Anchors and chains proved
Annual aggregate deductible
Able-bodied seaman
American Bureau of Shipping is an American ship classification society.
Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service
Associate of Chartered Insurance Institute
Air cushion vehicle (hovercraft)
Advanced freight
Air freight bill
Arabian Gulf
Atlantic, Gulf, West Indies Limits
After hatch;
American hull form (insurance policy)
American Institute of Marine Underwriters
Association of Insurance and Risk Managers in Industry and Commerce Fonds Africain de Developpement, FAD) is an affiliate of the African Development Bank (AfDB) which provides interest-free loans to African countries for projects which promote economic and social development and improve international trade among members o -
Absolute maximum loss
Automated Mutual-Assistance Vessel Rescue
Arrival notice
Any one voyage
Any one bottom
Any one event
Any one loss
Any one occurrence
Any one risk
Any one vessel
Additional premium
As per list
All risks
Association of South East Asian Nations
Actual total loss
Ad valorem according to value
Account current
Accept/ Except
Anchor Handling
Account of
Additional premium
All risks. Against all risks
After sight, Account sales, Alonside (chartering)
American terms (grain trade)
Average, ad valorem (according to value)
Always afloat
Always afloat and (always) accessible
Alaska Administrative Code
Association of African Development Finance Institutions
American Association of Exporters and Importers
Arab-African International Bank
American Association of Port Authority
Amsterdam-Antwerp-Rotterdam Area
Association of American Shipowners
Association of African Trade Promotion Organizations
Above bridges
American Business Center
Association des Banques Centrales Africaines
Automated Bridge Control System For Unattended Engine Room
Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa
American Business Initiative, Automated Broker Interface
A system available to brokers with the computer capabilities and customs certification to transmit and exchange customs entries and other information, facilitating the prompt release of imported cargo.
American Bureau of Shipping: A U.S.-based private classification, or standards setting society for merchant ships and other marine systems.
About
Association of British Travel Agents
Above
Association of Central African Banks
Arab Cooperation Council
American Chamber of Commerce in Japan
Agency for Cultural and Technical Cooperation
Arms Control and Disarmament Agency
Advisory Committee on Export Policy
Automated Clearinghouse
Advisory Committee of Offshore Technology
African, Caribbean and Pacific States
Association of Coffee Producing Countries
Acceptance
Automated Commercial System
Advisory Committee on Trade Policy and Negotiations
Asian Clearing Union
Antidumping
A tariff assessed as a percentage of the value of the goods cleared through customs. For example, 10 percent Ad Valorem means the tariff is 10 percent of the value of the goods.
All Details About
Asian Development Bank
Address commission
Address
Address commission
Address commission
Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation
African Development Foundation, African Development Fund, Asian Development Fund
Abu Dhabi Fund for Arab Economic Development
AFT draft
The confirmed or official dimensions of a ship.
A court having jurisdiction over maritime questions pertaining to ocean transport, including contracts, charters, collisions, and cargo damages.
Department of Natural Resources (State Agency)
American Depository Receipts
Agent Distributor Service ADS provides a custom search overseas for interested and qualified foreign representatives on behalf of a U.S. exporter. Officers abroad conduct the search and prepare a report identifying up to six foreign prospects that have examined the U.S. firm's product literature and have expressed interest in representing the U.S. firm's products.
Advise
Advise
A bank operating in the exporter's country that handles letters of credit for a foreign bank by notifying the exporter that the credit has been opened in his favor.
Arms Export Control Act
Africa Enterprise Fund
Administrative Exception Note
Automated Export Reporting Program
Advanced freight
All Figures About
Arrival first compulsory sea pilot station
Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development
The hiring of a ship in whole or part
An agreement by a steamship line to provide cargo space on a vessel at a specified time and for a specified price to accommodate an exporter or importer who then becomes liable for payment even though he is later unable to make the shipment.
After fixing main terms
Average freight rate assessments
Tankers of about 70-110,000 DWT
Arrival First Sea Pilot Station
At or towards the stern or rear of a ship
ASEAN Free Trade Area
Afternoon
Aktiengesellschaft, Australia Group
An agreement whereby the steamship line appoints the steamship agent and defines the specific duties and areas of responsibility of that agent.
Agreed
Agricultural OnLine Access
Agricultural products
Agriculture Information System
Agreement
All going well
All going well weather permitting
After hatch; Range of ports between and including Antwerp and Hamburg
Australian hold ladders
Annual Hull Survey
Anchor handling tug
Moves anchors and tow drilling vessels, lighters and similar.
Combined supply and anchor-handling ship. Seismic ship: Conducts seismic surveys to map geological structures beneath the seabed.
Arab International Bank
Association of International Bond Dealers
Agency for International Development
Automated Information Exchange System
Airbus Industries Group
Agriculture Information and Marketing Services
Length between water level and vessel's rail
Automatic Identification System - Real-time ship identification. All ships of 300 gross tonnage and upwards engaged on international voyages and cargo ships of 500 gross tonnage and upwards not engaged on international voyages and passenger ships irrespe
Agency for Industrial Science Technology
American Institute in Taiwan
Alaska
Ausfuhrkredit-Gesellschaft
Asociacion Latinoamericana de Integracion
Association Latinoamericana de Institutiones Financieras, de Desarrollo
Annual Load Line Inspection
ALUminium
Ante meridiem, before noon
Average Most Probable Discharge
Arab Monetary Fund
Agricultural Marketing Service, Automated Manifest System
African Management Services Company
Amount
Arab Maghreb Union
Americanised welsh coal charter party
Arrival notification form
American National Standards Institute
Antwerp - Hamburg range
The immunity from prosecution under the Sherman Act, granted to steamship companies in 1916, in recognition of the special services and value American Flag merchant vessels provide in the defense of the country in time of war.
As On Board
Act of God
Atlantic Ocean Region East
Atlantic Ocean Region West
Alliance of Small Island States
Administrative Protective Order
Auto Parts Advisory Committee
Alaska Petroleum Distributors and Transporters
Africa Project Development Facility
Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation
Afloat Prepositioning Force
Arabian Persian Gulf
American Petroleum Institute
Arrival Pilot Station or At Pilot Station
After peak tank
Antwerp - Rotterdam range; Arrived
Antwerp - Rotterdam - Amsterdam range
Amsterdam - Rotterdam - Antwerp - Gent range
Antwerp - Rotterdam - Amsterdam - Ghent range
Antwerp - Rotterdam - Amsterdam - Zeebrugge range
Arbitration
Antwerp - Rotterdam - Hamburg range
Antwerp - Rotterdam - Hamburg - Bremen range
Around
Automatic Radar Plotting Aid
African Regional Organization for Standardization
The document containing all particulars relating to the terms of agreement between the Master of the vessel and the crew. Sometimes called ship's articles, shipping articles.
Annual Survey
Always safely afloat
As soon as possible
American Shipbrokers Association
Association of Southeast Asian Nations
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) agreed in January 1992 to create a free trade area (ASEAN Free Trade Area, or AFTA) with use of a common effective preferential tariff. Under the agreement ASEAN members will cut tariff rates within 15 y
Asian Shipowners'' Forum
Any Safe Port in the World
A backward direction in the line of a vessel's fore and aft line; behind. If a vessel moves backwards it is said to move astern; opposite to ahead.
American Society for Testing and Materials
In marine insurance this phrase applies to a ship which is free from its moorings and ready to sail.
Actual Time of arrival
Any time day and night
Any Time Day/Night Sundays and Holidays included
At day or night
Aids to Navigation
American Tank Rate Schedule
Actual time saved or All time saved
All time saved both ends
All time saved discharging only
Actual Times Used to Count
The electronic system of the U.S. Customs Service, encompassing a variety of industry sectors, that permits on-line access to information in selected areas.
The electronic system allowing a manifest inventory to be transmitted to the U.S. Customs Service data center by carrier, port authority, or service center computers.
Auxiliary
Aviation Category
Aviation Gasoline
Air way bill
Association of Western European Shipbuilders
Available workable hatches
Always Within Institute Warranty Limits
Additional War Risk Insurance
All working time saved both ends
All working time saved discharging only
All working time saved loading only
A point beyond the midpoint of a ships length, towards the rear or stern.
A proceeding wherein a shipper/consignee seeks authority to abandon all or parts of their cargo.
A discount allowed for damage or overcharge in the payment of a bill.
Abandonment
Referring to cargo being put, or laden, onto a means of conveyance.
Absorption is investment and consumption purchases by households,businesses, and governments, both domestic and imported. When absorption exceeds production, the excess is the country's current account deficit.
About
ADFAED promotes economic and social development in African, Arab, and Asian developing countries. The Fund, which was created in July 1971, began operations in September 1974; headquarters are in Abu Dhabi
Acceptance. Accepted
Accession is the process by which a country becomes a member of an international agreement, such as the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) or the European Community. Accession to the GATT involves negotiations to determine the specific obligat
Account
Ad Valorem
Literally: according to value. Any charge, tax, or duty that is applied as a percentage of value.
AVE is the rate of duty which would have been required on dutiable imports under that item, if the United States customs value of such imports were based on the United States port of entry value.
Ad valorem-according to value
CoCom controls exports at three levels, depending on the item and the proposed destination. At the lowest level, national discretion (also called administrative exception), a member nation may approve the export on its own, but CoCom must be notified
An Administrative Protective Order, APO, is used to protect proprietary data that is obtained during an administrative proceeding. Within Commerce, APO is most frequently used in connection with Antidumping and Countervailing Duty investigations to prohi
Each year, beginning on the anniversary of the date of publication of an antidumping duty order, the Commerce Department's International Trade Administration is required to review and determine the amount of any antidumping duty, if an interested party re
About 500 of some 22,000 commodity classification codes used in reporting U.S. merchandise trade are identified as advanced technology codes and they meet the following criteria: -The code contains products whose technology is from a recognized high tec
The Advisory Committee on Export Policy, ACEP, is an interagency dispute resolution body that operates at the Assistant Secretary level. ACEP is chaired by Commerce; membership includes the Departments of Defense, Energy, and State, the Arms Control and
A group appointed by the U.S. President to advise him on matters of trade policy and related issues, including trade agreements.
The ACTPN is a group (membership of 45; two-year terms) appointed by the President to provide advice on matters of trade policy and related issues, including trade agreements. The 1974 Trade Act requires the ACTPN's establishment and broad representation
The Advocacy Center, established in November 1993, facilitates high-level U.S. official advocacy to assist U.S. firms competing for major projects and procurements worldwide. The Center is directed by the Trade Promotion Coordinating Committee; offices ar
African Development Bank
African Development Fund
An affiliate is a business enterprise located in one country which is directly or indirectly owned or controlled by a person of another country to the extent of 10 percent or more of its voting securities for an incorporated business enterprise or an equi
An affiliated foreign group means (a) the foreign parent, (b) any foreign person, proceeding up the foreign parent's ownership chain, which owns more than 50 percent of the person below it up to and including that person which is not owned more than 50 pe
The AEF, operating under the International Finance Corporation, began operations in late 1989. The Fund assists small and medium-size enterprises in sub-Saharan Africa, supports investment projects, and promotes development of private enterprises in Afri
The APDF seeks to accelerate development of productive enterprises sponsored by private African entrepreneurs as a means of generating self-sustained economic growth and productive employment in Sub-Saharan Africa. The facility provides advisory services
AfDB (French: Banque Africaine de Developpement) provides financing through direct loans to African member states to cover the foreign exchange costs incurred in Bank-approved development projects in those countries. Fifty-one African countries are member
ADF provides economic assistance to groups and institutions involved in development projects at the local level. The foundation's assistance, designed as a complement to the U.S. foreign aid program, is awarded only to native African organizations and in
AFREXIMBANK offers short-term export trade financing to African exporters aimed at enhancing intra-African trade and Africa's exports. Agreement to create the bank was basedon a January 1993 agreement reached in Cairo, Egypt among African governments, ce
AMSCO provides temporary managers and management training to support the development of African companies. AMSCO works through a network of representatives in Africa; its clients include privately owned companies, public sector companies, and subsidiarie
ARSO (French: Organisation Regionale Africaine de Normalisation, ORAN) promotes and coordinates standardization, quality control, certification, and metrology practices in Africa. The Organization has been developing African Regional Standards (ARS) in
A term used on a draft, bill of exchange or note indicating the date from which a draft will begin counting days until maturity. If an exporter draws a draft and stipulates a payment 30 days after date, the draft is due 30 days from the date on which it
The ACCT (English: Agency for Cultural and Technical Cooperation) was created in 1970 to promote cultural and technical cooperation among French-speaking countries. Members include: Belgium, Benin, Burkina. Burundi, Canada, Central African Republic, Ch
AID was created in 1961 to administer foreign economic assistance programs of the U.S. Government. AID has field missions and representatives in approximately 70 developing countries in Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Near East.
The Agent/Distributor Service, ADS, is an International Trade Administration (ITA) fee-based service which locates foreign import agents and distributors.
A single deck cargo vessel for the carriage of aggregates in bulk. Also known as a Sand Carrier. May be self discharging
Agreement by one government to accept the accreditation of an ambassador from another government.
Among its activities, the Agriculture Deparment's AMS is available to foreign buyers to assure that any product shipped overseas meets contract specifications. The service is operated on a user-fee basis. AMS works with the buyers to write a specificati
Agricultural officers are embassy officials who are responsible for addressing agricultural trade policy issues and preparing reports on agricultural commodities such as rice, wheat, and dairy products. These officers promote U.S. exports by providing ma
Agent, Against, Agreement
A short written summary of oral remarks made to a foreign government representative and left with that individual.
A type of freight forwarder who specializes in air cargo and acts for airlines that pay him a fee (usually 5%). The Air Cargo Agent is registered with the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
An air cushioned vehicle or hovercraft specifically designed as a crew boat
An air cushion vehicle or hovercraft used for the purpose of transporting passengers
An air cushion vehicle or hovercraft used for the purpose of transporting passengers and ro-ro vehicles
An air cushion vehicle or hovercraft used as a patrol vessel (perhaps change to work vessel)
An air cushioned vehicle or hovercraft specifically designed as a research vessel
An air cushioned vehicle or hovercraft specifically designed as a work vessel
A type of freight forwarder who specializes in air cargo. The Air Freight Forwarder usually consolidates the air shipments of various exporters, charging them for actual weight and deriving his profit by paying the airline the lower consolidated rate. He
An AWB is a bill of lading which covers both domestic and international flights transporting goods to a specified destination. Technically, it is a non-negotiable instrument of air transport which serves as a receipt for the shipper, indicating that the
A signed receipt and a contract to deliver goods by air. Such bills are non-negotiable and do not convey title to the goods as do To Orders bills of lading used by ocean and land carriers. The title passes to the party to whom the goods are consigned (t
AIG is a supernational management organization responsible for design, development, manufacture, marketing, sales and support of selected commercial aircraft. Member countries are France, Germany, Spain, and the United Kingdom. Airbus Industrie, G.I.E.
Formally known as the ''Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft.'' (ATCA), this MTN agreement is the only major sector-specific civil aircraft agreement. It establishes a framework of rules governing the conduct of trade in civil aircraft based on commercial
A combat vessel designed to enable the carriage, take off and landing of aircraft
AG (German, meaning: stock company) is a corporation with a separate legal personality which must have at least five partners. The firm name usually reflects the activities of the company and must include AG.
A tanker for the bulk carriage of alcohol
B/L requiring updates that do not change financial status; this is slightly different from corrected B/L.
Article XXX of the GATT Agreement provides that amendments (that become effective upon acceptance by two thirds of the Contracting Parties) are to be effective only for those parties which accept them.
The ABC program provides U.S. companies which are exploring or establishing commercial opportunities in the Newly Independent States of the former Soviet Union with business services such as telephone and fax, temporary office space, market information, a
The ABI, or American Business and Private Sector Development Initiative for Eastern Europe, emphasizes the export of American telecommunciations, energy, environment, housing, and agriculture products and services to Eastern European countries.
ADRs are negotiable receipts for the securities of a foreign company which are kept in the vaults of an American bank, allowing Americans to trade the foreign securities in the United States while accruing any dividends and capital gains.
The AIT is a non-profit corporation that represents U.S. commerical, cultural, and other interests in Taiwan in lieu of an embassy. In 1979, the United States terminated formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan when it recognized the People's Republic of
The American Traders Index, ATI, is the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service headquarters compilation of individual US domestic client files, for use by overseas posts to generate mailing lists.
An offshore tug/supply ship equipped with a high bollard pull and a stern roller for anchor handling
A vessel equipped to assist with the handling of anchors in coastal waters
The Andean Group (Spanish: Grupo Andino; sometimes referred to as Pacto Andino or Corporation Adino de Fomento; formal reference is Acuerdo de Cartegana in recognition of the Group's establishment in Cartegena in October 1969) is an association of Latin
The Andean Reserve Fund (Spanish: Fondo Andina de Reservas), associated with the Andean Group, was established to strengthen the balance of payments positions of member countries by offering credit, guarantee loans, and promoting compatibility among memb
The ATPA is a unilateral trade benefit program designed to promote economic development through private sector initiative in the four Andean countries of Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. The ATPA encourages alternatives to coca cultivation and produ
A tariff imposed to discourage sale of foreign goods in the United States market at very low prices (below foreign country's domestic market) which might hurt U.S. manufacturers.
Antidumping, as a reference to the system of laws to remedy dumping, is defined as a converse of dumping.
A duty assessed on imported merchandise which is subject to an antidumping duty order. The antidumping duty is assessed on an entry-by-entry basis in an amount equal to the difference between the United States price of that entry and the foreign market v
A notice issued following final determination of sales at less than fair value and material injury, or threat of material injury, providing for the imposition of antidumping duties.
The notice published in the Federal Register announcing the initiation of an antidumping investigation. An investigation must be initiated within 20 days of the filing of a valid petition.
A petition filed on behalf of an affected United States industry, alleging that foreign merchandise is being sold in the United States at less than fair value and that such sales are causing or threatening material injury to, or materially retarding the
The Antidumping/Countervailing Duty System, a part of Customs' Automated Commercial System, contains a case reference database and a statistical reporting system to capture data for International Trade Commission reports on antidumping and countervailing
Approved
The ABEDA (French: Banque Arabe pour le Developpement Economique en Afrique -- BADEA) was created by the League of Arab States in November 1973 (began operations in March 1975) to promote economic and technical cooperation between Arab and African states
The ACC was created in 1989 to promote economic cooperation and integration. Members include Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, and North Yemen. The ACC, partly intended as a counterpart to Gulf Cooperation Council, was created one day subsequent to the establishment
AFESD promotes regional economic integration and social development in Arab states. Members include: Algeria, Bahrain, Djibouti, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia,
The AIB provides financing to support development of foreign trade among member nations and other Arab states. The Bank was established in October 1971; headquarters are in Cairo, Egypt. Member include: the governments of Oman, Qatar, and United Arab E
The AMU (French: Union du Maghreb Arabe, UMA) encompasses Algeria, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, and Tunisia. The Union was established in February 1989 to foster integration of the Maghreb economy. The Union also seeks to join the AMU and the Gulf Coope
The AMF, originally aimed at correcting chronic deficits in the balance of payments in most member states, promotes Arab integration in monetary and economic affairs. The Fund's priorities have included: (a) addressing payments imbalances, (b) creating
The ATFP promotes trade among Arab countries and exports from Arab countries. The Program was established in 1989 by the Arab Monetary Fund; headquarters are in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
ous buying and selling of the same commodity or foreign exchange in two or more markets in order to take advantage of price differentials.
The practice of exchanging the currency of one country for that of another or a series of countries to gain an advantage from the differences in exchange rates
A clause in a sales contract outlining the method under which disputes will be settled
ACDA is an independent agency within the State Department. ACDA participates in interagency working groups that discuss export license applications requiring dispute resolution. ACDA is interested in dual-use license applications from a non-proliferatio
Arranged total loss
The Arrangement is an international agreement under Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development auspices governing the conditions -- such as interest rate, repayment term, and cash downpayment -- of medium- and long-term official export credit;
Asian Development Fund
APEC, established in November 1989, is an informal grouping of Asia Pacific countries that provides a forum for Ministerial level discussion of a broad range of economic issues. APEC includes the six ASEAN countries (Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippi
The ACU promotes regional trade and economic cooperation, including arrangements to conserve foreign exhcange and encourage domestic currencies in trade. Members include Bangladesh, India, Iran, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka; Bhutan, Malaysia.
The ADB helps finance economic development in developing countries in the Asian and Pacific area through the provision of loans on near-market terms, with its Ordinary Capital Resources (OCR), and on concessional terms, through the Asian Development Fund
The ADF (or AsDF), an affiliate of the Asian Development Bank, lends funds on concessionary terms to the Bank's least developed member countries.
A tanker for the bulk carriage of asphalt/bitumen at temperatures between 150 and 200 deg C
The imposition of antidumping duties on imported merchandise.
AADFI (French: Association des Institutions Africaines de Financement du Developpement, AIAFD) promotes cooperative financing for social development in Africa and economic integration. The Association was established in March 1975; headquarters are in A
AATPO promotes inter-African trade, harmonization of commercial policies, communication among African states in trade matters, and research and training. The organization, which has about 26 members, was established in 1975 under the auspieces of the Org
ACAB (French: Association des Banques Centrales Africanines, ABCA) promotes cooperation among monetary, banking, and financial institutions in Africa. Members include two African regional banks and about 32 national banks. The Association was created i
The AIBD provides a forum for over 500 members from 30 countries to review international securities market matters. The primary objectives of the Association are to provide a basis for examinaitn and discussion of questions relating to the secondary mark
A combat vessel which is designed for high speed with a limited weaponry for rapid attack manoeuvres
The process carried out to assess the operating standards of a company or a business and the degree of compliance.
Beam
Blocking & Trapping clause
Both to blame collision Clause
Bale, Bag
Bunker surcharge
Bill Book, Below Bridges
Both to blame collision clause
Bristol Channel
Both days inclusive
Broker's daily statement
Range of ports between and including Bordeaux & Hamburg
Brake hore-power
British Insurance Brokers' Association
Buyer's option, Branch Office
Board of Trade
Between perpendiculars; Boiling point
Bank Post Bill
Builders' Risks Insurance
Broker Regulatory Committee (Lloyds's), Brokers Registration Council
Boiler survey. Balance sheet
Bottom (or base) sediment and water
British Summer Time
Bow Thrust Unit(s)
Bureau Veritas
British Thermal Unit
Bristol Channel
Bank Draft, bar draft (grain trade)
Bill of Exchange, Bill of Entry
Bondage goods
Bill of Health, Bordeaux to Hamburg inclusive
Abbreviation for Bill of Lading.
The fine print on B/L; defines what the carrier can and cannot do, including the carrier's liabilities and contractual agreements.
Represents whether the bill of lading has been input, rated, reconciled, printed, or released to the customer.
Refers to the type of B/L being issued. Some examples are: a Memo (ME), Original (OBL), Nonnegotiable, Corrected (CBL) or Amended (AM) B/L.
Booking note
Brought over
Bills payable
Bills receivable. Builders' risks. Bordeaux or Rouen (grain trade)
Bill of Sale, Bill of Store
Bill of sight
Bags, Bales
Buenos Aires/Bahia Blanca Range
Barge aboard catamaran
Part or all of the return portion of a route over which a trailer or container has traveled (2) A deviation to move cargo on the return leg of a voyage for the purpose of minimizing ballast mileage and thereby reducing transportation costs.
The owners of a ship are entitled to payment as freight for merchandise returned through the fault of either the consignees or the consignors. Such payment, which is over and above the normal freight, is called backfreight.
Where a seller/shipper issues a 'letter of indemnity' in favor of the carrier in exchange for a clean bill of lading. May have only a limited value. Example: P & I problems.
But As Close To As Possible
Banque Arabe pour le Developpement Economique en Afrique
Abbreviation for Bunker Adjustment Factor. Used to compensate steamship lines for fluctuating fuel costs. Sometimes called Fuel Adjustment Factor or FAF.
An adjustment in shipping charges to offset price fluctuations in the cost of bunker fuel. Also known as a Bunker Surcharge (B/S).
General License - BAGGAGE
Various kinds of commodities usually packed in sacks or in bags, such as sugar, cement, milk powder, onion, grain, flour, etc.
Compensation for relatively long ballast voyage
A voyage or voyage leg made without any paying cargo in a vessel's tanks. To maintain proper stability, trim, or draft, seawater is usually carried during such movements.
Compartments at the bottom of a ship or on the sides which are filled with liquids for stability and to make the ship seaworthy. Any shipboard tank or compartment on a tanker normally used for carrying salt-water ballast. When these compartments or tanks are not connected with the cargo system, they are called segregated ballast tanks or systems.
Banco Nacional de Comercio Exterior
(1) 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. See Demise Charter (2) Vessel contracts where charterers take over all responsibility for the operation of the vessel and expenses for a certain period.
Bareboat Charter Owners lease a specific ship and control its technical management and commercial operations only
Flat-bottomed boat designed to carry cargo on inland waterways, usually without engines or crew accommodations. Barges can be lashed together and either pushed or pulled by tugs, carrying cargo of 60,000 tons or more. Small barges for carrying cargo between ship and shore are known as lighters.
A way of loading cargo into large barges and then in turn loading the barges into a ship.
Fraudulent of Master/Crew against ship/cargo
Buy American Restrictions
Caribbean/Central America Business Advisory Service
Ballast Bonus (Special payment above the Chartering price when the ship has to sail a long way on ballast to reach the loading port.)
Break Bulk Cargo
Before breaking bulk. Refers to freight payments that must be received before discharge of a vessel commences.
Bareboat-cum-demise
Barrels
Bulk Carrier; British Columbia; British Channel
Baltic Cape Index
Business Council for International Understanding
Bow to Centre Manifold
Abbreviation for Beneficial Cargo Owner. Refers to the importer of record, who physically takes possession of cargo at destination and does not act as a third party in the movement of such goods.
Border Cargo Selectivity
Bar draft, below deck
Both dates (days) included
Bundle
Benzene
The maximum breadth of a ship
A measure of wind speed
Billion ECU
Border Environment Cooperation Commission
Business Executive Enforcement Team
BEGinning
Freight accommodation below the main deck.
Both ends
The actual owner of the lading who is using a consolidator
Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg Economic Union
Term used in a voyage charter party, e.g. vessel shall proceed to Berth 2 at Falmouth.
When a liner cargo vessel accepts extra cargo to fill the empty space remaining.
A regularly scheduled steamship line with regularly published schedules (ports of call) from and to defined trade areas.
A regularly scheduled steamship line with regularly published schedules (ports of call) from and to defined trade areas.
Baltic Freight Index
Bunker fuel oil
Bagged
Bill of health;Bulkhead
Bulkhead
Bulk harmless fertilizers
Brake horse power
Both inclusive
Best Information Available
Business and Industry Advisory Committee
Bulk in, bag out
British International Freight Association
The Baltic International Freight Futures Index
A bill of lading which has exemptions to the receipt of merchandise in apparent good order noted.
(1) A bill of lading which bears no superimposed clause or notation which expressly declares a defective condition of the goods and/or the packaging (Article 18, Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits). A bill of lading that contains a clause declaring defective goods is called a Foul Bill of Lading. (2) A bill of lading that is silent as to the place of storage, indicating that the goods have been stowed under deck.
A bill of lading issued by a forwarder to a shipper as a receipt for merchandise that the forwarder will consolidate with cargo obtained from other exporters and ship to his agent at the port of destination. In most cases, the Forwarder's Bill of Lading has legal standing for banking purposes. Also called House Bill of Lading.
A receipt for goods issued by a carrier bearing a notation that the outward containers or the goods have been damaged.
A bill of lading used in transporting goods overland to the exporter's international carrier.
A document defining the terms and conditions of carriage for transport of cargo by sea freight.
A bill of lading acknowledging that the relative goods have been received on board for shipment on a specified vessel.
A negotiable bill of lading. There are two types: (1) A bill drawn to the order of a foreign consignee, enabling him to endorse the bill to a third party. (2) A bill drawn to the order of the shipper and endorsed by him either in blank or to a named consignee. The purpose of the latter bill is to protect the shipper against the buyer's obtaining the merchandise before he has paid or accepted the relative draft. (See also Endorsement in Blank)
A bill of lading acknowledging the receipt of goods by a carrier for shipment on a specified vessel. This type of bill of lading is not acceptable under a letter of credit unless it is specially authorized. English law does not regard these bills as a valid tender under CIF contracts because the CIF seller is obligated to ship the goods, and a Received for Shipment Bill of Lading is not considered proof of shipment.
A non-negotiable bill of lading whereby the consignee named in the bill is the owner of the relative goods.
A bill of lading that covers transportation by more than one carrier from the point of issue to the final destination (e.g., a bill from New York, via Kurabo, to Pampatar, Venezuela).
A bill of lading showing the place of receipt by the carrier at an inland point, with transport to the port of exit accomplished using rail/intermodal connections.
A bill containing reservations as to the good order and condition of the goods or the packaging or both. Examples: bags torn,drums leaking, one case damaged, and rolls chafed.
A written description of goods given by an importer to a customs officer in the event shipping documents have not arrived in time and the importer wishes to avoid delayed entry charges. When an importer enters goods on a bill of sight, he usually must make a cash deposit covering the estimated amount of duty. When the shipping documents are received and a correct entry is made, the exact amount of duty is levied.
The carrier performing the first line haul service of the movement. This carrier is responsible for preparing the waybill document.
British Iron and Steel Corporation
Bar keel
Bale
Cargo banned by general cargo workers for some reason. This ban could be because the cargo is dangerous or hazardous to health.
Bulk
Baltic Sea
Ballast
Beam
British Marine Mutual
Best Offer
Berthing on arrival
Bunker on Board
Bulk Oil Carrier
Bunkers on delivery
Board of directors approval
Best Offer
Bunkers on re-delivery
Bulk, Oil and roll-on, roll-off vessel
Beginning Of Sea Passage
A propeller at the lower sea-covered part of the bow of the ship which turns at right angles to the fore-and-aft line and thus provides transverse thrust as a maneuvering aid.
Baltic Panama Index
Bulgarian Register of Shipping
See Beam
(1) A vessel designed to handle palletized, pre-slung, boxed, and unitized cargo. Holds can be at the open bay or between deck type. Between deck means, the hold can be converted from multi levels to open bay. This type of vessel is usually self-sustaining. (2) A general, multipurpose, cargo ship that carriers cargoes of non-uniform sizes, often on pallets, resulting in labor-intensive loading and unloading; calls at various ports to pick up different kinds of cargoes.
The weight at which freight charges change, e.g., 100 kilos.
Best Regards
Used loosely to refer to the navigating section of the vessel where the wheel house and chart room are located; erected structure amidships or aft or very rarely fore over the main deck of a ship to accommodate the wheelhouse.
Basic Research in Industrial Technologies in Europe
Broker
Broker(s)
Bridge Resources Management
Bunkers Remaining on Board
Gross tonnage
Broken Stowage
Bills of lading
British Shippers Council
Black Sea
British Standards Institution
Business Sponsored or Between Show Promotion
Basis
Basis 1 port to 1 port
British Summer Time, British Standard Time
Berth terms
Butadiene
Brussels Tariff Nomenclature
British Thermal Unit
There are two types of bulk carriers, the dry-bulk carrier, and the liquid-bulk carrier, better known as a tanker. Bulk cargo is a shipment such as oil, grain, or one which is not packaged, bundled, bottled, or otherwise packed and is loaded without counting or marking.
Dry cargo shipped in containers, loose and in bulk, without counting or marking.
This is the assembly of pieces of cargo, secured into one manageable unit. This is a very flexible description, a rule of thumb is to present cargo at a size easily handled by a large (20 ton) fork lift truck
Fuel consumed by the engines of a ship; compartments or tanks in a ship for fuel storage.
A floating object employed as an aid to mariners to mark the navigable limits of channels, their fairways, sunken dangers, isolated rocks, telegraph cables, and the like; floating devices fixed in place at sea, lake or river as reference points for navigation or for other purposes.
Bureau Veritas
Brackish water
Brackish water allowance
Brackish Water Arrival Draft
Brackish water departure draft
Bureau of Export Administration
Business
A new letter of credit issued to another beneficiary on the strength of a primary credit. The second L/C uses the first L/C as collateral for the bank. Used in a three-party transaction.
To haul a shipment back over part of a route it has traveled.
Balance
The balance of payments is a statistical summary of international transactions. These transactions are defined as the transfer of ownership of something that has an economic value measurable in monetary terms from residents of one country to residents of
The coordination between the GATT and the IMF to ensure that trade and payments implications of trade restrictions imposed for balance of payments reasons are taken fully into account.
Current account; - Goods, services, and income; - Investment income; - Merchandise trade; - Services; - Unilateral transfers See: Balance of Payments.
Stability and safety of a ship which is not carrying cargo.
Light, bulky articles.
See: Central American Bank for Economic Integration.
See: Inter-American Development Bank.
BLADEX (English: Latin American Export Bank) is a multinational bank which provides short- (95%+) and medium-term financing. Operations are conducted in U.S. dollars. Borrowers are primarily Latin American commercial banks of member countries
BANCOMEXT, Mexico's national foreign trade bank, provides credits, guarantees, and promotion services to support Mexico's foreign trade. BANCOMEXT also assists Mexican importers by providing short-term loans to support importation of selected commodities
The Bank Advisory Committee, which in some respects has replaced the London Club, is not a structured or formal organization. The Bank Advisory Committee consists mostly of lead bankers in an individual debtor country. The lead bankers, representing the
An Export Trading Company partially or wholly owned by a banking institution as provided under the U.S. Export Trading Company Act.
An assurance, obtained from a bank by a foreign purchaser; that the bank will pay an exporter up to a given amount for goods shipped if the foreign purchaser defaults. (see: Letter of Credit.)
Any company which directly or indirectly owns or controls, with power to vote, more than five percent of voting shares of each of one or more other banks.
Negotiable time draft drawn on and accepted by a bank which adds its credit to that of an importer of merchandise.
BIS, established in 1930, promotes cooperation among central banks in international financial settlements. Members include: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Czechoslovakia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Irela
The bank (French: Banque des Etats de l'Afrique Central, BEAC) issues a common currency unit, the Central African Franc. Members include The Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, People's Republic of Congo, Gabon, and Equitarial Guinea. France part
A banker's acceptance is a draft drawn on and accepted by a bank. Depending on the bank's creditworthiness, the acceptance becomes a financial instrument which can be discounted.
A bank that is established by mutual consent by independent and unaffiliated banks to provide a clearinghouse for financial transactions.
Draft payable on demand and drawn by or on behalf of the bank itself; it is regarded as cash and cannot be returned unpaid.
See: Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa.
See: West African Development Bank
See: Central African States Development Bank.
See: Development Bank of the Great Lakes States.
See: Bank of Central African States.
Barrel
see Charter, Bareboat.
Inland - Self propelled vessels and towed or pushed dumb craft, employed in port areas and sheltered waterways, which are not classified as seagoing vessels.
A cargo vessel arranged for the carriage of purpose built barges (lighters) loaded with cargo. Typically loading is by way of a gantry crane. Also known as Lighter Aboard SHip vessels (LASH)
A barge carrier which is semi submersible for the float on loading/unloading of the barges
Ships designed to carry barges; some are fitted to act as full containerships and can carry a varying number of barges and containers at the same time. At present this class includes two types of vessels LASH and Sea-Bee.
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.
A term of measure referring to 42 gallons of liquid at 60o F.
Trade in which merchandise is exchanged directly for other merchandise or services without use of money.
See Lubricating Oils.
A tariff term referring to ocean rate less accessorial charges, or simply the base tariff rate.
The Basel Convention restricts trade in hazardous waste, some non-hazardous wastes, solid wastes, and incinerator ash. It was adopted in 1989 by a United Nations-sponsored conference of 116 nations in Basel, Switzerland. Twenty nations must ratify the tr
Bound, bond
Bundles
Boards (timber)
The width of a ship.
A tanker for the bulk carriage of beer
BLEU (French: UEBL, from Union Economique Belgo-Luxembourgeoise), established in July 1921, introduced a system of monetary association between Belgium and Luxembourg.
A switching railroad operating within a commercial area.
- Entity to whom money is payable. - The entity for whom a letter of credit is issued. - The seller and the drawer of a draft.
Benelux (acronym for Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg) is an economic union originally established in January 1948 and revised in January 1960. Benelux continues as an internal regional association within the European Community (EC) because the associ
Shipped under rate that includes cost from end of ship's tackle at load port to end of ship's tackle at discharge port.
Under GATT rules, when a respondent in an antidumping or countervailing duty case either declines to provide information, or provides inadequate information, the investigating authority has the right to resort to other information, a practice known as bes
Breadth extreme
Used with reference to charges assessed for cargo movement past a line-haul terminating point.
Bag
A contract term meaning both parties agree to provide something for the other.
A bilateral clearing agreement is a government-to-government reciprocal trade arrangement whereby two nations agree to a trade turnover of specified value over one or more years. The value of the products trade under the agreement is denominated in accou
A bilateral investment treaty, BIT, ensures U.S. investments abroad of national or most favored nation treatment; prohibits the imposition of performance requirements; and allows the American investor to engage top management in a foreign country without
The U.S. negotiated ten bilateral steel agreements, BSAs, with major steel trading partners. Under BSAs, the governments agreed to reduce or eliminate state intervention -- that is, domestic subsidies and market barriers.
In the United States, commonly known as a Draft. However, bill of exchange is the correct term.
(1)A document issued by a shipowner to a shipper of goods. It serves as a receipt for the goods, contract of carriage, and document of title.(2)Bills of lading are contracts between the owner of the goods and the carrier. There are two types. A straight bill of lading is nonnegotiable. A negotiable or shipper's order bill of lading can be bought, sold, or traded while goods are in transit and i
A document that establishes the terms of a contract between a shipper and a transportation company. It serves as a document of title, a contract of carriage and a receipt for goods.
Port where cargo is discharged from means of transport.
Confirms the transfer of ownership of certain goods to another person in return for money paid or loaned.
Customer designated as party paying for services
The weight shown in a waybill and freight bill, i.e, the invoiced weight
GATT Article 11 provides that signatories may ''bind'' tariff rates by including them in schedules appended to the GATT. Once a duty is bound, it may not be raised beyond that bound level without compensating affected parties.
Several classes of biological agents have been identified according to their degree of pathogenic hazard, and are controlled by the United States in accord with provisions of the Australia Group. Applications submitted to the Department of Commerce for t
A non propelled tank barge for the carriage of bitumen/asphalt
Back, Backwardation, Book
Breakage, brokerage
A bond covering a group of persons, articles or properties
- A rate applicable to or from a group of points. - A special rate applicable to several different articles in a single shipment.
A waybill covering two or more consignments of freight
A B/L wherein the paying customer has contracted with the carrier that shipper or consignee information is not given.
Stowing cargo destined for a specific location close together to avoid unnecessary cargo movement.
Railcars grouped in a train by destination so that segments (blocks) can be uncoupled and routed to different destinations as the train moves through various junctions. Eliminates the need to break up a train and sort individual railcars at each junction.
Wood or metal supports (Dunnage) to keep shipments in place to prevent cargo shifting.
Bales. Barrels
Built
Blue Lantern, a procedure pertaining to U.S. Munitions List items, is intended to verify that information stated on export license applications is valid and that the use of the commodity or service exported is consistent with the terms of the license.
To gain access to a vessel.
The basic unit of measurement for lumber. One board foot is equal to a oneinch board, 12 inches wide and one foot long. Thus, a board ten feet long, 12 inches wide, and one inch thick contains ten board feet.
Movement of a tractor, without trailer, over the highway.
A set of wheels built specifically as rear wheels under the container
A device fitted on a chassis or railcar to hold and secure the container
Port of initial Customs entry of a vessel to any country. Also known as First Port of Call.
The Bond System, a part of Customs' Automated Commercial System, provides information on bond coverage. A Customs bond is a contract between a principal, usually an importers, and a surety which is obtained to insure performance of an obligation imposed
Exchange which cannot be freely converted into other currencies.
Freight moving under a bond to U.S. Customs or to the Internal Revenue Service, and to be delivered only under stated conditions.
A warehouse authorized by Customs authorities for storage of goods on which payment of duties is deferred until the goods are removed.
The U.S. Customs Service authorizes bonded warehouses for storage or manufacture of goods on which payment of duties is deferred until the goods enter the Customs Territory. The goods are not subject to duties if reshipped to foreign points.
Arrangements with a carrier for the acceptance and carriage of freight; i.e., a space reservation.
Reservation number used to secure equipment and act as a control number prior to completion of a B/L.
A naval vessel for laying harbour defence booms
BCS is an automated cargo selectivity system based on historical and other information. The system is designed to facilitate cargo processing and to improve Customs enforcement capabilities by providing targeting information to border locations.
The BECC is a U.S.-Mexican binational commission intended to facilitate border environmental clean-up and to provide additional support for community adjustment and investment related to the North American Free Trade Agreement.
Structural members on the longitudinal sides of the base of the container.
A type of air circulation in a temperature control container. Air is pulled by a fan from the top of the container, passed through the evaporator coil for cooling, and then forced through the space under the load and up through the cargo. This type of airflow provides even temperatures.
Tariff rates resulting from GATT negotiations or accession which are appended to the GATT in the form of a 'loose-leaf' tariff schedule and are enforceable under ARTICLE 11 of GATT.
The front of a vessel.
everyday term for container (or boxed vessel)
A closed rail freight car.
