Documents<\/h3>

      Load made on the security of the documents covering the shipment.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Advance Note<\/h3>

      A note for one month\u2019s wages issued to sailors on their signing a ship\u2019s articles.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Advance Shipment Notification\u00a0(ASN)<\/strong><\/h3>

      A document transmitted (email\/ EDI) to a consignee in advance of delivery, detailing the contents of a shipment and key information about shipping mode and dates. Within the ANSI X-12 message standards this is known as an 856 message.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Advanced Charge<\/h3>

      A charge paid by a carrier to an agent or to another carrier, which the delivering carrier then collects from the consignee. Such charges are usually for agents\u2019 forwarding fees and incidental expenses paid out of pocket for account of the shipment by an agent or other carrier.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Adventure<\/h3>

      Shipment of goods on shipper\u2019s own account. A bill of adventure is a document signed by the master of the ship that carries goods at the owner\u2019s risk.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Advice<\/h3>

      This document is sent by one party to another to whom a shipment has been sent, on consignment or otherwise. It involves a description of the goods sent, the carrier or other type of transportation being used, the date of departure, and any additional pertinent data. Note: (Bankers use the term letter of advice when notifying interested parties of such actions as the opening of credits, the drawing of drafts and the payment or non-payment of drafts.)<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Advice of Shipment<\/h3>

      A notice sent to a local or foreign buyer advising that shipment has gone forward and contains details of packing, routing, etc. A copy of the invoice is usually enclosed and sometimes, if desired, a copy of the bill of lading.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Advising Bank<\/h3>

      A bank operating in the country of the seller which handles Letters of Credit on behalf of a Foreign Bank.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Advisory Capacity<\/h3>

      A term indicating that a shipper\u2019s agent or representative is not empowered to make definite decisions or adjustment without the approval of the group or individual represented.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Affiliate<\/h3>

      A company that controls, or is controlled by another company, or is one of two or more commonly controlled companies.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Affreightment, Contract of<\/h3>

      An agreement made by an ocean carrier to provide cargo space on a vessel at a specified time and for a specified price to accommodate an exporter or importer.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Afloat<\/h3>

      The condition of a vessel which is floating freely (not aground or sunk). This is a term more generally used to describe vessels in service e.g. \u2018the company has 10 ships afloat\u2019.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Aft<\/h3>

      Towards the stern (of the vessel).<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Afternoon watch<\/h3>

      The period of duty\/working hours (or \u2018watch\u2019) on board a vessel between 12:00hrs to 16:00hrs.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Against All Risks\u00a0(AAR)<\/strong><\/h3>

      An insurance policy which provides coverage against all types of loss or damage as opposed to specific ones.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Agency Agreement<\/h3>

      The carrier line appoints the port agent and defines the specific duties and areas of responsibility of that agent.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Agency Fee<\/h3>

      This is the fee payable by a ship-owner or ship operator to a port agent.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Agency for International Development\u00a0(AID)<\/strong><\/h3>

      This is also known as USAID, an American Federal Agency primarily responsible for administering civilian foreign aid.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Agency tariff<\/h3>

      A tariff published by an agent on behalf of several carriers.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Agent<\/h3>

      A person authorised to transact business for and in the name of another person or company. Types of agents are: brokers, commission merchants, resident buyers, sales agents or manufacturer\u2019s representatives.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Aggregate Shipment<\/h3>

      Numerous shipments from different shippers to one consignee that are consolidated and treated as a single consignment.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Aggregated Shipments<\/h3>

      Numerous shipments from different shippers delivered to one consignee, that are consolidated and treated as a single consignment.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Agreed Valuation<\/h3>

      The value of a shipment agreed upon in order to secure a specific freight shipment.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Agreed Weight<\/h3>

      The weight prescribed by agreement between carrier and shipper for goods shipped in certain packages or a certain number.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Agriculture Quarantine Inspection\u00a0(AQI)<\/strong><\/h3>