Break load
- To unload and distribute a portion or all of the contents of a rail car, container, or trailer. - Loose, non-containerized cargo.
An inland location where cargo is received by the ocean carrier and then moved to a coastal port for loading.
A port where cargo is received by the ocean carrier and stuffed into containers but then moved to another coastal port to be waded on a vessel.
The term British High Commission (BHC, or High Commission, HC, or Her Majesty's High Commission, HMHC) is used in lieu of embassy in Commonwealth countries.
The BOTB, located in the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), advises on international trade and guides the government's export promotion prorgram, including policy, financing, and overseas projects.
Barrel
- The loss of space caused by irregularity in the shape of packages. - Any void or empty space in a vessel or container not occupied by cargo.
A person who arranges for transportation of loads for a percentage of the revenue from the load.
Freight forwarder/broker compensation as specified by ocean tariff or contract.
A once widely used international tariff classification system which preceded the Customs Cooperation Council Nomenclature (CCCN) and the Harmonized System Nomenclature (HS).
A vessel equipped to obtain material from the sea bed by use of circulating buckets. The material may be carried on board, transferred to other vessels, pumped ashore or deposited elsewhere using a spray
A non propelled dredger pontoon fitted with an endless chain of buckets lowered to the sea bed
A non propelled barge for the carriage of bulk aggregates
A self propelled barge with an arrangement of topside ballast tanks for the carriage of bulk dry cargo of a homogeneous nature
Bulk cargo is unbound as loaded and carried aboard ship; it is without mark or count, in a loose unpackaged form, and has homongeneous characteristics.
A self propelled bulk barge fitted with a conveyor belt (or similar system) and a boom which can discharge cargo alongside or to shore without the assistance of any external equipment
A bulk carrier fitted with self trimming holds, a conveyor belt (or similar system) and a boom which can discharge cargo alongside or to shore without the assistance of any external equipment
A Great Lakes bulk carrier fitted with a conveyor belt (or similar system) and a boom which can discharge cargo alongside or to shore without the assistance of any external equipment
A single deck cargo vessel with an arrangement of topside ballast tanks for the carriage of bulk dry cargo of a homogeneous nature
A bulk carrier with movable decks for the additional carriage of new vehicles
A single deck cargo vessel with dimensions suited to the limitations of Great Lakes of North America trade, unsuitable for open sea navigation. Hatches are more numerous than standard bulk carriers, and much wider than they are long
All vessels designed to carry bulk cargo such as grain, fertilizers, ore, and oil.
A non propelled barge for the carriage of bulk cement
A self propelled barge fitted with pumping arrangements for the carriage of cement in bulk. There are no weather deck hatches. May be self discharging
A vessel designed for the bulk transport of cement cargoes. Not designed for operation in open sea
A stationary storage vessel for bulk cement cargo
A non propelled storage barge for dry cargoes
A stationary storage vessel for bulk dry cargo
A container with a discharge hatch in the front wall; allows bulk commodities to be carried.
A bulk carrier arranged for the alternative (but not simultaneous) carriage of crude oil
- A partition separating one part of a ship, freight car, aircraft or truck from another part.
Cargo-securing devices mounted in the floor of containers; allow lashing and securing of cargo.
The Bundesbank is the German central bank. The main functions of the Bundesbank are to regulate the money supply, support the general economic policy of the federal government, and issue banknotes.
The BMWi (German: Ministry for Economic Affairs) gathers and distributes market information and supports semiprivate and private organizations, such as overseas chambers of commerce. Within the BMWi is the Federal Office for Foreign Trade (Bundesstelle
See: Bundesministerium fur Wirtschaft.
An extra charge sometimes added to steamship freight rates; justified by higher fuel costs. (Also known as Fuel Adjustment Factor or FAF.)
A tanker equipped to supply other vessels with bunker fuels
A Maritime term referring to Fuel used aboard the ship. Coal stowage areas aboard a vessel in the past were in bins or bunkers.
A vessel equipped for buoy laying and/or maintenance and for supply of stores and personnel to lighthouses
A vessel equipped for buoy laying and/or maintenance
The Bureau of International Expositions, BIE, is an international organization established by the Paris Convention of 1928 to regulate the conduct and scheduling of international expositions in which foreign nations are officially invited to participate.
The BCIU is an independent, non-partisan, business association which was formed at the initiative of President Eisenhower. BCIU operates the U.S. Ambassadorial and Senior Diplomat Industry Program in which most U.S. Ambassadors come to BCIU after appoint
BISNIS is a one-stop shop for U.S. firms interested in obtaining assistance on selling in the markets of the Newly Independent States of the former Soviet Union (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Tajikistan, T
An act mandating preferential treatment for American products when awarding some government procurement contracts. This act is waived for purchases covered by the government procurement code.
BARs were derived from the Buy American Act (BAA) of March 1933 and amended by the Buy American Act of 1988. Restrictions may take several forms, including: (a) straightforward prohibition of public sector bodies from purchasing goods from foreign suppl
See: Countertrade.
Consulate
Cost & Freight Free Out
Cost and freight. All costs of goods and transportation to the named port are included in the price quoted. Buyer pays insurance while aboard ship up to overseas inland destination.
Obsolete, albeit heavily used, term of sale meaning cargo and freight whereby Seller pays for cost of goods and freight charges up to destination port. In July, 1990 the International Chamber of Commerce replaced C with CFR.
China and/or Japan
Centre of Buoyancy
Collected, Currency, Coupon, Coast
Collected and delivered
China and/or Japan
Compromised &/or arranged &/or constructive total loss of vessel only
Cash against documents
Continent between Bordeaux and Hamburg
Confederation of British Industry
Current cost, Civil commotions, Cancellation clause, Continuation clause
Convention Contracts of International Sale of Goods
Collective company signing agreement
Country damage
Current domestic value
Code of Federal Regulations (USA)
Cargo's proportion of general average
Continent between Havre and Hamburg
Consular Invoice
Captain's imperfect entry (Customs). - c.i.f. - Cost, insurance and freight
Cost, Insurance and Freight: Export term in which the price quoted by the exporter includes the costs of ocean transportation to the port of destination and insurance coverage.
Chartered Insurance Institute
Commonwealth Independent States (ex Soviet Republics)
Completely knocked down
Cargo on board
Cash on delivery
Claims payable abroad
Controllable Pitch Propellers
Current rate, Company's risk, Carrier's risk
Cancelling returns only
Closed shelter deck
Central standard time
Commercial weight
Channel for orders. Coast for orders. Calling for orders
sshinC/sshinC
Commercial dock. Consular declaration
Communication/Entertainment/Victualling
Craft loss
Consignment note. Cover note. Credit note
Certificate of origin. Cash order. Case oil
Charter Party, Custom of Port (grain trade)
Centistokes
Consecutive voyages
Cable, victuals and entertainment
sshinC / ssheX
Currency and bunkering adjustment factors
Consortia of American Businesses in Eastern Europe
Central American Bank for Economic Integration
Consortia of American Businesses in the Newly Independent, States
Central American Common Market
Cash Against Documents
Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacturing
Abbreviation for Currency Adjustment Factor. A charge, expressed as a percentage of a base rate, that is applied to compensate ocean carriers of currency fluctuations.
A surcharge on freight charges by a carrier to offset foreign currency fluctuations.
Calcium ammonium nitrate (cargo)
Cancelling
Common Agricultural Policy, Country Action Plan
Commercial Activity Report
Merchandise/commodities carried by means of transportation. Freight loaded into a ship.
The act of loading and discharging a cargo ship.
Insurance to protect the financial interest of the cargo owner during transportation in case of a loss.
A plan giving the quantities and description of the various grades carried in the ship's cargo tanks, after the loading is completed.
Receipt of cargo for shipment by a consolidator (used in ocean freight).
Clauses introduced by charterers based on shortage of delivered cargo because of increased oil prices.
Caribbean Islands
Caribbean Common Market
Caribbean Common Market
A law enacted in 1936 covering the transportation of merchandise by sea to or from ports of the United States and in foreign trades.
A container over which the carrier or the shipper has control either by ownership or by the acquisition thereof under lease or rental from container companies or container suppliers or from similar sources. Carriers are prohibited from purchasing, leasing, or renting a shipper-owned container.
Owners or operators of vessels providing transportation to shippers. The term is also used to refer to the vessels.
Condition Assessment Survey
Council of American States in Europe
A raised bridge running fore and aft from the midship, and called walkway. It affords safe passage over the pipelines and other deck obstructions.
(BH) Continent between Bordeaux and Hamburg
Commerce Business Daily
Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act
Carbon black feed stock
Cubic feet
Caribbean Basin Initiative
Cable
Cubic Meter
Abbreviation for Cubic Meter.
Cyprus Bureau of Shipping
Clean Ballast Tanks: Applies only to Pre-MARPOL vessels which adopted COW instead of converting to SBT when MARPOL 73/78 entered into Force. When operating as a Products tanker (typically with Fuel Oil), COW is not available so vessel adopts CBT mod
Chemical and Biological Weapons
Cubic centimeter per hour
Cubic centimeter per minute
Canadian Commercial Corporation, Commodity Credit Corporation, Customs Cooperation Council
Customs Co-operation Council Nomenclature
Capital Construction Fund
Compensatory and Contingency Financing Facility
Cargo Control Room
Chart Datum; Customary Despatch
Chemical distribute Institute: A chemical industry ship inspection process and database. Managed through joint representation by charterers and ship managers.
Construction Differential Subsidy
Abbreviation for Consumption Entry. The process of declaring the importation of foreignmade goods for use in the United States.
Council of European National Shipowners Associations
(1) A certificate usually required for industrial equipment and meat products. There are companies in every port city that specialize in issuing certificates of inspection for machinery. The Meat Inspection Division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture issues certificates of inspection for meat products that are recognized throughout the world.(2) A document certifying that merchandise (such as perishable goods) was in good condition immediately prior to shipment. Pre-shipment inspection is a requirement for importation of goods into many developing countries.
A document used under a letter of credit containing an affidavit that goods have been manufactured and are being held for the account and risk of the buyer. In war times when transportation facilities are disrupted, it is common for letters of credit to be paid against presentation of a certificate of manufacture. This is rare in ordinary times, except in the case of specially manufactured goods.
A document specifying the nation registry of the vessel.
Cubic feet
Cubic feet per hour
Cubic feet per second
Cubic feet of gas
Cubic feet of gas per day
Cubic feet of gas per hour
Cubic feet of gas per minute
Cost and Freight means that the seller must pay. the costs and freight necessary to bring the goods to the named port of destination but the risk of loss or damage to the goods, as well as any additional costs due to events occurring after the time the go
A Term of Sale where the seller pays the costs and freight necessary to bring the goods to the named port of destination, Terms of Sale but the risk of loss of or damage to the goods, as (continued) well as any additional costs due to events occurring after the time the goods have been delivered on board the vessel, is transferred from the seller to the buyer when the goods pass the ship's rail in the port of shipment. The CFR term requires the seller to clear the goods for export
Abbreviation for Container Freight Station. A shipping dock where cargo is loaded (stuffed) into or unloaded (stripped) from containers. Generally, this involves less than containerload shipments, although small shipments destined to same consignee are often consolidated. Container reloading from/to rail or motor carrier equipment is a typical activity.
The charge assessed for services performed at the loading or discharging port in the packing or unpacking of cargo into/from containers at CFS.
The service performed at the loading port in receiving and packing cargo into containers from CFS to CY or shipside. CFS Receiving Services referred herein are restricted to the following: (1) Moving empty containers from CY to CFS (2) Drayage of loaded containers from CFS to CY and/or ship's tackle. (3) Tallying. (4) Issuing dock receipt/shipping order (5) Physical movement of cargo into, out of, and within CFS (6) Stuffing, sealing, and marking containers (7) Storage. (8) Ordinary sorting and stacking. (9) Preparing carrier's internal container load plan.
The term CFS/CFS means cargo delivered by breakbulk to carrier's container freight station (CFS) to be packed by carrier into containers and to be unpacked by carrier from the container at carrier's destination port CFS.
The term CFS/CY means cargo delivered breakbulk to carrier's CFS to be packed by carrier into containers and accepted by consignee at carrier's CY and unpacked by the consignee off carrier's premises, all at consignee's risk and expense.
Cubic feet
Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research
Cargoes
Continent between Le Havre and Hamburg
Customs house agent
A lease or agreement to hire an airplane, vessel, or other means of conveyance to transport goods to one or more designated locations. Among other specifications, the contract usually stipulates the exact obligations of the vessel owner (loading the goods, carrying the goods to a certain point, returning to the charterer with other goods, etc.), or it provides for an outright leasing of the vessel to the charterer, who then is responsible for his own loading and delivery. In either case, the charter party sets forth the exact conditions and requirements agreed upon by both sides.
A bill of lading issued under a charter party. It is not acceptable by banks under letters of credit unless so authorized in the credit.
The tariff applied for chartering tonnage in a particular trade.
The person to whom is given the use of the whole of the carrying capacity of a ship for the transportation of cargo or passengers to a stated port for a specified time.
(1) A wheel assemble including bogies constructed to accept mounting of containers. (2) A frame with wheels on which a container rides
Specially designed for the transport of chemicals.
Head of engineer department. Keeps records of all engine parts and repairs. Generally tends to the functioning of all mechanical equipment on ship. Calculates fuel and water consumption and requirements. Coordinates operations with shoreside port engineer.
The officer in the deck department next in rank to the master; second in command of a ship. He is next to the master, most especially in the navigation and as far as the deck department is concerned. The chief mate assumes the position of the Master in his absence.
Orders food. Prepares menus. Assists chief cook in food preparation.
China Sea, Indian and Pacific Oceans
China
Charterers Option(As opposed to owner's option)
Charterers
Continuous Survey of Hull
Charterers
Abbreviation for Cost and Insurance. A price that includes the cost of the goods, the marine insurance and all transportation charges except the ocean freight to the named point of destination.
A method of payment for goods whereby the buyer pays the seller before shipping the goods.
Centro Internacional de Agricultura Tropical
Confederation Internationale du Credit Agricole
Canadian International Development Agency
Cost, Insurance and Freight
A Term of Sale where the seller has the same obligations as under the CFR but also has to procure marine insurance against the buyer's risk of loss or damage to the goods during the carriage. The seller contracts for insurance and pays the insurance premium. The CIF term requires the seller to clear the goods for export
Abbreviation for Cost, Insurance, Freight, Collection And Interest.
Cost, insurance, freight, and free out
Cost, Insurance, Freight, Interest and Exchange
Cost, insurance and freight, London terms
International Convention Concerning the Carriage of Goods by Rail
Commercial Information Management System
Carriage and insurance paid to
A Term of Sale which means the seller has the same obligations as under CPT, but with the addition that the seller has to procure cargo insurance against the buyer's risk of loss of or damage to the goods during the carriage. The seller contracts for insurance and pays the insurance premium. The buyer should note that under the CIP term the seller is required to obtain insurance only on minimum coverage. The CIP term requires the seller to clear the goods for export
Center for International Research
Commercial Interest Reference Rate
Commonwealth of Independent States
Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of, Goods
Court of International Trade
Committee for the Implementation of Textile Agreements
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species in, Wild Fauna and Flora
Customs Import Value
Commodity Jurisdiction
Abbreviation for Completely Knocked Down. Parts and subassemblies being transported to an assembly plant.
Abbreviation for Carload and Containerload.
A class of goods or commodities is a large grouping of various items under one general heading, and all items in the group make up a class. The freight rates that apply to all items in the class are called class rates.
Worldwide experienced and reputable societies which undertake to arrange inspections and advise on the hull and machinery of a ship. A private organization that supervises vessels during their construction and afterward, in respect to their seaworthiness, and the placing of vessels in grades or classes according to the society's rules for each particular type. It is not compulsory by law that a shipowner have his vessel built according to the rules of any classification society; but in practice, the difficulty in securing satisfactory insurance rates for an unclassed vessel makes it a commercial obligation.
Convention on Civil Liability for Oil Pollution Damage, 1969
Commercial Law Development Program
Refers to tankers which have their cargo tanks free of traces of dark persistent oils which remain after carrying crudes and heavy fuel oils.
Clause
Abbreviation for Cubic Meter (capital letters).
Common Monetary Agreement
Council for Mutual Economic Assistance
Composite Meter Factor
Committee Maritime International
Country Marketing Plan
Completed
Centimeters per second
Convention on the Contract for International Carriage of Goods by Road
Continuous Survey of Machinery
Compressed Natural Gas
A tanker for the bulk carriage of Compressed Natural Gas. Cargo remains in gaseous state but is highly compressed
Charterers not reported; Charter not reported
An agency to which IATA forwarders pay their freight bills.
Commercial News USA
Cargo oil; Case oil; Country of origin
A tanker for the bulk carriage of liquefied carbon dioxide
Contract of Affreightment: A cargo transportation arrangement whereby the owner agrees to transportation of a specified quantity of cargo over a set period of time in a vessel or series of vessels for the Charterer. It consists of the base terms of agre
Contract of Affreightment Charter Party
Cottonseed Oil Assistance Program
Cargo on board; close of business
Closing Of Business LoDoN
Coordinating Committee on Multilateral Export Controls
Abbreviation for: - Collect (cash) on Delivery. - Carried on Docket (pricing).
Codex Alimentarius Commission
Council of Europe
Abbreviation for the Railway Service Container On Flat Car.
Void space in a vessel to separate cargo tanks from each other or from the engine room
Certificate of Financial Responsibility
Certificate of Financial Responsibility (OPA 90) for California
Carriage of Goods by Sea Act. U.S. federal codification passed in 1936 which standardizes carrier's liability under carrier's bill of lading. U.S. enactment of The Hague Rules.
Cuba, Orinoco River and Haiti
All documents (commercial invoices, bills of lading, etc.) submitted to a buyer for the purpose of receiving payment for a shipment.
Vessel used for transporting coal.
Electronic system commonly used to prevent collisions in inland navigable waterways.
Convention on International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea
Chief of Mission, Cost of Manufacture
Combination passenger/cargo vessel; a vessel specifically designed to carry both containers and conventional cargoes.
A type of ship that accommodates both container and breakbulk cargo. It can be either self-sustaining or non-self sustaining. Also known as a Container/Breakbulk Vessel.
Ships that can carry both liquid and dry bulk cargoes.
Combination Carrier
Council for Mutual Economic Assistance
An official authorized by the U.S. Treasury to determine the proper tariff and value of imported goods.
Completing
The number of officers and crew employed upon a vessel for its safe navigation and operation.
COMPRO is an on-line trade data retrieval system maintained by the International Trade Administration within the U.S. Department of Commerce. The system is exclusively for use within the federal government trade community (ITA, USTR, ITC, and other executive branch agencies. It is also the oldest and best known component of the Trade Policy Information System (TPIS). COMPRO is slated to be replaced in the FY 1995-96 TPIS modernization, but its functions will remain available in an expanded and generalized form. See: Trade Policy Information System.
Commissions
Communications Satellite Corporation
Concentrates
Confidential
Port/berth delays
Consumption
Consecutive
An arrangement whereby various shippers pool their boxed goods on the same shipment, sharing the total weight charge for the shipment.
The name for an agreement under which several nations or nationals (usually corporations) of more than one nation join together for a common purpose (e.g., a shipping consortium).
Equipped to assist during offshore construction and maintenance work.
Special forms signed by the consul of a country to which cargo is destined.
A ship constructed in such a way that she can easily stack containers near and on top of each other as well as on deck. A vessel designed to carry standard intermodal containers enabling efficient loading, unloading, and transport to and from the vessel. Oceangoing merchant ship designed to transport a unit load of standard-sized containers 8 feet square and 20 or 40 feet long. The hull is divided into cells that are easily accessible through large hatches, and more containers can be loaded on deck atop the closed hatches. Loading and unloading can proceed simultaneously using giant traveling cranes at special berths. Container ships usually carry in the range of 25,000 to 50,000 deadweight tons. Whereas a general-cargo ship may spend as much as 70 percent of its life in port loading and discharging cargo, a container ship can be turned around in 36 hours or less, spending as little as 20 percent of its time in port. This ship type is the result of American design innovation. Specialized types of container ships are the LASH and SeaBee which carry floating containers (or lighters,) and RoRo ships, which may carry containers on truck trailers.
A service contract under which a ship owner agrees to transport a specified quantity of fuel products or specialty products, at a specified rate per ton, between designated loading and discharge ports. This type contract differs from a spot or consecutive voyage charter in that no particular vessel is specified.
This can refer to service contract rates which are low, favorable rates fixed over an extended period of time in exchange for which the carrier receives a volume commitment from the shipper.
Co-operation
Cost of Production
Comision Panamericana de Normas Tecnicas
Committee on Renewable Energy, Commerce, and Trade
Captain Of The Port (Coast Guard)
Crude Oil Washing: The operation carried out on crude oil ships as a statutory requirement under Marpol 73/78 to reduce the quantity of residual oil left in cargo tanks that will or might contain ballast. The operation is also employed to maximise the o
Charter Party
Comite Permanent Consultatif du Maghreb
Charterers Pay Dues
Clean petroleum products
Cardia-Pulmonary Respiration
Carriage Paid To
A Term of Sale which means the seller pays the freight for the carriage of the goods to the named destination. The risk of loss of or damage to the goods, as well as any additional costs due to events occurring after the time the goods have been delivered to the carrier, is transferred from the seller to the buyer when the goods have been delivered into the custody of the carrier. If subsequent carriers are used for the carriage to the agreed upon destination, the risk passes when the goods have been delivered to the first carrier. The CPT term requires the seller to clear the goods for export
Customary Quick Despatch
Current rate
Cold Rolled Coils
Current rate discharge
Contract Regarding an Interim Settlement to Tanker Liability for Oil Pollution Damage
Current rate of load
Crane
Crane(s)
Cargo Remaining on Board
International Convention for Safe Containers
Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe
Closed shelter deck
Cargo ship
Center for Strategic and International Studies
Common Standard Level of Effective Protection
Customized Sales Survey
Centistokes
Countertrade
Committee on Trade and Development
Certified Trade Fair .. Certified Event
Center for Trade and Investment Services
Constructive total loss
Combined transport operator
Composite Theoretical Performance
Container Fitted
Cubic feet
Cubic Meter
Constructed Value
Countervailing Duty
Certificate of value and origin
Consecutive voyages
Cash With Order
Clean Water Act
Chemical Weapons Convention
Common External Tariff
- Abbreviation for Container Yard. - The designation for full container receipt/delivery.
Cylinders
A code word of less than 10 letters, registered annually with the Central Bureau of Registered Addresses, used in lieu of the entire name and address of a firm receiving or sending cablegrams in order to reduce the number of words required in a cablegram.
A vessel equipped to lay and repair underwater cables
A vessel equipped for the retrieval and repair of underwater cables
A law which requires coastal and intercoastal traffic to be carried by vessels belonging to the country owning the coast.Water transportation term applicable to shipments between ports of a nation; commonly refers to coast-wise or inter-coastal navigation or trade. Many nations, including the United States, have cabotage laws which require national flag vessels to provide domestic interport service.
see Fleet, Cabotage.
The Cairns Group, established in August 1986 in Cairns, Australia, is an informal association of agricultural exporting countries. Members include: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Fiji, Hungary, Indonesia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Thailand, and Uruguay. The Group seeks to reduce export subsidies and internal support measures and to bring about other reforms to international agricultural trade. The Cairns Group countries account for one third of world farm exports.
The CCCE, a specialized financial institution, is the lead agency in the French Ministry of Cooperation and Development in providing funds for aid and cooperation. The Caisse provides support for development and technical assistance in developing countries, particularly in supporting economic and social development in Africa and in various countries on the Indian Ocean, the Caribbean and the South Pacific, and in overseas French departments and territories where it supports productive private and public investment. The Caisse was created in December 1941; headquarters are in Paris, France.
The Calvo Doctrine (or principle) holds that jurisdiction in international investment disputes lies with the country in which the investment is located; thus, the investor has no recourse but to use the local courts. The principle, named after an Argentinean jurist, has been applied throughout Latin America and other areas of the world.
By serving as the prime contractor in government-to-government sales transactions, the CCC facilitates exports of a wide range of goods and services from Canadian sources. In response to requests from foreign governments and international agencies for individual products or services, CCC identifies Canadian firms capable of meeting the customer's requirements, executes prime as well as back-to-back contracts, and follows through with contract management, inspection, acceptance, and payment.
CIDA (French: Agence Canadienne de Developpement International) is Canada's official agency which has the task of supporting sustainable development in developing countries. The Agency was established in 1968; headquarters are in Hull, Quebec.
Cancelled
B/L status; used to cancel a processed B/L; usually per shipper's request; different from voided B/L.
See: Balance of Payments.
The CDI, administered by the U.S. Agency for International Development, encourages infrastructure investment in countries in central and Eastern Europe. The CDI provides financial and technical services and assists U.S. businesses by providing up to 50 percent of estimated development work and feasibility study costs for proposed projects in energy, telecommunications, and the environment.
A tanker for the bulk carriage of caprolactam, a chemical used in the plastics industry for the production of polyamides
A document prepared by the captain of a vessel on arriving at port; shows conditions encountered during voyage, generally for the purpose of relieving ship owner of any loss to cargo and shifting responsibility for reimbursement to the insurance company.
A vehicles carrier for the carriage of new cars which are loaded via ramps
A vessel used as a floating car park.
Use of individual carrier/rail equipment through a central agency for the benefit of carriers and shippers.
Metal strip and lead fastener used for locking freight car or truck doors. Seals are numbered for record purposes.
A barge equipped with tracks on which up to about 12 railroad cars are moved in harbors or inland waterways.
A manifest that lists all cargo carried on a specific vessel voyage.
Cargo Not Otherwise Specified. Usually the rate entry in a tariff that can apply to commodities not covered under a specific item or subitem in the applicable tariff.
Cargo reserved by a Nation's laws for transportation only on vessels registered in that Nation. Typically the cargo is moving due to a direct or indirect support or activity of the Government.
The Cargo Selectivity System, a part of Customs' Automated Commercial System, specifies the type of examination (intensive or general) to be conducted for imported merchandise. The type of examination is based on database selectivity criteria such as assessments of risk by filer, consignee, tariff number, country of origin, and manufacturer/shipper. A first time consignee is always selected for an intensive examination. An alert is also generated in cargo selectivity the first time a consignee files an entry in a port with a particular tariff number, country of origin, or manufacturer/shipper.
Most ocean freight is billed on the basis of weight or measurement tons (W/M). Weight tons can be expressed in short tons of 2000 pounds, long tons of 2240 pounds or metric tons of 1000 kilos (2204.62 pounds). Measurement tons are usually expressed as cargo measurement of 40 cubic feet (1.12 meters) or cubic meters (35.3 cubic feet.)
The CBERA affords nonreciprocal tariff preferences to developing countries in the Caribbean Basin area to aid their economic development and to diversity and expand their production and exports. The CBERA applies to merchandise entered, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after January 1, 1984. This tariff preference program has no expiration date.
The CBI is an inter-American program to increase economic aid and trade preferences for 28 states of the Caribbean region. The Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act of 1983 provided for 12 years of duty-free treatment of most goods produced in the Caribbean region. The Initiative was extended permanently (CBI II), by the Customs and Trade Act of August 1990. The 23 countries which are currently eligible for CBI beneifts include Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, the British Virgin Islands, Costa Rica, Dominica, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Jamaica, Montserrat, the Netherlands Antilles, Nicaragua, Panama, St. Christopher-Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago. The following countries may be eligible for CBI benefits but have not formally requested designation: Anguilla, Cayman Islands, Suriname, and the Turks and Caicos Islands.
CARICOM includes 13 English-speaking Caribbean nations: Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Montserrat, St. Kitts-Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent/Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago). CARICOM was established in 1973; headquarters are in Georgetown, Guyana.
The CDB promotes economic development and cooperation by providing long-term financing for productive projects in CARICOM member countries and U.K.-dependent territories in the Caribbean. Members include: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Cayman Islands, Dominica, France, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Mexico, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, the United Kingdom, and Venezuela. The Bank was established in 1969; headquarters are in St. Michael, Barbados, West Indies. Beginning in 1977, the Inter-American Development Bank (IADB) may make loans through the CDB to all CDB members, regardless of whether those countries are members of the IADB. See: Inter-American Development Bank.
The BAS helps entrepreneurs in the Caribbean and in Central America to develop project ideas into investment proposals and to obtain long-term finance for them. The Service does not lend or invest, but does provide advice and assistance in project structuring, identification of technical and marketing partners, project appraisal, and identification of financing resources. BAS operates under the auspices of the United Nations Development Program and is managed by the World Bank's International Finance Corporation. BAS was established in 1981 as the Caribbean Business Advisory Service (CBAS). The BAS 1989 expansion to Central America extended its operations to all CBI beneficiary countries. see: Caribbean Basin Initiative.
A rate applicable to a carload of goods.
Customs documents permitting the holder to carry or send sample merchandise temporarily into certain foreign countries without paying duties or posting bonds. Foreign customs regulations vary widely; in some countries, duties and extensive customs procedures on sample products may be avoided by obtaining an ATA Carnet. The ATA Carnet is a standardized international customs document used to obtain duty-free temporary admission of certain goods into the countries that are signatories to the ATA Convention. Under the ATA Convention, commercial and professional travelers may take commercial samples; tools of the trade; advertising material; and cinematographic, audiovisual, medical, scientific, or other professional equipment into member countries temporarily without paying customs duties and taxes or posting a bodn at the border of each country visited. The carnets are generally valid for 12 months. Telephone: 1-800-CARNETS
Carriage paid to (CPT) and carriage and insurance paid to (CIP) a named place of destination. Used in place of CFR and CIF, respectively for shipment by modes other than water.
Any person or entity who, in a contract of carriage, undertakes to perform or to procure the performance of carriage by rail, road, sea, air, inland waterway or by a combination of such modes.
A certificate required by U.S. Customs to release cargo properly to the correct party.
See: Andean Pact.
See: Group of Eleven.
An organization of independent producers formed to regulate the production, pricing, or marketing practices of its members in order to limit competition and maximize their market power.
Customs form permitting inbond cargo to be moved from one location to another under Customs control, within the same Customs district. Usually in motor carrier's possession while draying cargo.
A term denoting that payment is made when the bill of lading is presented.
A method of payment for goods in which documents transferring title are given to the buyer upon payment of cash to an intermediary acting for the seller, usually a commission house.
Method of payment for goods in which documents transferring title are given the buyer upon payment of cash to an intermediary acting for the seller, usually a commission house.
A method of payment for goods in which the buyer pays the seller in advance of the shipment of the goods. Usually employed when the goods are built to order, such as specialized machinery
CWO is a means of payment in which the buyer pays cash when ordering; the order is binding on both seller and buyer.
A method of payment for goods in which cash is paid at the time of order and the transaction becomes binding on both buyer and seller.
A method of payment for goods in which cash is paid at the time of order and the transaction becomes binding on both buyer and seller.
A method of payment for goods in which the buyer pays the seller in advance of the shipment of goods. Usually employed when the goods, such as specialized machinery, are built to order.
A stationary vessel fitted out as a floating casino.
These promotions are low-cost exhibits of U.S. firms' catalogs and videos which offer small, less-experienced companies an opportunity to test overseas markets for their products without travel. The International Trade Administration promotes exhibitions, provides staff fluent in the local language to answer questions, and forwards all trade leads to participating firms.
Groupings of controlled products.See: Export Control Classification Number
Center Tank
The construction system employed in container vessels; permits ship containers to be stowed in a vertical line with each container supporting the one above it.
A single deck cargo vessel fitted with pumping arrangements for the carriage of cement in bulk. There are no weather deck hatches. May be self discharging
A barge with pumping facilities for loading & discharging cement.
The point of equilibrium of the total weight of a containership, truck, train or a piece of cargo.
The Central Africa States Development Bank (French: Banque de Developpement des Etats de l'Afrique Centrale, BDEAC) was created in December 1975 (began operations in January 1977) to provide loans for economic development and to support integration projects. Members include: the Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, and Gabon. Bank headquarters are in Brazzaville, Congo.
CABEI (Spanish: Banco Centroamericano de Integracion Economico, BCIE) was established in 1960 (began operations in September 1961) to promote economic integration and development. The Bank is an institution of the Central American Common Market. Bank members include: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. CABEI is associated with the Central American Common Market; bank headquarters are in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. See: Central American Common Market.
CEFTA is a trade agreement among the Visegrad countries -- Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary -- that is somewhat parallel to the European Free Trade Association
CERN (English: European Center for Nuclear Reseach) is a huge lab used by international collaborators to do frontier work in nuclear and particle physics. The Center, created after World War II and open to physicists from all countries, is funded by countries according to their abilities. The Center is located outside Genvea, partly in Switzerland and partly in France.
See: Direction des Relations Economiques Exterieures.
See: Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research.
- A document certifying that merchandise (such as of Inspection perishable goods) was in good condition immediately prior to its shipment. - The document issued by the U.S. Coast Guard certifying an American flag vessel's compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
A certified document as to the origin of goods, used in foreign commerce.
See: Delivery Verification Certificate.
Certain nations require a signed statement as to the origin of the export item. Such certificates are usually obtained through a semiofficial organization such as a local chamber of commerce. A certificate may be required even though the commercial invoice contains the information.
The Department of Commerce Certified Trade Fair Program is designed to encourage private organizations to recruit new-to-market and new-to-export U.S. firms to exhibit in trade fairs overseas. To receive certification, the organization must demonstrate: (1) the fair is a leading international trade event for an industry and (2) the fair organizer is capable of recruiting U.S. exhibitors and assisting them with freight forwarding, customs clearance, exhibit design and setup, public relations, and overall show promotion. The show organizer must agree to assist new-to-export exhibitors as well as small businesses interested in exporting. In addition to the services the organizer provides, the Department of Commerce will: - assign a Washington coordinator; - operate a business information office, which provides meeting space, translators, hospitality, and assistance from U.S. exhibitors and foreign customers; - help contact buyers, agents, distributors, and other business leads and provide marketing assistance; - provide a press release on certification.
Certified trade missions (formerly State/Industry Organized, Government Approved trade missions) are planned and organized by state development agencies, trade associations, chambers of commerce, and other export-oriented groups. To qualify for U.S. government sponsorship, organizers of this type of trade mission must agree to follow International Trade Administration criteria in planning and recruiting the mission. ITA offers guidance and assistance from planning through completion of the mission and coordinates thel, Consulate General
Chaebol are Korean conglomerates which are characterized by strong family control, authoritarian management, and centralized decision making. Chaebol dominate the Korean economy, growing out of the takeover of the Japanese monopoly of the Korean economy following World War II. Korean government tax breaks and financial incentives emphasizing industrial reconstruction and exports provided continuing support to the growth of Chaebols during the 1970s and 1980s. In 1988, the output of the 30 largest chaebol represented almost 95% of Korea's gross national product.
A written contract between the owner of a vessel and the person desiring to employ the vessel (charterer); sets forth the terms of the arrangement such as duration of agreement, freight rate and ports involved in the trip.
A charter where the owner provides his ship to the Charterer who then provides his own officers and crew and operates the vessel as if it were a unit of his own fleet. Hire is usually paid on a daily rate, monthly in advance, and the owner retains rights
The chartering of a vessel for a fixed period of time with the vessel delivering and re-delivering at agreed dates and at agreed zones or places though usually with an option to the Charterer to extend the period of charter. It is really a contract for t
A contract where the vessel has specific beginning and end ports but where the route and time taken may vary.
The chartering of a vessel for a single voyage to load a cargo at one or more load ports for discharge at one or more discharge ports. In exchange for freight at a negotiated freight rate the owner bears all costs (including crew, bunkers, hull and machi
Chemical
A non propelled tank barge for the carriage of chemicals
A tanker built to comply with either the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk (IBC Code) or the Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk (BCH Code)
An self propelled tanker barge for the bulk carriage of chemical cargoes, lube oils, vegetable/animal oils and other chemicals as defined in the International Bulk Chemical Code
A tanker for the bulk carriage of chemical cargoes, lube oils, vegetable/animal oils and other chemicals as defined in the International Bulk Chemical Code which is not suitable for trading in open waters. Tanks are coated with suitable materials which ar
The CWC prohibits the development, production, stockpiling, and use of chemical weapons. The Convention permits monitoring, collection and review of data and on-site inspections that involve questions of protection of proprietary rights and confidentiality. The Convention has been signed by over 160 nations; entry into force is expected in January 1995.
The Department of Commerce maintains foreign policy export controls on certain chemical precursors and equipment and biological agents and equipment useful in chemical warfare. Through the Australia Group, AG, the United States cooperates with other nations in controlling chemical and biological weapons proliferation. The AG developed a list of 54 precursors useful for chemical weapons development, along with control on certain biological organisms and on equipment useful in producing CBW agents. The AG also provides the forum in which the member countries share information concerning the activities of non-member countries where the proliferation of these weapons is of concern, including entities that are seeking chemical precursors and related items.
A non propelled tank barge for the carriage of chemicals or oil products
A chemical tanker additionally capable of the carriage of clean petroleum products
An self propelled chemical tanker barge additionally capable of the carriage of clean petroleum products
A tanker for the bulk carriage of chemical cargoes, lube oils, vegetable/animal oils and other chemicals as defined in the International Bulk Chemical Code or Petroleum Products which is not suitable for trading in open waters.
The CEA is an informal reference to the economic integration of Southern China with Hong Kong and Taiwan which has proceded without any arrangement.
A piece of wood or other material placed at the side of cargo to prevent rolling or moving sideways.
Cask
A demand made upon a transportation line for payment on account of a loss sustained through its alleged negligence
A publication,such as Uniform Freight Classification (railroad) or the National Motor Freight Classification (motor carrier), that assigns ratings to various articles and provides bill of lading descriptions and rules.
The designation provided in a classification by which a class rate is determined.
A railroad yard with many tracks used for assembling freight trains.
An antitrust act of the U.S. Congress making price discrimination unlawful.
A letter of credit that requires the beneficiary to present only a draft or a receipt for specified funds before receiving payment.
A B/L which bears no superimposed clause or notation which declares a defective condition of the goods and/or the packaging.
A receipt for goods issued by a carrier with an indication that the goods were received in apparent good order and condition, without damage or other irregularities. If no notation or exception is made, the B/L is assumed to be cleaned.
A draft to which no documents have been attached.
Clean float refers to a system in which exchange rates are determined by market forces rather than government intervention or restrictions. See: Dirty Float.
The stopping of articles, such as peanuts, etc., for cleaning at a point between the point of origin and destination.
The size beyond which cars or loads cannot use Limits bridges, tunnels, etc.
A strip of wood or metal used to afford additional strength, to prevent warping, or to hold in place.
Refrigeration equipment attachable to an insulated container that does not have its own refrigeration unit.
The procedure to prevent the release of cargo vapours at deck level on vessels during loading, ballasting and discharging. This is essential when handling toxic, volatile or noxious cargoes to prevent injury to personnel and risk of ignition. Closed Ope
The Club du Sahel is an informal coalition which seeks to reverse the effects of drought and the desertification in the eight Sahelian zone countries: Burkina Faso, Chad, Gambia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Senegal, and the Cape Verde Islands. The Club coordinates plans and financing of aid and sustained economic development in the region. The Club (sometimes called Club des Amis du Sahel), formed in December 1975, comprises both donor countries (Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, the Netherlands, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States) and Sahelian zone countries. Headquarters are in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
Completed
CSCE administers residual tariffs and quotas and relations with other organizations.
The CCF provides a venue for emerging democracies in Central and Eastern Europe and the of the former Soviet Union to discuss international export controls and to help coordinate technical assistance efforts. The Forum, established in June 1992, held its first meeting in November 1992. At the close of 1992, 42 nations were CCF participants, including most states of the former Soviet Union (except Georgia, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan) and all of the former Soviet satellites of Eastern and Central Europe (except the former Yugoslav republics).
A tanker for the bulk carriage of a cargo of coal and oil mixed as a liquid and maintained at high temperatures
Water transportation along the coast.
As a subsidiary body of the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization and the World Health Organization, CAC (or CODEX) develops food standards and Recommended International Codes of Hygienic and/or Technological Practices. Commission standards are voluntary, becoming enforceable only if accepted as national standards. The Commission also works in cooperation with Regional Coordinating Committees (Africa, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean) in promoting regional standards activities. The Commission was established in 1962; headquarters are in Rome, Italy.
A bank that acts as an agent to the seller's bank (the presenting bank). The collecting bank assumes no responsibility for either the documents or the merchandise.
A draft drawn on the buyer, usually accompanied by documents, with complete instructions concerning processing for payment or acceptance.
All documents (invoices, bills of lading, etc.) submitted to a buyer for the purpose of receiving payment for a shipment
The Collections System, a part of Customs' Automated Commercial System, controls and accounts for the billions of dollars in payments collected by Customs each year and the millions in refunds processed each year. Daily statements are prepared for the automated brokers who select this service. The Collections System permits electronic payments of the related duties and taxes through the Automated Clearinghouse capability. Automated collections also meet the needs of the importing community through acceptance of electronic funds transfers for deferred tax bills and receipt of electronic payments from lockbox operations for Customs bills and fees.
The Colombo Plan was established in 1951 to promote economic and social development among members in Asia and the Pacific. Members include: Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Burma, Cambodia, Canada, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Iran, Japan, South Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Nepal, New Zealand, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The Plan's formal name is the Colombo Plan for Cooperative Economic Development in South and South-East Asia; headquarters are in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
The U.S. import tariff rates which have been established through negotiation, are congressionally approved and usually bound. These are ''most favored nation'' (MFN) rates, meaning that they must apply equally to all countries receiving MFN tariff treatment from the United States, unless superseded by certain preferential tariff arrangements for developing countries.
Column 2 rates are statutory established tariff rates dating back to the 1930s Smoot-Hawley period and are substantially higher than column I rates. They are currently assessed only on imports from countries not receiving most favored nation treatment from the U.S. (e.g., certain communist countries).
Commission
Ore Oil (O/O) carriers have twin longitudinal bulkheads (similar to a conventional tanker) but have been additionally equipped with large deck hatches and strengthened double bottoms in way of the centre cargo tanks. This arrangement allows dry bulk carg
Oil Bulk Ore (OBO) carriers have a large central hold similar to a conventional dry bulk carrier but are also equipped to operate as an oil tanker. The large cargo hold (as opposed to a cargo tank) means that lighter cargo such as grain etc. can be c
A firm that acts as an export sales agent for more than one noncompeting manufacturer.
Ships with a capacity for 13 or more passengers.
A rate made up of two or more factors, separately published.
B/L that covers cargo moving over various transports
COPANT (English: Pan American Standards Commission) coordinates the activities of all institutes of standardization in the Latin American countries. The Commission develops all types of product standards, stnadardized test methods, terminology, and related matters. COPANT headquarters are in Buenos Aires, Argentina. U.S. contact with COPANT is maintained through the American National Standards Institute
See: International Radio Consultative Committee
The CPCM (English: Maghreb Permanent Consultative Committee) seeks to improve economic coordination among Maghreb countries, with eventual expectation of establishing a Maghreb economic community. Originally established in October 1964, the committee began operations in February 1966; its headquarters are in Tunis, Tunisia. See: Maghreb States.
A naval vessel used as a command centre for military operations
CBD is the Commerce Department's daily newspaper which lists government procurement invitations and contract awards, including foreign business opportunities and foreign government procurements
The CCL includes all items -- commodities, software, and technical data -- subject to BXA export controls and incorporates not only the national security controlled items agreed to by CoCom (the core list), but also items controlled for foreign policy (i.e., biological warfare, nuclear proliferation, missile technology, regional stability, and crime control) and short supply. The list is divided into 10 general categories: (1) materials, (2) materials processing, (3) electronics, (4) computers, (5) telecommunications and cryptography, (6) sensors, (7) avionics and navigation, (8) marine technology, (9) propulsion systems and transportation equipment, and (10) miscellaneous
The Commercial Activity Report, CAR, is prepared annually by the economic and commercial sections of the U.S. Embassies covering over 100 countries where the Department of Commerce is not represented. The CAR assesses the country's political, economic, and business activities, and market potential and strategies for increasing U.S. sales.
A published code designed to reduce the total number of words required in a cablegram.
This practice involves the manufacture or sale of goods which defraud the purchaser by falsely implying that the products are produced by a reputable manufacturer.
CIMS is a PC-based system used by International Trade Administration staff in export counseling. CIMS is a trade-related application using National Trade Data Bank CD-ROMs to disseminate market research and international economics data to US domestic offices and overseas posts. The system includes data on foreign traders and supports local collection and update of information on business contacts.
The commercial invoice is a bill for the goods from the seller to the buyer. These invoices are often used by governments to determine the true value of goods for the assessment of customs duties and are also used to prepare consular documentation. Governments using the commercial invoice to control imports often specify its form, content, number of copies, language to be used, and other characteristics.
The CLDP helps Central and Eastern Europe and the Baltic States develop a commercial infrastructure consistent with free market principles. The program, operated through the Commerce Department's International Trade Administration, is part of the U.S. Government's efforts to assist the region. CLPD is also compiling a Language Resources List of U.S. commercial law experts with strong language capabilities.
Commercial News USA, CNUSA, is an International Trade Administration (ITA) fee-based magazine, published 10 times per year. CNUSA provides exposure for U.S. products and services through an illustrated catalog and electronic bulletin boards. The catalog is distributed through U.S. Embassies and consulates to business readers in 155 countries. Copies are provided to international visitors at trade events around the world. The CNUSA program covers more than 30 industry categories. To be eligible, products must be at least 51 percent U.S. parts and 51 percent U.S. labor. The service helps U.S. firms identify potential export markets and make contacts leading to representation, distributorships, joint venture or licensing agreements, or direct sales
Commercial officers are embassy officials who assist U.S. business through arranging appointments with local business and government officials, providing counsel on local trade regulations, laws, and customs; identifying importers, buyers, agents, distributors, and joint venture partners for U.S. firms; and other business assistance. At larger posts, International Trade Administration staff perform these functions. At smaller posts, commercial interests are represented by State's economic officers. See: Economic Officers Foreign Service.
With respect to Eximbank guarantees, commercial risks cover nonpayment for reasons other than specified political risks. Examples are insolvency or protracted default. See: Political Risks.
An agreement between two or more countries setting forth the conditions under which business between the countries may be transacted. May outline tariff privileges, terms on which property may be owned, the manner in which claims may be settled, etc.
See: United Nations Regional Commissions -- Economic Commission for Europe. Committee for the Implementation
CITA is an interagency committee chaired by the Department of Commerce which exercises the rights of the United States under the Multi-Fiber Arrangement. CITA initiates calls for consultation when imports of a particular textile product from a particular country disrupt the U.S. domestic market for that product. Other member agencies include the Departments of Labor, State, and Treasury and the United States Trade Representative. See: Multi-Fiber Arrangement
The CE is an autonomous body of 20 independent legal experts appointed by the International Labor Organization (ILO) Governing Body. The CE meets annually prior to the June conference to examine reports of governments on ILO conventions, and information provided by governments on what they have done with newly adopted conventions. The CE submits its report and findings to the International Labor Conference Committee on the Application of Conventions and Recommendations
The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, CFIUS, was created in 1975 to provide guidance on arrangements with foreign governments for advance consultations on prospective major foreign governmental investments in the United States, and to consider proposals for new legislation or regulation relating to foreign investment. The authority was amended by Section 5021 (the Exon-Florio provision) of the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988 (Section 721 of the Defense Production Act), which gives the President authority to review mergers, acquisitions, and takeovers of U.S. companies by foreign interests and to prohibit, suspend, or seek divestiture in the courts of investments that may lead to actions that threaten to impair the national security. By Executive Order in December 1988, Treasury has authority to implement the Exon-Florio provision. CFIUS has 11 members: the Secretaries of the Treasury (the chair), State, Defense, and Commerce, the chairman of the Council of Economic Advisors, the U.S. Trade Representative, the Attorney General, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs, and the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy. The Assistant Secretary for Trade Development serves as Commerce's representative to CFIUS. The Commerce working group is chaired by the International Trade Administration and includes the Bureau of Export Administration, the Economics and Statistics Administration, the Technology Administration, and the Office of the General Counsel. See: Exon-Florio Foreign Direct Investment in the United States.
CORECT facilitates the cost-effective use of U.S. renewable energy products and services around the world. The Committee is comprised of 14 federal agencies: the Departments of Commerce, Defense, Energy, Interior, State, and Treasury, the Agency for International Development, Environmental Protection Agency, Export-Import Bank, Overseas Private Investment Corporation, Small Business Administration, Trade and Development Agency, United States Information Agency, and U.S. Trade Representative. The Committee, chaired by Energy, was established by legislation in 1984.
The CTD was established in 1965 to consider how the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) can aid the economic development of Less Developed Country (LDC) contracting parties (that is, LDC members).
Article shipped. For dangerous and hazardous cargo, the correct commodity identification is critical.
The CCC finances a variety of federal domestic and international farm programs, including Title I, Title II, and Title III of Public Law 480 (Food for Peace). The CCC is a government-owned and operated corporation within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and is managed by a board of directors headed by the Secretrary of Agriculture. All members of the board and the corporation's officers and staff are officals of USDA. The CCC provides financing and stability to the marketing and exporting of agricultural commodities
CIPs finance the export of U.S. goods to U.S.-aid recipient countries. Under CIPs, the Agency for International Development (AID) makes dollars available to the assisted country on a loan or grant basis to pay for essential commodity imports. In nearly all cases, these imports come from the United States. CIPs are used to provide relatively fast disbursing balance of payments support or to generate local currency for budget support for project goals, particularly in efforts designed to encourage private sector development. CIP agreements usually provide for AID's financing of a wide variety of basic items including agricultural goods, construction and transportation equipment, fertilizer, chemicals, raw materials, semi-finished products, and foodstuffs. CIPs do not finance military or police equipment, luxury items, or items of questionable safety or efficacy. In some cases, the range of allowable commodities is narrowed in order to tailor them to development needs of particular sectors in the assisted country or to accomplish other, specific development goals.
Export jurisdiction of products is administered by the State Department's Office of Defense Trade Controls (DTC) if the commodities are defense articles, technical data, and services or by the Commerce Department's Bureau of Export Administration if the commodities are dual-use items. An exporter may request DTC to conduct a commodity jurisdiction (CJ) review if the exporter is uncertain as to whether an item is covered by the United States Munitions List (USML) or believes it has been inappropriately placed on the list. CJ procedures include deadlines for making a determination and the use of criteria assessing: (a) performance, (b) significant military or intelligence applicability, and (c) significant civilian applicability.
A rate published to apply to a specific article or articles
The CAP is a set of regulations by which members states of the European Community (EC) seek to merge their individual agricultural programs into a unified effort to promote regional agricultural development, fair and rising standards of living for the farm population, stable agricultural markets, increased agricultural productivity, and methods of dealing with food supply security. Two of the principal elements of the CAP are the variable levy (an import duty amounting to the difference between EC target farm prices and the lowest available market prices of imported agricultural commodities) and export restitutions, or subsidies, to promote exports of farm goods that cannot be sold within the EC at the target prices.
A comprehensive system of production targets and marketing mechanisms designed to manage agricultural trade within the European Community and with the rest of the world.
A transportation company which provides service to the general public at published rates.
A uniform tariff adopted by a customs union to be assessed on imports entering the union territory from countries outside the union; abbreviated: CET or CXT.
A uniform tariff adopted by a customs union (e.g.. European Community) to be assessed on imports entering a region from countries outside the union.
Law that derives its force and authority from precedent, custom and usage rather than from statutes, particularly with reference to the laws of England and the United States
A common market (as opposed to a free trade area) has a common external tariff and may allow for labor mobility and common economic policies among the participating nations. The European Community is the most notable example of a common market.
South Africa, Lesotho, and Swaziland are members of the CMA under which they apply uniform exchange control regulations to ensure monetary order in the region. Funds are freely transferable among the three countries, and Lesotho and Swaziland have free access to South African capital markets. Lesotho also uses the South African currency, the rand. The CMA was formed in 1986 as a result of the renegotiation of the Rand Monetary Agreement (RMA) which was originally formed in 1974 by the same member countries.
The common standard level of effective protection, CSP, refers to the minimum shared standards between the U.S. and CoCom members for implementing an effective export control system, including licensing and enforcement elements
A commonwealth is a free association of sovereign independent states that has no charter, treaty, or constitution. The association promotes cooperation, consultation, and mutual assistance among members. The British Commonwealth (with headquarters in London, England) is the most notable example; it included 50 states at the beginning of 1991.
The CDC is a British public corporation which provides medium- and long-term loans and equity financing for development-related private and public sector projects in selected countries. CDC financing is available for projects in the folowing sectors: agriculture (livestock, horticulture, and acquaculture), forestry, fishing, mineral extraction, industry, public utilties, transport, telecommunications, low-cost housing, hotels, construction and civil engineering, financial management and consultancy services, and leasing of assests. The Corporation does not invest in schools, colleges, hospitals, public service works or broadcasting. Since 1969, CDC has been able to invest in non-Commonwealth countries with ministerial agreement. The CDC was established in 1948; headquarters are in London, England
The CIS was established in December 1991 as an association of 11 republics of the former Soviet Union. The members include: Russia, Ukraine, Belarus (formerly Byelorussia), Moldova (formerly Moldavia), Armenia, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and Kirgizstan (formerly Kirghiziya). The Baltic states did not join. Georgia maintained observer status, before joining the CIS in November 1993. Until that time, the NIS (Newly Independent States) differed from the CIS in that the NIS is a collective reference to 12 Soviet republics, including Georgia.
COMSAT was established in 1963 under provision of the Communications Satellite Act of 1962. The legislation directed that COMSAT establish the world's first commercial international satellite communications system. The Act also stipulated that the company operate as a shareholder-owned for-profit corporation. COMSAT represents the U.S. in the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization.
Compromised total loss
A GATT principle which holds that if any member country raises a tariff above its bound rate, withdraws a binding or otherwise violates a trade concession with GATT justification, the party must lower other tariffs or make other concessions to offset the disadvantage suffered by trading partners or face offsetting actions (retaliation) by affected parties
The CCFF is an International Monetary Fund (IMF) facility which provides resources to an IMF member for a shortfall in export earnings or an excess in cereal import costs that is due to factors largely beyond the member's control and which is temporary. Compensatory financing, introduced in 1963 and broadened several times, provides aid to members experiencing balance of payments problems as a result of fluctuations in commodity prices and shortfalls of receipts in tourism, workers' remittances and most services. Contingency financing helps members with IMF-supported adjustment programs to maintain the momentum of adjustment efforts in the face of a broad range of unanticipated, adverse external shocks -- for example, changes in international interest rates or prices or primary imports or exports
See: Exchange Rate Classifications.
Computer hardware export license requirements are evaluated according to Composite Theoretical Performance (CTP), which replaced the former Processing Data Rate (PDR) parameter. CTP is measured in Million Theoretical Operations Per Second (MTOPS). CTP was developed by the U.S. as a new parameter, and was adopted by CoCom during the Core List negotiations, because PDR was not applicable to certain modern computer architectures such as vector processors, massively parallel processors, and array processors. CTP is designed to measure all of these architectures, as well as signal processing equipment.
Damage that is not evident from viewing the unopened package.
A tariff reduction, tariff binding, or other agreement to reduce import restrictions; usually accorded pursuant to negotiation in return for concessions by other parties.
The according of Most Favored Nation (MFN) treatment subject to compliance with specific terms or conditions. All members of GATT, including the United States, accord unconditional MFN treatment to most other GATT members. The United States, howeerms of Title IV of the Trade Act of 1974.
Conditions
COCA (English: International Confederation of Agricultural Credit, ICAC) coordil credit banks and other institutions which provide or study agricultural credits. ICAC was established in 1932; headquarters are in Zurich, Switzerland.
An association of ship owners operating in the same trade route who operate under collective conditions and agree on tariff rates.
CEPT (English: lecommunciations services. Many CEPT standards creating activities have been assumed by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute. CEPT maintains offices in Paris, France and Bern, Switzerland. See: European Telecommunications Standards Institute.
An L/C guaranteed by both the issuing and advising banks of payment so long as seller's documents are in order, and the L/C terms are met. Only applied to irrevocable L/C's. The confirming bank assumes the credit risk of the issuing bank.
A letter of credit, issued by a foreign bank, whose validity has been confirmed by an American bank. An exporter whose payment terms are a confirmed letter of credit is assured of payment even if the foreign buyer or the foreign bank defaults.
Confirming is a financial service in which an independent company confirms an export order in the seller's country and makes payment for the goods in the currency of that country. Among the items eligible for confirmation are the goods; inland, air, and ocean transportation costs; forwarding fees; custom brokerage fees; and duties. Confirming permits the entire export transaction from plant to end user to be fully coordinated and paid for over time. It is mainly a European practice.
The bank that adds its confirmation to another bank's (the issuing bank's) letter of credit and promises to pay the beneficiary upon presentation of documents specified in the letter of credit.
The CE mark signifies that a product meets specific EC-wide conformity assessment requirements. The mark does not endorse the quality or durability of a product, but only that it satisfies mandatory technical requirements. The designation is needed for sale of products which become subject ot Community-wide new-approach directives. See: European Norm.
A carrier which has a direct physical connection with, or forms a link between two or more carriers.
Consignment
The person or firm named in a freight contract to whom goods have been consigned or turned over. For export control purposes, the documentation differentiates between an intermediate consignee and an ultimate consignee.
A symbol placed on packages for export for identification purposes; generally consisting of a triangle, square, circle, diamond, cross, with letters and/or numbers as well as port of discharge.
(1) A stock of merchandise advanced to a dealer and located at his place of business, but with title remaining in the source of supply. (2) A shipment of goods to a consignee. Delivery of merchandise from an exporter (the consignor) to an agent (the consignee) under agreement that the agent sell the merchandise for the account of the exporter. The consignor retains title to the goods until sold. The consignee sells the goods for commission and remits the net proceeds to the consigno.
B/L combined or consolidated from two or more B/L's.
Cargo containing shipments of two or more shippers or suppliers. Containerload shipments may be consolidated for one or more consignees.
A person or firm performing a consolidation service for others. The consolidator takes advantage of lower full carload (FCL) rates, and savings are passed on to shippers.
The CABEE program, administered by the U.S. Department of Commerce, provides grants of up to $500,000 to each of five non-profit consortia of for-profit companies to cover up to one-half of costs of starting-up commercial operations in Eastern Europe. Launched under the American Business and Private-Sector Development Initiative for Eastern Europe, CABEE is intended to help overcome difficulties faced by small and medium-sized firms in entering Eastern Europe markets. CABEE was established in June 1991.
CABNIS is a cooperative, cost-sharing program of government and the private sector that helps non-profit business consortia establish a commercial presence and pursue business in the Newly Indpendent States on behalf of profit-making U.S. corporations and associations. The program provides matching government grants of up to $500,000 to each consortia. CABNIS, established in July 1992, is administered by the Commerce Department's International Trade Administration. CABNIS was established in July 1992.
A means of determining fair or foreign market value when sales of such or similar merchandise do not exist or, for various reasons, cannot be used for comparison purposes. The constructed value consists of the cost of materials and fabrication or other processing employed in producing the merchandise, general expenses of not less than 10 percent of material and fabrication costs, and profit of not less than 8 percent of the sum of the production costs and general expenses. To this amount is added the cost of packing for exportation to the United States. See: Tariff Act of 1930
A program whereby the U.S. government attempted to offset the higher shipbuilding cost in the U.S. by paying up to 50% of the difference between cost of U.S. and nonU.S. construction. The difference went to the U.S. shipyard. It is unfunded since 1982.
A government official residing in a foreign country who is charged with the representation of the interests of his country and its nationals.
A formal statement describing goods to be shipped, made to the consul of the country of destination. Approval must be obtained prior to shipment.
See: Travel Advisory Program.
A document, required by some foreign countries, describing a shipment of goods and showing information such as the consignor, consignee, and value of the shipment. Certified by a consular official of the foreign country, it is used by the country's customs officials to verify the value, quantity, and nature of the shipment.
An official signature or seal affixed to certain documents by the consul of the country of destination.
The jurisdiction, terms of office, or official premises of a consul.
CCITT facilitates U.S. coordination of communications standards issues. CCITT is a part of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), which is an international treaty organization. The State Department is responsible for coordinating and presenting U.S. positions to the ITU. See: International Telecommunications Union.
CGIAR, an informal association of public and private sector donors, supports international agricultural research centers (IARCs) around the world. The centers develop new ways to increase sustainable food production and improve the nutritional and economic well-being of low-income people. CGIAR, sponsored by the World Bank and other international organizations, was established in 1971; its Secretariat is in Washington, D.C. The research centers include: - Centro Internacional de Agricultura Tropical (CIAT), Colombia - Centro Internacional de Mejoramiento de Maiz y Trigo (CIMMYT), Mexico - International Board for Plant Genetic Resources (IBPGR), Italy - International Center for Agricultural Research in Dry Areas (ICARDA), Syria - International Centre for Research in Forestry (ICRAF), Kenya - International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), India - International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), United States - International Irrigation Management Institute (IIMI), Sri Lanka - International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Nigeria - International Livestock Center for Africa (ILCA), Ethiopia - International Laboratory for Research on Animal Diseases (ILRAD), Kenya - International Network for the Improvement of Banana and Plantain (INIBAP), France - International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), Philippines - International Service for National Agricultural Research (ISNAR), Netherlands and - West Africa Rice Development Association (WARDA), Cte d'Ivoire.
An official form used for declaration of value, description and the total duty due on such transaction.
The process of declaring the importation of foreign-made goods into the United States for use in the United States.
Continent or Europe
Continent of Europe
Continent, Antwerp-Hamburg range
Continent, Bordeaux-Hamburg range
Continent, Havre-Hamburg range
The Contadora Group, which first met on the Panamanian island of Contadora in January 1983, seeks solutions to conflict in Central America. Members include the foreign ministers of Colombia, Mexico, Panama, and Venezuela. Group headquarters are in Mexico City, Mexico.
A uniform, sealed, reusable metal box in which merchandise is shipped by vessel, truck, or rail. Standard lengths include 10, 20, 30, and 40 feet (40 foot lengths are generally able to hold about 40,000 pounds). Containers of 45 and 48 feet are also used, as well as containers for shipment by air. Box, in several standard sizes, designed to enable goods to be sent several places without the contents being touched.A truck trailer body that can be detached from the chassis for loading into a vessel, a rail car or stacked in a container depot. Containers may be ventilated, insulated, refrigerated, flat rack, vehicle rack, open top, bulk liquid or equipped with interior devices. A container may be 20 feet, 40 feet, 45 feet, 48 feet or 53 feet in length, 8'0 or 8'6 in width, and 8'6 or 9'6 in height.
A self propelled cargo vessel with boxed holds fitted with fixed cellular guides for the carriage of containers
Arrangements with a steamship line to transport containerized cargo.
See CFS.
A load sufficient in size to fill a container either by cubic measurement or by weight
Document showing contents and loading sequence of a container.
An agreement between parties that allows the efficient use and supply of containers. A common supply of containers available to the shipper as required
A container ship with the additional capability to be loaded and unloaded by ro-ro access to a limited portion of the cargo space
A single deck cargo vessel with boxed holds fitted with fixed cellular guides for the carriage of containers
A vessel designed for the transportation of fully cellular Containers. Not designed for operation in open sea
An area designated for the stowage of cargoes in container; usually accessible by truck, railroad and marine transportation. Here containers are picked up, dropped off, maintained and housed.
A materialshandling/storage facility used for completely unitized loads in containers and/or empty containers. Commonly referred to as CY.
A hybrid of a container ship and a ro-ro cargo ship in independent sections
Cargo that will fit into a container and result in an economical shipment
Stowage of general or special cargoes in a container for transport in the various modes.
Cargo that is prohibited
A legally binding agreement between two or more persons/organizations to carry out reciprocal obligations or value.
Any person not a common carrier who, under special and individual contracts or agreements, transports passengers or property for compensation.
Contracting parties are the signatory countries to the GATT. These countries have accepted the specified obligations and privileges of the GATT agreement.
Sophisticated, computercontrolled systems that manage the mixtures of gases within a container throughout an intermodal journey reducing decay.
Conveyance
See: International Agreements.
The UN Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods, CISG, became the law of the United States in January 1988. CISG establishes uniform legal rules governing formation of international sales contracts and the rights and obligations of the buyer and seller. The CISG applies automatically to all contracts for the sale of goods between traders from two different countries that have both ratified the CISG, unless the parties to the contract expressly exclude all or part of the CISG or expressly stipulate a law other than the CISG.
The transfer of non-nuclear weapons, aircraft, equipment, and military services from supplier states to recipient states. U.S. arms are transferred by grants as in the Military Assistance Program (MAP); by private commercial sales; and by government-to-government sales under Foreign Military Sales (FMS). MAP provides defense articles and defense services to eligible foreign governments on a grant basis. FMS provides credits and loan repayment guarantees to enable eligible foreign governments to purchase defense articles and defense services.
See: Foreign Market Development Program.
CoCom is an informal organization that cooperatively restricts strategic exports to controlled countries. CoCom controls three lists: (a) the international industrial list (synonymous with the dual-use or core list), (b) the international munitions list, and (c) the atomic energy list. The 17 CoCom members are: Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, the Federal Republic of Germany, Greece, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Other countries, including: Austria, Finland, Hong Kong, Ireland, New Zealand, Sweden, and Switzerland have been designated as cooperating countries. These countries receive many of the benefits ascribed to CoCom member countries. CoCom controls exports at three levels, depending on the item and the proposed destination. At the highest or general exception level, unanimous approval by CoCom members is necessary. At the next level, favorable consideration, there is a presumption of approval; the export may be made if no CoCom members objects within 30 days of submission to CoCom. At the lowest level, national discretion (also called administrative exception), a member nation may approve the export on its own, but CoCom must be notified after the fact. CoCom is scheduled to terminate on March 31, 1994.
The CCNAA, the counterpart to the American Institute in Taiwan, unofficially represents Taiwan's interests in the United States. The Council provides information on trade, business, and investment opportunities to the American business community. Council headquarters are in Washington, D.C. See: American Institute in Taiwan.
Coproduction is a U.S. government program implemented either by a government-to-government arrangement or through specific licensing arrangements by designated commercial firms. These programs enable foreign entities to acquire the know-how to manufacture or assemble, repair, maintain, and operate all or part of a specific defense item or weapon, communication, or support system.
National security controls are based largely on CoCom's international industrial list (known generally as the core list), which replaced the old industrial list effective September 1991. The core list includes items in ten categories: (1) materials, (2) materials processing, (3) electronics, (4) computers, (5) telecommunications and cryptography, (6) sensors, (7) avionics and navigation, (8) marine technology, (9) propulsion systems and transportation equipment, and (10) miscellaneous
Vertical frame components fitted at the corners of the container, integral to the corner fittings and connecting the roof and floor structures. Containers are lifted and secured in a stack using the castings at the ends.
See: Andean Group.
B/L requiring any update which results in money or other financially related changes
A bank that, in its own country, handles the business of a foreign bank.
A combat vessel smaller than a destroyer, often armed for antisubmarine operations
Cost and Freight (CFR) to a named overseas port of import. Under this term, the seller quotes a price for the goods that includes the cost of transportation to the named point of debarkation. The cost of insurance is left to the buyer's account. (Typically used for ocean shipments only. CPT, or carriage paid to, is a term used for shipment by modes other than water.) Also, a method of import valuation that includes insurance and freight charges with the merchandise values.
A term used to refer to the sum of the cost of materials, fabrication and/or other processing employed in producing the merchandise sold in a home market or to a third country together with appropriate allocations of general administrative and selling expenses. COP is based on the producer's actual experience and does not include any mandatory minimum general expense or profit as in constructed value. See: Tariff Act of 1930.
Cost, insurance, and freight (CIF) to a named overseas port of import. Under this term, the seller quotes a price for the goods (including insurance), all transportation, and miscellaneous charges to the point of debarkation for the vessel. (Typically used for ocean shipments only. CIP, or carriage and insurance paid to, is a term used for shipment by modes other than water.)
Cost of goods, marine insurance and all transportation (freight) charges are paid to the foreign point of delivery by the seller.
In the context of dumping investigations, the costs of manufacture, COM, is equal to the sum of the materials, labor and both direct and indirect factory overhead expenses required to produce the merchandise under investigation.
COAP, one of four export subsidy programs operated by the Department of Agriculture, helps U.S. exporters meet prevailing world prices for cottonseed oil in targeted markets. USDA pays cash to U.S. exporters as bonuses, making up the difference between the higher U.S. cost of acquiring cottonwseed oil and the lower world price at which it is sold.
The Council for Mutual Economic Assistance, CMEA or COMECON, was established in 1949 ostensibly to create a common market. CMEA was a Soviet initiative with Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Poland, and Romania as founder members. The Council was later joined by the German Democratic Republic, Mongolia, Cuba, and Vietnam; Yugoslavia held associate status. Members normally received some products, particularly oil and gas, from the former Soviet Union at below-market prices. CMEA was succeeded in 1991 by the Organization for Economic Cooperation (OIEC).
This Council is composed of state representatives resident in Europe supportive of official U.S. promotions.
CEAU fosters economic integration among Arab nations. The Council's activities compiling statistics, conducting research, and promoting a customs union. The Council was established in 1964; headquarters are in Amman, Jordan. The Council oversees the Arab Common Market, which comprises Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Libya, Mauritania, Syria, and Yemen.
The COE (also: CE; French: Conseil de l'Europe)) was established in May 1949 to encourage unity and social and economic growth among members, which currently include: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. COE headquarters are in Strasbourg, France.
Members include: Albania, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belgium, Bulgaria, Byelarus, Canada, Cyprus, Czechoslovakia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, the Holy See, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, the United States, Uzbekistan, and Yugoslavia.
A general trade term whereby a seller is required to accept goods or services from the buyer as either full or partial payment. This is a well known phenomenon in East-West trade, but is increasingly being practiced worldwide.
A draft agreement addressing commercial counterfeit (e.g. trademarks) problems in international trade. Initiated during the Tokyo Round, this code was never concluded. The issue of counterfeiting, as well as other intellectual property issues, is now under discussion in the Uruguay Round negotiating group on Intellectual Property Rights.
See: Countertrade.
Countertrade is an umbrella term for several sorts of trade in which the seller is required to accept goods, serivces, or other instruments or trade, in partial or whole payment for its products. Forms include barter, buy-back or compensation, offset requirements, swap, switch, or triangular trade, evidence or bilateral clearing accounts. Some include offsets as a form of countertrade; others make a distinction based on the view that countertrade is a reciprocal exchange of goods and services used to alleviate foreign exchange shortages of importers and that offsets are used as a means for advancing industrial development objectives and may include equity investments. In counterpurchase (one of the most common forms of countertrade), exporters agree to purchase a quantity of goods from a country in exchange for that country's purchase of the exporter's product. The goods being sold by each party are typically unrelated but may be equivalent in value. In a compensation or buy-back deal, exporters of heavy equipment, technology, or even entire facilities agree to purchase a certain percentage of the output of the facility. Barter is a simple swap of one good for another. Switch trading is a complicated form of barter, involving a chain of buyers and sellers in different markets. See: Offsets.
These are duties levied on an imported good to offset subsidies to producers or exporters of that good in the exporting country. GATT Article VI permits the use of such duties if material injury to the importing country's producers occurs.
An extra charge that a country places on imported goods to counter the subsidies or bounties granted to the exporters of the goods by their home governments. The duty is allowed by the Code on Subsidies and Countervailing Duties negotiated at the Tokyo Round, if the importing country can prove that the subsidy would cause injury to domestic industry. U.S. countervailing duties can only be imposed after the International Trade Commission has determined that the imports are causing or threatening to cause material injury to a U.S. industry
For export control purposes, the Bureau of Export Administration of the U.S. Commerce Department separates countries into seven country groups designated by the symbols: Q, S, T, V, W, Y, Z. Canada and Antartica are not included in any country group. Canada is referred to by name throughout the Export Administration Regulations. Antartica is controlled according to the country that occupies the area in Antartica where the items proposed for export or reexport will be used. See: Export Control Classification Number.
Country of destination for exports is the country where the goods are to be consumed, further processed, or manufactured, as known to the shipper at the time of exportation. If the shipper does not know the country of ultimate destination, the shipment is credited to the last country to which the shipper knows that the merchandise will be shipped in the same form as when exported
The U.S. Customs Service defines country of origin as the country where an article was wholly grown, manufactured or produced, or, if not wholly grown, cultivated or produced in one country, the last country in which the article underwent a substantial transformation. Duty rates vary according to the country of origin
The CIT has jurisdiction over any civil action against the United States arising from Federal laws governing import transactions. The court hears antidumping, product classification, and countervailing duty matters as well as appeals of unfair trade practice cases from the International Trade Commission. The court was originally established in 1890; principal offices are located in New York City, but the court is empowered to hear and determine cases arising at any port or place within the jurisdiction of the United States. The judges are appointed for life by the President, subject to Senate confirmation
A non propelled covered barge for the carriage of bulk cargoes
Closest point of approach
Credit, Creditor
A jack up offshore crane platform
A semi submersible offshore crane platform
A pontoon with a jib crane
A vessel equipped with a large crane for lifting operations
A naval auxiliary vessel constructed or adapted for crane operations, with limited cargo capability
The crawling peg is a procedure in which a currency exchange rate is altered frequently (multiple times a year), generally to adjust for rapid inflation. Between changes, the exchange rate for the currency remains fixed. See: Exchange Rate Classifications
A form of insurance which protects the seller against loss due to default on the part of the buyer.
The credit tranche policy is the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) basic policy on the use of its general resources. Credit is made available in four tranches, each equivalent to 25 percent of a member's quota. A first credit tranche purchase raises the IMF's holdings of the purchasing member's currency to no more than 25 percent of quota. Generally, a member may reuest use of the IMF's resources in the first credit tranche if it demonstrates that it is making reasonable efforts to overcome its balance of payments difficulties. Also, a member may request use of the first credit tranche as part of a stand-by arrangement. Subsequent purchases are made in the upper credit tranches. These resources are made available if a member adopts policies that provide appropriate grounds for expecting that the member's balance of payments difficulties will be resolved within a reasonable period. Use of these resources is almost always made under a stand-by or an extended arrangement. See: International Monetary Fund
A vessel equipped for the transportation of crew to ships and/or installations
A naval auxiliary vessel for transporting crew
A typically high speed vessel primarily for the transportation of crew to offshore facilities; may also have limited stores carriage capability on an open deck
A determination made by the Assistant Secretary for Import Administration (of the Commerce Department's International Trade Administration) as to whether there is a reasonable basis to believe or suspect that there is a history of dumping in the United States or elsewhere of the merchandise under consideration, or that the importer knew or should have known that the exporter was selling this merchandise at less than fair value, and there have been massive imports of this merchandise over a relatively short period. This determination is made if an allegation of critical circumstances is received from the petitioner. See: Tariff Act of 1930.
Transverse members fitted to the bottom side rails of a container, which support the floor.
Oil or condensates that have not undergone any refining processes.
A non propelled tank barge for the carriage of crude oil
A tanker built to comply with Annex 1 of Marpol 73/78 for the carriage of oil and conforming to the requirements for the carriage of crude oil.
A tanker for the bulk carriage of crude oil but also for carriage of refined oil products
A vessel used for leisure cruising on rivers/lakes/canals, not suitable for open sea voyages.
A combat vessel of medium tonnage with a long cruising radius and less armor and firepower than a battleship
Crates
An abbreviation for Cubic. A unit of volume measurement
When a container or vessel has reached its volumetric capacity before its permitted weight limit.
1,728 cubic inches. A volume contained in a space measuring one foot high, one foot wide and one foot long.
See: Balance of Payments.
The government office where duties and/or tolls are placed on imports or exports and are paid on vehicles or vessels entered or cleared.
A government office where duties are paid, import documents filed, etc., on foreign shipments.
A person or firm, licensed by the Treasury Department, engaged in entering and clearing goods through customs. The duties of a broker include preparing the entry blank and filing it; advising the importer on duties to be paid; advancing duties and other costs; and, arranging for delivery to his client, his trucking firm, or other carrier.
The CSS is a fee-based International Trade Administration service that provides firms with key marketing, pricing, and foreign representation information about their specific products. Overseas staff conduct on-site interviews to provide data in nine marketing areas about the product, such as sales potential in the market, comparable products, distribution channels, going price, competitive factors, and qualified purchasers. Additional information may be provided to clients at additional charge. This product was formerly known as the Comparison Shopping Service.
Government agency charged with enforcing the rules passed to protect the country's import and export revenues
A warehouse authorized by Customs to receive duty-free merchandise
A customs tariff nomenclature formerly used by many countries, including most European nations but not the United States. It has been superseded by the Harmonized System Nomenclature to which most major trading nations, including the U.S., adhere.
(French: Conseil de Cooperation Dounaiere, CCD) is an international organization consisting of representatives of about 150 countries. The Council serve as a technical body which studies and seeks to resolve the various countries' customs problems in an attempt to harmonize customs operations and promote trade. The Council was established in 1950; headquarters are in Brussels, Belgium.
The CEEB provides information on rulings, quotas, currency conversion rates, customs valutation provisions, directives, and other customs news. The CEBB is available without charge, 7 days each week at 202-376-7100 (9600 baud) with PC communication switches set to no parity, 8 bit words and 1 stop bit. Voice information may be obtained by calling 202-376-7039.
All countries require that the importer make a declaration on incoming foreign goods. The importer then normally pays a duty on the imported merchandise. The importer's statement is compared against the carrier's vessel manifest to ensure that all foreign goods are properly declared.
See: Free Trade Zone.
This is an international effort to increase the uniformity of customs practices such as evaluation, nomenclature and enforcement among countries. The Customs Cooperation Council has been working on an internationally accepted harmonized commodity system since 1970.
This is the U.S. Customs Service appraisal value of merchandise. Methodologically, the Customs value is similar to f.a.s. (free alongside ship) value since it is based on the value of the product in the foreign country of origin, and excludes charges incurred in bringing the merchandise to the United States (import duties, ocean freight, insurance, and so forth); but it differs in that the U.S. Customs Service, not the importer or exporter, has the final authority to determine the value of the good.
A form requiring all data in a commercial invoice along with a certificate of value and/or a certificate of origin. Required in a few countries (usually former British territories) and usually serves as a seller's commercial invoice.
A schedule of charges assessed by the federal government on imported and/or exported goods.
A group of nations which have agreed to eliminate tariffs on goods traded among members while imposing common external tariffs on goods entering from outside the union. The European Common Market is the best known example.
Formally known as the Agreement on Implementation of Article VII of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade,'' this MTN agreement provides detailed rules for the determination of value for customs purposes. These rules are designed to provide a fair, uniform and neutral system of valuation based on transaction value and preclude the use of arbitrary or fictitious values.
A phrase often included in charter parties and freight contracts referring to local rules and practices which may impact upon the costs borne by the various parties.
The U.S. Customs Service defines a CHB, or Customs Broker, as any person who is licensed in accordance with Part III of Title 19 of the Code of Federal Regulations (Customs regulations) to transact Customs business on behalf of others. Customs business is limited to those activities involving transactions with Customs concerning the entry and admissibility of merchandise; its classification and valuation; the payment of duties, taxes, or other charges assessed or collected by Customs upon merchandise by reason of its importation, or the refund, rebate, or drawback thereof. (See 19 CFR 111.1(b) and (c).)
The latest time cargo may be delivered to a terminal for loading to a scheduled train or ship
A vessel equipped to obtain material from the sea bed by use of a cutter wheel, which loosens the material, and a suction pipe. The material may be carried on board, transferred to other vessels, pumped ashore or deposited elsewhere using a spray
Hundred weight
Hundred weight (United States, 100 pounds: U.K.,112)
District Office
Dynamic Random Access Memory
Delivery, Delivered
Documents against acceptance
Day Book, Deals and battens (timber trade)
Abbreviation for Doing Business As. A legal term for conducting business under a registered name.
Damage done
Damage done in collision
Direct data entry
Direction finder
Department of Transportation.
Damaged received in collision
Days to be agreed, date to be advised
Department of Trade and Industry
The maximum carrying capacity of a ship expressed in tons of cargo, stores, provisions, and bunker fuel.
Deadweight all told
Cargo of such weight and volume that a long ton (2,240 lbs) is stowed in an area of less than 70 cubic feet.
Deposit account, Days after acceptance, Documents against acceptance, Discharge afloat, Deductible average
Deviation clause
Demand Draft, Delivered at Docks, Damage Done
Deemed/Earned
Debit note
Documents against payment
Deposit receipt
Dunnage, removal and disposal
Dual Valuation
Dock warrant
Days after date, Days' date
Days after sight
Development Assistance
Discharge always afloat
Development Assistance Committee
Data on Consulting Firms
Dynamic Asian Economies
Delivered at frontier
A Term of Sale which means the sellers fulfill their obligation to deliver when the goods have been made available, cleared for export, at the named point and placed at the frontier, but before the customs Terms of Sale border of the adjoining country. (continued)
Damages for Detention
All substances of an inflammable nature which are liable to spontaneous combustion either in themselves or when stowed adjacent to other substances and, when mixed with air, are liable to generate explosive gases or produce suffocation or poisoning or tainting of foodstuffs.
Articles or substances capable of posing a significant risk to health, safety or property and that ordinarily require special attention when being transported.
Danish International Development Assistance
Diamonium Phosphate
Days all Purposes (Total days for loading & discharging)
Two radial cranes on a ship which hold the lifeboats. They are constructed in such a way as to lower and lift the lifeboats the easiest way possible and are unobstructed in case of an emergency.
Double bottom
Deals, battens and boards
Despatch payable both ends
Despatch (payable) both ends, all time saved
Despatch (payable) both ends, working time saved
Development Bank of the Great Lakes States
Double
DouBLe SKINned
Double Bottom Tank
Discharge Capacity
Deputy Chief of Mission
Defense Conversion Subcommittee
Dry docking, Dry Dock, Daily discharge;
Abbreviation for Destination Delivery Charge. A charge, based on container size, that is applied in many tariffs to cargo. This charge is considered accessorial and is added to the base ocean freight. This charge covers crane lifts off the vessel, drayage of the container within the terminal and gate fees at the terminal operation.
Despatch discharging only
(Delivered Duty paid) Delivered Duty Paid means that the seller fulfills his obligation to deliver when the goods have been made available at the named place in the country of importation. The seller has to bear the risks and costs, including duties, taxes and other charges of delivering the goods thereto, clear for importation. While the EXW term represents the minimum obligation for the seller, DDP represents the maximum
Delivered Duty Paid (Unpaid)
(Delivered Duty Unpaid) A Term of Sale where the seller fulfills his obligation to deliver when the goods have been made available at the named place in the country of importation. The seller has to bear the costs and risks involved in bringing the goods thereto (excluding duties, taxes and other official charges payable upon importation) as well as the costs and risks of carrying out customs formalities. The buyer has to pay any additional costs and to bear any risks caused by failure to clear the goods for in time.