      The term applies to the area of agriculture can be defined as \u2018 A program, administered by USDA\u2019s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, that inspects incoming passengers, luggage, and cargo at U.S. ports of entry in order to protect U.S. agriculture from foreign animal and plant pests and diseases\u2019.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Aground<\/h3>

      Said of a vessel resting on or touching the ground or bottom of a waterway.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Ahead<\/h3>

      Forward of the bow.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Ahoy<\/h3>

      A cry to draw attention on board. This is usually a term used to hail a boat or a ship, as \u2018Boat ahoy!\u2019<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Ahull<\/h3>

      When the boat is lying broadside to the sea. Also to ride out a storm with no sails and helm held to leeward. Also to ride out a storm with no sails and helm held to leeward.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Aid to Navigation\u00a0(ATON)<\/strong><\/h3>

      Any device external to a vessel or aircraft specifically intended to assist navigators in determining their position or safe course, or to warn them of dangers or obstructions to navigation.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Air Freight Forwarder<\/h3>

      A non-asset based firm that negotiates low shipping rates with airlines, then takes orders at a higher rate in order to make a profit using the airline\u2019s assets to move the product.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Air Waybill\u00a0(AWB)<\/strong><\/h3>

      Is a non-negotiable document covering transport of cargo from airport to airport. Note the difference between a Master Air Waybill \u2013 A shippers contract of carriage with an airline and a House Air Waybill \u2013 issued by a freight forwarder such as Damco.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      All Hands<\/h3>

      The entire ship\u2019s company, including officers and enlisted personnel.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      All In<\/h3>

      The total price to move cargo from its origin to its destination; inclusive of all charges, as opposed to detailed charges of Seafreight + + +.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      All Inclusive\u00a0(AI)<\/strong><\/h3>

      All Inclusive<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      All Inclusive\u00a0(AI)<\/strong><\/h3>

      Freight rate includes all costs associated with a particular shipment, no surcharges apply.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      All night in<\/h3>

      Having no night watches.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      All Risk<\/h3>

      Extensive insurance coverage of cargo including coverage due to external circumstances, such as fire, collision, pilferage, etc.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      All Water<\/h3>

      Transport exclusively by water.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Allision<\/h3>

      A collision between a moving vessel and a stationary object.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Allotment<\/h3>

      A share of the capacity of a means of transport assigned to a certain party, e.g. a carrier or an agent, for the purpose of the booking of cargo for a specific voyage.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      All-Risk Clause<\/h3>

      An insurance provision that all loss or damage to goods is insured except any that is self-caused. For more information see All-Risk Insurance.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      All-Risk Insurance<\/h3>

      A clause included in marine insurance policies to cover loss and damage from external causes, such as fire, collision, pilferage, etc. but not against innate flaws in the goods, such as decay, germination, nor against faulty packaging, improper packing\/ loading or loss of market, nor against war, strikes, riots and civil commotions. For more information see Marine Cargo Insurance.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Aloft<\/h3>

      The point above the ship\u2019s uppermost solid structure; overhead or high above.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Alongside<\/h3>

      Refers to the side of a ship, used to describe goods delivered to port of embarkation without loading fees (see Incoterms).<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Alternative Rates<\/h3>

      The privilege to use the rate producing the lowest charge.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Always Afloat\u00a0(AA)<\/strong><\/h3>

      This is a widely used contract term requiring that a vessel should not rest on the ground. In some ports the ship is aground when approaching or at berth.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Ambient Temperature<\/h3>

      The temperature of a surrounding body. The ambient temperature of a container is the atmospheric temperature to which it is exposed.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Amendment<\/h3>

      A written notice of a change in the terms of a letter of credit. The amendment becomes an integral part of the original letter of credit.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      American Bureau of Shipping\u00a0(ABS)<\/strong><\/h3>