Freight charges paid by the charterer of a vessel for the contracted space that is left partially unoccupied.
Percentage of a ship's carrying capacity that is not utilized.
District Export Council
Cargo carried on deck rather than stowed under deck. On-deck carriage is required for certain commodities, such as explosives.
The officers and seamen comprising the deck department aboard ship. Also called deck crew, deck department, or just deck.
Small superstructure on the top deck of a vessel that contains the helm and other navigational instruments.
Also called Captain's Log. A full nautical record of a ship's voyage, written up at the end of each watch by the deck officer on watch. The principal entries are: courses steered; distance run; compass variations, sea and weather conditions; ship's position, principal headlands passed; names of lookouts, and any unusual position, principal headlands passed; names of lookouts, and any unusual happenings such as fire, collision, and the like..
As distinguished from engineer officer, refers to all officers who assist the master in navigating the vessel when at sea, and supervise the handling of cargo when in port.
Seaman who works on the deck of a ship and remains in the wheelhouse attending to the orders of the duty officers during navigation and maneuvering. He also comes under the direct orders of the bosun.
One that exclusively carries intermodal equipment (containers and trailers)
The traffic routes of both cargo and passenger vessels which are regularly engaged on the high seas or on long voyages.
Any bulk, bagged or other type of cargo stowed in single hold ships.
Definitely
The return of a portion of the freight charges by a carrier or a conference shipper in exchange for the shipper giving all or most of his shipments to the carrier or conference over a specified period of time (usually six months). Payment of the rate is deferred for a further similar period, during which the shipper must continue to give all or most of his shipments to the rebating carrier or conference. The shipper thus earns a further rebate that will not, however, be paid without an additional period of exclusive or almost exclusive patronage with the carrier of conference. In this way, the shipper becomes tied to the rebating carrier or conference.
Deutsche Finanzierungsgesellschaft fur Beteilgungen in, Entwicklungslndern GmbH
Dairy Export Incentive Program
Delivery;Delete
Delivery
Demurrage (Quay Rent)
Demurrage and dispatch
Demurrage/Despatch money. (Under vessel chartering terms, the amount to be paid if the ship is loading/discharging slower/faster than foreseen).
Delivered ex-quay
A Term of Sale which means the DDU term has been fulfilled when the goods have been available to the buyer on the quay (wharf) at the named port of destination, cleared for importation. The seller has to bear all risks and costs including duties, taxes and other charges of delivering the goods thereto
Derrick
Delivered ex-ship; Despatch
A Term of Sale where the seller fulfills his/her obligation to deliver when the goods have been made available to the buyer on board the ship, uncleared for import at the named port of destination. The seller has to bear all the costs and risks involved in bringing the goods to the named port destination
Dispatch
Detention
(See DAMFORDET)
Details
Vessel departure from specified voyage course
Designated Federal Officer
DamageFree Car. Boxcars equipped with special bracing material.
Development Fund for Africa
Demurrage, free dispatch
Draft
Double hull
Demurrage, half dispatch; Despatch money payable at half demurrage rate
Dispatch Half Demurrage on All Time Saved Both Ends
Demurrage Half Dispatch on All Time Saved Both Ends
Demurrage Half Dispatch on Laytime Saved Both Ends
Dispatch Half Demurrage on Working Time Saved Both Ends
Demurrage Half Dispatch on Working TIme Saved Both Ends
Dimension
An international airfreight formula determined by calculating length x width x height and dividing by 166. It is charged when the actual weight is less than the dimensionalized weight.
Dimension(s)
Crude black oil
Danish International Ship Register
When a ship is unable to sail efficiently or in a seaworthy state as a result of engine trouble, lack of officers or crew, damage to the hull or ship's gear.
Domestic International Sales Corporation
Discharge
An essential document for officers and seamen as it serves an official certificate confirming sea experience in the employment for which he was engaged.
Data interchange in Shipping
Displacement
Discharge port
Deck
Deck
Distribution License
Dropping last outward pilot
Dropping last outward sea pilot
Delete
Daily
District Marketing Plan
Discountless and Non-Returnable Cargo and/or Ship Lost or Not Lost. (ie for the payment of voyage freight in the charter party)
Discountless and Non-Returnable Ship and/or Cargo Lost or Not Lost
Det Norske Veritas
Delivery Order; Diesel oil
Document of Compliance
Dropping outward harbor pilot
Dropping Off Last Sea Pilot (Norway)
Movement of domestic freight in ocean containers, (to assist in repositioning of those containers) or in dedicated domestic containers
Domestic shipping routes serving Alaska and non-continental U.S. States and territories.
Dropping outward pilot
Dropping outward sea pilot
Department of Transportation
The movement of containers on specialized articulated rail cars that enable the vertical stacking of the containers on each platform of the car
Dynamic Positioning
Designated person ashore (ISM)
Defense Priorities and Allocation System
Discharge port disbursements
Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation (ADNR)
Dirty petroleum products
Depth
Derrick
(1) An unconditional order in writing from one person (the Drawer) to another (the Drawee), directing the drawee to pay a specified amount to a named drawer on a fixed date. Also known as a Bill of Exchange. (2)The depth of a ship in the water. The vertical distance between the waterline and the keel, in the U.S. expressed in feet, elsewhere in meters.
Discharge rate
Depth of water from waterline to lowest point of vessel's hull
Daily running cost
Direction des Relations Economiques Exterieures
Abbreviation for Destination Rail Freight Station. Same as CFS at destination, except a DRFS is operated by the rail carrier participating in the shipment.
Draft (also spelt, draught)
Direct reduced iron
Regular ship shaped vessel, production ship. Positioned by anchors or dynamic positioning. Has its own propulsion machinery.
Derrick
Derrick(s)
Hellenic Drachma (currency)
Vessel which carriers all merchandise, excluding liquid in bulk.
An enclosed basin into which a ship is taken for underwater cleaning and repairing. It is fitted with water tight entrance gates which when closed permit the dock to be pumped dry.
Double Side
Digital Selective Calling
Deutche-Schiffs-Revision Und-Klassifkation
The transport by rail between two points of a trainload of containers with two containers per chassis, one on top of the other.
Delay in Startup Insurance is a policy to protect the seller of a construction project from penalties if the project is not completed on time. See Liquidated Damages.
Diving System
Deep Tank
Defense Trade Advisory Group
Department of Trade and Industry
Details
Defense Trade Regulations
Defense Technology Security Administration
Defense Trade Working Group
Specially constructed ship able to carry different types of cargoes such as ore and/or oil.
Duration
Delivery Verification Certificate
Dock water allowance
DeadWeight All Told or DeadWeight Tonnage of a vessel. Weight of cargo, stores and water, i.e. the difference between lightship and loaded displacement
Deadweight cargo capacity
Deadweight cargo tons
Decline without counter
DeadWeight All Told or DeadWeight Tonnage of a vessel. Weight of cargo, stores and water, i.e. the difference between lightship and loaded displacement
Dynamic Positioning
DEIP, one of four export subsidy programs operated by the Department of Agriculture, helps U.S. exporters meet prevailing world prices for targeted dairy products and destinations. USDA pays cash to U.S. exporters as bonuses, allowing them to sell certain U.S. dairy products in targeted countries at prices below the exporter's costs of acquiring them. DEIP is used to help products produced by U.S. farmers meet competition from subsidizing countries
Penalty if cargo is not ready when
Danish development assistance is directed toward alleviating poverty by promoting economic growth and social development. Recent DANIDA policy is to increase aid quality by establishing long-term program cooperation with fewer (20-to-25) developing countries, by emphaiszing grants instead of loans, by strengthening the role of women in development, and by promoting respect for human rights and democractic values. About half of Danish aid is bilateral assistance intended to reach the least privileged in the poorest countries, about half the bilateral assistance is allocated to the countries classified by the UN as least developed countries. Most of the remaining aid is granted as multilateral assistance through international orgnizations -- the UN system, the regional development banks, the European Community, and as humanitarian assistance. Following a May 1991 restructuring of Danish aid administration, DANIDA has ceased to exist as an organization but is used to denote official Danish cooperation with developing countries. That reorganization established a South Group in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as the locus of development assistance. South Group headquarters are in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Copenhagen, Denmark
DACON is a computerized roster of consulting firms interested in doing business on World Bank-financed projects. The Bank uses DACON registrations to select firms to be considered for short lists (that is, a select list of firms to be invited to submit proposals) as well as to review the qualifications of firms proposed by the borrower. Registration eligibility includes minimum size and experience requirements. Consulting firms are not required to register; registration does not constitute the Bank's endorsement of the firm's qualifications or the Bank's approval of the firm's appointment for any specific project. The use of the acronym DACON is not limited to the World Bank; for example, the Inter-American Development Bank also maintains data on consultants in its separately administered DACON.
A draft which matures a specified number of days after the date it is issued, without regard to the date of acceptance.
Drawback
Whereby a vessel discharges a quantity of slops to a dedicated slop receiving vessel within Port Limits or at a safe anchorage.
One leg of a move without a paying cargo load. Usually refers to repositioning an empty piece of equipment.
The number of tons of 2,240 pounds that a vessel can transport of cargo, stores and bunker fuel. It is the difference between the number of tons of water a vessel displaces light and the number of tons it displaces when submerged to the load line.
A long ton of cargo that can be stowed in less than 40 cubic feet.
See: Swaps.
A non propelled pontoon for the carriage of general deck cargoes
A non propelled semi submersible pontoon for the carriage of general deck cargoes
A vessel arranged for carrying unitised cargo on deck only. Access may be by use of a ro-ro ramp
The U.S. Customs Service defines this term as a statement by the shipper in the foreign country attesting to certain facts. For example, articles shipped from the United States to an insular possession and then returned must be accompanied by a declaration by the shipper in the insular possession, indicating that, to the best of his or her knowledge, the articles were exported directly from the United States to the insular possession and remained there until the moment of their return to the United States. (see 19 CFR 4.60 and 4.61 on U.S. clearance of vessels bound for a foreign port or ports.)
Place where loose or other non-containerized cargo is ungrouped for delivery.
Deductible
Deferred account
Defense conversion, as applicable to conversion of U.S. defense activity, is the transfer of defense production capabilities to non-defense production, either non-defense industrial products (e.g., pumps and valves) or consumer goods. The Russians, according to their Defense Conversion Law, have a broader definition, which includes the possiblity of a plant maintaining its defense production while expanding its non-defense production for other purposes, including the generation of hard-currency exports
The DCS promotes trade between U.S. industry and the Russian defense sector by identifing investment opportunities, supporting changes in U.S. government export control and other policies which limit opportunities for U.S. industry to participate in Russian defense conversion activities, and identifying prospective business contacts for U.S. industry. Subcommittee membership includes the Departments of Commerce, Defense, Energy, Labor, and State, the Agency for International Development, the Export-Import Bank, and the Overseas Private Investment Corporation. DCS is a subcommittee of the Intergovernmental U.S.-Russia Business Development Committee which was established in June 1992
Defense MOUs are defense cooperation agreements. The MOUs are signed by DOD with allied nations and are related to research, development, or production of defense equipment or reciprocal procurement of defense items. See: Coproduction.
The goals of the DPAS are to: (a) assure the timely availability of industrial resources to meet current national defense requirements and (b) provide a framework for rapid industrial expansion in case of a national emergency. The authority for DPAS, which is administered by the Commerce Department's Bureau of Export Administration, extends from Title I of the Defense Production Act of 1950, as amended (DPA). While the DPAS is designed to be largely self-executing, Special Priorities Assistance (SPA) may be provided, including: (a) timely delivery of items needed to fill priority rated defense contracts, (b) granting priority rating authority, and (c) resolving production and delivery conflicts between rated defense contracts. See: Defense Production Act.
Under authority of the Defense Production Act (DPA) of 1950 and related executive Order 12656, the Commerce Department is charged with identifying critical defense-related industries, assessing their capability to meet peacetime and national security needs, identifying current and potential production constraints, and proposing remedial actions as appropriate. Title I of the DPA requires that: (a) contracts or orders relating to certain approved defense and energy programs be accepted and performed on a preferential basis over all other contracts and orders and (b) materials, facilities, and services be allocated in such a manner as to promote approved programs. See: Defense Priorities and Allocation System.
DTSA is the DOD organization that reviews applications for the export of items that are subject to the dual-use license controls of the Commerce Department and the munitions controls of the Department of State. DTSA has about 130-to-140 staff, is located in the Office of the Secretary, and administers DOD technology security policy so that the U.S. is not technologically surprised on the battlefield. DTSA reviews applications involving dual-use items for reasons of national security, proliferation cases and munitions controls. See: Foreign Disclosure and Technical Information System
In March 1992, the Department of State established the Defense Trade Advisory Group to provide consultation and coordination with U.S. defense exporters. DTAG members are drawn from the U.S. defense industry, associations, academia, and foundations, and include technical and military experts, and the State Department and observers from other government agencies. Members of the Committee are appointed by the Assistant Secretary of State for Politico-Military Affairs. DTAG has three main working groups: - Policy Working Group (PWG): which provides advice on broad issues of defense trade, technology transfer and commercial arms sales in an effort to aid State in regulating commercial munitions exports. - Regulatory Working Group (RWG): which provides advice on possible changes and improvements to regulations and procedures related to defense exports of munitions articles, technical data and software related to defense articles. - Technical Working Group (TWG): which provides on technical issues related to the U.S. Munitions List
DTC (formerly: the Office of Munitions Control, OMC) at State administers licenses for the export of defense articles and services including arms, ammunition, and implements of war. These items are listed in the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the U.S. Munitions List. DTC is involved in the commodity jurisdiction (CJ) process. The CJ process is used to determine whether a particular item should be transferred to another control list (primarily, whether an item may be subject to the ITAR or considered either dual-use and subject to the Commodity Control List). See: International Traffic in Arms Regulations
The Defense Trade Regulations (formerly known as the International Traffic in Arms Regulations, ITAR) are administered by the State Department to control the export of weapons and munitions.
The Defense Trade Working Group (DTWG), consisting of officials from Commerce, Defense, State and USTR, was established in FY 1990 to coordinate agency policies and resources in areas concerned with defense expenditures. The group works with industry to identify ways to target industry needs and increase the success of industry export efforts by minimizing government impediments, streamlining procedures, and improve the availability of market information. The DTWG includes three subgroups: - The Defense Exports Working Group, chaired by Commerce, which helps implement Administration defense export policy and enhances U.S. government support for U.S. defense exporters; - The European Defense Cooperation Group, chaired by State, which coordinates interagency input to U.S.-NATO International Staff for the NATO Council on National Armaments Directors (CNAD) study on defense trade; and - The Technology Transfer and Third Party Reexport Group, chaired by Defense, which works with industry to define a more proactive technology transfer regime that could be implemented within the limits of U.S. national security and industrial competitiveness interests
A letter of credit issued for the purchase and financing of merchandise, similar to acceptance-type letter of credit, except that it requires presentation of sight drafts payable on an installment basis.
The weight by which a shipment is less than the minimum weight.
See: Trade and Development Agency.
A naval vessel that can neutralise the magnetic field of a vessel. Used in magnetic mine detection
Delivered at Frontier means that the seller's obligations are fulfilled when the goods have arrived at the frontier -- but before the customs border of the country named in the sales contract. The term is primarily intended to apply to goods by rail or road but is also used irrespective of the mode of transport.
While the term Ex Works signifies the seller's minimum obligation, the term Delivered Duty Paid, when followed by words naming the buyer's premises, denotes the other extreme -- the seller's maximum obligation. The term Delivered Duty Paid may be used irrespective of the mode of transport. If the parties wish that the seller should clear the goods for import but that some of the cost payable upon the import of the goods should be excluded -- such as value added tax (VAT) and/or other similar taxes -- this should be made clear by adding words to this effect (e.g., exclusive of VAT and/or taxes).
Order to pick up goods at a named place and deliver them to a pier. Usually issued by exporter to trucker but may apply to a railroad, which completes delivery by land. Use is limited to a few major U.S. ports. Also known as shipping delivery order. Provides specific information to the inland carrier concerning the arrangement made by the forwarder to deliver the merchandise to the particular pier or steamship line. Not to be confused with Delivery Order which is used for import cargo.
The U.S. Customs Service defines a DVC as a form used to track imported merchandise from the custody of the importer to the custody of a manufacturer and is used to substantiate a manufacturing drawback claim. The DVC is also known as a Certificate of Delivery (Customs Form 331). An export license may be issued with a requirement for delivery verification by Customs in the receiving country. When delivery verification is required by a foreign government for goods imported into the U.S., the U.S. Customs Service will certify a delivery verification certificate (Form ITA-647). A U.S. export license may require submission of a similar form from an importing country
Official discussion with another government carried out on instructions.
A penalty charge against shippers or consignees for delaying the carrier's equipment beyond the allowed free time. The free time and demurrage charges are set forth in the charter party or freight tariff. - Excess time taken for loading or unloading a vessel, thus causing delay of scheduled departure. Demurrage refers only to situations in which the charter or shipper, rather than the vessel's operator, is at fault
The weight of cargo per cubic foot or other unit.
See: British Overseas Trade Board.
This refers to antidumping duties which must be deposited upon entry of merchandise which is the subject of an antidumping duty order for each manufacturer, producer or exporter equal to the amount by which the foreign market value exceeds the United States price of the merchandise. See: Tariff Act of 1930.
Container freight station or a designated area where empty containers can be picked up or dropped off.
The depth to which a ship is immersed in water.
Derivatives are leveraged instruments that are linked to either specific financial instruments or indicators (such as foreign currencies, government bonds, share price indices, or interest rates) or to particular commodities (such as gold, sugar, or coffee) that may be purchased or sold at a future date. Derivatives may also be linked to a future exchange, according to contractual arrangement, of one asset for another. The instrument, which is a contract, may be tradable and have a market value. Among derivative instruments are options (on currencies, interest rates, commodities, or indices), traded financial futures, warranties, and arrangements such as currency and interest rate swaps
A non propelled pontoon for the provision of desalination facilities
An incentive payment paid to a carrier to loading and unloading the cargo faster than agreed. Usually negotiated only in charter parties, An agreed upon amount of money that is paid by the shipowner to the shipper or receiver, when loading or discharging is performed faster than the allotted time.
- The place to which a shipment is consigned. - The place where carrier actually turns over cargo to consignee or his agent
Exporters are required to place destination control statements on commercial invoices and bills of lading for most export sales. These statements alert foreign recipients of goods and documents that diversion contrary to U.S. law is prohibited. Destination control statements are discussed in the Code of Federal Regulations (15 CFR 786.5 and 786.6).
A combat vessel, which is small, fast, highly manoeuverable. Armed with guns, torpedoes, depth charges, and guided missiles
Detained
A penalty charge against shippers or consignees for delaying carrier's equipment beyond allowed time. Demurrage applies to cargo; detention applies to equipment. See Per Diem.
The unloading of a container or cargo van.
DA refers to specific economic assistance provided by the Agency for International Development. DA includes functional accounts that emphasize long-term development objectives for Agriculture, Rural Development and Nutrition; Population Planning; Health; Child Survival Fund; AIDS Prevention and Control; Education and Human Resources Development; Private Sector; Energy and Environment, and Science and Technology Corporation, as well as the Development Fund for Africa, and other assistance -- the Special Assistance Initiatives and Humanitarian and Technical Assistance for the former Soviet republics. See: Economic Support Fund.
The DAC, which consists of most members of the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), coordinates member country aid policies and programs to Lesser Developed Countries.
The DBGLS (French: Banque du Developpement des Etats du Grand Lac, BDEGL) provides technical and financial assistance to promote socio-economic development among its members: Burundi, Rwanda, and Zaire. The Bank was established in 1977; headquarters are in Goma, Zaire. See: Economic Community of the Great Lakes Countries.
The DFA channels all U.S. development assistance to Sub-Saharan Africa. The Fund has put emphasis on certain sectors, including agricultural production in connection with the preservation of natural resources, health, voluntary family planning, education, and income generation. The Fund is administered by the U.S. Agency for International Development; it was enacted by Congress in 1987. See: African Development Foundation African Development Fund.
Draft
An amount added or deducted from base rate to make a rate to or from some other point or via another route.
Sale by an exporter directly to a buyer located in a foreign country.
Direct investment is defined in the International Monetary Fund's Balance of Payments Manual as investment that is made to acquire a lasting interest in an enterprise operating in an economy other than that of the investor, the investor's purpose being to have an effective voice in the management of the enterprise. In the United States, direct investment is defined for statistical purposes as the ownership or control, directly or indirectly, by one person of 10 percent of more of the voting securities of an incorporated business enterprise or an equivalent interest in an unincorporated business enterprise. Direct investment transactions are not limited to transactions in voting securities. The percentage ownership of voting securities is used to determine if direct investment exists, but once it is determined that it does, all parent-affiliate transactions, including those not involving voting securities, are recorded under direct investment. See: Foreign Direct Investment in the United States Foreign Person U.S. Affiliate
DREE, located in the French Ministry of Economic Affairs, Finance and Budget, is the main policymaking agency for export promotion and credit activities. DREE oversees the activities of other agencies that provide domestic and overseas export assistance, including the French Center for Foreign Commerce (Centre Francais du Commerce Exterieur, CFCE) and the French equivalent of the U.S. & Foreign Commercial Service (the Poste d'Expansion Economique). DREE also coordinates France's interagency position on trade issues, negotiates bilateral trade agreements, and participates in the multilateral trade talks in the European Community and the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade. Within France, CFCE is the primary point of contact for export promotion services, while overseas, the Poste d'Expansion Economique provides promotional services to French firms. Through a network of regional offices in France, CFCE counsels exporters and organizes overseas trade events. CFCE also gathers and distributes trade information.
Dirty float refers to a system in which the float of exchange rates is partially determined by government intervention or restrictions to limit appreciation or depreciation; sometimes known as managed float. See: Clean Float
Discount
Disbursements
An informal meeting at which ITA discloses to parties to the proceeding the methodology used in determining the results of an antidumping investigation or administrative review. A disclosure meeting is generally held promptly after the preliminary or final determinations of an investigation or promptly after the preliminary or final results of a review. See: Tariff Act of 1930
When documents presented do not conform to the requirements of the letter of credit (L/C), it is referred to as a discrepancy. Banks will not process L/C's which have discrepancies. They will refer the situation back to the buyer and/or seller and await further instructions
A determination made by the Commerce Department's International Trade Administration that the petition does not properly allege the basis on which antidumping duties may be imposed, does not contain information deemed reasonably available to the petitioner supporting the allegations, or is not filed by an appropriate interested party. This dismissal causes termination of the proceeding. See: Tariff Act of 1930.
An amount paid by a vessel's operator to a charter if loading or unloading is completed in less time than stipulated in the charter agreement
Displacement
The weight, in tons of 2,240 pounds, of the vessel and its contents. Calculated by dividing the volume of water displaced in cubic feet by 35, the average density of sea water
Company that control the commercial operation of a vessel under a bareboat or Time charter party. The person who by reason of a contract or charter party assumes responsibility for a vessel as if he were the owner.
This refers to the resolution of opposing aims often facilitated through the efforts of an intermediary. In the GATT context, dispute settlement provides opportunities for individual contracting parties to resolve trade problems through negotiated means or with the help Applicants and consignees must establish Internal Control Programs to ensure the proper distribution of items under the DL. Each program must include comprehensive procedures for ensuring that the items exported will be used only for legitmate end-uses.
A foreign agent who sells directly for a manufacturer and maintains an inventory on hand.
DECs serve as a voluntary auxiliary of US district offices to support export expansion activities. There are 51 DECs with 1500 members which help with workshops and also provide counseling to less experienced exporters.
A change made either in the route of a shipment in transit (see Reconsignment) or of the entire ship.
This occurs when foreign producers sell to a third country market at less than fair value and the product is then further processed and shipped to another country.
A semi submersible diving support platform
A vessel primarily equipped with decompression chambers for air dive operation. Does not include vessels which can only operate submersibles
A naval auxiliary vessel designed and fitted with equipment to support diver operations. May have cranes for construction/maintenance work.
Carriers' practice of dividing revenue received from through rates where joint hauls are involved. This is usually according to agreed formulae
- For ships, a cargo handling area parallel to the shoreline where a vessel normally ties up. - For land transportation, a loading or unloading platform at an industrial location or carrier terminal.
A dock gate
A dock receipt is used to transfer accountability when the export item is moved by the domestic carrier to the port of embarkation and left with the international carrier for export. A receipt given for a shipment received or delivered at a shipment pier. When delivery of a foreign shipment is completed, the dock receipt is surrendered to the vessel operator or his agent and serves as basis for preparation of the Ocean Bill of Lading.
Present a rate proposal to a conference meeting for adoption as a conference group rate.
Documents Against Payment - Stipulate that the exporter ships goods to the importer without a letter of credit or another form of guaranteed payment. The importer must sign a sight draft before receiving the necessary documents to pick up the goods. Documents Against Acceptance (D/A) are instructions given by a shipper to a bank stating that the documents transferring title to goods should be delivered to the buyer only upon the signing of a time draft. In this manner an exporter extends credit to the importer and agrees to accept payment at a readily determined future date. See: Draft Bill of Exchange.
Instructions given by a shipper to a bank indicating that documents transferring title to goods should be delivered to the buyer (or drawee) only upon the buyer's acceptance (signature on) of the attached draft
Instructions given by a shipper to a bank indicating that documents transferring title to goods should be delivered to the buyer only upon the buyer's acceptance of the attached draft.
A type of payment for goods in which the documents transferring title to the goods are not given to the buyer until he has paid the value of a draft issued against him.
A set of wheels that support the front of a container; used when the automotive unit is disconnected.
Non-negotiable B/L primarily containing routing details; usually used by truckers and freight forwarders
Exports of domestic merchandise include commodities which are grown, produced, or manufactured in the United States, and commodities of foreign origin which have been substantially changed in the United States, including U.S. Foreign Trade Zones, from the form in which they were imported, or which have been enhanced in value by further manufacture in the United States
The predecessor of the Foreign Sales Corporation which took on a new definition as a result of the 1984 Tax Reform Act. DISCs can now provide a tax deferral on up to $10 million of exports so long as the funds remain in export-related investments.
The place where a draft or acceptance is made payable
Through transportation of a container and its contents from consignor to consignee. Also known as House to House. Not necessarily a through rate.
This occurs when foreign producers sell at below cost to a producer in its domestic market, and the product is then further processed and shipped to another country.
Debit. Debtor. Drawer
A written, unconditional order for payment from one person (the drawer) to another (the drawee). It directs the drawee to pay a specified sum of money, in a given currency, at a specific date to the drawer. A Sight Draft calls for immediate payment (on sight) while a Time Draft calls for payments at a readily determined future date.
An order issued by a seller against a purchaser; directs payment, usually through an intermediary bank. Typical bank drafts are negotiable instruments and are similar in many ways to checks on checking accounts in a bank
A draft to which no documents are attached.
A draft that matures on a fixed date, regardless of the time of acceptance.
A time draft under a letter of credit that has been accepted and purchased by a bank at a discount.
A draft payable on demand upon presentation.
A draft that matures at a fixed or determinable time after presentation or acceptance.
A partial refund of duties paid on importation of goods which are further processed and then re-exported, or exported in same condition as imported.
The Drawback System, a part of Customs' Automated Commercial System, provides the means for processing and tracking of drawback claims.
The individual or firm on whom a draft is drawn and who owes the indicated amount.
The individual or firm that issues or signs a draft and thus stands to receive payment of the indicated amount from the drawee.
Charge made for local hauling by dray or truck. Same as Cartage
A vessel equipped to obtain material from the sea bed by an unspecified means. The material may be carried on board, transferred to other vessels, pumped ashore or deposited elsewhere using a spray
A non propelled pontoon with an unknown dredging mechanism
A vessel designed for dredging operations. Not designed for operation in open sea
A jack up offshore drilling rig
A semi submersible offshore drilling rig.
A vessel primarily equipped for offshore drilling operations. May also be able to obtain cores for research purposes
Cargo that is not liquid and normally does not require temperature control
A container constructed to carry grain, powder and other free-flowing solids in bulk. Used in conjunction with a tilt chassis or platform.
The selling of identical products in different markets for different prices. This often reflects dumping practices.
Dumping is generally seen as an unfair trading practice. It occurs when a good is sold for less than its fair value, generally meaning it is exported for less than it is sold in the domestic market or third country markets, or it is sold for less than production cost. Article VI of the GATT permits the imposition of special anti-dumping duties against dumped goods, equal to the difference between their export price and their ''fair value'' in the export market, if dumping causes injury in the importing country.The sale of a commodity in a foreign market at less than fair value. Dumping is generally recognized as unfair because the practice can disrupt markets and injure producers of competitive products in an importing country. Article VI of the GATT permits imposition of antidumping duties equal to the difference between the price sought in the importing country and the normal value of the product in the exporting country. With price-to-price dumping, the foreign producer can use its sales in the high-priced market (usually the home market) to subsidize its sales in the low-priced export market. The price difference is often due to protection in the high-priced market. Price-cost dumping indicates that the foreign supplier has a special advantage. Sustained sales below cost are normally possible only if the sales are somehow subsidized
The amount by which the imported merchandise is sold in the United States below the home market or third country price or the constructed value (that is, at less than its fair value). For example, if the U.S. purchase price is $200 and the fair value is $220, the dumping margin is $20. This margin is expressed as a percentage of the United States price. In this example, the margin is 10 percent. See: Tariff Act of 1930
Protection from damage, for ventilation and, in the case of certain cargoes, to provide space in which the types of a fork lift truck may be inserted.
Another original Bill of Lading set if first set is lost. also known as reissued B/L.
A tax imposed on imports by the customs authority of a country. Duties are generally based on the value of the goods (ad valorem duties), some other factors such as weight or quantity (specific duties), or a combination of value and other factors (compound duties).
Delivery
The DAEs is a collective reference, currently comprising six Asian countries: Hong Kong, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand.
East
East
Errors and omissions excepted
Economic Commission for Africa
East coast coal port
Economic Commission for Europe
East coast of Great Britain
Export Credit Guarantee Department
East coast of Ireland
Economic Commission for Latin America
Eastern Central Motor Carriers Association.
Economic Commission for the Middle East
East Coast of United Kingdom
Each cargo voyage
Errors excepted
European Economic Community
European Free Trade Association
Each incident
Employer's liability
Estimated maximum probable loss
End of passage
Emergency position indicator radio beacon
Each round voyage
Echo-sounding device
Eastern Weighing and Inspection Bureau.
Engine and Bridge aft
Unattended engine room
Export Administration Act
Export Assistance Center
East African Development Bank
East Asian Economic Caucus, European Atomic Energy Community
Enterprise for the Americas Initiative
Export Administration Regulations
Export Administration Review Board
Expected arrival time
Empty ballast
Economic Bulletin Board
EBIS, the European Barge Inspection Scheme: Started operations on 1st July 1998. The Scheme has been developed by oil and chemical companies as part of their commitment to improving the safety of tanker barging operations within Europe. The main aim of E
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development
Economic Cooperation Organization
Economic Commission for Africa
Export Control Automated Support System
Export Credit Agencies
European Central Bank
Economic Community of Central African States
East Caribbean Central Bank
Export Control Classification Number;, formerly: - Export Commodity Classification Number
East Coast (UK) coal port
Electronic Chart Display and Information System
Economic Commission for Europe
East Coast of Great Britain
Export Credit Guarantee Department
East coast of Ireland
East coast of India
Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean
Export Contact List Service
East coast of Mexico
East Coast of North America
Economic/Commercial Section
Economic and Social Council
Economic Community of West African States
Engine Control Room
Electronic Chart System
East Coast of South America
European Coal and Steel Community
European Currency Unit
East Coast of United Kingdom
East Coast of U.S.A
Export Development Office
Exporter Data Base
Export Development Corporation
Abbreviation for Electronic Data Interface. Generic term for transmission of transactional data between computer systems. EDI is typically via a batched transmission, usually conforming to consistent standards.
(1) From the United Nations-backed electronic data interchange standards body, this is used to create electronic versions of common business documents that will work on a global scale. (2) Electronic Data Interchange; easy communication of commercial data via computer connections via mainframe links, PC to mainframe links or using the Internet
Electronic Data Interchange for Administration, Commerce, and Transportation EDIFACT is an international syntax used in the interchange of electronic data. Customs uses EDIFACT to interchange data with the importing trade community
Effective Daily Recovery Capacity
European Economic Area
Eastern Europe Business Information Center
European Economic Community, or Common Market
Electronically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory
European Free Trade Association
Export general manifest
Egypt
East Indies
Even if used
Even if used both ends
Electric Ventilation
Export License Voice Information System
Emergency Management Division
East Mediterranean
East North-East
Trained in all crafts necessary to engine maintenance (welding, refrigeration, lathe operation, die casting,electricity, pumping, water purification, oiling, evaluating engine gauges, etc.) Usually watchstanders but on some ships day workers.
End of passage
Estimated position
United States Environmental ProtectionAgency
Emergency position indicating radio beacon
Engine room
Expected ready to load
Each round voyage.(usually in Tanker Trade)
Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility
Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific
Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia
Emergency Shutdown
Enhanced Survey Program
Environment, Safety and Quality Assurance (CMS)
Estimated; European Standard Time
- Estimated Time of Availability. That time when a tractor/partner carrier is available for dispatch. - Estimated time of arrival.
Easy trimmer bulk carrier
Export Trading Company
Estimated Time of Departure
Expected time of finishing
Expected to be ready
Estimated Time of Sailing
European Telecommunications Standards Institute
European Mediterranean
When the draft of a ship fore and aft are the same.
Except
Excluding/Excluded, Exclusive
Abbreviation for Export-Import Bank of the United States. An independent U.S. Government Agency which facilitates exports of U.S. goods by providing loan guarantees and insurance for repayment of bank-provided export credit.
Extra Insurance
Expected to load
The individual who brings together buyer and seller for a fee, eventually withdrawing from any transaction.
A corporation or other business unit organized and operated primarily for the purpose of exporting goods and services, or of providing export-related services to other companies.
Ex Works
A Term of Sale which means that the seller fulfills the obligation to deliver when he or she has made the goods available at his/her premises (i.e., works, factory, warehouse, etc.) to the buyer. In particular, the seller is not responsible for loading the goods in the vehicle provided by the buyer or for clearing the goods for export, unless otherwise agreed. The buyer bears all costs and risks involved in taking the goods from the seller's premises to the desired destination. This term thus represents the minimum obligation for the seller.
The EADB was created in 1967 to promote economic development among Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Bank headquarters are in Kampala, Uganda.
The EAEC is a regional consultative forum proposed by Malaysia in late 1990 under the name of East Asian Economic Grouping. Participation would be limited to Asian nations.
ECCB, established in October 1983, promotes economic development, monetary stability and credit and exchange among eight member nations. Bank headquarters is in Basseterre, St. Kitts.
EEBIC provides information on trade and investment opportunities, trade regulations and legislation, sources of financing, and government and industry contacts in the former Eastern Bloc. The Center is a Department of Commerce service which was initiated in January 1990. EEBIC is a Department of Commerce service which was established in January 1990. The Center maintains a 24-hour automated flashfax system which is reached on 202-482-5745; voice telephone is 202-482-2645.
An eco-label is a voluntary mark awarded by the European Community (EC) to producers who can show that their product is significantly less harmful to the environment than similar products. The EC environment ministers agreed to the concept of an eco-label in March of 1992. The EC Commission and member states are drafting proposals for eco-labelling criteria with the intention of providing a clear commercial benefit for developing less polluting products and processes
See:United Nations Regional Commissions.
See:United Nations Regional Commissions.
The Economic Community of Central African States (French: Communaute Economique des Eats de l'Afrique Centrale, CEEAC) was created by the Customs and Economic Union of Central Africa to promote regional economic cooperation, eliminate trade restrictions, and establish a Central African Common Market. Members include: Burundi, the Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, and Zaire. The Community was established in 1983 (became operational in 1985); headquarters are in Libreville, Gabon
ECOWAS, established in May 1975 by the Treaty of Lagos (first operating in November 1976), is an economic association of 16 West African nations aimed at creating a full customs union (not yet achieved) as well as social and cultural fellowship. Members include: Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Cte d'Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo. Community headquarters are in Abuja, Nigeria.
The Economic Community of the Great Lakes Countries (French: Communaute Economique des Pays des Grands Lacs, CEPGL) was created in September 1976 to promote regional economic cooperation and integration. The Community is associated with the Great Lakes States Development Bank (Banque de Developpement des Etats des Grands Lacs). Community members include: Burundi, Rwanda, and Zaire. Headquarters are in Gisengi, Rwanda. See: Development Bank of the Great Lakes States
The ECO strengthens cooperation to improve socio-economic conditions among the populations of members. The Organization was founded in 1964; headquarters are in Tehran, Iran. Members include: Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Turkey, and Uzbekistan.
Embassy officials who analyze and report on macroeconomic trends and trade policies and their implications for U.S. policies and programs. Economic Officers represent U.S. interests and arrange and participate in economic and commercial negotiations. See: Commercial Officers Foreign Service.
The EPC was established by Executive Order in 1985 to address major trade policy issues in a single forum as a means of reducing tensions between different groups, such as the Trade Policy Committee and the Senior Interagency Group. The Council was modified in the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988. Membership includes Treasury (chair pro tem), State, Agriculture, Commerce, Labor, Transportation, the OMB, the U.S. Trade Representative, the Council of Economic Advisers, and the Assistant to the President for Science and Technology
The Agriculture Department's ERS provides expertise, data, models and research information about the agricultural economies and policies of foreign countries, the agricultural trade and development relationships between foreign countries and the United States, and U.S. agricultural policies. Topics include: (a) agricultural trade and trade policies and their relationship to the economic, technical, and political factors affecting agricultural trade among countries; (b) economic and agricultural market structure, efficiency, and performance of foreign countries; (c) technical production systems of foreign countries; and (d) foreign governments' production, consumption, monetary, and trade policies.
Economic sanctions used for foreign policy purposes are economic penalties, such as prohibiting trade, stopping financial transactions, or barring economic and military assistance, used to achieve the goal of influencing the target nation. Sanctions can be imposed selectively, stopping only certain trade and financial transactions or aid programs, or comprehensively, halting all economic relations with the target nation. While sanctions can be imposed to serve multiple goals, the measures are more successful in achieving the less ambitious and often unarticulated goals of: (a) upholding international norms by punishing the target nation for unacceptable behavior and (b) deterring future objectionable actions. Sanctions are usually less successful in achieving the most prominently stated goal of making the target country comply with the sanctioning nation's stated wishes.
The ESF is is a fund used to stabilize the U.S. dollar in times of foreign exchange volatility. The fund is administered jointly by the Treasury Department and the Federal Reserve Board, through its New York offices. Fund resources, appropriated by Congress, are usually provided fifty percent by Treasury and the Fed. Although not a major role, the fund has also been used in swap agreements with other countries to support their currencies. The fund was established by the Gold Reserve Act of 1934.
ESF is an Agency for International Development appropriation account for funding economic assistance to countries based on considerations of economic and foreign policy interests of the United States, often in conjuntion with military base rights or access rights agreements. Country allocations are determined by the State Department consistent with Congressional earmarks. To the extent possible, the use of ESF conforms to the basic policy directions underlying development assistance. Funds can be used for commodity imports, balance of payments support or as cash grants for budget support. See: Development Assistance
Economic zones are designated regions in a country which operate under rules that provide special investment incentives, including duty free treatment for imports, for manufacturing plants which reexport their products. The term economic zone is currently used in the People's Republic of China and the former Soviet Union. See: Free Trade Zones
See:United Nations Regional Commissions.
ECOSOC was created in 1945 to coordinate the economic and social work of the United Nations. The Council undertakes studies and makes recoomendations on development, world trade, industrialization, natural resources, human rights, the status of women, population, narcotics, social welfare, science and technology, crime prevention, and other issues. The Council structure includes five regional commissions and six functional commissions. The functional commissions include: - Commission on Human Rights - Commission on Narcotic Drugs - Commission for Social Development - Commission on the Status of Women - Population Commission - Statistical Commission. See: United Nations Regional Commissions. Economic Bulletin Board - The EBB is a personal computer-based economic bulletin board operated by the U.S. Department of Commerce in Washington, D.C. The EBB is an online source for trade leads and statistical releases from the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the Census Bureau, the International Trade Administration, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Federal Reserve Board, Department of the Treasury, and other Federal agencies. The EBB may be reached 24 hours each day, 7 days each week at 202-482-3870 (300/1200/2400 bps) with PC communication switches set to no parity, 8 bit words and 1 stop bit. The 9600 bps service uses US Robotics Dual Standard HST/V. 32 modems and can be reached by dialing 202-482-2584. Information may be obtained by calling 202-482-1986 (M-F, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm, EST)
Ecotourism is a broad term which encompasses nature tourism, adventure tourism, ethnic tourism, responsible or wilderness-sensitive tourism, soft-path or small-scale tourism, low-impact tourism, responsible or wilderness tourism, and sustainable tourism. Scientific, educational, or academic tourism (such as biotourism, archetourism, and geotourism) are also forms of ecotourism. The definition of the term stresses the destinations and objectives of ecotourism from the traveler's point of view
These are banks that are subsidiaries either to bank holding companies or other banks established to engage in international banking and foreign investment and business transactions
An angle piece fitted over the edge of boxes, crates, bundles and other packages to prevent the pressure from metal bands or other types from cutting into the package.
A cargo ship designed for the bulk transport of Edible Oils in tanks. Tanks will be stainless steel or lined. New vessels will be classified as chemical carriers
A tanker for the bulk carriage of edible oils which is not suitable for trading in open waters. New vessels will be classified as chemical tankers as defined in the International Bulk Chemical Code
A vessel equipped for the transportation of effluents. Discharge at sea is now illegal
A non propelled pontoon used for the purpose of electricity generation
ELAIN is a BXA 24-hour on-line service which allows exporters to submit license applications electronically through value-added network vendors
- A charge for services performed in connection with floating elevators. - Charges assessed for the handling of grain through grain elevators.
An act of Congress (1903) prohibiting rebates, concession, misbilling, etc. and providing specific penalties for such violations.
Order to restrict the hauling of freight.
The sovereign power to take property for a necessary public use, with reasonable compensation.
Contraction for Empty Repositioning. The movement of empty containers
Part I of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) framework which permits developed country members to give more favorable treatment to developing countries and special treatment to the least developed countries, notwithstanding the most-favored-nation provisions of the GATT
A legal signature usually placed on the reverse of a draft; signifies transfer of rights from the holder to another party.
In December 1990, the United States announced a series of measures -- collectively referred to as the Enhanced Proliferation Control Initiative (EPCI) -- to reduce certain proliferation risks. Under the initiative, the U.S. requires licenses for exports of: (a) precursor chemicals that can be used in making chemical weapons and whole chemical plants to make such precursors; (b) potential chemical and biological weapon-related industrial facilities, related designs, technologies, and equipment; and (c) any items to destinations that raise proliferation concerns when the exporter knows, or is informed by the Commerce Department, of such concerns. The initiative also calls for: (d) penalties on U.S. firms and individuals that promote the spread of chemical weapons and missile technology; (e) control lists of (i) dual-use equipment and technologies related to chemical and biological weapons and missiles, and (ii) countries to which exports of such items should be controlled; and (f) multilateral adoption of the initiative's measures
A survey carried out on tankers over 5 years of age, under the enhanced programme of inspection required by Marpol Annex 1 Reg. 13G. The Enhanced Programme of Surveys has been introduced to address the structural problems associated with old ships. Th
The EAI, launched in June 1990, supports development of a new economic relationship between the United States and Latin America. The EAI has trade investment, debt, and environment aspects. Trade aspects include efforts to advance free trade agreements with markets in Latin America and the Caribbean, particularly with groups of countries that have associated for purposes of trade liberalization. As part of this process, the U.S. seeks to enter into framework agreements on trade and investment with interested countries or groups of countries. These agreements set up intergovernmental councils to discuss and, where appropriate, to negotiate the removal of trade and investment barriers. Investment aspects include the establishment of an Investment Sector Loan program and the Multilateral Investment Fund to support investment reforms. See: Investment Sector Loan Program Multilateral Investment Program
Customs documents required to clear an import shipment for entry into the general commerce of a country
A statement of the kinds, quantities and values of goods imported together with duties, if any, declared before a customs official
Those documents which must be filed with the Customs officials describing goods imported, such as consumption entry, Ocean Bill of Lading or Carrier Release, and Commercial Invoice.
The Entry Summary Selectivity System, a part of Customs' Automated Commercial System, provides an automated review of entry data to determine whether team or routine review is required. Selectivity criteria include an assessment of risk by importer, tariff number, country of origin, manufacturer, and value. Summaries with Census warnings, as well as quota, antidumping and countervailing duty entry summaries are selected for team review. A random sample of routine review summaries is also automatically selected for team review
An entry is the minimum amount of documentation needed to secure the release of imported merchandise. The Entry Summary System, a part of Customs' Automated Commercial System, contains data on release, summary, rejection, collection, liquidation, and extension or suspension
The U.S. Customs Service defines entry value (or entered value) as the value reflected on the enry documentation submitted by the importer. (see 19 CFR 141.61 for how shown on entry. )
A monetary allowance to the customer for picking up or delivering at a point other than the destination shown on the bill of lading. This provision is covered by tariff publication.
A document transferring a container from one carrier to another, or to/from a terminal.
The lifting of a quantity of cargo to which the lifter is entitled by reason of its ownership of an interest in the field producing the cargo.
The escape clause, which can be invoked under GATT Article XIX, allows countries to temporarily violate their GATT obligations to the degree and time necessary to protect a domestic industry from serious injury. Countries taking such actions, however, must consult with affected contracting parties to determine appropriate compensation for the violation of GATT rights, or be subject to retaliatory trade actions. Section 201 of the Trade Act of 1974 requires the U.S. International Trade Commission to investigate complaints filed by domestic industries or workers claiming that they are injured or threatened by rapidly rising imports. Section 203 of the Act provides that if the ensuing investigation establishes that the complaint is valid, relief may be granted in the form of adjustment assistance, which may be training, technical, and financial assistance, or temporary import restrictions in the form of tariffs, quotas, tariff rate quotas, and/or orderly marketing agreements. Import restrictions imposed under the escape clause authority are limited in duration. They may last no longer than five years but can be extended by the President for a three-year period
A combat vessel used to escort other vessels and protect them from attack
An escrow account is a special bank account into which earnings from sales (e.g., convertible currency proceeds from exports) are accumulated. These revenues are set aside for subsequent acquisition of goods and services from a foreign supplier. The escrowed money, usually interest-bearing, is disbursed by the bank to the foreign supplier under payment terms and against documents specified in the supplier's sale contract
Ethylene
A gas produced by many fruits and vegetables that accelerates the ripening and aging processes.
A semi-pressurised LPG tanker specifically for the bulk carriage of ethylene. Cargo is refrigerated at -104 deg C
The ECSC (French: Communaute Europeenne du Charbon et de l'Acier, CECA) undertakes activities to operate a common market in coal and steel; to remove barriers to trade in coal, coke, steel, pig-iron, and scrap iron
One of the five major institutions of the European Community, the Commission is responsible for ensuring the implementation of the Treaty of Rome and Community rules and obligations; submission of proposals to the Council of Ministers; execution of the Council's decisions; reconciliation of disagreements among Council members; administration of EC policies, such as the Common Agricultural Policy and coal and steel policies; taking necessary legal action against firms or member governments; and representing the Community in trade negotiations with non-member countries.
The European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization, CENELEC, is a non-profit-making international organization under Belgian law. CENELEC seeks to harmonize electrotechnical standards published by the national organizations and to remove technical barriers to trade that may be caused by differences in standards. CENELEC members include: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom
A regional organization created in 1958 providing for gradual elimination of intraregional customs duties and other trade barriers, applying a common external tariff against other countries, and providing for gradual adoption of other integrating measures, including a Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and guarantees of free movement of labor and capital. The original 6 members were Belgium, France, West Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. Denmark, Ireland, and the United Kingdom became members in 1973; Greece acceded in 1981; Spain and Portugal in 1986. The term European Community (EC) refers to three separate regional organizations which operate under separate treaties: - European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC), established in 1952 - European Atomic Energy Community (EURATOM), established in 1958, and - European Economic Community (EEC), established in 1958. Since 1967, the European Community have been served by four common institutions -- the EC Commission, the EC Council, the European Parliament, and the Court of Justice of the European Community. The present 12 member states of the EC are also members of the ECSC and Euratom. While the expression European Community (or EC) was meant to refer to the three Communities, frequent use of the expression European Community (or EC) has become common as a reference to the European Economic Community (EEC). Prior to November 1, 1993 (the date on which the Maastricht Treaty on European Union entered into force), the acronym EC was used as a reference to European Community and European Communities. Part I, Article I of the Maastricht Treaty on European Union formalized EC as a reference to European Community. The Treaty also introduced the term European Union as a broader legal entity than the European Community. See: European Coal and Steel Community European Union
Coming into operation in 1958 and based on the Treaty of Rome, the EC originally consisted of the following countries who joined together to establish a customs union and other forms of economic integration: France, Italy, the Federal Republic of Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg. The United Kingdom, Denmark and Ireland joined in 1973. Greece joined in 1981, followed by Portugal and Spain in 1986.
See: Conference Europeenne des Administrations des Postes et des Telecommunications.
EUCLID is a coordinated defense R initiative which was approved in a June 1989 meeting of the Independent European Program Group (IEPG). EUCLID was designed to overcome deficiencies in European defense R spending, minimize individual nation's duplicative efforts, improve planning, and overcome legal and administrative obstacles. EUCLID is divided into 11 technological categories: (a) modern radar technology, (b) microelectronics, (c) composite structures, (d) modular avionics, (e) electric gun, (f) artificial intelligence, (g) signature manipulation, (h) opto-electronic devices, (i) satellite surveillance technologies (including verification), (j) underwater acoustics, and (k) human factors, including technology for training and simulation. Each of the 11 categories is assigned a lead coordinating nation.
The ECJ, located in Luxembourg, was established in 1958 to support interpretation and application of European Community law. The Court has jurisdiction to settle actions brought by: (a) the Commission against member states for failing to implement EC legislation, (b) the member states against EC institutions, referrals for interpreations from national courts where a question of EC law is at issue, and individuals under a provision of EC law
The ecu is a basket of specified amounts of each E. C. currency. Amounts were determined according to the economic size of EC members, all of whose currencies participate in the ecu basket. In the European Monetary System (EMS), the ecu is used as a basis for setting central rates in the exchange rate mechanism, as an accounting unit, and as a reserve instrument and means of settlement among EMS central banks. The ecu is not used by persons. Under provisions of the Maastricht Treaty, the ecu is scheduled to be adopted as the single European currency in Stage III of European Monetary Union (by 1999 at the latest). The composition of the basket comprising the ecu was frozen on November 1, 1993 in accordance with a provision of the Maastricht Treaty which entered into force also on November 1. See: Maastricht Treaty
The EDF is the principal means by which the European Economic Community provides aid, concessionary finance, and technical assistance to developing countries. The Fund was originally established in 1958 to grant financial aid to dependencies of the six nations which founded the EEC.
The EEA, which became effective in January 1994, consists of Austria, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden and the 12 member nations of the European Union. The EEA, encompassing an area inhabited by 370 million people, allows for the free movement of goods, persons, services and capital throughout all 17 countries. It also opens cooperation possibilities in many areas, including research and development, environment, promotion of tourism, social, and consumer policy. Following the negative result of the Swiss referendum in December 1992, the remaining six countries of the European Free Trade Association (Austria, Finland, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Sweden) signed an Adjusting Protocol in March 1993 with the intent to proceed without Switzerland. The Adjusting Protocol contains provisions which allow Switzerland to participate in the EEA at a later stage if it so wishes. Liechtenstein will remain a Contracting Party to the European Economic Area Agreement, but it will not be part of the EEA until the EEA Council decides that the accord's good functioning will not be impaired. Liechtenstein's status in the EEA accord was reviewed following Switzerland's negative vote on the EEA in a December 1992 referendum. In particular, Liechtenstein's customs union with Switzerland requires renegotiation. Significant differences exist between the EEA and full membership in the European Economic Community (EEC). The EEA is a free trade area, not a customs union. Border controls between the EEC and EFTA, while relaxed, are expected to continue. EFTA will not adopt the EEC's Common Customs Tariff nor participate in the Common Commercial Policy or Common Agricultural Policy. EFTA nations will continue to set their own tariffs for third countries subject to GATT and OECD agreements. Further change is anticipated with Austria, Finland, Norway, and Sweden expected to join the European Economic Community by January 1995 or shortly afterwards. See: European Economic Community European Free Trade Association European Union
EFTA is a regional organization established in December 1959 by the Stockholm Convention as an alternative to the Common Market. EFTA was designed to provide a free trade area for industrial products among member countries. In contrast with the EC, EFTA does not have a common external tariff and nor a common agricultural trade policy. Original EFTA members included the United Kingdom, Austria, Denmark, Norway, Portugal, Sweden, and Switzerland. The UK, Denmark, and Portugal left the Association when they joined the EC. EFTA currently has seven members: Austria, Finland, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Sweden, and Switzerland -- Austria and Sweden have applied for EC membership. Association headquarters are in Geneva, Switzerland
Formed in 1960, the regional grouping which includes Austria, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland. and Finland (an associate member). Member countries have eliminated tariffs on manufactured goods and agricultural products that originate in and are traded among member countries
The Luxembourg-based EIB, established in 1957, is an independent public institution set up the Treaty of Rome to contribute to balanced and steady development in the European Community. The EIB provides loans and guarantees to companies and public institutions to finance regional development, structural development, and achieve cross-border objectives. The EIB has emphasized regional development and energy, with Italy, Greece, and Ireland receiving major support.
Under provisions of the Maastricht Treaty, the EMI will manage the national currency reserves of EC central banks and encourage international acceptance of the European Currency Unit (ECU). The EMI is also intended to strengthen coordination of monetary policies among European Community member states and to study and develop the infrastructure and procedures required for the conduct of single monetary policy. The EMI will be established on January 1, 1994. See: Maastricht Treaty
The EMS was created in 1979 to support monetary stability, move Europe toward closer economic integration, and avoid disruptions in trade resulting from fluctuations in currency exchange rates. EMS members deposit gold and dollar reserves with the European Monetary Cooperation Fund (EMCF) in exchange for the issuance of European currency units (ecu). The EMS has three main features: the ecu, an exchange rate and intervention mechanism, and credit mechanisms to support member countries. All EC members except Greece and the United Kingdom participate in the exchange rate mechanism of the EMS. See: European Currency Unit, Exchange Rate Mechanism.
The EMCF, originally created in 1973, was revised and linked with the European Monetary System in 1979. While intended to support the European Currency Unit and support a reserve system of central banks, the Fund has been used to keep account of short-term borrowings and support currencies through intervention in foreign exchange markets at the request of member states. The Fund uses the Bank for International Settlements as its agent.
The EOTC promotes mutual recognition of tests, test and certification procedures, and quality systems within the European private sector for product areas or characteristics not covered by EC legislative requirements. The Organization was created in April 1990 by the European Community Commission under a memorandum of agreement with CEN/CENELEC and the European Free Trade Association countries. EOTC headquarters are in Brussels, Belgium.
The European Patent Convention, EPC, is an agreement between European nations to centralize and standardize patent law and procedure. The EPC, which took effect in 1977, established a single European patent through application to the European Patent Office in Munich. Once granted, the patent matures into a bundle of individual patents -- one in each member country designated by the patent applicant. Patent applicants must indicate the countries to which they wish to have pante protection
The EPO (German: Europaeisches Patentamt; French: Office Europeen de Brevets) promotes easier, cheaper, and more reliable patent protection by establishing a single procedure for granting patents on the basis of a single European patent law. Standards are available in English from the World Intellectual Property Organization. The Office was established in October, 1973; its headquarters are in Munich, Germany. EPO membership is not open to the U.S., but close relations are maintained through the Commerce Department's Patent and Trademark Office.
The European Research Coordination Agency, EUREKA, coordinates advanced technology projects being carried out by European industry. The Agency was created in 1985; headquarters are in Brussels, Belgium; membership includes the European Community countries, plus Norway, Sweden, Finland, Switzerland, Austria, Iceland, and Turkey.
The ESA designs and coordinates construction of satellite and launching systems. Members include: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
The ESCB, as envisioned by the Treaty of Maastricht, would be created for the primary purpose of maintaining price stability within the European Community. The ESCB would be composed of the European Central Bank and of the central banks of the Members States. It would be independent of national governments and Community authorities. See: Treaty of Maastricht.
An ETA is a favorable technical assessment of the fitness for use of a product for an intended use, based on the fulfillment of the essential requirements for building works for which the product is used, as provided for under the EC Construction Products Directive (89/106/EEC). A European technical approval may be granted to products for which there is neither a harmonized European standard, nor a recognized national standard, nor a mandate for a harmonized standard; and to product which differ significantly from harmonized or recognized national standards. Such approval permits free circulation of the products within the member countries of the European Community and the European Free Trade Association
ETSI (French: Institut Europeen des Normes des Telecommunication; German: Europaisches Institut fur Telekummonikationsstandards) was established in March 1988 in response to the inability of the European Conference of Postal and Telecommunications Administrations (CEPT) to keep up with the schedule of work on common European standards and specifications agreed to in the 1984 Memorandum of Understanding between CEPT and the EC. ETSI has a contractual relationship with the EC to pursue standards development for telecommunications equipment and services, and it cooperates with other European standards bodies such as CEN/CENELEC. ETSI membership includes the telecommunications administrations that constitute the CEPT as well as manufacturers, service providers, and users. See: Confernece Europeenne des Administrations des Postes et des Telecommunications
ETUC, founded in 1973, is the primary organization which speaks for European trade unions. ETUC consists of more than 30 organizations in 20 Western European countries and has over 40 million members. The Confederation's principal goal is to influence European policies affecting workers; it is active with the European Community, the Council of Europe, the European Free Trade Association, and the OECD Trade Union Advisory Committee. ETUC headquarters are in Brussels, Belgium
The EU is an umbrella reference to the European Community (EC) and to two European integration efforts introduce by the Maastricht Treaty: Common Foreign and Security Policy (including defense) and Justice and Home Affairs (principally cooperation between police and other authorities on crime, terrorism, and immigration issues). The term European Union was introduced in November 1993 (when the Maastricht Treaty on European Union entered into force). The term European Community (EC) continues to exist as a legal entity within the broader framework of the EU. See: European Community Maastricht Treaty
When used in pricing terms such as Ex Factory or Ex Dock, it signifies that the price quoted applies only at the point of origin indicated.
Notations made when the cargo is received at the carrier's terminal or loaded aboard a vessel. They show any irregularities in packaging or actual or suspected damage to the cargo. Exceptions are then noted on the bill of lading.
A mobile vessel used for exhibitions, trade fairs and the like
Issued in connection with documents such as letters of credit, tariffs etc. to advise that stated provisions will expire at a certain time.
Shipment of goods to a foreign country.
A government document declaring designated goods to be shipped out of the country. To be completed by the exporter and filed with the U.S. Government
Export Development Offices (EDOs) in seven cities (Tokyo, Sydney, Seoul, Milan, London, Mexico City, and Sao Paulo) provide services to U.S. exporters, including market research to identify specific marketing opportunities and products with the greatest sales potential; and to organize export promotion events. EDOs are staffed by U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service officers. When not in use for trade exhibitions, EDOs with exhibit and conference facilities are made available to individual firms or associations
Export disincentives are policies which may serve to deter U.S. exports, such as sanctions, export controls, and domestic and regulatory policies with a coincidental impact of handicapping U.S. competitiveness.
The Export Enhancement Act of 1992 required the Trade Promotion Coordinating Committee (TPCC) to issue by September 30, 1993, and annually thereafter, a report containing a governmentwide strategic plan for Federal trade promotion efforts and describing its implementation. The legislation requires the TPCC to establish in the strategic plan priorities for federal trade promotion and explain the rationale for these priorities. The act also requires the TPCC to include in the plan a strategy for bringing federal trade promotion activities into line with the new priorities and for improving their coordination. The TPCC is also required to propose in the plan a means for eliminating overlap among federal trade promotion activities and increasing cooperation between state and federal trade promotion efforts. The act requires that the TPCC include in the strategic plan a proposal to the President for an annual unified budget for federal trade promotion activities. This budget is to: (a) reflect the new priorities and improved interagency coordination and (b) eliminate funding for areas of overlap and duplication among federal agencies. See: Trade Promotion Coordinating Committee
The EEP, one of four export subsidy programs operated by the Department of Agriculture, is intended to enhance U.S. trade policy strategies and objectives and to expand U.S. agricultural exports. Under the EEP, the Agriculture Department's Commodity Credit Corporation provides bonuses to U.S. exporters to enable them to be price competitive and thereby sell U.S. agricultural products in targeted overseas markets in which competitor countries are making subsidized sales. EEP-eligible commodities have included: wheat, wheat flour, rice, frozen poultry, barley, barley malt, table eggs, feed grains and vegetable oil.
The EIS is a classified automated system for export licensing operations maintained by the Department of Energy. See: Export Control Automated Support System
The Export Legal Assistance Network, ELAN, sponsored by SBA, is a nationwide group of attorneys with experience in international trade who provide free initial consultations to small businesses on export-related matters.
A government document (also known as an Individual Validated License) authorizing exports of specific goods in specific quantities to a particular destination. This document may be required in some countries for most or all exports and in other countries only under special circumstances.
ELVIS is a BXA 24-hour on-line service which allows exporters to obtain recorded information on such topics as commodity classifications, emergency handling procedures, and seminars as well as to order information.
A provision that limits the recipient country's volume of exports of commodities that are the same as, or like, the commodities being furnished by the United States under a P.L. 480 (Food for Peace) sales agreement. The export of the actual commodities is also prohibited, with the latter prohibition being termed an export restriction
The period during which the receipient country must restrict exports of commodities which are considered to be the same as, or like, those supplied under P.L. 480 (Food for Peace).
An EMC is a private firm that serves as the export department for several manufacturers, soliciting and transacting export business on behalf of its clients in return for a commission, salary, or retainer plus commission. An EMC maintains close contact with its clients and is supply-driven. An EMC may take title to the goods it sells, making a profit on the markup, or it may charge a commission, depending on the type of products being handled, the overseas market, and the manufacturer-client's needs.
A company that buys products directly from manufacturers, then packages and marks the merchandise for resale under its own name. A producer or merchant who sells directly to a foreign purchaser without going through an intermediate such as an export broker
Export promotion refers to the collective programs a nation has to help companies sell products abroad. These programs may include business counseling, training, and representational assistance, as well as providing market research information, trade fair opportuntities, and export financing assistance
Specific restrictions or target objectives on the value or volume of exports of specified goods imposed by the government of the exporting country. These restraints may be intended to protect domestic producers and consumers from temporary shortages of certain materials, or as a means to moderate world prices of specified commodities. Commodity agreements sometimes contain explicit provisions to indicate when export quotas should go into effect among producers. Export quotas are also used in connection with orderly marketing agreements and voluntary restraint agreements
A freight rate specially established for application on export traffic and generally lower than the domestic rate. A rate published on traffic moving from an interior point to a port for transshipment to a foreign country
See: Voluntary Restraint Agreements
A restriction by an exporting country of the quantity of exports to a specified importing country. Usually this is a result of a request (formal or informal) of the importing country
The Export Revolving Line of Credit, ERLC, is a form of financial assistance provided by the Small Business Administration (SBA). The ERLC guarantees loans to U.S. firms to help bridge the working capital gap between the time inventory and production costs are disbursed until payment is received from a foreign buyer. SBA guarantees 85 percent of the ERLC subject to a $750,000 guarantee limit. The ERLC is granted on the likelihood of a company satisfactorily completing its export transaction. The guarantee covers default by the exporter, but does not cover default by a foreign buyer; failure on the buyer's side is expected to be covered by letters of credit or export credit insurance. Under SBA's ERLC program, any number of withdrawals and repayments can be made as long as the dollar limit on the line of credit is not exceeded and disbursements are made within the stated maturity period (not more than 18 months). Proceeds can be used only to finance labor and materials needed for manufacturing, to purchase inventory to meet an export order, and to penetrate or develop foreign markets. Examples of eligible expenses for developing foreign markets include professional export marketing advice or services, foreign business travel, and trade show participation. Under the ERLC program, funds may not be used to purchase fixed assets
Export statistics measure the total physical quantity or value of merchandise (except for shipments to U.S. military forces overseas) moving out of the United States to foreign countries, whether such merchandise is exported from within the U.S. Customs territory or from a U.S. Customs bonded warehouse or a U.S. Foreign Trade Zone.
Any form of government payment or benefit to an exporter or manufacturing concern contingent upon the export of goods. Under the GATT (Article XVI) subsidies, especially export subsidies, are seen as a tool that distorts the normal behavior of the market. The Tokyo Round produced an agreement on subsidies and countervailing duties that prohibits export subsidies by developed countries on manufactured and semi-manufactured goods
A certification of partial immunity from U.S. antitrust laws that can be granted based on the Export Trading Company Act legislation by the Department of Commerce with Department of Justice concurrence. Any prospective or present U.S.-based exporter with antitrust concerns may apply for certification
An ETC is a company doing business in the United States principally to export goods or services produced in the United States or to facilitate such exports by unaffiliated persons. The ETC can be owned by foreigners and can import, barter, and arrange sales between third countries, as well as export. An ETC is demand-driven and transaction-oriented. Generally, an ETC takes title to the products involved, but may work on a commission basis
The Export Trading Company Act of 1982: initiates the Export Trade Certificate of Review program that provides antitrust preclearance for export activities; permits bankers' banks and bank holding companies to invest in ETCs; establishes a Contact Facilitation Service within the Commerce Department designed to facilitate contact between firms that produce exportable goods and services and firms that provide export trade services
JEXIM is Japan's official provider of export credits. About 10 percent of JEXIM's business is providing export credits. The bank's main role is to disburse about half the funds available under the trade surplus recycling program (the Nakasone facility). See: Japan International Cooperation Agency Overseas Economic Cooperation Fund
Eximbank was chartered in 1934 as an independent agency to finance the export of U.S. goods and services. Eximbank offers four major export finance support programs: loans, guarantees, working capital guarantees, and insurance. Eximbank undertakes some of the risk associated with financing the production and sale of American-made goods; provides financing to overseas customers for American goods when lenders are not prepared to finance the transactions; and enhances a U.S. exporter's ability to match foreign government subsidies by helping lenders meet lower rates, or by giving financing incentives directly to foreign buyers. Eximbank's information hotline number is 1-800-424-5201. See: Commercial Risk Political Risk Private Export Funding Corporation
The EDB, operating on a pilot basis in 1992, provides data on the number of exporters, their distribution in cities and states, and their economic characteristics. The EDB, developed by the Commerce Department's International Trade Administration and the Census Bureau links commodity data from millions of U.S. export declarations to the Bureau's various databases on the business characteristics of U.S. firms
The U.S. Customs Service defines an Exporter's Certificate of Origin (also known as Customs Form 353) as a document completed by the exporter, certifying that the goods described therein are eligible for a preferential rate of duty under some trade program such as the U.S.-Canada Free-Trade Agreement. (See 19 CFR 10.37(d)(1).)
ESP is a statutory term used to refer to the United States sales prices of merchandise which is sold or likely to be sold in the United States, before or after the time of importation, by or for the account of the exporter. Certain statutory adjustments are made to permit a meaningful comparison with the foreign market value of such or similar merchandise, e.g., import duties, United States selling and administrative expenses, and freight are deducted from the United States price. See: Tariff Act of 1930
Non-negotiable B/L where there are no hard copies of originals printed.
The EEF is an arrangement by which the International Monetary Fund (IMF) may provide assistance to its members to enable them to meet their balance of payments needs for longer periods and in larger amounts than are available under the IMF's credit tranche policies. See: International Monetary Fund
Free Out
Freight and demurrage
Freight and demurrage
Food and agriculture Organization (U.N.)
Free of claim for accident reported
Full container loads
Fellow of the Chartered Insurance Institute
Full contract value, Full completed value
Food and Drug Administration.
For declaration purposes only
Free DESPatch
Free discharge
Fixed and floating objects
Foreign general average
Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers
Foreign insurance legislation
Fire, lightning and explosion
Flag of convenience, Free ofcommission, Free of charge, Free of claims
Flag, ownership and management
Federation of National Association of Shipbrokers and Agents
Federation of Oils, Seeds & Fats Associations
Fully Paid. Floating (or open) policy
Free of Particular Average
Full premium if lost
Forepeak tank
Free of reported casualty
Fire risk only
Free of strikes, riots and civil commotions
Freight Transport Association and Agents
Fishing vessel clauses
Federal Water Pollution Control Act (USA)
Fair wear, tear and gradual deterioration
Free of all average
Free disbursement Account
Fixing Note
Freight release
Foreign Exchange
Food and Agricultural Organization
Foreign Affairs Administrative Support
Fast as can
Fuel adjustment factor
Abbreviation for Freight All Kinds. Usually refers to full container loads of mixed shipments.
A carrier's tariff description for products pooled and all shipped at one rate. FAK cargo is usually shipped in a container filled with different merchandise or commodities.
Familiarization tour for travel agents or journalists planned and executed by a destination or region, usually in cooperation with an international airline
Foreign Agricultural Service, Free Alongside Ship
A Term of Sale which means the seller fulfills his obligation to deliver when the goods have been placed alongside the vessel on the quay or in lighters at the named port of shipment.This means that the buyer has to bear all costs and risks of loss of or damage to the goods from that moment
A nautical measurement with the following conversion equivalents: 6 feet; 1.83 meters.
Foreign Access Zone
Ferry boat
Freeboard
Foreign Broadcast Information Service
Combined transport bill of lading
Foreign Buyer Program
Foreign Bank Supervision Enhancement Act
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Free Carrier
A Term of Sale which means the seller fulfills their obligation when he or she has handed over the goods, cleared for export, into the charge of the carrier named by the buyer at the named place or point. If no precise point is indicated by the buyer, the seller may choose, within the place or range stipulated, where the carrier should take the goods into their charge
First class charterer; Full & Complete Cargo
Full container load
Foreign Corrupt Practices Act
Floating crane
Foreign Commercial Service
Foreign Claims Settlement Commission
Forecastle
Free dispatch
Freight Demurrage Deadfreight
Freight Deemed Earned Discountless and Non-Refundable Ship and or Cargo Lost Or Not Lost
Freight deemed earned on completion loading
Freight Deemed Earned on Shipment Ship and or Cargo Lost or Not Lost
Free dispatch
Free discharge
Foreign Direct Investment in the United States
Far East
A grain container or reservoir constructed around the hatchway between two decks of a ship which when filled with grain automatically feeds or fills in the vacant areas in the lower holds.
Federal Emergency Management Agency
Federacion Mundial de Instituciones Financieras de, Desarollo
Fertilizers
Foreign Economic Trends
Abbreviation for Forty-Foot Equivalent Units. Refers to container size standard of forty feet. Two twenty-foot containers or TEU's equal one FEU.
Free from alongside; Free from average
For further instructions
Fully fixed
Federal Grain Inspection Service
First half
Fridays, Holidays Excluded
Fridays and holidays included
Free In and Out
Foreign Investment Advisory Service
Federation Internationale des Associations de Transitaires, et Assimilies
Free into barge; free into bunkers
Fellow of The Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers
Federation internationale des ingenieurs-conseils (International Federation of Consulting Engineers)
First in first out
Free in and liner out
Free in, liner terms discharge
Financial Intermediaries, Managers and Brokers Regulatory Association
See Free In and Out.
Free in and out, lashed and secured
Free in and out and stowed
Free In/Out Stowed, Lashed, Secured and Dunnaged. As per FIO, but includes cost of lashing securing and dunnaging cargo to Masters satisfaction
Free in and out, stowed and trimmed
Free in and out, spout trimmed
Free In and Out and Trimmed
Free in, stowed, lashed, secured and dunnaged /liner out
Foreign Independent Tour
Free In Wagon
Chartering a Vessel
An airline or vessel of one national registry whose government gives it partial or total monopoly over international routes. Flat Bed Chassis - A semi-trailer with a level bed and no sides or tops. The floor is a standard height from the ground.
The registration of ships in a country whose tax on the profits of trading ships is low or whose requirements concerning manning or maintenance are not stringent. Sometimes referred to as flags of necessity; denotes registration of vessels in foreign nations that offer favorable tax structures and regulations; also the flag representing the nation under whose jurisdiction a ship is registered. Ships are always registered under the laws of one nation but are not always required to establish their home location in that country.
Feeder-LASH
Cargo to be presented stacked and secured as an integral unit.
Flag
Oil stored on floating vessels. It has been the practice for oil to be stored in large laid-up oil tankers in order to offset the loss involved while the tankers are inactive.
Full liner terms; forklift truck
From
Federal Maritime Commission
Federal Maritime Commission. The U.S. Governmental regulatory body responsible for administering maritime affairs including the tariff system, Freight Forwarder Licensing, enforcing the conditions of the Shipping Act and approving conference or other carrier agreements.
Foreign Market Development Program
Foreign Military Sales
Full Mission Shiphandling Simulator
Foreign Market Value
For orders; Free out; Free overside; Fuel Oil
Free on Board
An International Term of Sale that means the seller fulfills his or her obligation to deliver when the goods have passed over the ship's rail at the named port of shipment. This means that the buyer has to bear all costs and risks to loss of or damage to the goods from that point. The FOB term requires the seller to clear the goods for export
FOB Airport is based on the same principle as the ordinary FOB term. The seller's obligations include delivering the goods to the air carrier at the airport of departure. The risk of loss of or damage to the goods is transferred from the seller to the buyer when the goods have been so delivered
The same as FOB named inland carrier, except the buyer pays the transportation charge and the seller reduces the invoice by a like amount.
The same as FOB named inland carrier, except the seller pays the freight charges of the inland carrier.
Seller is responsible for the cost of placing the goods at a named point of exportation. Some European buyers use this form when they actually mean FOB vessel.
Seller is responsible for goods and preparation of export documentation until actually placed aboard the vessel
Free on board and stowed
Free on board and trimmed
Free of conveyance; Free of charge; Flag of Convenience
Free of damage
Firm Offer
For Our Guidance
Functioning of the GATT System
Following
Flag, ownership and management
Federation of National Association of Shipbrokers and Agents
Free on quay
Abbreviation for Free on Rail.
Foreign Disclosure and Technical Information System
The raised part of the forward end of a ship's hull. The inside space may be used for crew accommodation or quarters, though on new ships this space is being used for the storage of paints, tackle, deck and engine stores, tarpaulins, etc.
Equipment owned and controlled by a railroad other than CSXT
A railroad other than CSXT
A port designated by the government for duty-free entry of any non-prohibited goods. Merchandise may be stored, displayed, and used for manufacturing within the zone and re-exported without duties being paid. Duties are imposed only when the original goods or items manufactured from those goods pass from the zone into an area of the country subject to customs authority. Also called a Free Trade Zone.
A form declaring goods which are brought duty free into a Foreign Trade Zone for further processing or storage and subsequent exportation from the zone into the commerce of another country.
Foreign Exchange
At or in the direction of the bow. Also the fore part of the ship.
Move that originates on CSXT and is then delivered to another carrier
An independent business that dispatches shipments for exporters for a fee. The firm may ship by land, air, or sea, or it may specialize. Usually it handles all the services connected with an export shipment, including preparation of documents, booking cargo space, warehousing, pier delivery, and export clearance. The firm may also handle banking and insurance services on behalf of a client. The U.S. forwarder is licensed by the Federal Maritime Commission for ocean shipments.
Free on ship
Federal On-Scene Commander
Free On Truck
Free on wharf; Free on wagon; First open water
Flash point; Fore Peak; Free Pratique
Free of particular average
Floating Production Storage and Offloading
A vessel with the capability to control production rates from an gas field and to store gas produced prior to its transfer to another vessel for transportation. May be self or non propelled
A vessel with the capability to control production rates from an oilfield and to store oil produced prior to its transfer to another vessel for transportation. May be self or non propelled
Fore peak tank
Freight;France
Forward (or Future) Rate Agreement
If loading/discharging achieved sooner than agreed, there will be no freight money returned.
Means the cost of loading a vessel is borne by the charterer.
An insurance clause providing that loss is not insured if due to capture, seizure, confiscation, and like actions, whether legal or not, or from such acts as piracy, civil war, rebellion, and civil strife.
Free of discharge costs to owners. Includes sea freight only.
Clearance by the Health Authorities
The charge made for the transportation of freight.
Freight
Freight
Charterers when canceling agreement sometimes quote 'doctrine of frustration' i.e. vessel is lost, extensive delays .
Foreign Service Officer
Freedom Support Act
Foreign Sales Corporation
Foreign Service Institute
Foreign Service National
Floating Storage Offloading;
A tanker purpose built or converted to store gas produced from a field prior to its transfer to another vessel for transportation. May be self or non propelled. This type does not include vessels which are temporarily being used for storage of gas
A tanker purpose built or converted to store oil produced from a field prior to its transfer to another vessel for transportation. May be self or non propelled. This type does not include vessels which are temporarily being used for storage of oil
Former Soviet Union
Feasibility Studies
Foreign Trade Organization
Cubic feet
Free Trade Agreement/Area
Federal Trade Commission
Foreign Trade Division
Foreign Traders Index
Foreign Trade Statistical Reporting
First thing tomorrow morning
Foreign Trade Zone
Foreign Trade Zone-Subzone
Fishing vessel
Fresh water
Fresh water allowance
Fresh Water Arrival Draft
Forward
Fresh Water Departure Draft
Finished With Engine
Federal Water Pollution Control Act
Foreign Exchange
Fixed
Fixture
For Your Guidance
For your information
For Your Private Guidance
For Your Very Private Guidance
Facultative
Facultative/obligatory
Fast as can, according to the custom of the port
Factoring is the discounting of a foreign account receivable that does not involve a draft. The exporter transfers title to its foreign accounts receivable to a factoring house for cash at a discount from the face value. Factoring is often done without recourse to the exporter. Export factoring allows an exporter to ship on open account, by which goods are shipped without guarantee of payment (that is, a letter of credit). The factor assumes financial ability of the customer to pay and handles collections on the receivables. See: Factoring House. Forfaiting.
Certain companies which purchase export receivables (e.g., the invoices to foreign buyers) at a discounted price, usually about two to four percent less than their face value.
A stern trawler fitted out with a factory for refrigerating, processing and possibly canning
The reference against which U.S. purchase prices of imported merchandise are compared during an antidumping investigation. Generally expressed as the weighted average of the exporter's domestic market prices, or prices of exports to third countries during the period of investigation. In some cases fair value is the constructed value. Constructed value is used if there are no, or virtually no, home market or third country sales or if the number of such sales made at prices below the cost of production is so great that remaining sales above the cost of production provide an inadequate basis for comparison. See: Tariff Act of 1930.
Misrepresenting freight or weight on shipping documents.
Fast track procedures for approval of trade agreements were included by Congress in trade legislation in 1974, in 1979, and again in the 1988 Trade Act. Fast track provides two guarantees essential to the successful negotiation of trade agreements: (1) a vote on implementing legislation within a fixed period of time, and (2) a vote, up or down, with no amendments to that legislation. Provisions in the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988 include that the foreign country request negotiation of an FTA and that the President give the Congress a 60-legislative-day notice of intent to negotiate an FTA. During the 60-legislative-day period, either committee can disapprove fast track authority by a majority vote. Disapproval would likely end the possibility of FTA negotiations. The 60-legislative-days can translate into five to ten months of calendar time, depending on the Congressional schedule. Formal negotiations would begin following this 60-day Congressional consideration period
See: Trade and Development Agency
FGIS certifies that grain produced in the United States meets the official United States Standards for Grain. As part of its responsibilities, FGIS works with international traders. Before any grain can be exported from the United States, it must first be certified by FGIS as having met a specific standard. FGIS staff explain the national inspection system, U.S. grain standards, and commodity inspection programs; conduct briefings and tours; assess foreign inspection and weighing techniques; and respond to inquiries about quality and quantity of U.S. grain exports. FGIS agencies in eight states are delegated authority to perform official export services at ports.
The FMC is an independent agencys which regulates oceanborne transportation in the foreign commerce and in the domestic offshore trade of the United States.
Cargo to/from regional ports are transferred to/from a central hub port for a long-haul ocean voyage.
A short-sea vessel which transfers cargo between a central hub port and smaller spoke ports.
Fire Fighting
The semi-circular steel coupling device mounted on a tractor which engages and locks with a chassis semi-trailer.
The International Trade Administration makes a final determination after the investigation of sales at less than fair value and the receipt of comments from interested parties. This determination usually is made within 75 days after the date a preliminary determination is made. However, if the preliminary determination was affirmative, the exporters who account for a significant proportion of the merchandise under consideration may request, in writing, a postponement of this determination. If the preliminary determination was negative, the petitioner may likewise request a postponement. In neither case can this postponement be more than 135 days after the date of the preliminary determination. If the final determination is affirmative and follows a negative preliminary determination, the matter is referred to the International Trade Commission for a determination of the injury caused or threatened by the sales at less than fair value. (Had the preliminary determination been affirmative, the ITC would have begun its investigation at that time.) Not later than 45 days after the date the International Trade Administration makes an affirmative final determination, in a case where the preliminary determination also was affirmative, the International Trade Commission must render its decision on injury. Where the preliminary determination was negative, the ITC must render a decision not later than 75 days after the affirmative final determination. A negative final determination by the Assistant Secretary for Import Administration terminates an antidumping investigation.
The Fines, Penalties, and Forfeitures System, FPFS, a part of Customs' Automated Commercial System, is used to assess, control, and process penalties resulting from violations of law or Customs regulations. FPFS provides retrieval of case information for monitoring case status.
A vessel equipped for the primary function of fighting fires
A capacity measurement equal to one-fourth of a barrel.