      This is one of several classification societies; with a mission to promote the security of life, property and the natural environment, primarily through the development and verification of standards for the design, construction and operational maintenance of marine-related facilities (i.e. vessels). The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), first chartered in the State of New York in 1862 to certify ship captains. It is a classification society, with a mission to promote the security of life, property and the natural environment, primarily through the development and verification of standards for the design, construction and operational maintenance of marine-related facilities. At the end of 2006, ABS was the third largest class society with a classed fleet of over 10,000 commercial vessels and offshore facilities. ABS\u2019 core service is the provision of classification services through the development of standards called ABS Rules. These rules form the basis for assessing the design and construction of new vessels and the integrity of existing vessels and marine structures.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      American National Standards Institute\u00a0(ANSI)<\/strong><\/h3>

      An organization that develops and publishes a set of voluntary product standards, most commonly in relation to electronic communication, unit load and transportation package sizes for containers.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      American Terms\u00a0(AT)<\/strong><\/h3>

      A (Marine Insurance) term used to differentiate between the conditions of American Policies from those of other nations, principally England.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Amidships<\/h3>

      In the middle portion of a ship, along the line of the keel.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Anchor<\/h3>

      An object designed to prevent or slow the drift of a ship, attached to the ship by a line or chain; typically a metal, hook-like or plough-like object designed to grip the bottom under the body of water. For more information see \u2018sea anchor\u2019.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Anchor ball<\/h3>

      A round black shape hoisted in the forepart of a vessel to show that it is anchored.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Anchor buoy<\/h3>

      A small buoy secured by a light line to the anchor, designed to indicate the position of the anchor on the sea bed.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Anchor Chain or Anchor Cable<\/h3>

      The chain connecting the ship to the anchor.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Anchor Detail<\/h3>

      A team of men who handle ground tackle when the ship is anchoring or getting underway.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Anchor Light<\/h3>

      White light displayed by a ship at anchor. Two such lights are displayed by a ship over 150 feet (46 m) in length.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Anchor Rode<\/h3>

      The anchor line, rope or cable connecting the anchor chain to the vessel. For more information see \u2018Rode\u2019.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Anchor Watch<\/h3>

      A consignment of crew tasked with ensuring that the anchor is holding and the vessel is not drifting. It is very important during rough weather and at night. Most marine GPS units boast Anchor Watch alarm capabilities.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Anchorage<\/h3>

      A suitable place for a ship to anchor; usually an area of a port or harbour.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Anchor\u2019s Aweigh<\/h3>

      The term used when an anchor is just clear of the sea bed.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Andrew<\/h3>

      Traditional lower-deck slang term for the Royal Navy.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Anglian Container Services\u00a0(ACS)<\/strong><\/h3>

      This is the container services business operated by MSC (UK) Ltd, with primary business activities including container storage, cleaning, repairs, conversions, customisations and reefer pre-tripping.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      ANSI X-12<\/h3>

      the most widely accepted standards for EDI messaging (US developed).<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Anti-Submarine Detection Investigation Committee\u00a0(ASDIC)<\/strong><\/h3>

      A type of sonar used by the Allies for detecting submarines during the Second World War.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Anti-submarine warfare\u00a0(ASW)<\/strong><\/h3>

      Anti-submarine warfare<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Any Quantity\u00a0(AQ)<\/strong><\/h3>

      A rating that applies to an item regardless of weight.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Any Quantity\u00a0(AQ)<\/strong><\/h3>

      A rating that applies to an item regardless of weight.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Any Time<\/h3>

      A chartering term referring to when a vessel will work.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Any-Quantity\u00a0(AQ)<\/strong><\/h3>

      Usually refers to a rating that applies to an article regardless of weight.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Apparent Good Order<\/h3>

      When freight appears to be free of damage; so far as a general survey can determine.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Apparent Wind<\/h3>