A refrigerated cargo vessel for the carriage of fish at a single temperature
A vessel fitted out with a factory for refrigerating, processing and possibly canning. The catch is from other vessels
A vessel for the support of fish farming activities
A non propelled barge for the storage of live fish
A vessel for the protection of fish stocks and fishing vessels
A vessel for research into fish stocks and conservation. The vessel may catch fish for scientific purposes
A vessel for supporting fishing activities
A vessel for catching fish whose method is other than trawling. Includes long liners, purse seiners etc
A vessel used for fishing. Not designed for operation in open sea
Those countries as defined under Section 5(k) of the Export Administration Act. Such countries are eligible for some or all of the same treatment as CoCom countries in relation to export control requirements if those countries maintain comparable export control programs. See: Coordinating Committee on Multilateral Export Controls.
Costs that do not vary with the level of activity. Some fixed costs continue even if no cargo is carried. Terminal leases, rent and property taxes are fixed costs.
A ship registered under the flag of a nation which offers conveniences in the areas of taxes, crew, and safety requirements.
The lowest temperature at which a liquid gives off sufficient vapour to form a flammable mixture near the surface of the liquid.
A rail car without a roof and walls.
A container with no sides and frame members at the front and rear. Container can be loaded from the sides and top.
A submersible unit constructed and fitted out to dry dock ships whilst afloat.
FOMEX (the Export Fund), is a trust established by the Mexican government to increase employment and to increase the balance of payments and the international reserve levels. FOMEX uses loans and loan guarantees to help exporters of manufactured goods and services and importers who wish to substitute imports with nationally produced goods.
See: Food for Peace
The Food for Progress program, established by the 1985 Farm Bill, is carried out by the Department of Agriculture, using the authority of either Public Law 480 or Section 416 of the Agricultural Act of 1949. The program donates surplus government-owned agricultural commodities or Title I (of P.L. 480) funds to needy countries for development and agricultural reform purposes. Food for Progress operates in a less restrictive manner than either P.L. 480 or Section 416. See: Food for Peace Section 416
The FAO was established in 1945, as a specialized agency of the United Nations to combat hunger and malnutrition. The FAO serves as a coordinating body between government representatives, scientific groups, and non-governmental organizations to carry out development programs relating to food and agriculture. Headquarters are in Rome, Italy.
The Food for Peace program (also known as P.L. 480), originally established by the 1954 Agricultural Trade and Development Act, is the primary means by which the U.S. provides foreign food assistance. The three primary objectives of the program are to: (a) expand U.S. agricultural exports, (b) provide humanitarian relief, and (c) aid the economic development of developing countries. Commodities are transferred in two ways: - By government-to-government long-term concessional financing or for local currencies in which priority is given to developing countries which demonstrate the greatest need for food, are undertaking measures to improve their food security and agricultural development, and are potential commercial markets for U.S. agricultural commodities -- Title I, administered by the Department of Agriculture; and - Donations or grants, including: + Donations of food commodities for distribution in meeting either emergency conditions or international cooperative non-emergency assistance -- Title II, administered by AID; and + Providing food assistance on a grant basis to least developed countries through government-to-government agreements. Proceeds derived from sales on the local market may be used to support a variety of economic development and related activities in the recipient countries -- Title III, administered by AID. This assistance is sometimes known as Food For Development. See: Food for Progress Section 416
The title of a common clause in contracts, exempting the parties for non-fulfillment of their obligations as a result of conditions beyond their control, such as earthquakes, floods or war.
The direction on a vessel parallel to the center line
FAZ is a term adopted by Japan for its form of free trade zone. FAZs are the outgrowth of Japan's effort to improve its trade balance and to stimulate regional economic areas. FAZs are intended to be established around airports and seaports, with facilities (warehouses, cargo-sorting, distribution, import processing, wholesale, design-in centers, exhibition halls) on an international scale. The FAZ concept -- which emphasizes imports rather than the processing and job creation -- extends from the July 1992 Law on Extraordinary Measures for the Promotion of Imports and the Facilitation of Foreign Direct Investment in Japan. Passage of the law is linked to the Structural Impediments Initiative (SII). See: Free Trade Zones Structural Impediments Initiative.
The FAAS program is the mechanism used by the Department of State (DOS) to define the additional costs it incurs for providing services necessary to support the overseas operations of agencies external to DOS. Under FAAS, DOS funds core costs required for its own programs while the supported agencies fund incremental costs of their service requirements. These latter costs are shared through the application of workload factors which measure agency participation in the services.
A foreign affiliate of a foreign parent is, with reference to a given U.S. affiliate, any member of the affiliated foreign group owning the U.S. affiliate that is not a foreign parent of the U.S. affiliate.
The FAS, an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, collects foreign market information regarding agricultural production and trade, develops foreign markets for U.S. agricultural products, and represents U.S. agricultural interests overseas and in multilateral fora. FAS maintains over 60 counselor and attache posts, located in U.S. embassies and consulates, and about fifteen Agricultural Trade Offices (ATOs) which provide market development and trade promotion services in overseas locations. FAS also administers USDA's export credit and concessional sales programs. FAS headquarters are located in Washington, D.C.
The Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control, OFAC, administers sanctions programs involving specific countries and restricts the involvement of U.S. persons in third country strategic exports.
This Act replaced the Support for East European Democracy (SEED) Act. The Foreign Assistance Act allows support to 26 countries, including all East European nations and most of the Soviet republics, but not to the Soviet Union itself.
The Bureau of Export Administration conducts reviews to determine the foreign availability of selected commodities or technology subject to export control. The reviews use four criteria to determine foreign availability: comparable quality, availability-in-fact, foreign source, and adequacy of available quantities that would render continuation of the U.S. control ineffective in meeting its intended purpose. A positive determination of foreign availability means that a non-U.S. origin item of comparable quality may be obtained by one or more proscribed countries in quantities sufficient to satisfy their needs so that U.S. exports of such item would not make a significant contribution to the military potential of such countries. A positive determination may result in the decontrol of a U.S. product that has been under export control, or the approval of an export license. However, the control may be maintained if the President invokes the national security override provision of the Act. Beginning with the 1977 amendments to the Export Administration Act, the Congress directed that products with foreign availability be identified and decontrolled unless essential to national security. In January 1983, a program to assess the foreign availability of specific products was established within the Office of Export Administration, now the Bureau of Export Administration, or BXA. Further, 1985 amendments to the Act directed that an Office of Foreign Availability be created.
The FBSEA, passed in 1991, increased the Federal Reserve's supervisory powers over foreign banks by: (a) requiring Federal Reserve review before a foreign bank enters or expands in the United States; (b) tightening the standards for entry and expansion that must be considered by the Federal Reserve; (c) requiring Federal Reserve Board approval of U.S. representative offices of foreign banks; and (d) requiring that each U.S. office of a foreign bank be examined at least once a year by the Federal Reserve. See: International Banking Act.
A sales (or other) office maintained in a foreign country and staffed by direct employees of the exporter.
FBIS and the Joint Publication Research Service (JPRS) publish political, military, economic, environmental, and sociological new, commentary, and other information, and scientific and technical data reports. All FBIS and JPRS information is obtained from foreign radio and television broadcasts, news agency transmissions, newspapers, books, and periodicals.
The Foreign Buyer Program, FBP, is a joint industry-International Trade Administration program to assist exporters in meeting qualified foreign purchasers for their product or service at trade shows held in the United States. ITA selects leading U.S. trade shows in industries with high export potential. Each show selected for the FBP receives promotion through overseas mailings, U.S. embassy and regional commercial newsletters, and other promotional techniques. ITA trade specialists counsel participating U.S. exhibitors.
The FCSC is authorized to determine claims of United States nationals for loss of property in specific foreign countries. These losses have occurred either as a result of nationalization of property by foreign governments or from damage and loss of property as a result of military operations in specific conflicts. The Commission is an independent quasi-judicial agency within the Justice Department.
The FCPA prohibits U.S. individuals, companies and direct foreign subsidiaries of U.S. companies from offering, promising, or paying anything of value to any foreign government official in order to obtain or retain business.
Foreign direct investment in the United States is the ownership or control, directly or indirectly, by a single foreign person (an individual, or related group of individuals, company, or government) of 10 percent or more of the voting securities of an incorporated U.S. business enterprise or an equivalent interest in an unincorporated U.S. business enterprise, including real property. Such a business is referred to as a U.S. affiliate of a foreign direct investor. See: Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States Foreign Person Portfolio Investment.
FORDTIS is a classified information system that contains an automated database of munition and dual-use export licenses. The system is maintained by the Defense Department's Defense Technology Security Administration. See: Defense Technology Security Administration Export Control Automated Support System.
FETs are reports prepared by U.S. embassies abroad to describe foreign country economic and commercial trends and trade and investment climates. The reports describe current economic conditions; provide updates on the principal factors influencing developments and the possible impacts on American exports; review newly announced foreign government policies as well as consumption, investment, and foreign debt trends.
A foreign exchange option is an arrangement in which a purchaser and a seller of foreign currencies agree on a specific rate of exchange at a future date. The purchaser may choose to exercise or pass up the option -- thus setting a limit on unfavorable exchange rates. The seller is given a fee for tendering the option. Purchasers may exercise the option at any time -- in the European option, currency exchange is made on the originally established date; in the American option, exchange is made within a couple of days of the purchaser exercising the option. See: Forward Exchange Rate
Exports of foreign merchandise (re-exports), consist of commodities of foreign origin which have entered the United States for consumption or into Customs bonded warehouses or U.S. Foreign Trade Zones, and which, at the time of exportation, are in substantially the same condition as when imported
A reference to a carrier not registered in the United States that flies the American flag. The term applies to air and sea transportation.
A corporation carrying on the business of forwarding who is not a shipper or consignee. The foreign freight forwarder receives compensation from the shipper for preparing documents and arranging various transactions related to the international distribution of goods. Also, a brokerage fee may be paid to the forwarder from steamship lines if the forwarder performs at least two of the following services: (1) coordination of the movement of the cargo to shipside; (2) preparation and processing of the Ocean Bill of Lading; (3) preparation and processing of dock receipts or delivery orders; (4) preparation and processing of consular documents or export declarations; (5) payment of the ocean freight charges on shipments
A foreign independent tour, FIT, is a prepaid travel arrangement, tailored to meet a traveler's specific wishes
See: Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States Foreign Direct Investment in the United States Net Foreign Investment.
FIAS was established in 1986 as a joint facility of the International Finance Corporation and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency to help developing countries increase the inflow of foreign investment. The Service provides advice at the request of member governments on formulating a general framework of legal, accounting, and regulatory policies and institutions and procedures to attract and assess investment interest.
FMD (also known as the Cooperator Program) is one of several Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs designed to encourage development, maintenance and expansion of commercial export markets for U.S. agricultural commodities and products. Under FMD, USDA considers proposals with preference given to activities promising early results and lasting benefits in commercial export markets. Funds may be used for trade servicing, consumer promotion, market research, and to provide technical assistance to actual or potential foreign purchasers. While agreements under the Cooperator Program may extend from one to five years, types of activities and amounts of funds are annually negotiated between the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) and participants (cooperators) and authorized in annual marketing plans. The marketing plans must set forth the objectives and describe the specific project in detail. The amount of funding provided by FAS varies, dependent upon circumstances and whether the activities are characterized as generic or market promotion.
See: Industry Subsector Analysis.
The price at which merchandise is sold, or offered for sale, in the principal markets of the country from which it is exported. If information on foreign home market sales is not useful, the foreign market value is based on prices of exports to third countries or constructed value. Adjustments for quantities sold, circumstances of sales, and differences in the merchandise can be made to those prices to ensure a proper comparison with the prices of goods exported to the United States. See: Tariff Act of 1930
See: Conventional Arms Transfer
The first foreign person or entity outside the United States in an affiliate's ownership chain that has direct investment in the affiliate. The foreign parent consists only of the first person or entity outside the United States in the affiliate's ownership chain; all other affiliated foreign persons are excluded.
A foreign parent group, FPG, consists of: (1) the foreign parent, (2) any foreign person or entity, proceeding up the foreign parent's ownership chain, that owns more than 50 percent of the party below it, up to and including the ultimate beneficial owner (UBO), and (3) any foreign person or entity, proceeding down the ownership chain(s) of each of these members, that is owned more than 50 percent by the party above it. A particular U.S. affiliate may have several ownership chains above it, if it is owned at least 10 percent by more than one foreign party. In such cases, the affiliate may have more than one foreign parent, UBO, and/or foreign parent group
A foreign person is any person resident outside the United States or subject to the jurisdiction of a country other than the United States. Person is any individual, branch, partnership, association, associated group, estate, trust, corporation, or other organization (whether or not organized under the laws of any State), and any government (including a foreign government, the U.S. Government, a State or local government, and any agency, corporation, financial institution, or other entity or instrumentality thereof, including a government sponsored agency.) See: Foreign Parent Foreign Parent Group U.S. Affiliate
An agent residing in a foreign country who acts as a salesman for a domestic manufacturer.
An FSC is a corporation created to secure U.S. tax exemption on a portion of earnings derived from the sale of U.S. products in foreign markets. To qualify for special tax treatment, an FSC must be a foreign corporation, maintain an office outside the U.S. territory, maintain a summary of its permanent books of account at the foreign office, and have at least one director resident outside of the U.S. There are some variations:- Small FSCs are the same as FSCs, except that small FSCs must file an election with the IRS, and have their tax exemption limited to the income generated by $5 million or less in gross export revenues. Small FSCs do not have to meet foreign managment or foreign economic process requirements but must fulfill other requirements. - Shared FSCs are FSCs which are shared by 25 or fewer unrelated exporter shareholders for the purpose of reducing costs while obtaining the full tax benefits of an FSC.
The Foreign Service supports the President and the Secretary of State in pursuing America's foreign policy objectives. Foreign service functions include: representing U.S. interests; operating U.S. overseas missions; assisting Americans abroad; public diplomacy and reporting; communicating and negotiating political, economic, consular, administrative, cultural, and commercial affairs. The Foreign Service comprises officers from the Departments of State, Commerce, and Agriculture and the United States Information Service. See: Commercial Officers Economic Officers
FSI was founded in 1946 to train U.S. foreign and civil service officials. Training courses cover administrative, consular, economic, commercial, and political work, foreign languages, and diplomatic life overseas
Host-country national employed by a U.S. mission overseas.
FTD is the division in the Commerce Department's Census Bureau which compiles and disseminates official U.S. import and export statistics. The division also maintains international commodity classification systems and conducts methods research, including international comparability of trade statistics.
A free port in a country divorced from Customs authority but under government control. Merchandise, except that which is prohibited, may be stored in the zone without being subject to import duty regulations.
A form declaring goods which are brought duty-free into a Foreign Trade Zone for further processing or storage and subsequent exportation and/or consumption.
FTZs are the U.S. form of free trade zones. These zones are restricted-access sites in or near ports of entry, that operate under public utility principles to create and maintain employment by encouraging operations in the U.S. which might otherwise have been carried on abroad. Goods brought into a zone for a bona fide Customs reason are exempt from state and local ad valorem tax. The zones are licensed by the Commerce Department's Foreign-Trade Zones Board and operate under the supervision of the Customs Service. Quota restrictions do not normally apply to foreign goods stored in zones, but the Board can limit or deny zone use in specific cases on public interest grounds. Domestic goods moved into a zone for export may be considered exported upon entering the zone for purposes of excise tax rebates and drawback. A foreign trade subzone is a non-contiguous zone site located at a manufacturing plant. See: Free Trade Zones
The foreign traders index is the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service headquarters compilation of overseas contact files, intended for use by domestic businesses. The FTI includes background information on foreign companies, address, contact person, sales figures, size of company, and products by SIC code
The FCO, equivalent to the U.S. State Department, is Britain's Diplomatic Service, with posts in about 170 countries. Among its functions, the FCO supports overseas trade and export promotion services in cooperation with Britain's Department of Trade and Industry.
A business in the United States in which there is sufficient foreign investment to be classified as direct foreign investment. To determine fully the foreign owners of a U.S. affiliate, three entities must be identified: the foreign parent, the ultimate beneficial owner, and the foreign parent group. All these entities are persons in the broad sense: thus, they may be individuals; business enterprises; governments; religious, charitable, and other nonprofit organizations; estates and trusts; and associated groups. A U.S. affiliate may have an ultimate beneficial owner (UBO) that is not the immediate foreign parent; moreover, the affiliate may have several ownership chains above it, if it is owned at least 10 percent by more than one foreign person. In such cases, the affiliate may have more than one foreign parent, UBO, and/or foreign parent group. See: Foreign Parent Foreign Parent Group.
Forfaiting is a form of supplier credit in which an exporter surrenders possession of export receivables, which are usually guaranteed by a bank in the importer's country, by selling them at a discount to a forfaiter in exchange for cash. These instruments may also carry the guarantee of the foreign government. In a typical forfaiting transaction, an exporter approaches a forfaiter before completing a transaction's structure. Once the forfaiter commits to the deal and sets the discount rate, the exporter can incorporate the discount into the selling price. Forfaiters usually work with bills of exchange or promissory notes, which are unconditional and easily transferable debt instruments that can be sold on the secondary market. Three primary differences between export factoring and forfaiting are:- Factors usually want access to a large percentage of an exporter's business, while most forfaiters will work on a one-shot basis; -Forfaiters generally work with medium and long-term receivables (180 days to seven years), while factors work with short-term receivables (up to 180 days). Payment terms usually reflect the type of product involved: forfaiters usually work with capital goods, commodities, and large projects; factors work mostly with consumer goods. - Most factors do not have strong capabilities in developing regions of the world where legal and financial frameworks are inadequate and credit informaiotn is not readily available through affiliate factors. However, since forfaiters usually require a bank guarantee, most are willing to work with receivables from these countries. See: Factoring.
A machine used to pick up and move goods loaded on pallets or skids.
The FSU is a collective reference to republics comprising the former Soviet Union. The term has been used both including and excluding the Baltic republics (Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania); the term includes the other twelve republics: Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Kirgizstan, and Georgia
See: Twenty-Foot Equivalent Unit.
A forward exchange rate is the price set between two parties for delivery of a foreign currency on an agreed future date. If that date will occur within a week, the agreement is called a spot transaction; if the date is more than a week in the future, the arrangement is called a forward exchange transaction. See: Foreign Exchange Option.
See Brokerage.
A receipt for goods issued by a carrier with an indication that the goods were damaged when received. Compare Clean Bill of Lading.
A pallet designed so that the forks of a fork lift truck can be inserted from all four sides. See Fork lift.
Fresh water
Tokyo Round: - The Tokyo Round called for consideration to be given to improvements in the international framework for the conduct of world trade. Four separate agreements make up what is known as the framework agreement. They concern: (1) differential and more favorable treatment for, and reciprocity and fuller participation by, developing countries in the international framework for trade; (2) trade measures taken for balance of payments purposes; (3) safeguard actions for development purposes; and (4) an understanding on notification, consultation, dispute settlement, and surveillance in the GATT.- Enterprise for the Americas Initiative: Under the umbrella of the Enterprise for the Americas Initiative the United States and interested Western hemisphere countries are negotiating bilateral framework agreements which establish agreed upon stages for eliminating counter-productive barriers to trade and investment. They also provide a forum for bilateral dispute settlement. 'Generally, the bilateral framework agreements contain similar objectives. They are based on a statement of agreed principles regarding the benefits of open trade and investment, increased importance of services to economies, the need for adequate intellectual property rights protection, the importance of observing and promoting internationally-recognized worker rights, and the desirability of resolving trade and investment problems expeditiously. The parties establish a Council on Trade and Investment to monitor trade and investment relations, hold consultations on specific trade and investment matters of interest to both sides, and work toward removing impediments to trade and investment flows. Framework agreements do not bind signatories to implement specific trade liberalization measures
The Franc Zone (French: Zone Franc, ZF) is a monetary union among countries whose currencies are linked to the French franc at a fixed rate of exchange: Benin, Burkina, the Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, France, Gabon, Cote d'Ivoire, Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Togo. These countries have agreed to hold their reserves primarily in French francs and to transact exchanges on the Paris market. The zone was established in May 1951 under the auspices of a French government agency: Comite Monetaire de ZF.
The seller must deliver the goods to a pier and place them within reach of the ship's loading equipment. The buyer arranges ship space and informs the seller when and where the goods are to be placed.
The seller must deliver the goods to a pier and place them within reach of the ship's loading equipment. See Terms of Sale.
Free Alongside Ship, FAS, at a named port of export. Under FAS, the seller quotes a price for the goods that includes charges for delivery of the goods alongside a vessel at the port of departure. The seller handles the cost of unloading and wharfage; loading, ocean transportation, and insurance are left to the buyer. FAS is also a method of export and import valuation.
An astray shipment (a lost shipment that is found) sent to its proper destination without additional charge.
This term replaces the former FOB named inland port to designate the seller's responsibility for the cost of loading goods at the named shipping point. It may be used for multimodal transport, container stations, and any mode of transport, including air
FREE of any EXtra INSurance (Owners)
A pricing term indicating that the charterer of a vessel is responsible for the cost of loading goods onto the vessel.
Cost of loading and unloading a vessel is borne by the charterer.
A pricing term indicating that the charterer of a vessel is responsible for the cost of loading and unloading goods from the vessel.
Cost of loading and unloading a vessel is borne by the charterer/shipper.
Charterer pays for cost of FIOST loading/discharging cargo, including stowage and trimming.
A list of goods that have been designated as free from import duties or import port licensing requirements in a given country
An insurance clause providing that loss is not insured if due to capture, seizure, confiscation and like actions, whether legal or not, or from such acts as piracy, civil war, rebellion and civil strife.
A marine insurance clause providing that partial loss or damage is not insured. American condition (F.P.A.A.C.) -- Partial loss not insured unless caused by the vessel being sunk, stranded, burned, on fire, or in collision. English conditions (F.P.A.E.C.) -- Partial loss not insured unless a result of the vessel being sunk, stranded, burned, on fire, or in collision.
A pricing term indicating that the quoted prices includes the cost of unloading the goods from the vessel.
Cost of unloading a vessel is borne by the charterer.
A restricted area at a seaport for the handling of duty-exempted import goods. Also called a Foreign Trade Zone.Separate area within a port where goods which have been imported may be held without duty payment.
Free ports are a form of free trade zone that usually encompass an entire port area (examples include Hong Kong and Singapore). See: Free Trade Zones
The U.S. government does not issue certificates of free sale. However, the Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, will issue, upon request, a letter of comment to the U.S. manufacturers whose products are subject to the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act or other acts administered by the agency. The letter can take the place of the certificate.
That amount of time that a carrier's equipment may be used without incurring additional charges. (See Storage, Demurrage or Per Diem.)
An FTA is an arrangement which establishes unimpeded exchange and flow of goods and services between trading partners regardless of national borders. An FTA does not (as opposed to a common market) address labor mobility across borders, common currencies or uniform standards or other common policies such as taxes. Member countries of a free trade area apply their individual tariff rates to countries outside the free trade area
A free trade area is a cooperative arrangement among two or more nations, pursuant to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, whereby trade barriers are removed among the members. The arrangement generally includes a customs union with a common external tariff, although there are exceptions in which members maintain individually separate tariff schedules for external countries
A group of two or more countries that have eliminated tariff barriers among themselves while not applying a uniform external tariff on imports ports from non-participating countries. The European Free Trade Association is the best known example of such an arrangement.
A port designated by the government of a country for duty-free entry of any non-prohibited goods. Merchandise may be stored, displayed, used for manufacturing, etc., within the zone and re-exported without duties. An area to which goods may be imported for processing and subsequent export on duty-free basis.
Free Trade Zones (sometimes called customs free zones or duty free zones) is a generic term referring to special commercial and industrial areas at which special customs procedures allow the importation of foreign merchandise (including raw materials, components, and finished goods) without the requirement that duties be paid immediately. If the merchandise is later exported, duty free treatment is given to reexports. The zones are usually located in or near ports of entry. Merchandise brought into these zones may be stored, exhibited, assembled, processed or used in manufacture prior to reexport or entry into the national customs territory. When manufacturing activity occurs in free trade zones, it usually involves a combination of foreign and domestic merchandise, and usually requires special governmental authority. Types of free trade zones include: foreign trade zones (and foreign trade subzones); free ports; and transit zones. See: Drawback Economic Zones Export Processing Zones Foreign Access Zones Foreign Trade Zones Free Ports Free Trade Area Transit Zones
F.P.A., a type of marine insurance, is the minimum coverage in use and covers total and partial losses if the ship carrying an exporter's goods is involved in a collision or fire, or is stranded or sunk. See: Marine Cargo Insurance.
Free On Board (FOB) at a named port of export. The seller quotes the buyer a price that covers all costs up to and including delivery of goods aboard a vessel at a port. FOB is also a method of export valuation.
Shipped under a rate that includes costs of delivery to and the loading onto a carrier at a specified point.
See Terms of Sale.
These terms are synonymous, since the word truck relates to the railway wagons. The terms should only be used then the goods are to be carried by rail.
A modern equivalent of FAS used in FCA intermeddle transport where goods are transferred at a nominated forwarder premises, depot or terminal but not actually put on board vessel.
The FSA, signed into law in October 1992, authorizes a range of programs to support free market and democratic reforms in Russia, Ukraine, Armenia, and other states of the former Soviet Union.
Refers to either the cargo carried or the charges assessed for carriage of the cargo.
FAK is a shipping classification. Goods classified FAK are usually charged higher rates than those marked with a specific classification and are frequently in a container which includes various classes of cargo.
A contract of carriage between a shipper and forwarder (who is usually a NVOCC); a non-negotiable document.
A document issued by the carrier based on the bill of lading and other information; used to account for a shipment operationally, statistically, and financially. An Invoice.
... paid to - Like C & F, Freight/Carriage paid to ... means that the seller pays the freight for the carriage of the goods to the named destination. However, the risk of loss of or damage to the goods, as well as of any cost increases, is transferred from the seller to the buyer when the goods have been delivered into the custody of the first carrier and not at the ship's rail. The term can be used for all modes of transport including multi-modal operations and container or roll on-roll off traffic by trailer and ferries. When the seller has to furnish a bill of lading, waybill or carrier's receipt, he duly fulfills this obligation by presenting such a document issued by the person with whom he has contracted for carriage to the named destination
An independent business which handles export shipments for compensation. At the request of the shipper, the forwarder makes the actual arrangements and provides the necessary services for expediting the shipment to its overseas destination. The forwarder takes care of all documentation needed to move the shipment from origin to destination, making up and assembling the necessary documentation for submission to the bank in the exporter's name. The forwarder arranges for cargo insurance, makes the necessary overseas communications, and advises the shipper on overseas requirements of marking and labeling. The forwarder operates on a fee basis paid by the exporter and often receives an additional percentage of the freight charge from the common carrier. An export freight forwarder must be licensed by the Federal Maritime Commission to handle ocean freight and by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to handle air freight. An ocean freight forwarder dispatches shipments from the United States via common carriers, books or arranges space for the shipments, and handles the shipping documentation
See Ships.
A combat vessel, usually of 4,000 to 9,000 displacement tons, that is larger than a destroyer and smaller than a cruiser, used primarily for escort duty
Freight
A tanker for the bulk carriage of fruit juice concentrate in insulated tanks
Fathom
Ships equipped with permanent container cells, with little or no space for other types of cargo.
Grain capacity
Group of Ten
Group of Twenty-Four
Group of Five
Group of seven: the finance ministers and central bankers of seven leading industrial nations
Group of Seventy-Seven
General License - COCOM
General License - Destination
Gibraltar - Hamburg range
General License - Non-Naval Reserve
General License - Temporary Export
General Average
General Average
Gross arrived damaged value
Grain & Feed Trade Assoc
Gross arrived sound value
General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade
Great Britain
Government Form (chartering)
Germanischer Lloyd
Greenwich Mean Time
Gross net earned premium income
Gross original premium
Good safety
Grain / bale capacity
General Average
General Arrangement Plan
Gallon
A group of stevedores, usually four to five members, with a supervisor assigned to a hold or portion of the vessel being loaded or unloaded.
A narrow portable platform used as a passage, by persons entering or leaving a vessel moored alongside a pier or quay.
Specially designed for the transport of condensed (liquefied) gases. The most important gases are: ammonia, ethylene, LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas), which consists mainly of methane, and is cooled to a temperature of minus 163 degrees Celcius, and LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) such as butane and propane.
Good And Safe (Port) Both ENDs
Abbreviation for General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade. A multilateral treaty to help reduce trade barriers between the signatory countries and to promote trade through tariff concessions. The World Trade Organization (WTO) superseded GATT in 1994.
Gross ballast bonus
Abbreviation for Government Bill of Lading.
Great circle
General Conditions
Good Day
GDynia/GDansk
Good Day
Abbreviation for General Department Store Merchandise. A classification of commodities that includes goods generally shipped by mass-merchandise companies. This commodity structure occurs only in service contracts.
Good Day
General cargo
General Conditions
Gencon'94 charter party
A non-bulk oil cargo composed of miscellaneous goods.
Any of various export licenses covering export commodities for which validated export licenses are not required.
A government contract warehouse for the storage of cargoes left unclaimed for a designated number of days after availability. Unclaimed cargoes may later be auctioned publicly.
GENeralS or general cargo
Geographical
In geographical rotation
In geographical rotation
Ports in order of calling
Geographical Rotation
Gibraltar
Germanischer LLoyd
Gearless
Gearless
Global Maritime Distress and Safety System
Greenwich mean time
Grain capacity
General Conditions
Gross National Product: GDP plus the net income accruing from foreign sources.
German North Sea
Gas oil
Gulf of Mexico
Gross operating profit
Cargo owned by or subsidized by the Federal Government.
General purpose
Global Positioning System
Grain capacity
Gross Weight.
Grain / bale capacity
Cubic capacity in grain
Geared
Ports in the lakes of Canada and/or USA popular for grain shipments. In Canada: Port Arthur and Fort William in Lake Superior; Hamilton, Kingston, Toronto and Prescott in Lake Ontario. In USA: Chicago, Milwaukee in Lake Michigan; Duluth and Superior in Lake Superior and Toledo in Lake Erie.
Cargo ship developed to carry raw materials and manufactured goods on the Great Lakes. Most carry bulk cargoes of grain, iron ore, or coal.
Abbreviation for General Rate Increase. Used to describe an across-the-board tariff rate increase implemented by conference members and applied to base rates
Gross tonnage is the basis on which manning rules and safety regulations are applied, and registration fees are reckoned. Port fees are also often reckoned on the basis of GT and NT. GT and NT are defined according to formulas which take account, among other things, of the volume of the vessel's enclosed spaces (GT) and the volume of its holds (NT).
Freight money collected or to be collected without calculating the expenses relating to the running cost of the ship for the voyage undertaken.
A common measurement of the internal volume of a ship with certain spaces excluded. One ton equals 100 cubic feet; the total of all the enclosed spaces within a ship expressed in tons each of which is equivalent to 100 cubic feet.
Deliberate contact by a ship with the bottom while she is moored or anchored as a result of the water level dropping.
Geographic Response Plan (generally appended to ACPs)
Geographic Response Strategies (generally appended to ACPs/GRPs)
Gross register tonnage
Good Safe Berth
Generalized System of Preferences
Good safe port berth
Ports of Genoa, Savona, Spezia or Leghorn
Ports of Genoa, Savona, Spezia, Leghorn, Naples, Civetta or Vecchia
Gross Standard Volume
Gross tonnage
General License - Technical Data Publicly Available
General License - Technical Data Restricted by Written, Assurance
General License - Technical Data Restricted without, Written Assurance
Guarantee
Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Technische Zusammenarbeit
Abbreviation for Gross Vehicle Weight. The combined total weight of a vehicle and its container, inclusive of prime mover.
The Organization (French: Organisation pour la Mise en Valeur du Fleuve Gambie, OMVG) promotes the construction of dams for hydroelectric and irrigation purposes. The organization was established in June 1978; headquarters are in Dakar, Senegal. Members include: the Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, and Senegal.
A specialised tanker built to comply with Marpol 73/78 Annex 1 and the appropriate IMO Code for Vessels Carrying Liquefied Gases in bulk.
Industry-related: A point at which freight moving from one territory to another is interchanged between transportation lines.
A barge without means of independent propulsion which carries break bulk cargoes, may be single or multi decked.
An self propelled barge with a single deck for the carriage of various types of dry cargo
Breakbulk freighters, car carriers, cattle carriers, pallet carriers and timber carriers.
A single or multi deck cargo vessel for the carriage of various types of dry cargo. Single deck vessels will typically have box shaped holds. Cargo is loaded and unloaded through weather deck hatches
A general cargo ship with the additional capability to be loaded and unloaded by ro-ro access to a limited portion of the cargo space
A vessel designed for the transportation of Break Bulk Cargoes, May Be Single Or Multi Decked. Not designed for operation in open sea.
A general cargo ship with accommodation for the carriage of more than 12 passengers
A vessel designed for the transportation of dry cargo and with capacity for carriage of passengers. Not designed for operation in open sea
A general cargo ship fitted with tanks for the additional carriage of liquid cargo
A general cargo ship with reversible hatch covers; one side is flush and the other is fitted with baffles for use with liquid cargoes. Containers can be carried on the hatch covers in dry cargo mode
When U.S. Customs orders shipments without entries to be kept in their custody in a bonded warehouse.
A portable generator which can be attached to a refrigerated container to power the refrigeration unit during transit.
A tanker for the bulk carriage of glue
In the Far East, a warehouse where goods are stored and delivered.
The front rails of the chassis that raise above the plane of the chassis and engage in the tunnel of a container leading to the connection to tractor.
A bill of lading issued by the U.S. government.
A vessel equipped to obtain material from the sea bed by use of a grab or backhoe. The material may be carried on board, transferred to other vessels, pumped ashore or deposited elsewhere using a spray
A non propelled dredger pontoon fitted with a system of grabs
A non propelled pontoon used for the purpose of operating a grain elevator
Terms under which the carrier has to arrange and pay for cargo handling
Applies to vessels, not to cargo, (0.2+0.02 log10V) where V is the volume in cubic meters of all enclosed spaces on the vessel.
Entire weight of goods, packaging and freight car or container, ready for shipment. Generally, 80,000 pounds maximum container, cargo and tractor for highway transport.
A consolidation service, putting small shipments into containers for shipment
Guaranteed
The GCC, established in May 1981, seeks to strengthen cooperation (in areas such as agriculture, industry, investment, security, and trade) among its six members: Bahrain, Kuwait, Quatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. The GCC, created in response to the outbreach of the Iran-Iraq war, established the Gulf Standards Organization in November 1982 and the Gulf Investment Corporation in 1984. The presidency of the GCC rotates yearly among members. Council headquarters are in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Gyro Compass
Hull and Machinery
Hull and Machinery
Hull and machinery
Havre, Antwerp or Dunkirk Harbor
Ports between and inclusive of Le Havre and Hamburg
Horse-power nominal
Hellenic Shipbrokers Association
Heating, sweating and spontaneous combustion
Half-time survey
Heavy weather damage
High water mark
High water ordinary spring tides
Hatch cover; Hold cleaning
Havre to Hamburg
Hague Visby Rules
Hatch
Various local charges against all seagoing vessels entering a harbor, to cover maintenance of channel depths, buoys, lights, etc. all harbors do not necessarily have this charge.
A vessel which has gone aground and is incapable of refloating under her own power.
A currency which is sound enough to be accepted internationally and which is usually fully convertible.
An internationally accepted and uniform description system for classifying goods for customs, statistical, and other purposes.
A key provision of the international trade bill, effective January 1, 1989, that established international uniformity for classifying goods moving in international trade under a single commodity code.
(1893) This U.S. statute refers to merchandise or property transported from or between ports of the United States and foreign ports. Now partially superseded by the US Carriage of Goods by Sea Act of 1936.
Highest astronomical tide
An industry abbreviation for Hazardous Material.
Substance or combination of substances which, because of its quantity, concentration, or physical or chemical characteristics, may cause or significantly pose a substantial hazard to human health or the environment when improperly packaged, stored, transported, or otherwise managed
Any material, whether solid, liquid or containing gaseous material, identified in the Resource & Conservation Recovery Act (RCRA) either by name (listed) or by characteristics
Harmless Bulk Fertilizer
Hot Briquetted Iron
Hydrostatic Balanced Loading (Marpol 13g): A process that may be adopted by single hull tankers if they wish to trade beyond 25 years of age through to final phase-out date at 30 years of age. This method of operation is designed to reduce the environ
Hamburg range
Hatch cover; Hold cleaning
Head charterers
Ho Chi Minh City
Half dispatch
Half dispatch all time saved
Half dispatch all time saved both ends
Half Dispatch Lay Time Saved Both Ends
Half Despatch Working Time Saved
Half dispatch working time saved both ends
A vessel specifically designed to be self-sustaining with heavy lift cranes to handle unusually heavy or outsized cargoes.
Freight too heavy to be handled by regular ship's tackle.
HELicopter DecK
A tiller or a wheel generally installed on the bridge or wheelhouse of a ship to turn the rudder during maneuvering and navigation. It is in fact the steering wheel of the ship.
High Frequency
Haifa
Heavy fuel oil
Heavy grain
Hold hatches
Handy Heavy Dead Weight
Heavy, handy, deadweight scrap
Any container exceeding 102 inches in height.
Hong Kong
Harmless
Heavy motor block
Heavy Melting Scrap
Hazardous Materials Technician
Hazardous and Noxious Substances
Hold
Holds/hatches
Holds/hatches
A general name for the spaces below the main deck designated for stowage of general cargo. A hold on a tanker is usually just forward of #1 cargo tank. Some newer tankers have no hold.
Horsepower of High-Pressure
Hour;Hellenic Register; Here
Hampton Roads
Hot Rolled Coils
Hour(s)
Harmonized System
Harmonized System Committee
High speed diesel
High sulphur fuel oil
Heavy grains, Soyabeans and sorghums
Harmonized Tariff Schedule
Half Time Used To Count
High Technology Working Group
A central location to which traffic from many cities is directed and from which traffic is fed to other areas.
Shell or body of a ship.
Short ton hundredweight = 100 pounds. Long ton hundredweight = 112 pounds.
A term used by steamship lines, agents, or port captains who are appointed to handle all matters in assisting the master of the vessel while in port to obtain such services as bunkering, fresh water, food and supplies, payroll for the crew, doctors appointments, and ship repair.
Have
Heavy viscosity fuel oil
HeaVy Fuel
Harmonized Vessel Particulars Questionnaire
High Water
Heavy, handy, dead weight
Height waterline to top hatch
High water on ordinary neap tides
High water on ordinary spring tides=The opposite to Low Water on Ordinary Spring Tides
A multilateral maritime treaty adopted in 1921 (at The Hague, Netherlands). Standardizes liability of an international carrier under the Ocean B/L. Establishes a legal floor for B/L. See COGSA
An officer who attends to the berthing, etc., of ships in a harbor.
The currency of a nation which may be exchanged for that of another nation without restriction. Sometimes referred to as convertible currency. Hard currency countries typically have sizeable exchange reserves and surpluses in their balance of payments. See: Soft Currency.
The Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (or Harmonized System, HS) is a system for classifying goods in international trade, developed under the auspices of the Customs Cooperation Council. Beginning on January 1, 1989, the new HS numbers replaced previously adhered-to schedules in over 50 countries, including the United States. For the United States, the HS numbers and four additional digits are the numbers that are entered on the actual export and import documents. Any other commodity code classification number (SITC, end-use, etc.) are just rearrangements and transformations of the original HS numbers
A schedule of tariff nomenclature arranged in 6 digit codes allowing all participating countries to classify traded goods on a common basis. Beyond the 6 digit level, countries are free to introduce national distinctions for tariff or statistical purposes. This system will replace the Tariff Schedule of the United States (TSUS). The Harmonized System was implemented by the United States and other major GATT countries after Jan, 1. 1988. Additional countries are expected to be implementing the system subsequent to that date
An international goods classification system for describing cargo in international trade under a single commodity-coding scheme. Developed under the auspices of the Customs Cooperations Council (CCC), an international Customs organization in Brussels, this code is a hierarchically structured product nomenclature containing approximately 5,000 headings and subheadings. It is organized into 99 chapters arranged in 22 sections. Sections encompass an industry (e.g., Section XI, Textiles and Textile Articles); chapters encompass the various materials and products of the industry (e.g., Chapter 50, Silk; Chapter 55, Manmade Staple Fibers; Chapter 57, Carpets). The basic code contains four-digit headings and six-digit subheadings. Many countries add digits for Customs tariff and statistical purposes. In the United States, duty rates will be the eight-digit level; statistical suffixes will be at the ten-digit level. The Harmonized System (HS) is the current U.S. tariff schedule (TSUSA) for imports and is the basis for the ten-digit Schedule B export code.
The opening in the deck of a vessel; gives access to the cargo hold.
Harbour
A hearing which is held at the request of an interested party in antidumping proceedings for the purpose of allowing interested persons to express their views orally to officials of the Commerce Department. The hearing is held prior to the Commerce Department's (International Trade Administration) final determination or before the final results of an administrative review are published. See: Tariff Act of 1930
A cargo vessel able to carry heavy and/or outsized individual cargoes. Cargo may be carried on deck or in holds and may be loaded by crane and/or ro-ro ramps
A heavy load carrier which is semi submersible for the float on loading/unloading of the cargoes
A charge made for lifting articles too heavy to be lifted by a ship's normal tackle.