      The combination of the true wind and the headwind caused by the boat\u2019s forward motion. For example, it causes a light side wind to appear to come from well ahead of the beam.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Application Programming Interface\u00a0(API)<\/strong><\/h3>

      Application Programming Interface. It is an interface that defines interactions between multiple software applications or mixed hardware-software intermediaries<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Appraisement<\/h3>

      Determination of the dutiable value of imported merchandise by a Customs official who follows procedures outlined in their country\u2019s tariff, such as the U.S. Tariff Act of 1930.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

      Arbitrary<\/h3>
      1. A fixed amount which a transportation line agrees to accept in a dividing joint rate.<\/li>
      2. A fixed amount added to or deducted from one station to make a rate from another station.<\/li>
      3. A fixed amount added to or deducted from a rate to one station to make a rate to another station.<\/li>
      4. An allowance added to an employee\u2019s rate of pay in addition to regular wages, based on provisions included in the union contract.<\/li><\/ol><\/div>

        Arbitration<\/h3>

        The process of referring to an agreed person for judgment on issues of a dispute; without requiring the use of courts.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

        Arbitration Clause<\/h3>

        A standard clause to be included in the contracts of exporters and importers, as suggested by the American Arbitration Association. It states that any controversy or claim will be settled by arbitration in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

        Arc of Visibility<\/h3>

        The portion of the horizon over which a lighted aid to navigation is visible from seaward.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

        Armament<\/h3>

        A ship\u2019s weapons.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

        Arrest<\/h3>

        The procedure whereby, in common law jurisdictions, a ship (and sometimes cargo and\/or freight) may be seized by an admiralty court at the institution of or during an action \u2018in rem\u2019 \u2013 against a thing rather than a person \u2013 (infra) to provide pre-judgment security for the plaintiff\u2019s maritime claim.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

        Arrival Date<\/h3>

        The date on which goods or a means of transport is due to arrive at the delivery site of the transport.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

        Arrival Notice<\/h3><\/div>

        Articles of War<\/h3>

        Regulations governing the military and naval forces of UK and USA; read to every ship\u2019s company on commissioning and at specified intervals during the commission.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

        Artificial Tween Decks\u00a0(ATD)<\/strong><\/h3>

        Artificial Tween Decks Forty feet long, eight feet wide, one foot thick steel platform with hardwood flooring. Equipped with ten bullrings for securing oversized, heavy lift or wheeled cargo.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

        Artificial Tween Decks\u00a0(ATD)<\/strong><\/h3>

        Forty feet long, eight feet wide, one foot thick steel platform with hardwood flooring. Equipped with ten bullrings for securing oversized, heavy lift or wheeled cargo.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

        Ashore<\/h3>

        A vessel that is on the beach, shore or land.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

        Asset-Based, Third Party Provider<\/h3>

        A third party provider that owns transportation and\/or warehouse assets.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

        Assignment\u00a0(AS)<\/strong><\/h3>
        1. The transfer to another of one\u2019s own legal interests or rights.<\/li>
        2. Especially the transfer of property to be held in trust or to be used for the benefit of creditors.<\/li>
        3. The document by which such an interest or right is transferred.<\/li><\/ol><\/div>

          Assignment of Proceeds<\/h3>

          A stipulation within a letter of credit in which some or all of the proceeds are assigned from the original beneficiary to one or more additional beneficiaries.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Astern<\/h3>

          Toward the stern; an object or vessel that is abaft another vessel or object. For more information see Port Side for diagram of all the ship\u2019s directions.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Asylum Harbour<\/h3>

          A harbour used to provide shelter from a storm.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          ATA Carnet<\/h3>

          (Customs) ATA is the acronym for the combined French and English words \u201cAdmission Temporaire\/Temporary Admission.\u201d An ATA Carnet is an international Customs document which may be used for the temporary admission of certain goods into 92 participating countries and territories worldwide in lieu of the usual customs documents and without having to pay duties or value-added taxes. The carnet serves as a guarantee against the payment of customs duties and taxes (including VAT), which may become due on goods temporarily imported and not re-exported. Carnets also simplify customs clearance and ensure re-entry into the originating country by acting as a \u201cCertificate of Registration\u201d.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Athwart, athwartships<\/h3>