A combat vessel designed to enable the carriage, take off and landing of helicopters
The Helsinki Accord deals with the rights of people to migrate freely. The tourism portions of the Accord encourage: (a) tourism and tourism studies, (b) preservation of artistic, historic and cultural heritages of signatories, (c) lowering of fees and documentation needed for international travel, and (d) other efforts to encourage cooperation on tourism among countries. The Accord was signed in 1975
Compression of a flat or standard bale of cotton to approximately 32 pounds per cubic foot. Usually applies to cotton exported or shipped coastwise
The marrying of two or more portions of one shipment that originate at different locations, moving under one bill of lading, from one shipper to one consignee. Authority for this
B/L covering parts of a shipment which are loaded at more than one location. Hitchment B/L usually consists of two parts, hitchment and hitchment memo. The hitchment portion usually covers the majority of a divided shipment and carries the entire revenue
See: Foreign Market Value.
Homologation of an automobile is the certification by a country that a vehicle conforms to its safety and emission standards -- primarily that a vehicle has been manufactured or modified to meet a country's standards.
A barge which loads material dumped into it by a dredger and discharges the cargo through the bottom.
A bottom discharging or split hull barge.
A self propelled vessel equipped to carry material and discharge it at sea through the bottom of the vessel, either by bottom doors or a split hull
A vessel equipped to obtain material from the sea bed by use of circulating buckets. The material may be carried on board and discharged elsewhere through the bottom of the vessel, either by bottom doors or a split hull, or delivered to other vessels, pum
A vessel equipped to obtain material from the sea bed by an unspecified means. The material may be carried on board and discharged elsewhere through the bottom of the vessel, either by bottom doors or a split hull, or delivered to other vessels, pumped as
A vessel equipped to obtain material from the sea bed by use of a grab or backhoe. The material may be carried on board and discharged elsewhere through the bottom of the vessel, either by bottom doors or a split hull, or delivered to other vessels, pumpe
A vessel equipped to obtain material from the sea bed by use of a suction pipe. The material may be carried on board and discharged elsewhere through the bottom of the vessel, either by bottom doors or a split hull, or delivered to other vessels, pumped a
An export trading company which exports a range of similar or identical products supplied by a number of manufacturers or other producers. Webb-Pomerene Organizations, trade-grouped organized export trading companies, and an export trading company formed by an association of agricultural cooperatives are the prime examples of horizontally organized export trading companies
The Horn of Africa comprises Djibouti, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Sudan.
A vessel equipped to serve as a hospital
A naval auxiliary vessel adapted as a hospital ship
B/L issued by a freight forwarder or consolidator covering a single shipment containing the names, addresses and specific description of the goods shipped.
See Door-to-Door.
Cargo loaded into a container by the shipper under shipper's supervision. When the cargo is exported, it is unloaded at the foreign pier destination.
A barge or converted vessel that is stationary and used as a dwelling
The process of connecting a moving rail car with a motionless rail car within a rail classification yard in order to make up a train. The cars move by gravity from an incline or hump onto the appropriate track.
International Atomic Energy Agency
International Air Transport Association
Invoice book. In bond
Institute Builders' Clauses
International Bank for Reconstruction and Developement
International Civil Aviation Organization
International Chamber of Commerce, Institute Cargo Clauses
International Council for the Exploration of the Sea
International Confederation of Free Trade Unions
Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers, International Chamber of Shipping
International Council of Scientific Unions
International Development Association
Institute Freight Clauses, International Finance Corporation
Institute Fishing Vessel Clauses
Indicated Horse-Power
International Longshoremen's Association
International Labor Organization
Institute of London Underwriters
Lloyd''s Machinery Certificate
International Maritime Consultative Organization. A forum in which most major maritime nations participate and through which recommendations for the carriage of dangerous goods, bulk commodities, and maritime regulations become internationally acceptable.
International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code. The regulations published by the IMO for transporting hazardous materials internationally.
International Maritime Industry Forum
Intrnational Maritime Organization
Investment Management Regulatory Organization
International Meat Trade Association
Institute Port Risks Clauses
Inland Revenue
Indian Register of Shipping
International Shipping Federation
International Standards Organization which deals in standards of all sorts, ranging from documentation to equipment packaging and labeling.
Abbreviation for Immediate Transport. The document (prepared by the carrier) allows shipment to proceed from the port of entry in the U.S. to Customs clearing at the destination. The shipment clears Customs at its final destination. Also called an In-Transit Entry.
Institute Time Clauses
International Telecommunications Union
Institute Voyage Clauses (Hulls)
Institute Warranty Limits
Institute Yacht Clauses
Abbreviation for Independent Action. The right of a conference member to publish a rate of tariff rule that departs from the Agreement's common rate or rule.
Instead of
In all case
Inter-American Commercial Arbitration Commisoalition
International Association of Classification Societies
Inter-American Development Bank
International Atomic Energy Agency
International Atomic Em
Inter-Arab Investment Guarantee Corporation
International Association of Ports and Harbours
International Agricultural Research Centers
International Air Transport Association
International Accounting Unit
In Accordance With
International Banking Act
Intermediate bulk carrier
International Business Opportunities Service
International Bank for Reconstruction and Development
International Coffee Organization, International Congress Office, Islamic Conference Organization
International Cocoa Agreement, International Coffee Agreement, International Commodity Agreement
International Confederation of Agricultural Credit
International Competitive Bidding
Abbreviation for (1) Interstate Commerce Commission, (2) International Chamber of Commerce.
A non-governmental organization serving as a policy advocate on world business.
Inland clearance depot
International Confederation of Free Trade Unions
International Cargo Handling Coordination Association
Indexed Currency Option Note
Investment Climate Statement
International Centre for the Settlement for Investment, Disputes
International Council of Scientific Unions
Intermodal Container Transfer Facility
An on-dock facility for moving containers from ship to rail or truck.
International Development Association
Inter-American Development Bank, International Data Base, Islamic Development Bank
International Date Line
International Depository Receipt
Stands for Immediate Exit. In the U.S., Customs IE Form is used when goods are brought into the U.S. and are to be immediately re-exported without being transported within the U.S.
International Electrotechnical Commission
International Emergency Economic Powers Act
Independent European Program Group
International Executive Service Corps
Industry Functional Advisory Committee
International Fund for Agricultural Development
International Finance Corporation
Intermediate fuel oil
International Frequency Registration Board
Industry Focused Seminar, In-Flight Survey
Industrialization Fund for Developing Countries
Inter-Governmental Authority on Drought and Development
Interagency Group on Countertrade
Import general manifest
Inert Gas System
Indicated horse power
Inter-American Investment Corporation
International Intellectual Property Alliance
Instruments of International Traffic
International Labor Organization
International Labour Organisation Geneva
In lieu of hold cleaning
In lieu of weighing
International Maritime Organization
International Maritime Bureau
Intergovernmental Maritime Consultitive Organisation
International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code
International Monetary Fund
International Munitions List
International Maritime Organization: Formerly known as the Inter-Governmental Maritime Consultative Organization (IMCO), was established in 1958 through the United Nations to coordinate international maritime safety and related practices.
A certificate issued by countries exercising import controls that permits importation of the articles stated in the license. The issuance of such a permit frequently is collected with the release of foreign exchange needed to pay for the shipment for which the import license has been requested.
CMS -Incident Management Team
Goods carried below or on deck
A customs program for inland ports that provides for cargo arriving at a seaport to be shipped under a customs bond to a more conveniently located inland port where the entry documents have been filed. Customs clears the shipment there and the cargo is trucked to its destination, which normally is close to the inland port.
Including
Including Overtime
A list of standard contract terms which specify the obligations for the delivery of goods in International Contracts particularly traded commodities. It is compiled and published the International Chamber of Commerce.
The recognized abbreviation for the International Chamber of Commerce Terms of Sale. These terms were last amended, effective July 1, 1990.
Indication
Indonesia
A system of preventing any explosion in the cargo tanks of a tanker by replacing the cargo, as it is pumped out, by an inert gas, often the exhaust of the ship's engine. Gas-freeing must be carried out subsequently if worker have to enter the empty tanks.
Liquids liable to spontaneous combustion which give off inflammable vapors at or below 80 degrees F. For example, ether, ethyl, benzine, gasoline, paints, enamels, carbon disulfide, etc.
A transportation company which hauls export or import traffic between ports and inland points
International Maritime Satellite Organization
If New York, not north of George Washington bridge
Initial Negotiating Right
Insurance
A large barge of about 600 feet and 22,000 tons cargo capacity, integrated from the rear on to the bow of a tug purposely constructed to push the barge.
Ownership of the legal rights to possess, use, or dispose of products created by human ingenuity, including patents, trademarks and copyrights.
International Telecommunications Satellite Organization
International Association of Dry Cargo shipowners
Agreement with a drayage company for use of railroad-controlled equipment
Move involving more than one rail carrier
The price published for an origin/destination pair that uses more than one carrier and results in one bill for the whole move; see through price.
Carriage of a commodity by different modes of transport, i.e. sea, road, rail and air within a single journey.
The concept of transportation as a door-to-door service rather than port-to-port. Thus efficiency is enhanced by having a single carrier coordinating the movement and documentation among different modes of transportation.
A certificate which gives details of a ship's freeboards and states that the ship has been surveyed and the appropriate load lines marked on her sides. This certificate is issued by a classification society or the Coast Guard.
An inter-governmental agency designed to pay compensation for oil pollution damage, exceeding the shipowner's liability. It was created by an IMO Convention in 1971 and started its operations in October 1978. Contributions come mainly from the oil companies of member states.
Consist of international straits, inland and interocean canals and rivers where they separate the territories of two or more nations. Provided no treaty is enforced both merchant ships and warships have the right of free and unrestricted navigation through these waterways.
The International Association of Independent Tanker Owners: An international organisation based in Oslo whose aim is to represent the views of its members at International Forums.
Domestic shipping routes along a single coast.
Industry-Organized, Government-Approved Mission
International Organization for Migration
International Oil Pollution Compensation
International Oil Pollution Prevention Certificate
Indian Ocean Region
Including Overtime
Investment Promotion Services
Industry Policy Advisory Committee
Abbreviation for Inland Point Intermodal. Refers to inland points (non-ports) that can be served by carriers on a through bill of lading.
Intellectual Property Rights
Internal rate of return
Indian Register of Shipping
International Standards Organization
Industry Sub-Sector Analysis, International Sugar Agreement
Industry Sector Advisory Committee
International Swaps and Derivatives Association
Integrated Services Digital Network
International Shipping Federation
International Safety Guide for Oil Tankers and Terminals. A comprehensive guide to the safe conduct of all tanker and terminal cargo related operations
Integrated Ship Inspection System (see CDI)
Investment Sector Loan Program
International Safety Management
International Safety Management Code
International Service for National Agricultural Research
International Organization for Standardization
A series of voluntary international quality standards.
International Standards Organization Information Network
International Ship and Port Facility Security
International Social Security Association
International Ship Security Certificate
International Tin Agreement, International Trade Administration
International Traffic in Arms Regulations
International Tonnage Certificate
International Trade Development Centers
International Transport Workers Federation (Trade Unions)
International Tanker Owners Pollution Federation
Informal Tanker Operator's Safety Forum
International Telecommunication Union
If Used
If used actual time used to count
If Used, Actual Time Used To Count
If Used, Half Actual Time Used To Count
If Used, Half Time Actually used to Count
Rhine Barge Register: International Association for the representation of the mutual interests of the inland shipping and the insurance and for keeping the register of inland vessels in Europe.
International Whaling Commission
Institute Warranty Limits
An ice clause is a standard clause in the chartering of ocean vessels. It dictates the course a vessel master may take if the ship is prevented from entering the loading or discharge port because of ice, or if the vessel is threatened by ice while in the port. The clause establishes rights and obligations of both vessel owner and charterer if these events occur.
A vessel specifically constructed to clear a passage through ice for other vessels. Typically has a high power rating, strengthening and a specially designed bow
An icebreaker additionally fitted with laboratories for research
An entry that allows foreign merchandise arriving at one port to be exported from the same port without the payment of duty.
A customs form declaring goods for transportation by a bonded carrier from a port of entry to a bonded warehouse at an inland port, or another port of entry.
To receive goods from a foreign country.
A document required and issued by some national governments authorizing the importation of goods.
A means of restricting imports by the issuance of licenses to importers, assigning each a quota, after determination of the total amount of any commodity which is to be imported during a period. Import licenses may also specify the country from which the importer must purchase the goods.
The process of auctioning the right to import specified quantities of quota-restricted goods.
Import restriction, applied by a country with an adverse trade balance (or for other reasons), reflect a desire to control the volume of goods coming into the country from other countries may include the imposition of tariffs or import quotas, restrictions on the amount of foreign currency available to cover imports, a requirement for import deposits, the imposition of import surcharges, or the prohibition of various categories of imports.
A strategy which emphasizes the replacement of imports with domestically produced goods, rather than the production of goods for export, to encourage the development of domestic industry.
The U.S. Customs Service defines importer as a person primarily liable for the payment of duties on the merchandise, or an authorized agent acting on the importer's behalf. The importer may be: (a) a consignee, (b) the importer of record, or (c) the actual owner of hte merchandise if the actual owner has filed with Customs a declaration acknowledging ownership along with a superseding bond. (See 119 CFR 141.20.) See: Importer of Record.
The U.S. Customs Service defines the importer of record as the owner or purchaser of the goods; or, when designated by the owner, purchaser, or consignee, a licensed Customs broker.
Imports of merchandise include commodities of foreign origin as well as goods of domestic origin returned to the United States with no change in condition or after having been processed and/or assembled in other countries. For statistical purposes, imports are classified by type of transaction: - Merchandise entered for immediate consumption. (duty free merchandise and merchandise on which duty is paid on arrival); - Merchandise withdrawn for consumption from Customs bonded warehouses, and U.S. Foreign Trade Zones; - Merchandise entered into Customs bonded warehouses and U.S. Foreign Trade Zones from foreign countries
Imports for Consumption measure the total of merchandise that has physically cleared through U.S. Customs either entering consumption channels immediately or entering after withdrawal for consumption from bonded warehouses under Customs custody or from Foreign Trade Zones. Many countries use the term special imports to designate statistics compiled on this basis.
Cargo moving under Customs control where duty has not yet been paid
The transaction or interchange that occurs at the time a container is received by a rail terminal or water port from another carrier.
In transit, or in passage.
The In-Bond System, a part of Customs' Automated Commercial System, controls merchandise from the point of unloading at the port of entry or exportation. The system works with the input of departures (from the port of unlading), arrivals, and closures (accountability of arrivals).
The In-Flight Survey is administered to U.S. and foreign travelers departing the U.S. as a means of providing data on visitor characteristics, travel patterns and spending habits, and for supplying data on the U.S. international travel dollar accounts as well as to meet balance of payments estimation needs. The IFS covers about 70 percent of U.S. carriers and 35 percent of foreign carriers, who voluntarily choose to participate. Sample results are expanded to universe estimates to account for nonresponse of passengers on each sampled flight, for coverage of all flights on each major airline route, and for all international routes. The basis for the expansion is the number of passengers departing the United States, obtained from the Immigration and Naturalization Service
Allows foreign merchandise arriving at one port to be transported in bond to another port, where a superseding entry is filed.
Insurance
A lower-than-usual tariff rate assessed because a shipper offers a greater volume than specified in the tariff. The incentive rate is assessed for that portion exceeding the normal volume.
A vessel equipped for the (now illegal) incineration of waste material at sea
Maintained by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), this codification of terms is used in foreign trade contracts to define which parties incur the costs and at what specific point the costs are incurred.
An agreement to hold a carrier harmless with regard to a liability.
Setting rate within a conference tariff that is different from the rate(s) for the same items established by other conference members.
The IEPG is an intergovernmental organization that is not formally part of NATO but whose membership includes all the EC members of the alliance, plus Norway and Turkey. Established in 1976, IEPG's objectives are to promote European cooperation in research, development, and production of defense equipment; improve transatlantic armaments cooperation; and maintain a healthy European defense industrial base.
Any body of rate tariffs that are not part of an agreement or conference system.
An ICON is a debt repayment instrument whose value is partially determined by the exchange rate between two currencies. Interest payments, made in one currency, are lowered if the rate of exchange exceeds a pre-arranged rate.
An IVL is written approval by which the U.S. Department of Commerce grants permission, which is valid for 2 years, for the export of a specified quantity of products or technical data to a single recipient. IVLs also are required, under certain circumstances, as authorization for the reexport of U.S.-origin commodities to new destinations abroad
Placing a port on a vessel's itinerary because the volume of cargo offered at that port justifies the cost of routing the vessel.
See: International Industrial List.
The IFU invests in joint venture companies in the developing countries, together with Danish companies. It is a revolving Fund whose resourcs were made available by the Danish government. IFU takes part in joint ventures as a shareholder and can provide loans or guarantees for loans. The Fund was established by Denmark in 1967; headquarters are in Copenhagen. Since 1978, Fund operations have been funded solely from the return on investments in developing countries and from other financial assets, with no public financial subsidy
The Industry Consultations Program for Trade Policy Matters is an advisory committee structure created by the Trade Act of 1974; expanded by the Trade Agreements Act of 1979; and amended by the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988. The program is operated jointly by Commerce and the U.S. Trade Representative. Members of the committees are appointed by the Secretary of Commerce and the U.S. Trade Representative. The present structure consists of 17 Industry Sector Advisory Committees (ISACs), 3 Industry Functional Advisory Committees (IFACs), a Committee of Chairs, and an Industry Policy Advisory Committee (IPAC). The focus of the 3 Functional Advisory Committees are: (1) Customs Matters, (2) Standards, and (3) Intellectual Property Rights. The focus of the 17 Industry Sector Advisory Committees are:1 Aerospace Equipment, 2 Capital Goods, 3 Chemicals and Allied Products, 4 Consumer Goods, 5 Electronics and Instrumentation, 6 Energy, 7 Ferrous Ores and Metals, 8 Footwear, Leather, and Leather Products, 9 Building Products and Other Materials, 10 Lumber and Wood Products, 11 Nonferrous Ores and Metals, 12 Paper and Paper Products, 13 Services, 14 Small and Minority Business, 15 Textiles and Apparel, 16 Transportation, Construction, and Agricultural Equipment, 17 Wholesaling and Retailing See: Advisory Committee on Trade Policy and Negotiations
See: Industry Consultations Program.
See: Industry Consultations Program.
See: Industry Consultations Program.
As used by the International Trade Administration, an industry subsector analysis is overseas market research for a given industry subsector (such as cardiological equipment for the medical equipment industry) that presents basic information about a foreign market such as market size, the competitive environment, primary end users, best prospects products, and market access information.
The atmosphere introduced into the ullage space of a tank to reduce its oxygen content to 8% O2 or less in order to prevent ignition of the vapour or cargo. Inert gas on vessels is usually the cleaned products of combustion from a boiler or inert gas gen
A non propelled pontoon used for the purpose of generating Inert Gas
A combat vessel with a bow ramp for landing or loading infantry
The Commerce Department's International Trade Administration defines an infrequent exporter as a company that has some export experience -- usually averaging between 1 and 50 export shipments per year -- but which still needs assistance to increase the size of its export market or to expand into new ones.
An insurance term referring to any defect or other characteristics of a product which could result in damage to the product without external cause. Insurance policies may specifically exclude losses caused by inherent vice.
A right held by one GATT country to seek compensation for an impairment of a given bound tariff rate by another GATT country. INRs stem from past negotiating concessions and allow the INR holder to seek compensation for an impairment of tariff concessions regardless of its status as a supplier of the product in question.
In U.S. law, a finding by the International Trade Commission that imports are causing, or are likely to cause, harm to a U.S. industry. An injury determination is the basis for a Section 201 case. It is also a requirement in all antidumping and most countervailing duty cases, in conjunction with Commerce Department determinations on dumping and subsidization.
A bill of lading used in transporting goods overland to the exporter's international carrier. Although a through bill of lading can sometimes be used, it is usually necessary to prepare both an inland bill of lading and an ocean bill of lading for export shipments.
A transportation line that hauls export or import traffic between ports and inland points.
A certificate issued by an independent agent or firm attesting to the quality and/or quantity of the merchandise being shipped. Such a certificate is usually required in a letter of credit for commodity shipments.
Some purchasers and countries may require a certificate of inspection attesting to the specifications of the goods shipped, usually performed by a third party. Inspection certificates are often obtained from independent testing organizations.
Successive shipments are permitted under letters of credit. Usually they must take place within a given period of time.
Lift vans, cargo vans, shipping tanks, skids, pallets, caul boards, and cores for textile fabrics, arriving (whether loaded or empty) in use or to be used in the shipment of merchandise in international traffic are designated as instruments of international traffic (IIT) within the meaning of section 322(a0, Tariff Act of 1930, as amended. Upon Customs acceptance of a type 3 bond, covering these IIT types, such instruments may be released without entry or the payment of duty, subject to the provisions of 19 CFR 10.41a.
A container insulated on the walls, roof, floor, and doors, to reduce the effect of external temperatures on the cargo.
The frame of a container constructed to hold one or more thermally insulated tanks for liquids.
This type of clause covers merchandise if the damage amounts to three percent or more of the insured value of the package or cargo. If the vessel burns, sinks, collides, or sinks, all losses are fully covered. In marine insurance, the word average describes partial damage or partial loss.
This type of insurance offers the shipper the broadest coverage available, covering against all losses that may occur in transit.
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.
A Marine insurance term to refer to partial loss on an individual shipment from one of the perils insured against, regardless of the balance of the cargo. Particularaverage insurance can usually be obtained, but the loss must be in excess of a certain percentage of the insured value of the shipment, usually three to five percent, before a claim will be allowed by the company.
Interest
Carriers that have both air and ground fleets; or other combinations, such as sea, rail, and truck. Since they usually handle thousands of small parcels an hour, they are less expensive and offer more diverse services than regular carriers.
TARIC is a publication which presents the regulations pertaining to import of products into the EC as well as for some exports. TARIC adopts the provisions of Community legislation, the harmonized system, and the combined nomenclature (CN).
IPR is a generic phrase encompassing intangible property rights, including, among others, patents, trade and service marks, copyrights, industrial designs, rights in semiconductor chip layout designs, and rights in trade secrets.
Internal arrangements
The IACAC administers a system for arbitrating and conciliating international commercial disputes throughout the Western Hemisphere. The Commission, associated with the Organization of American States, follows provisions of the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law. IACAC was originally established in 1934; headquarters are in Washington, D.C.
IADB, or IDB, (Spanish: Banco Interamericano de Desarrollo, BID), is a regional financial institution which helps accelerate economic and social development in Latin America and the Caribbean. The Bank was established in 1959 (began operations in October 1960); headquarters are in Washington, D.C. The twenty-eight regional members include: Argentina, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, United States, Uruguay, and Venezuela. The IDB also includes 16 non-regional members: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. See: Caribbean Development Bank Inter-American Investment Corporation
The IIC is a multilateral investment corporation that promotes the economic development of the regional member countries by stimulating the establishment, expansion, and modernization of private enterprises, especially those of medium and small scale, in Latin America and the Caribbean. The IIC works directly with private enterprises in these countries and neither seeks nor requires government guarantees. The Corporation makes direct investments such as equity participation, loans and purhcases of debt instruments, as well as direct investment through other financial institutions. The Corporation also finances feasibility studies, underwrites securities, provides technical and managerial assistance, and helps entrepreneurs in mobilizing additional capital. The IIC is affiliated with the Inter-American Development Bank; it was established in 1986; headquarters are in Washington, D.C.
The IAIGC promotes Arab development by stimulating capital transfers among members, by providing investment risk coverage, and by supporting development studies. The Corporation was established in 1965; headquarters are in Kuwait; nearly all Arab countries are members.
The IGADD coordinates efforts in its members' region to build food security, stop desertification, and reclaim arid zones for food production. The Authority was formed in 1986; headquarters are based in Djibouti; members include: Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, the Sudan, and Uganda. Financing stems primarily from Djibouti and Ethiopia.
The IGC, established in December 1988 under Executive Order 12661, reviews policy and negotiates agreements with other countries on countertrade and offsets. The IGC operates at the Assistant Secretary level, with the Department of Commerce as chair. Membership includes 11 other agencies: Agriculture, Defense, Energy, Justice, Labor, State, Treasury, the Agency for International Development, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the U.S. Trade Representative, and the Office of Management and Budget
IBOR is the rate of interest at which banks lend to other prime banks. Terms are established for the length of loan and individual foreign currencies. A number of financial centers offer an IBOR, including: Abu Dhabi (ADIBOR), Bahrain (BIBOR), Brussels (BRIBOR), Hong Kong (HKIBOR), London (LIBOR), Luxembourg (LUXIBOR), Madrid (MIBOR), Paris (PIBOR), Saudi Arabia (SAIBOR), Singapore (SIBOR), and Zurich (ZIBOR). See: London Interbank Offered Rate.
A location where one carrier delivers freight to another carrier.
Water service between two coasts; in the U.S., this usually refers to water service between the Atlantic and Pacific or Gulf Coasts.
See: Swaps.
Freight moving from origin to destination over the Freight lines of two or more transportation carriers.
An intermediate consignee is the bank, forwarding agent, or other intermediary (if any) that acts in a foreign country as an agent for the exporter, the purchaser, or the ultimate consignee, for the purpose of effecting delivery of the export to the ultimate consignee.
See: Export Credit Guarantee Programs.
A point located en route between two other points.
Used to denote movements of cargo containers interchangeably between transport modes, i.e., motor, water, and air carriers, and where the equipment is compatible within the multiple systems.
B/L covering cargo moving via multimodal means. Also known as Combined Transport B/L, or Multimodal B/L.
ICTF is a site where cargo is transferred from one form of transit to another, such as rail to ship.
NATO infrastructure projects are usually denominated in International Accounting Units. The IAU is a unit of measure based on the exchange rates of the 16 NATO member countries and is reevaluated every six months.
The IAF, created in January 1993, is a group of international accreditation bodies which has joined together to promotion international recognition of accreditation for quality systems (ISO 9000) registrars. Signatories include representatives of accrediting bodies in Australia, Canada, Japan, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and the United States.
An international agreement is governed by international law; the term refers to a broad classification of legally binding arrangements between states. The arrangements include: treaties, conventions, protocols, annexes, accords, and memoranda of understanding. Other common titles include notes, pact, declaration, statute, constitution and process-verbal. The title is not a controlling factor in making distinctions among arrangements. Some titles are not used consistently; and titles are often used as synonyms, with subtlety in differentiation and resulting in an inability to apply certitude in definition. In this context, the following general characteristics apply: - Treaties are international agreements and are equivalent to conventions. The Vienna Convention on the Law on Treaties defines a treaty as an international agreement concluded between States in written form and governed by international law, whether embodied in a single instrument or in two or more related instruments and whatever its particular designation. In its restricted sense in the United States, a treaty denotes an international agreement made by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate in accordance with Article II, section 2 of the Constitution. During a year, the U.S. may be a signatory to approximately 400 international agreements; only about a dozen are treaties. Under U.S. law a treaty (or other international agreement, however designated) becomes the law of the land and is binding on federal, state and local government. This is not always the case in other nations which may require legislative action before a treaty takes the same effect as domestic law. The term plurilateral is sometimes used to differentiate between a treaty embracing a restricted number of states in contrast with multilateral as a reference to a treaty which is open to all nations. - Conventions are essentially the same as treaties. In the 1980s and beyond, the term convention has been used more in connection with multilateral, than bilateral, arrangements. Depending on the nature of the convention, the President may or may not consult the Senate. - Protocols may be any sort of international agreement. A protocol can stand alone or, more generally, it may be a supplementary agreement, or an amendment, of some sort. - Annexes are subsidiary agreements which are additional to a previously established arrangement. However, there is flexibility; the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) uses the term annex to indicate a free-standing agreement. - Accords are further from treaties than conventions. If there is any distinction to be made, an accord may suggest a non-binding agreement; there are exceptions. - Memoranda of Understanding are very detailed documents devised by Executive Branch agencies (such as aviation or major fishery agreements). An MOU may be less significant; it takes into account U.S. practice and the requirements of the other government. When a treaty or an executive agreement is first published by the United States, it is assigned a TIAS number and published in slip form in the Treaties and other International Acts Series. TIAS, published by the Department of State, is a series of individual pamphlets
See: Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research.
IATA, established in 1945, is a trade association serving airlines, passengers, shippers, travel agents, and governments. The association promotes safety, standardization in forms (baggage checks, tickets, weigh bills), and aids in establishing international airfares. IATA headquarters are in Geneva, Switzerland.
The IACC, founded in 1978, is a non-profit organization located in Washington, D.C. The IACC seeks to advance intellectual property rights (IPR) protection on a worldwide basis by promoting laws, regulations, and directives designed to render theft of IPR unattractive and unprofitable.
The IAEA, a specialized agency of the UN, is the primary international organization that enforces a system of safeguards to ensure that non-nuclear weapons states do not divert shipments of sensitive nuclear-related equipment from peaceful applications to the production of nuclear weapons. Before a supplier state of nuclear materials or equipment may approve an export to a non-nuclear weapons NPT (Nuclear non-Proliferation Treaty) signatory state, it must receive assurances that the recipient will place the material under IAEA safeguards. Subsequent to shipment, the recipient state must allow IAEA officials to verify the legitimate end use of the exported materials or equipment. IAEA, established in July 1957, gives advice and technical assistance to developing countries on nuclear power development, nuclear safety, radioactive waste management, and related efforts. Safeguards are the technical means applied by the IAEA to verify that nuclear equipment or materials are used exclusively for peaceful purposes. IAEA headquarters are in Vienna, Austria
The International Atomic Energy List is one of three lists maintained by CoCom. The AEL, comprising strictly nuclear-related items that are also of commercial value, consists of: materials, facilities, nuclear-related equipment, and software. State, which has the lead in U.S. negotiations concerning the AEL, relies on DOE experts.
The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, a part of the World Bank, was established in December 1945 to help countries reconstruct their economies after World War II. IBRD assists developing member countries by lending to government agencies and by guaranteeing private loans for such projects as agricultural modernization or infrastructural development. Bank headquarters are in Washington, D.C. See: World Bank
The IBA, passed in 1978, established a federal legislative framework for governing the activities of foreign banks, which previously had been governed only by state laws. The IBA established a policy of national treatment for U.S. offices of foreign banks by: (a) limiting any new multistate branching activities to activities more comparable to those of U.S. banks; (b) placing the foreign bank offices under the same reserve requirements that apply to U.S. banks; (c) limiting foreign bank involvement in U.S. securities; and (d) making federal deposit insurance available to U.S. offices of foreign banks if they chose to engage in retail banking. See: Foreign Bank Supervision Enhancement Act.
An IBF is one of four categories of foreign banking in the United States. An IBF may be a domestic bank or an office of a foreign bank. In either circumstance, the IBF maintains asset and liability ational Summary (MOS) listing all projects in the pipeline; (b) Technical Data Sheets (TDS), published for each approved loan, listing identifying information, procurement methods, cofinancing and similar data; (c) general procurement notices, issued for projects involving international competitive bidding; (d) specific procurement notices describing specific items to be procured and bidding requirements; and (e) major contract award notices identifying successful bidders for contracts which were recently awarded. See: International Competitive Bidding Limited International Bidding Local Competitive Bidding.
The ICHCA: (a) collects, edits, and disseminates technical information relating to cargo handling by all modes of transport; (b) maintains consultative status with the International Standards Organization for the development of standards relating to cargo handling equipment (such as hooks, containers, wire slings, spreaders, and pallets); (c) maintains a library for members' use; and (d) represents members' interests on an international basis. There is an ICHSA U.S. National Section. The ICHCA Secretariat General is in London, England.
ICSID, an affiliate of the World Bank, is a public international organization which provides facilities for the conciliation and arbitration of investment disputes between Contracting States and nationals of other Contracting States. The Centre's objective is to promote an atmosphere of mutual confidence between States and foreign investors conducive to increasing the flow of private international investment. The Centre does not itself engage in conciliation or arbitration but assists in the initiation and conduct of conciliation and arbitration proceedings. Recourse to conciliation and arbitration under the ICSID Convention is entirely voluntary. However, once the parties have consented, they are bound to carry out their undertakings and, the case of arbitration, to abide by the award. All Contracting States, whether or not parties to the dispute, are required to recognize awards rendered pursuant to the Convention as binding and to enforce the pecuniary obligations imposed thereby. The Centre also conducts and publishes research in foreign investment law. ICSID was created under a treaty, the Convenion on the Settlement of Investment Disputes Between States and Nationals of Other States (the ICSID Convention) which entered into force in October 1966. The Centre's headquarters are in Washington, D.C. See: World Bank
ICC was created in 1919 to promote free trade, private enterprise, and represent business interests at national and international levels. Members include national councils from sixty countries. ICC headquarters are in Paris, France.
The ICAO is an United Nations specialized agency which promotes international cooperation in civil aviation. The ICAO Council adopts standards and recommended practices concerning air nagivation, prevention of unlawful interference, and facilitation of border-crossing procedures for international civil aviation. Operating since 1947, ICAO includes almost all U.N. members. Headquarters are in Montreal, Canada.
An agreement signed by 67 countries, representing all of the world's major exporters and importers of coffee. The International Coffee Organization, ICO, acted as a forum for market participants since the early 1960s, but has not regulated markets since July 1989, when consuming and exporting country members were unable to agree on export quotas. Since suspending export quotas, the ICO has been acting mainly as a center for meetings and as a collector of statistics on the coffee market. The forum scheduled a September 1994 decision on future directions for the ICO. The Association of Coffee Producing Countries, a new pact comprising 28 members which account for 85 percent of world coffee exports, has been seeking to strengthen world prices through an export-retention plan
See: International Coffee Agreement.
An ICA is an international understanding, usually reflected in a legal instrument, relating to trade in a particular basic commodity, and based on terms negotiated and accepted by most of the countries that export and import commercially significant quantities of the commodity. Some commodity agreements (such as exists for coffee, cocoa, natural rubber, sugar, and tin) center on economic provisions intended to defend a price range for the commodity through the use of buffer stocks or export quotas or both. Other commodity agreements (such as existing agreements for jute and jute products, olive oil, and wheat) promote cooperation among producers and consumers through improved consultation, exchange of information, research and development, and export promotion
ICB is one of several forms of procurement made with World Bank financing. While the World Bank provides financing from its loans for the contracts and ensures that agreed procurement procedures are observed, the borrower, not the World Bank, is always responsible for procurement. ICB requires that: (a) all goods or works to be procured through ICB be internationally advertised through the United Nations (in the publication: Development Business) and at least one major local newspaper; (b) bids be entertained in the bidder's or other currencies in which expenses would normally be occurred on in an international currency specified by the borrower; (c) payments be made in the currencies in the bids, without requirement to accept any portion of payment in countertrade; (d) documents be in an international language (English, French, or Spanish); (e) bids be openly reviewed; and (f) contracts be awarded to the lowest evaluated responsive bid. ICB permits a margin of preference to be given to domestic goods and, under certain conditions, to domestic contracting services in developing countries. See: International Business Opportunities Service Limited International Bidding Local Competitive Bidding
See: Confederation Internationale du Credit Agricole.
ICFTU was established in 1949 to promote the trade union movement by recognizing workers' organizations and through other means of support for the rights of workers to bargain. Members include more than 140 national organizations from nearly 100 countries. ICFTU organizes and educates free trade unions in the developing world primarly through its three regional organizations: APRO for Asia and the Pacific located in New Delhi, India; AFRO in Afria, and ORIT in Latin America, located in Mexico City. ICFTU headquarters are in Brussels, Belgium.
The ICO is a U.S. Travel and Tourism Administration office that persuades international associations to select the U.S. as venues for their meetings. The ICO operates out of the American Embassy in Paris.
This Convention, developed by the Customs Cooperation Council, seeks to foster international trade and cooperation by simplifying and harmonizing customs procedures and operations. (The term customs procedure is not used in the narrow sense of the treatment assigned to imported goods; it covers all provisions relating to a particular sphere of customs activity.) The Convention (also known as the Kyoto Convention) was adopted in May 1973 in Kyoto, Japan as a core legal instrument with three original annexes on customs procedures. Nearly thirty additional annexes (each covering a different area of customs procedures and operations) have since been created. To ensure worldwide harmonization, the convention is also open to non-members of the CCC which are state members of the United Nations or its specialized agencies. A country is only required to accept the convention itself and at least one of the annexes to become a contracting party. (When the U.S. became party to the Covnention, effective January, 1984, it accepted twenty of the annexes and entered certain reservations with respect to some of their provisions.) The annexes contain definitions, standards, and recommended practices; and countries can reserve against any standard or recommended practice in a particular annex. There is also a provision obligating countries to review their national legislation every three years to determine if reservations can be removed. See: Customs Cooperation Council
The International Research Council (a predecessor organization to ICSU) was created in 1919 to coordinate international activity in the different branches of science and their applications. ICSU, founded in 1931, is a non-governmental organization with two categories of members: (a) national, multidisciplinary scientific academies or research councils which promote cooperation and research and (b) international organizations which promote cooperation in a single field of science (scientific unions). A small headquarters office is in Paris, France. The Council seeks to break the barriers of specialization through international interdisciplinary programs and research bodies
The ICJ, established in 1945, is the principal judicial organ of the UN. The ICJ decides cases submitted to it by states and gives advisory opinions on legal questions submitted to it by the General Assembly or Security Council or by UN specialized agencies. The court is composed of 15 judges elected by the General Assembly and the Security Council from a list of persons nominated by the national groups in the Permanent Court of Arbitration. The seat of the Court is in The Hague, Netherlands
The IDB, which is maintained by the Center for International Research, is an automated data bank containing statistical tables of demographic, economic, and social data for all countries of the world. Data categories include: population; vital statistics; health and nutrition; fertility, migration; foreign-born and refugee statistics; provinces and cities; marital status; family planning; ethnic, religious and language groups; literacy and education; labor force, employment, income and gross national product; and household size and housing indicators. IDB data users include the U.S. government, private firms, research institutions, and international organizations. See: Center for International Research
An IDR is a negotiable bank-issued certificate representing ownership of stock securities by an investor outside the country of origin. The securities backing the receipt remain in the custody of the issuing bank or a correspondent.
The International Electrotechnical Commission was established in 1906 to deal with questions related to international standardization in the electrical and electronic engineering fields. The members of the IEC are the national committees, one for each country, which are required to be as representative as possible of all electrical interests in the country concerned: manufacturers, users, governmental authorities, teaching, and professional bodies. They are composed of representatives of the various organizations which deal with questions of electrical standardization at the national level. Most of them are recognized and supported by their governments.
The International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) was enacted in 1977 to extend emergency powers previously granted to the President by the Trading with the Enemy Act of 1917 (which still authorized the President to exercise extraordinary powers when the United States is at war). IEEPA enables the President, after declaring that a national emergency exists because of a threat from a source outside the United States, to investigate, regulate, compel or prohibit virtually any economic transaction involving property in which a foreign country or national has an interest
The IEA was founded in 1974 as a forum for energy cooperation among 21 member nations. The IEA helped participating countries prepare to reduce the economic risks of oil supply disruptions and to reduce dependence on oil through coordinated and cooperative research efforts.
The IESC is a non-profit, Agency for International Development-funded organization which recruits retired U.S. executives and technical advisers to counsel businesses in developing nations on a volunteer basis. IESC's program includes short-term technical and managerial assistance and long-range trade and investment services. IESC was founded in 1964; headquarters is in Stamford, Connecticut.
The IEB governs the frequency of international exhibitions and oversees the guarantees and facilties which the host nation is required to offer. By agreement, member states may mount international exhibitions only after the events have been registered with IEB. Member states are also precluded from participating in exhibitions in non-member states in the absence of agreement by the Bureau. IEB, originally created in in 1928, was revised in 1972; headquarters are in Paris, France.
The IFC was established in 1956 as a member of the World Bank Group. The IFC promotes private sector investment in developing countries. The IFC charges market rates and seeks profitable returns. See: Africa Enterprise Fund Africa Project Development Facility African Management Services Company Caribbean/Central America Business Advisory Service World Bank.
The IFRB (French: Comite International d'Enregistrement des Frequences) is an organizational entity under the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Located in Geneva, IFRB is composed of five full-time elected officials with a rotating chairmanship. IFRB maintains the International Frequency Register, monitors and analyzes all ITU records of frequency use around the world, and makes determinations as to whether or not certain systems are in compliance with the Radio Regulations.
IFAD, created in 1976 (began operations in December 1977), provides financial support for programs which improve agricultural policies and increase food production among members. The Fund also seeks to improve nutrition in developing countries. IFAF membership includes over 140 nations; headquarters are in Rome, Italy.
The CoCom industrial list contains dual-use items whose export are controlled for strategic reasons
UNIDROIT studies methods for coordinate and unify the private and trade laws of member countries. The Institute (originally established in 1926 at the initiative of Italy and associated with the League of Nations) is independent, with headquarters in Rome, Italy.
The IIPA represents U.S. copyright-based industries in bilateral and multilateral efforts to improve international protection of copyrighted works. IIPA is composed of trade associations each representing a significant segment of the U.S. copyright community. IIPA was formed in 1984; headquarters are in Washington, D.C.
See: Foreign Direct Investment in the United States Portfolio Investment.
The ILO, set up in 1919, became a specialized agency of the United Nations in 1946. The ILO seeks to promote improved working and living conditions by establishing standards that reduce social injustice in areas such as employment, pay, health, working conditions, and freedom of association among workers. Headquarers are in Geneva, Switzerland.
The IMO was established as a specialized agency of the United Nations in 1948. The IMO facilitates cooperation on technical matters affecting merchant shipping and traffic, including improved maritime safety and prevention of marine pollution. Headquartrers are in London, England.