          At right angles to the fore and aft or centerline of a ship; A direction across the width of a vessel.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Atlantic Container Line\u00a0(ACL)<\/strong><\/h3>

          A container carrier operating large RORO (Roll-On Roll-off) ships between Europe and North America.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Authorized Economic Operator\u00a0(AEO)<\/strong><\/h3>

          A party involved in ther international movement of goods in whatever function that has been approved by or on behlaf of a national Customs administrationas complying with WCO or equipment supply chain security standards (\uc885\ud569\uc778\uc99d\uc6b0\uc218\uc5c5\uccb4)<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Automated Broker Interface\u00a0(ABI)<\/strong><\/h3>

          This is the U.S. Customs\u2019 computer system which brokers use to file importers\u2019 entries electronically. An electronic system allowing customhouse brokers and importers to interface via computer with the US Customs Service for transmitting entry and entry summary data on imported merchandise.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Automated Commercial Environment system\u00a0(ACE)<\/strong><\/h3>

          The U.S. Customs\u2019 master computer system to replace the Automated Commercial System.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Automated Commercial System\u00a0(ACS)<\/strong><\/h3>

          This is the U.S. Customs\u2019 master computer system, which is being replaced by the Automated Commercial Environment system (ACE).<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Automated Manifest System\u00a0(AMS)<\/strong><\/h3>

          This is the U.S. Customs\u2019 computerized system used to automate the flow of customs-related information among customs brokers, importers, and carriers. A part of Custom\u2019s Automated Commercial System (ACS), controls imported merchandise from the time a carrier\u2019s cargo manifest is electronically transmitted to Customs until control is relinquished to another segment of the ACS.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Automated System for Customs Data\u00a0(ASYCUDA)<\/strong><\/h3>

          The Automated System for Customs Data is a computerised system designed by the UNCTAD (United Nations Conference on Trade and Development) to administer a country\u2019s Customs. Currently there are three different generations of ASYCUDA in use: ASYCUDA 2.7, ASYCUDA++ and ASYCUDA World. All of them were built using different paradigms and solutions available at the time of conception, being ASYCUDA World the most recent one and less used so far (early 2009). UNCTAD\u2019s premise was to build a computer system to assist customs authorities (or their local equivalent) all over the world to automate and control their core processes and obtain timely, accurate and valuable information to support government projections and planning.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Automatic Identification System\u00a0(AIS)<\/strong><\/h3>

          A short range coastal tracking system used on ships and by Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) for identifying and locating vessels by electronically exchanging data with other nearby ships and VTS stations. Information such as unique identification, position, course, and speed can be displayed on a screen or an ECDIS. AIS is intended to assist the vessel\u2019s watch standing officers and allow maritime authorities to track and monitor vessel movements, and integrates a standardized VHF transceiver system such as a LORAN-C or Global Positioning System receiver, with other electronic navigation sensors, such as a gyrocompass or rate of turn indicator. The International Maritime Organization\u2019s (IMO) International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) requires AIS to be fitted aboard international voyaging ships with gross tonnage (GT) of 300 or more tons, and all passenger ships regardless of size. It is estimated that more than 40,000 ships currently carry AIS class A equipment.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Autoridad del Canal de Panama\u00a0(ACP)<\/strong><\/h3>

          The Panama Canal Authority.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Avast \u2013 Stop!<\/h3>

          A command to cease or desist from whatever is being done.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Average<\/h3>

          A common marine insurance term. An early meaning (c.1500) of the word average is \u2018damage sustained at sea\u2019. The root is found in Arabic as awar, in Italian as avaria and in French as avarie. Hence an average adjuster is a person who assesses an insurable loss. Marine damage is either particular average, which is borne only by the owner of the damaged property, or general average, where the owner can claim a proportional contribution from all the parties to the marine venture. The type of calculations used in adjusting general average gave rise to the use of \u2018average\u2019 to mean \u2018arithmetic mean\u2019.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Average Adjusters<\/h3>

          In general average affairs average adjusters are entrusted with the task of apportioning the loss and expenditure over the parties interested in the maritime venture and to determine which expenses are to be regarded as average or general average.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Average Inventory<\/h3>

          The average inventory level over a period of time.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Average Order Value\u00a0(AOV)<\/strong><\/h3>

          Average Order Value measures the average total of every order placed over a defined period of time. AOV is one of the most important metrics for online stores to be aware of, driving key business decisions.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Average Selling Price\u00a0(ASP)<\/strong><\/h3>

          The average selling price (ASP) of goods or commodities is the average price at which a particular product or commodity is sold across channels or markets. To calculate the average selling price, all you have to do is divide net sales with the number of products sold.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Avoirdupois Pound<\/h3>

          A measure of weight or mass equal to 0.4535924277 kilograms.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Awash<\/h3>

          A vessel that is so low in the water that the water is constantly washing across the surface.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Aweigh<\/h3>

          The position of an anchor just clear of the bottom.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Aye, aye<\/h3>

          The reply to an order or command to indicate that it, firstly, is heard; and, secondly, is understood and will be carried out. (\u2018Aye, aye, sir\u2019 to officers). Also \u2018yarr\u2019.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Azimuth Circle<\/h3>

          An instrument used to take bearings of celestial objects.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Azimuth Compass<\/h3>

          An instrument employed for ascertaining the position of the sun with respect to magnetic north. The azimuth of an object is its bearing from the observer measured as an angle clockwise from true north.<\/span><\/p><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

          \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t
          B <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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          Back and fill<\/h3>

          To use the advantage of the tide being with you when the wind is not.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

          Back haul<\/h3>
            1. The return movement of a transport vehicle from its original destination to its original point of departure.<\/li>
            2. The load carried by a transport vehicle, all or part of the way from its original destination to its original point of departure.<\/li><\/ol><\/li><\/ol><\/div>

              Backstays<\/h3>

              Long lines or cables, reaching from the rear of the vessel to the mast heads, used to support the mast.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Baggywrinkle<\/h3>

              A soft covering for cables (or any other obstructions) that prevents sail chafing from occurring.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Balance of Trade<\/h3>

              Materials solely carried to improve the trim and the stability of the vessel. In vessels usually sea water is carried as ballast in tanks, specially conceived for that purpose. (See also Ballast).<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Ballast<\/h3>

              Materials solely carried to improve the trim and the stability of the vessel. In vessels usually water is carried as ballast in tanks, specially conceived for that purpose.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Ballast bonus\u00a0(BB)<\/strong><\/h3>

              Special payment above the chartering price when the ship has to sail a long way on ballast to reach the loading port.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Baltic and international maritime council\u00a0(BIMCO)<\/strong><\/h3>

              The world\u2019s largest private shipping organization based in Copenhagen, which has been in operation since 1905. BIMCO promotes proper shipping practices and opposes objectionable and unfair import charges, claims, etc. It claims a worldwide membership of 2720, including ship-owners, managers, brokers, agents and others involved in the shipping industry. BIMCO holds observer status with a number of United Nations (UN) organs.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Bank<\/h3>

              A large area of elevated sea floor.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Bank Guarantee<\/h3>

              A guarantee issued by a bank to a carrier to be used in lieu of lost or misplaced original negotiable bill of lading.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Banker\u2019s Acceptance<\/h3>

              A form of financing used in import\/export transactions.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Banyan<\/h3>

              Traditional Royal Navy term for a day or shorter period of rest and relaxation.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Baplie<\/h3>

              An EDI message sent to convey the Bayplan on occupied and empty slots in a certain vessel at a particular time.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Bar<\/h3>

              Large mass of sand or earth, formed by the surge of the sea. They are mostly found at the entrances of great rivers or havens, and often render navigation extremely dangerous, but confer tranquility once inside.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Bar pilot<\/h3>

              A bar pilot guides ships over the dangerous sandbars at the mouth of rivers and bays.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Barcode<\/h3>

              A series of bars and spaces read by a scanning device for translation into a numeric or alphanumeric identification code that represents data in machine-readable or computerized form.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Barcode, 2-D<\/h3>

              The PDF 1000 style barcode is used to store up to 1800 characters of text. Designed to allow more information to be stored and retrieved electronically; it has not achieved wide use.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Bareboat<\/h3>

              A method of chartering of the ship, leaving the charterer with almost all the responsibilities of the owner.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Bareboat Charter<\/h3>

              A charter in which the bare ship is chartered without crew; the charterer, for a stipulated sum taking over the vessel for a stated period of time, with a minimum of restrictions; the charterer appoints the master and the crew and pays all running expenses. For further information see Demise Charter.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Barge<\/h3>

              A flat bottomed inland cargo vessel, with or without own propulsion, ideal for transporting goods on canals and rivers.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Barratry<\/h3>

              An act committed by the master or mariners of a vessel for some unlawful or fraudulent purpose, contrary to their duty to the owners, whereby the latter sustain injury. It may include negligence, if so gross as to evidence fraud.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Barrel\u00a0(BBL)<\/strong><\/h3>

              A term of measure referring to 42 gallons of liquid at 60F.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Barrelman<\/h3>

              A sailor stationed in the crow\u2019s nest.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Barter<\/h3>

              Trade in which merchandise is exchanged directly for other merchandise without use of money. Barter is an important means of trade with countries using currency that is not readily convertible.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Base Port<\/h3>

              Ports from which standard tariff rates apply to those normally serviced directly by members.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Base Rate<\/h3>

              A tariff term referring to ocean rate less accessorial charges or base tariff rate.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Basic Ocean Freight\u00a0(BOF\/BAS)<\/strong><\/h3>

              Charges for the service of transportation of cargo from the first port of loading to the last port of discharge. Charges are applied by container.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Basing Points<\/h3>

              A point (location) used in construction of through rates between other points.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Bay<\/h3>

              Section of vessel in which containers are held.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Bay Plan<\/h3>

              A stowage plan which shows the locations of all the containers on the vessel.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Beaching<\/h3>

              Deliberately running a vessel aground, to load and unload (as with landing craft), or sometimes to prevent a damaged vessel sinking.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Beacon<\/h3>

              A lighted or unlighted fixed aid to navigation attached directly to the Earth\u2019s surface (lights and day beacons both constitute beacons.)<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Beam<\/h3>

              The width of a vessel at the widest point, or a point alongside the ship at the mid-point of its length.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Beam ends<\/h3>

              The sides of a ship. \u2018On her beam ends\u2019 may mean the vessel is literally on her side and possibly about to capsize; more often, the phrase means the vessel is listing 45 degrees or more.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Bear<\/h3>

              A large squared off stone used for scraping clean the deck of a sailing man-of-war.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Bear down or bear away<\/h3>

              Turn away from the wind, often with reference to a transit.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Bearing<\/h3>

              The horizontal direction of a line of sight between two objects on the surface of the earth. For more information see \u2018absolute bearing\u2019 and \u2018relative bearing\u2019.<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Beating<\/h3>

              Sailing closer to the wind than about 60\u00b0 (see also reaching, running and tacking).<\/span><\/p><\/div>

              Beaufort Scale<\/h3>

              The scale describing wind force devised by Admiral Sir Francis Beaufort in 1808, in which winds are graded by the effect of their force (originally, the amount of sail that a fully-rigged frigate could carry).<\/p>