INMARSAT is an international partnership of signatories from 67 nations. The partnership provides mobile satellite capacity to its signatories, who, in turn, use the capacity to provide worldwide mobile satellite services to their maritime, aeronautical and land-mobile customers -- including shipping, cruise, fishing, research and offshore exploration industries, and airlines. INMARSAT began service in 1976. COMSAT is the U.S. signatory to INMARSAT.
International Market Insight, IMI, reports are prepared by staff at American embassies and consulates. An IMI covers developments in a single country that are of interest to traders and investors. Topics may include: new laws, policies and procedures, new trade regulations, and marketplace changes.
See: Industry Subsector Analysis.
The IMF, established in December 1945, promotes international monetary harmony, monitors the exchange rate and monetary policies of member nations, and provides credit for member countries which experience temporary balance of payments deficits. Each member has a quota, expressed in Special Drawing Rights, which reflects both the relative size of the member's economy and that member's voting power in the Fund. Quotas also determine members' access to the financial resources of, and their shares in the allocation of Special Drawing Rights by, the Fund. The IMF, funded through members' quotas, may supplement resources through borrowing. IMF membership is approximately 175 countries. See: Compensatory and Contingency Financing Facility Credit Tranches Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility Extended Fund Facility General Arrangements to Borrow Reserve Tranche Special Drawing Rights Stand-By Arrangements
The International Munitions List, IML, is one of three lists controlled by the 17-member Coordinating Committee on Multilateral Export Controls (CoCom). The IML contains 23 categories and is similar in coverage, but less restrictive, than the U.S. Munitions List (USML).
The IOM assists countries in meeting individual needs arising from immigration and emigration. The Organization was established in 1951; headquarters are in Geneva, Switzerland.
The International POW WOW promotes foreign tourism to the United States. It is an annual trade fair, sponsored by the Travel Industry Association of America, which brings together over 1,200 international buyers (tour operators and wholesalers) from 55 countries. The buyers are chosen through international selection criteria and purchase packages which they sell to their respective travel retailers.
CCIR (French: Comite International des Radiocommunications) studies and issues recommendations on technical and operating questions connected with radiocommunications. CCIR, a subsidiary organization of the International Telecommunications Union, is located in Geneva, Switzerland. The Department of State is the U.S. member. See: International Telecommunications Union
See: Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research.
The ISSA, established in 1927, is comprised of organizations responsible for the administration of social security. ISSA aims to protect and develop social security throughout the world. The Assocation works closely with the International Labor Organization (ILO). The ISSA secretariat is locaated in the ILO building in Geneva, Switzerland.
The ISO, established in 1947, is a worldwide federation of national bodies, representing approximately 90 member countries. The scope of the International Standards Organization covers standardization in all fields except electrical and electronic engineering standards, which are the responsibility of the IEC, International Electrotechnical Commission. Together, the ISO and IEC form the specialized system for worldwide standardization -- the world's largest nongovernmental system for voluntary industrial and technical collaboration at the international level. The result of ISO technical work is published in the form of International Standards. There are, for example, ISO standards for the quality grading of steel; for testing the strength of woven textiles; for storage of citrus fruits; for magnetic codes on credit cards; for automobile safety belts; and for ensuring the quality and performance of such diverse products as surgical implants, ski bindings, wire ropes, and photographic lenses. See: International Accreditation Forum
ISO 9000 is the general name for the quality standard accepted throughout the European Economic Community. It was initially adopted in 1987. ISO is a series of documents on quality assurance published by the Geneva-based International Standards Organization. The five documents outline standards for developing Total Quality Management and a Quality Improvement Process. 9000 consists of guidelines for the selection and use of the quality systems contained in 9001-9003. 9001 outlines a model for quality assurance in design, development, production, installation, and servicing. 9002 outlines a model for quality assurance in production and installation. 9003 outlines model for quality assurance for final inspection and testing. 9004 is not a standard but contains guidelines for quality management and quality system elements
ISONET is an agreement between standardizing bodies to make information on standards, technical regulations, and related matters readily available. ISONET links the information centers of national standards bodies with each other and with the ISO Information Centre in Geneva, Switzerland. National members of ISONET are responsible for serving as the international reference point for information about the standards, technical regulations and certification systems which operate in the individual member's country and for providing their own nationals with information on national, foreign, regional and international technical rules.
ISDA promotes orderly practices in the swap market, conducts research on the volume and quality of transactions, and public understanding. The Association, established in 1985, is a not-for-profit corporation, with headquarters in New York City; members include over 140 institutions worldwide representing dealers in swaps, corporations, software firms, and law firms. ISDA, formerly known as the International Swap Dealers Association, changed its name in August 1993. See: Derivatives.
The ITU (French: Union Internationale des Telecommunications, UIT) is a specialized agency of the United Nations with responsibilities for developing operational procedures and technical standards for the use of the radio frequency spectrum, the satellite orbit, and for the international public telephone and telegraph network. ITU develops telecommunications standards in the form of recommendations covering all technical aspects of systems and equipment including interfaces, methods of operation and principles governing the fixing of tariffs and rates to be charged. There are over 160 member nations of the ITU. The Radio Regulations that results from ITU conferences have treaty status and provide the principal guidelines for world telecommunications. In the case of the U.S., they are the framework for development of the U.S. national frequency allocations and regulations. The ITU has four permanent organs: the General Secretariat, the International Frequency Registration Board (IFRB), the International Radio Consultative Committee (CCIR), and the International Telegraph and Telephone Consultative Committee (CCITT). The Union is located in Geneva, Switzerland. The Department of State is the U.S. member. See: International Frequency Registration Board International Radio Consultative Committee International Telegraph and Telephone Consultative Committee
INTELSAT, created in 1964 under a multilateral agreement, is a nonprofit cooperative of about 120 countries that jointly own and operate a global communications satellite system serving the world. The system is used primarily for international communications, and by many countries for domestic communications. In 1991, the INTELSAT system comprised a network of 16 satellites in geosynchronous orbit over the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Ocean regions, with service to about 1,500 international and domestic earth station antennas. COMSAT is the United Statess representative to and participant in Intelsat
These are transborder services provided via cable, radio, or satellite. These service offerings have traditionally been international message telephone service (IMTS), telex, and telegraph, but during the 1980's have grown to include private leased lines, overseas value-added services, and international 800 services.
CCITT (French: Comite Consultatif International Telegraphique et Telephonique) studies and issues recommendations on standards and specifications on techincal, operating, and tariff questions connected with telephony, data transmission, and telegraphy. CCITT, a subsidiary organization of the International Telecommunications Union, is located in Geneva, Switzerland. The Department of State is the U.S. member. See: International Telecommunication Union.
An independent U.S. Government agency concerned with imports, import duties, and the effect of imports on U.S. industry. The Commission has six commissioners who review and make recommendations concerning countervailing duty and antidumping petitions submitted by U.S. industries seeking relief from imports that benefit unfair trade practices. Known as the U.S. Tariff Commission before its mandate was broadened by the Trade Act of 1974.
ITDCs provide programs and services to farmers and agribusinesses to enhance exports of agricultural and forestry commodities and related products. Activities include developing and promoting programs unique to a region's products, conducting research, providing market information, and offering conferences and seminars for exports. Grants for the ITDCs are administered by the Agriculture Department's Cooperative State Research Service.
The International Traffic in Arms Regulations, ITAR, are administered by the State Department to control the export of U.S. defense articles and services. The provisions implemented in the ITAR are governed by the Arms Export Control Act. Direct commercial sales of U.S.-origin defense products, components, technologies, and services are controlled under the ITAR by the State's Office of Defense Trade Controls. See: Defense Trade Regulations.
IVANS include advanced telecommunications services, such as voice mail and electronic banking. IVANS agreements play a growing role in maintaining the competitiveness of American firms and provide benefits for consumers worldwide.
Investment climate statements, ICSs, are prepared occasionally by the commercial sections of the U.S. embassies for the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service, covering 67 individual countries. The ICSs provide statistics and analysis of policies and issues effecting the climate for direct investment in the individual country.
See: United Nations Industrial Development Organization.
The ISLP, administered by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) as part of the Enterprise for the Americas initiative, supports investment sector reforms in Latin America and the Caribbean. The IDB evalutes the need for reform in individual countries and, with input from several U.S. government agencies, negotiates the terms for investment sector loans. See: Enterprise for the Americas Initiative.
This refers to areas of non-merchandise invisible trade that include expenses such as freight and insurance and most types of services and investment.
An itemized list of goods shipped to a buyer, stating quantities, prices, shipping charges, etc.
A complete listing of all cargo entering the country of discharge. Required at all world ports and is the primary source of cargo control, against which duty is assessed by the receiving country.
An instrument that, once established, cannot be modified or cancelled without the agreement of all parties concerned.
Letter of credit in which the specified payment is guaranteed by the bank if all terms and conditions are met by the drawee and which cannot be revoked without joint agreement of both the buyer and the seller.
See: Organization of the Islamic Conference.
The IsDB (sometimes IDB) finances economic aid and social development in member countries. The Bank also supports Muslim communities in non-member countries. Membership is open to all countries which are members of the Islamic Conference. Members include: Afghanistan, Algeria, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Benin, Brunei, Burkina, the Cameroon, Chad, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, Gabon, The Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Jordan Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Oman, Pakistan, the Palestine Liberation Organization, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, Turkey, Uganda, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. The Bank was created in 1973 (began operations in October 1975); headquarters are in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Bank that opens a straight or negotiable letter of credit and assumes the obligation to pay the bank or beneficiary if the documents presented are in accordance with the terms of the letter of credit.
The carrier issuing transportation documents or publishing a tariff.
ICE (English: Institute of Foreign Trade) is an Italian agency which promotes exports through a network of domestic and foreign offices. Although ICE obtains overall policy directiel Commercio con l'Estero), it functions as an autonomous public corporation. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Ministero degseas embassies and consulates, though ICE's overseas officers are independent of these organizations.
Jettison and Washing Overboard.
Joint Common Risks Agreement
Japanses Hull Insurers' Union
Joint Account
A deck with legs that can be jacked up or down. During operations, the legs rest on the sea-bed. When the rig is moved, the legs are retracted, leaving the rig floating. A backup has normally no propulsion machinery of its own.
Jubail
Joint Committee for Investment and Trade
Japan Development Bank
Jet fuel
Goods from a ship's cargo or parts of its equipment that have been thrown overboard to lighten the load in time of danger or to set a stranded ship adrift.
Abbreviation for Just In Time. In this method of inventory control, warehousing is minimal or nonexistent; the container is the movable warehouse and must arrive just in time; not too early nor too late.
A term of business partnership involving joint management and the sharing of risks and profits between enterprises sometimes based in different countries.
Merchant Marine Act of 1920, Section 27, requiring that all U.S. domestic waterborne trade be carried by U.S.-flag, U.S.-built, and U.S.-manned vessels.
Japan
Joint Publication Research Service
Yugoslav Register
The principle of production and inventory control in which goods arrive when needed for production or use.
Joint venture
A wood or fiber cover placed around such containers as cans and bottles.
A pontoon designed for positioning and launching jackets for offshore use
A semi submersible pontoon designed for positioning and launching jackets for offshore use
A rope ladder suspended from the side of a vessel and used for boarding
The Japan Corporate Program was initiated (by the U.S. Department of Commerce) to help increase U.S. exports to Japan. The program was initiated in January 1991, following selection of 20 companies to participate in a five-year pilot project to improve U.S. knowledge of, and access to, the Japanese market. As part of the five-year commitment to the program, the companies arrange four visits a year to Japan, including two by their chief executives; publish their product literature in Japanese; participate in at least one trade promotion event in Japan each year; and modify products to enhance consumer acceptance and promote sales in Japan. Commerce supports the 20 firms with market data, arranges introductory meetings with prospective Japanese buyers, and recommends market development strategies.
The Japan Development Bank was founded in 1951 to aid in developing and diversifying the Japanese economy. The JDB is a non-profit organization owned entirely by the Japanese Government. U.S. companies may participate in JDB funding activity under the Bank's Loan Division in the International Department. The International Department disburses loans to foreign companies under two primary loan programs: Promotion of Foreign Direct Investment in Japan and Facilities for Import Products. The other loan programs of JDB are also available to foreign-owned companies under the principle of equal treatment of clients regardless of nationality
The Japan Export Information Center (JEIC) provides information on doing business in Japan, market entry alternatives, market information and research, product standards and testing requirements, tariffs and non-tariff barriers. The Center maintains a commercial library and participates in private- and government-sponsored seminars on doing business in Japan. JEIC is operated by the International Trade Administration of the Department of Commerce. (202-482-2425 and 202-482-4524; fax: 202-482-0469)
Although legally under the aegis of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI), JETRO administers the export programs of the Japanese Government independently. MITI subsidizes about 60 percent of JETRO's total annual expenditures and, technically, has final decision-making authority over JETRO management and programs. Originally established to help Japanese firms export, JETRO also assists American companies seeking to export to Japan and promotes Japanese direct investment in the United States and U.S. direct investment in Japan. Japan International Cooperation Agency - JICA administers the bilateral grant portion of Japan's Official Development Assistance (ODA). JICA covers both: (a) grant aid cooperation (offered without the obligation of repayment) and (b) technical cooperation (offering trainees, experts, equipment, project-type technical cooperation, and development studies). The Agency was established in August 1974; headquarters are in Tokyo, Japan. See: Export-Import Bank of Japan Overseas Economic Cooperation Fund
Jettison
Act of throwing cargo or equipment (jetsam) overboard when a ship is in danger.
The JCIT, was established in October 1990 to demonstrate U.S. and Mexican commitment to greater economic cooperation. The Committee identifies trade and investment opportunities and coordinates trade promotion events.
See: Foreign Broadcast Information Service.
A rate applicable from a point on one transportation line to a point on another line, made by agreement and published in a single tariff by all transportation lines over which the rate applies.
A business undertaking in which more than one firm share ownership and control of production and/or marketing.
Knocked down
Knocked down condition
Kangera Basin Organization
An article taken apart, folded, or telescoped to reduce its bulk at least 66-2/3% below its assembled size.
Knocked Down in Less than Carload Lots.
Kokusai Denshin Denwa
The lowest longitudinal timber of a vessel, on which framework of the whole is built up; combination of iron plates serving same purpose in iron vessel.
Kerosene
Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development
Korea Foreign Trade Association
Kommanditgesellschaft
Klasifikasi Indonesia
cargo refrigerating system
Nautical miles per hour
The unit of speed equivalent to one nautical mile: 6,080.20 feet per hour or 1.85 kilometers per hour.
Nautical miles per hour
Korea Trade Promotion Corporation
Korean Register
Koreans
Kilo or metric ton. 1,000 Kilos or 2,204.6 pounds.
Keel To Mast
Nautical miles per hour
The KBO promotes integrated exploitation and management of water and land resources in the Kangera Basin. Officially known as the Organization for the Managment and Development of the Kangera Basin (French: Organisation pour l'Amenagement et le Developpement du Bassin de la Riviere Kagera), the KBO was established in 1978; headquarters are in Kigali, Rwanda. BKO members inlcude: Burundi, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda
Keidanren (the Japanese Federation of Economic Organizations) was established in 1946 as a private, non-profit economic organization representing virtually all branches of economic activity in Japan.
Keiretsu refers to the horizontally and vertically linked industrial structure of post-war Japan. The horizontally linked groups include a broad range of industries linked via banks and general trading firms. There are eight major industrial groups, sometimes referred to as Kigyo Shudan: Mitsubishi, Mitsui, Sumitomo, Fuyo, DKB, Sanwa, Tokai, and IBJ. The vertically linked groups (such as Toyota, Matshushita, and Sony) are centered around parent companies, with subsidiaries frequently serving as suppliers, distributors, and retail outlets. Common characteristics among the groups include crossholding of company shares, intra-group financing, joint investment, mutual appointment of officers, and other joint business activities. The keiretsu system emphasizes mutual cooperation and protects affiliates from mergers and acquisitions. Ties within groups became looser after the oil shocks of the 1970s as a result of decreasing dependence on banks for capital.
A vessel equipped for harvesting kelp seaweed
1,000 grams or 2.2046 pounds
A coupling pin centered on the front underside of a chassis; couples to the tractor.
Articles which are taken apart to reduce the cubic footage displaced or to make a better shipping unit and are to be re-assembled.
One nautical mile (6,076 feet or 1852 meters) per hour. In the days of sail, speed was measured by tossing overboard a log which was secured by a line. Knots were tied into the line at intervals of approximately six feet. The number of knots measured was then compared against time required to travel the distance of 1000 knots in the line.
A loss discovered before or at the time of delivery of a shipment.
The Kokusai Denshin Denwa Company, KDD, was established in 1953 but traces its history back to 1871 and the establishment of its predecessor organizations. For more than a century, the company was Japan's sole supplier of international telecommunications services and today remains Japan's leading international carrier. KDD is Japan's signatory to INTELSAT and INMARSAT
KG (German, meaning: limited partnership) differs from the general partnership in that only the general partner (Komplementaer) has full personal liability for the liabilities of the partnership while the remaining (limited) partners' (Kommanditist) liability is limited to the specific amount of their contribution. The company must carry the name of one personally liable partner with reference to the existence of a company. The name of the general partner with unlimited liability may not be left out.
KGaA (German, meaning: limited partnership by shares) is a combination of the elements of a stock company and a limited partnership. There is at least one general partner whose liability is unlimited while limited shareholders have an interest in the stated capital divided into shares without being personally liable for the debts of the company.
KFTA, a non-profit, private business organization of Korean companies, provides information and services concerning trade both for members and for foreign businesses. KFTA, with headquarters are in Seoul, maintains some U.S. offices.
KOTRA, a non-profit organization, was established by the Korean government in 1962 to promote foreign trade. The corporation now also serves as an import promotion center offering a variety of free services in trade, investment, and international economic cooperation. KOTRA, with headquarters in Seoul, has a network of domestic and overseas offices, including several U.S. sites. KOTRA's U.S. telephone: 1-800-568-7248.
The KfW (English: Reconstruction Loan Corporation) provides assistance to developing countries in the form of loans, grants, materials, or services. The KfW determines volume and use of funds, repayment conditions, interest rates, fund-release procedures, and monitoring requirements. It promotes the establishment of German companies in developing countries and promotiong new technologies by German companies in developing countries. See: Deutsche Finanzierungsgesellschaft fur Beteilgungen in Entwicklungslandern GmbH Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Technische Zusammenarbeit.
The KFAED is a Kuwaiti independent public institution which assists Arab and other developing countries in developing their economies by granting them concessional loans for development programs and by financing pre-investment studies of ways to expand production capacities. Fund operations, originally restricted to Arab countries, were extended to cover other developing countries in July 1974. In March 1981, the objectives of the Fund were extended to include participation in the capital and resources of development institutions and other types of establishments. These recipients have included: the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development, the African Development Bank, the African Development Fund, the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa, the Inter-Arab Investment Guarantee Corporation, the International Development Association, the International Fund for Agricultural Development, and the Special Program of Assistance for African Countries. KFAED was established in December 1961; its headquarters are in Safat, Kuwait.
See: International Convention on the Simplification and Harmonization of Customs Procedures.
Loss and Damage.
Laden
Latent defect
Lighter aboard ship
Linseed Association Terms
Lloyd's American Trust Fund
Lloyd's Aviation Underwriters' Association
Life Assurance and Unit Trust Regulatory
Length / breadth / height
London clause (chartering), Label clause
Less than full container load
London Corn trade
London, Hull, Antwerp or Rotterdam
Lloyd's Insurance Brokers' Committee
London Insurance Market
London Insurance Market Data Standards Manual
London Insurance Market Technical Co-ordination Group
Life Insurance Policy
London Land Terms
Lloyd's machinery certificate
Lloyd's machinery certificate, continuous survey
Liquified natural gas carrier
Liquified petroleum gas carrier
Lloyd's Policy Signing Office
Lloyd's refrigerating machinery certificate
Livestock clauses
Longshoremen's and Harbor Workers' Liability
Local standard time
Liner Terms;Long tons
Long term agreement
Lloyd's Underwriters' Association
Lloyd's Underwriting Agents Association
Leading underwriter agreement for marine cargo
Leading underwriter agreement for marine hull
Lloyd's Underwriters' Claims andRecoveries Office
Life and Unit Trust Intermediaries Regulatory Organization
Low water
Low water, ordinary spring tides
Loss during discharge
Letter of authority. Landing account. Lloyd's agent
Letter of Credit
Loading/discharging
Letter of indemnity
Loading Port
Lumpsum
Long tons (2,240 lbs.).
Leading Underwriter
Los Angeles
Latin American Economic System
Latin American Free Trade Association
Latin American Integration Association
Ships not in active service; a ship which is out of commission for fitting out, awaiting better markets, needing work for classification, etc.
Type of ship which trades only in the Great Lakes of North America. They usually carry grain and ore cargoes.
Large automatic navigation buoy
whereby each unit of space (Linear Meter) is represented by an area of deck 1.0 meter in length x 2.0 meters in width.
A maritime industry abbreviation for Lighter Aboard Ship. A specially constructed vessel equipped with an overhead crane for lifting specially designed barges and stowing them into cellular slots in an athwartship position.
LASH stand for Lighter Aboard Ship. It is a specialized container ship carrying very large floating containers, or lighters. The ship carries its own massive crane, which loads and discharges the containers over the stern. The lighters each have a capacity of 400 tons and are stowed in the holds and on deck. While, the ship is at sea with one set of lighters, further sets can be made ready. Loading and discharge are rapid at about 15 minutes per lighter, no port or dock facilities are needed, and the lighters can be grouped for pushing by towboats along inland waterways.
Barges specifically designed to load on a vessel internally and for quick vessel turnaround. The concept is to quickly float the barges to the vessel (using tugs or ships wenches), load the barges through the rear of the vessel, then sail. Upon arrival at the foreign port, the reverse happens. Barges are quickly floated away from the vessel and another set of waiting barges quickly are loaded. Usually crane-equipped, these barges handle mostly breakbulk cargo.
Latitude; Lowest Astronomical tide
The dates between which a chartered vessel is to be available in a port for loading of cargo.
Temporary cessation of trading of a ship by a shipowner during a period when there is a surplus of ships in relation to the level of available cargoes. This surplus, known as overtonnaging, has the effect of depressing freight rates to the extent that some shipowners no long find it economical to trade their ship, preferring to lay them up until there is a reversal in the trend.
Laydays/canceling
Laydays/Cancelling (date): Range of dates within the hire contract must start.
Time allowed by the shipowner to the voyage charterer or bill of lading holder in which to load and/or discharge the cargo. It is expressed as a number of days or hours or as a number of tons per day.
Long Beach
Length between perpendiculars.(of a Ship)
London clause
Local Competitive Bidding
Lake Chad Basin Commission
Abbreviation for Less than Container Load. The quantity of freight which is less than that required for the application of a container load rate. Loose Freight.
Lowest current rate
Less Developed Country
Least developed countries
Leaded
Loading
Laden
Light diesel oil
Load Port
Light Displacement Tonnage, weight of an empty vessel (usually in Long Tons).
LESS THAN CONTAINER LOAD (1) A consignment of cargo which is inefficient to fill a shipping container. It is grouped with other consignments for the same destination in a container at a container freight station. (2) The weight of the goods plus any immediate wrappings that are sold along with the goods, e.g., the weight of a tin can as well as its contents. (See also Gross Weight)
Rates applicable when the quantity of freight is less than the volume or truckload minimum weight.
A letter of audit issued by one bank to which another bank added its irrevocable confirmation to pay, thereby obligating itself in the same manner as the opening bank. For example, we hereby confirm this credit and undertake to pay drafts drawn in accordance with the terms and conditions of the letter of credit.
A revolving letter of credit which permits any amount not utilized during any of the specified periods to be carried over and added to the amounts available in subsequent periods.
A letter of credit issued for the purchase and financing of merchandise, similar to acceptance letter of credit, except that it requires presentation of sight drafts which are payable on installment basis usually for periods of 1 year or more. Under this type of credit, the seller is financing the buyer until the stipulated time his drafts can be presented to the bank for payment. There is a significant deference in the bank's commitment, depending on whether the negotiating bank advised or confirmed the letter of credit.
A document issued by a bank per instructions by a buyer of goods authorizing the seller to draw a specified sum of money under specified terms. Issued as revocable or irrevocable.
A letter of credit which requires the beneficiary to present only a draft or a receipt for specified funds before he receives payment.
A letter of credit issued in such form that it allows any bank to negotiate the documents. Negotiable credits incorporate the opening bank's engagement, stating that the drafts will be duly honored on presentation, provided they comply with ail terms of the credit.
A revolving letter of credit which prohibits the amount not utilized during the specific period to be available in the subsequent periods.
This type of letter of credit is not as legally binding as an irrevocable credit. It can be modified or canceled without the beneficiary's consent, unless the negotiation has already taken place. The issuing bank must honor the drafts negotiated before the notice of revocation or amendment has been made. Negotiability is restricted to the advising bank and confirmation is usually not available.
A credit which includes a provision for reinstating its face value after being drawn under within a stated period of time. This kind of credit facilitates the financing of on going regular purchases.
One issued for the express purpose of effecting payment in the event of default. The issuing bank is prepared to pay but does not expect to as long as the underlying transaction is properly fulfilled.
A letter of credit which is issued by a bank to a customer preparing for an extended trip. The customer pays for the letter of credit at the time of issuance, and a bank issues the letter for a specified period of time in the amount purchased. The bank furnishes a list of correspondent banks where drafts against the letter of credit will be honored. The bank also identifies the customer by exhibiting a specimen signature of the purchaser in the folder enclosing the list of correspondent banks. Each bank, which honors a draft, endorses on the letter of credit the date when a payment was made, the bank's name, the amount drawn against the letter of credit, and charges the issuing bank's account
A letter of credit containing a guarantee on the part of both the issuing and advising banks of payment to the seller, provided the seller's documentation is in order and the terms of the letter of credit are met.
Liquified gas carrier
London Grain Fixtures Market
LenGThened
London, Hull, Amsterdam or Rotterdam
Limited International Bidding
London Interbank Bid Rate
London Interbank Offered Rate
A specially constructed double ended boat which can withstand heavy, rough seas.
The master of every vessel is bound by international law to make the officers, crew and passengers adequately acquainted with the procedures of lowering and the use of lifeboats in case of emergency.
London International Financial Futures and Options, Exchange
Liner in, Free out; Last in, First out
The weight of a ship's hull, machinery, equipment, and spares. This is often the basis on which ships are paid for when purchased for scrapping. The difference between the loaded displacement and light displacement is the ship's deadweight.
(1) General name for a broad, flat-bottomed boat used in transporting cargo between a vessel and the shore. The distinction between a lighter and a barge is more in the manner of use than in equipment. The term lighter refers to a short haul, generally in connection with loading and unloading operations of vessels in harbor while the term barge is more often used when the cargo is being carried to its destination over a long distance. (2) An open or covered barge equipped with a crane and towed by a tugboat. Used mostly in harbors and inland waterways.
An ocean ship which carries barges. These barges are loaded with cargo, often at a variety of locations, towed to the ocean ship, sometimes referred to as the mother ship, and lifted or, in some cases, floated on board. After the ocean crossing, the barges are off-loaded and towed to their various destinations. The ocean ship then receives a further set of barges which have been assembled in readiness. This concept was designed to eliminate the need for specialized port equipment and to avoid transshipment with its consequent extra cost.
London Interbank Mean Rate
London Insurance Market Network
The management of freight between cities, usually more than 1000 miles.
Vessels operating on fixed itineraries or regular schedules and established rates available to all shippers. The freight rates which are charged are based on the shipping company's tariff or if the company is a member of a liner conference, the tariff of that conference.
The finalization of a customs entry.
Leakage and Breakage.
Laden legs; Loadlines
Lesser Developed Countries
British classification society.
London landed terms
Lane meters
London Maritime Arbitration Association
Liquefied Natural Gas, or a carrier of LNG.
Liquefied natural gas carrier, perhaps the most sophisticated of all commercial ships. The cargo tanks are made of a special aluminum alloy and are heavily insulated to carry natural gas in its liquid state at a temperature of -2850F. The LNG ship costs about twice as much as an oil tanker of the same size.
A tanker for the bulk carriage of Liquefied Natural Gas (primarily methane) in independent insulated tanks. Liquefaction is achieved at temperatures down to -163 deg C
Lubricating oil
Load-on and load-off or Lift-on and lift-off vessel
ocean vessel, which in this case is by the use of a crane.
Length Overall (of the vessel)
Percentage of cargo or passengers carried e.g. 4000 tons carried on a vessel of 10000 capacity has a load factor of 40%
The line on a vessel indicating the maximum depth to which that vessel can sink when loaded with cargo. Also known as marks.
Subdivision of a ship's voyage during which the ship is carrying cargo.
A railroad movement in which only one road haul carrier participates. The one carrier serves both the origin and destination station
The efficient and cost-effective management of the physical movement of goods from supply points to final sale and the associated transfer and holding of such goods at various intermediate storage points.
Letter of indemnity
Lift On Lift Off ship
Longtitude
A member of the crew stationed on the forecastle, or on the bridge, whose duty it is to watch for any dangerous objects or for any other vessels heaving into sight.
Load On Top
Last open water
Load port disbursements
Liquefied Petroleum Gas, or a carrier of LPG.
A self propelled tanker barge for the bulk carriage of Liquefied Petroleum Gas
A non propelled tank barge for the carriage of LPG
A tanker for the bulk carriage of Liquefied Petroleum Gas in insulated tanks, which may be independent or integral. The cargo is pressurised (smaller vessels), refrigerated (larger vessels) or both ('semi-pressurised') to achieve liquefaction.
An LPG tanker additionally capable of the carriage of chemical products as defined in the International Bulk Chemical Code
Liquified petroleum gas carrier
Liverpool
Lumpsum
Liverpool quay terms
Lloyds Register of Shipping
Load rate
Lloyds Register Fairplay: Publications such as the Register of Ships and the World Shipping Directory, Lloyd's Register - Fairplay also provides bespoke data services and market analyses.
Lumpsum;Lumber (timber) summer loadline
Liner Shipping Agreements.
Landing Ship Dock; Landing Storage and Delivery; Lashed Secured Dunnaged
Loaded, stowed, lasned, secured, dunnaged and unlashed
Long Ton = 1016.05 kilogram
Liner terms, both ends
Limited (Liability)
Less Than Fair Value
Lighterage
Less than Truck Load quantity refers to weights of less than 40,000 lbs unless otherwise stated.
Trucking company which consolidates less-than-truckload cargo for multiple destinations on one vehicle.
Long tons
Laytime saved
Laytime saved both ends
Lubricants
Lifting unit frame
A person hired to help unload a trailer
Lumpsum
Money paid to shipper for charter of a ship (or portion) up to stated limit irrespective of quantity of cargo
Low Water
Lumber Winter North Atlantic
Low Water On Ordinary Spring Tides
Lightweight tons
Laydays/Canceling date
See: Franc Zone.
A committee of private sector advisors, consisting of trade union representatives and other experts, which advises the Labor Department and the United States Trade Representative on U.S. trade policy matters.
Loaded aboard a vessel.
Refers to the freight shipped; the contents of a shipment.
A document accorded by a host government to foreign diplomatic personnel, which permits them to pass freely across the border of that country.
The LCBC recommends plans for developing the Chad Basin and coordinates research programs. The Commission was established in 1964; headquarters are in N'Djamena, Chad. LCBC members include: The Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria.
Movement of cargo by water from one country through the port of another country, thence, using rail or truck, to an inland point in that country or to a third country. As example, a through movement of Asian cargo to Europe across North America.
The total cost of a good to a buyer, including the cost of transportation
Certificate issued by consular officials of some importing countries at the point or place of export when the subject goods are exported under bond.
An open deck cargo vessel onto which cargo is loaded and unloaded over a bow door/ramp
A support fixed on the front part of a chassis (which is retractable); used to support the front end of a chassis when the tractor has been removed
A combat vessel designed for the transport of troops, using a semi submersible dock to launch landing craft or helicopters, and with ro-ro ramp facilities
A tanker for the bulk carriage of latex
The Association promotes cooperation among members in ways which support the integration of Latin American economies, including efforts to improve the flow of information among members and encouraging studies of problems of common interest. Members include 24 Latin American countries and several countries in Europe and North America. The Association was established in January 1968; headquarters are in Lima, Peru.
See: Banco Latinoamericano de Exportaciones.
See: Latin American Integration Association.
Landing and delivery
The League of Arab States (or Arab League) is a regional grouping aimed at improving relations among Arab nations. Members include: Algeria, Bahrain, Djibouti, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, Yeman Arab Republic, Yemen People's Democractic Republic. The League was established in March 1945; headquarters are in Cairo, Egypt. See: Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development.
Legal charges
An LDC is a country with low per capita gross national product. Terms such as third world, poor, developing nations, and underdeveloped have also been used to describe less developed countries.
Also known as LTL or LCL.
The classification LLDC (sometimes also known as Least Developed Countries) was developed by the United Nations to give some guidance to donor agencies and countries about an equitable allocation of foreign assistance. The criteria for designating a country an LLDC, originally adopted by the UN Committee for Development Planning in 1971, have been modified several times. Criteria have included low: per-capita-income, literacy, and manufacturing share of the country's total gross domestic product. There is continuing concern that the criteria should be more robust and less subject to the possibility of easy fluctuation of a country between less developed and least developed status.
A financial document issued by a bank at the request of the consignee guaranteeing payment to the shipper for cargo if certain terms and conditions are fulfilled. Normally it contains a brief description of the goods, documents required, a shipping date, and an expiration date after which payment will no longer be made.- An Irrevocable Letter of Credit is one which obligates the issuing bank to pay the exporter when all terms and conditions of the letter of credit have been met. None of the terms and conditions may be changed without the consent of all parties to the letter of credit.- A Revocable Letter of Credit is subject to possible recall or amendment at the option of the applicant, without the approval of the beneficiary.- A Confirmed Letter of Credit is issued by a foreign bank with its validity confirmed by a U.S. bank. An exporter who requires a confirmed letter of credit from the buyer is assured payment from the U.S. bank in case the foreign buyer or bank defaults.- A Documentary Letter of Credit is one for which the issuing bank stipulates that certain documents must accompany a draft. The documents assure the applicant (importer) that the merchandise has been shipped and that title to the goods has been transferred to the importer.
A document, issued by a bank per instructions by a buyer of goods, authorizing the seller to draw a specified sum of money under specified terms, usually the receipt by the bank of certain documents within a given time. Some of the specific descriptions are:
Communication by the advising bank that a letter of credit has been issued. The primary responsibility of the advising bank is to take care in establishing the authenticity of the credit.
A bank which acts as an agent of the issuing bank of a letter of credit in supplying the details of the letter of credit to its beneficial, without any responsibility or engagement on its part.
An acceptance transaction unrelated to a letter of credit, created for the purpose of borrowing, is referred to as acceptance financing. In contrast to direct loans, the bankers acceptance provides a vehicle of financing customers without the use of bank funds. By accepting a draft the bank merely adds its name to a bill which then can be used to raise funds by selling in the open market.
In order to obtain the clean bill of lading, the shipper signs a letter of indemnity to the carrier on the basis of which may be obtained the clean bill of lading, although the dock or mate's receipt showed that the shipment was damaged or in bad condition.
Liability
- Some governments require certain commodities to be licensed prior to exportation or importation. Clauses attesting to compliance are often required on the B/L.
A legal claim upon goods for the satisfaction of some debt or duty
An accounting approach in which a company sets product prices based on recovering costs over the life cycle of the product. U.S. authorities dispute the validity of this approach because projections of future yield improvements cannot be verified at the time of dumping calculations.
A vessel discharges part of its cargo at anchor into a lighter to reduce the vessel's draft so it can then get alongside a pier.
Refers to carriage of goods by lighter and the charge assessed therefrom
A vessel equipped for supply of stores and personnel to lighthouses
A vessel specifically designed for use as a lightship for use as a navigational mark
A single deck cargo vessel for the carriage of limestone in bulk. There are no weather deck hatches. May be self discharging
In the United Kingdom there are two types of limited companies: (a) a private limited company in which the public cannot be invited to subscribe to any share issue and (b) a public limited company (plc) which can raise funds through share issues. Before a limited company can go public, it must have a minimum share capital. A private limited company requires no minimum share capital.
Limited appointees to the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service (or to other foreign services) are persons from the private sector or from the Federal Government who are non-career officers assigned overseas for a limited time.
LIB is one of several forms of procurement made with World Bank financing. In some circumstances (such as: small purchases, urgent need, or few suppliers), suppliers or contractors of specialized goods and services participate by invitation rather than in response to an advertisement. See: International Business Opportunities Service International Competitive Bidding Local Competitive Bidding.
The Line Release System, a part of Customs' Automated Commercial System, is designed for the release and tracking of shipments through the use of personal computers and bar code technology. To qualify for line release, a commodity must have a history of invoice accuracy, and be selected by local Customs districts on the basis of high volume. To release the merchandise, Customs reads the bar code into a personal computer, verifies that the bar code matches the invoice data, and enters the quantity. The cargo release is transmitted to the Automated Commercial System, which establishes an entry and the requirement for an entry summary, and provides the Automated Broker Interface system participants with release information
Transportation from one city to another as differentiated from local switching service.
A vessel sailing between specified ports on a regular basis.
Any classified linkspan, jetty or floating access pontoon
The penalty a seller must pay if the construction project does not meet contractual standards or deadlines.
The Liquidation System, a part of Customs' Automated Commercial System, closes the file on each entry and establishes a batch filing number which is essential for recovering an entry for review or enforcement purposes. An entry liquidation is a final review of the entry. P.L. 95-410 (Customs Procedural Reform and Simplification Act of 1978) requires that all liquidations be performed within one year from the date of consumption entry or final withdrawal on a warehouse entry. Three one-year extensions are permitted.
The amount in degrees that a vessel tilts from the vertical.
1.06 liquid U.S. quarts or 33.9 fluid ounces.
A vessel for the carriage of live fish in water tanks
A cargo vessel arranged for the carriage of livestock
Leakage and breakage
Lloyd's and Companies
An organization maintained for the surveying and classing of ships so that insurance underwriters and others may know the quality and condition of the vessels offered for insurance or employment.
Lower Hold
The ratio of loaded miles to empty miles.
The procedure where a crude oil cargo is loaded into tanks on top of residues from a previous cargo (these residues are normally held in a slop tank and are the result of tank washing and dirty ballast decanting operations on pre-MARPOL ships).
Cargo delivered to/from the carrier where origin/destination of the cargo is in the local area.
LCB is one of several forms of procurement made with World Bank financing. LCB is generally used for contracts involving: (a) labor intensive activities; (b) small value; (c) locally procurable services or goods priced below the world market; (d) intermittant work; or (e) activities to be performed at numerous sites. See: International Business Opportunities Service International Competitive Bidding Limited International Bidding.
A vessel equipped to transport logs discharge them into the water by tipping itself
A naval auxiliary vessel. With ro-ro capability
The Lombard rate is one of the official interest rates in Germany used to regulate the money market. Other countries use the term Lombard to describe rates which function somewhat like the Lombard rate. The Swiss, for example, have their own Lombard rate. In France, it's called the Central Bank Intervention rate but performs the same function.
The Convention is an agreement concluded at Lome, Togo in February 1975 and which entered into force in April 1976. The orginal Convention has been followed by several additional Lome Conventions which expanded the scope of the original agreement. The Convention is between the European Community (EC) and 62 African, Caribbean, and Pacific states (mostly former colonies of the EC members). The agreement covers some aid provisions as well as trade and tariff preferences for the ACP countries when shipping to the EC. Lome grew out of the 1958 Treaty of Rome's association with the 18 African colonies/countries that had ties with Belgium and France. The ACP members are: Angola, Bahamas, Barbados, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Congo, Cote d'Ivoire, Djibouti, Dominica, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Grenada, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Jamaica, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritius, Mauritania, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent, Samoa, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, Somalia, Sudan, Suriname, Swaziland, Tanzania, Togo, Trinidad and Tobago, Uganda, Zaire, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
The London Club, a creditor cartel of commercial banks, evolved in the early 1980s. Debt rescheduling (i.e., constructing new repayment profiles over a specific period of time) was a primary function of the club. The Brady deals on debt restructuring (i.e., renegotiating the entire stock of outstanding debt at a discount), obviated the need to reschedule repayments every couple of years. In some respect, the Bank Advisory Committee has replaced the London Club. The Paris Club, also concerned with debt repayment, is an association of official creditors. See: Bank Advisory Committee.
LIBID is the rate of interest paid for funds in the London interbank market. The bid to Libor's offer has been used as a reference for floating rate payments for especially strong borrowers.
Abbreviated as LIMEAN, this is the midpoint of the LIBOR-LIBID spread. LIMEAN has been used as a reference for floating rate payments.
LIBOR, the most prominent of the interbank offered rates, is the rate of interest at which banks in London lend funds to other prime banks in London. LIBOR is frequently used as a basis for determining the rate of interest payable on Eurodollars and other Eurocurrency loans. The effective rate of interest on these Eurocredits is LIBOR plus a markup negotiated between lender and borrower. See: Interbank Offered Rate.
LIFFE, Europe's leading exchange, trades in futures contracts including short-term interest rates, government bonds, stock indices, and traded options on these instruments. The Exchange was established in 1982 to provide a means for hedging interest rates and currency exposures against volatility. Originally called the London International Financial Futures Exchange, LIFFE merged in March 1992 with the London Traded Options Market (LTOM) and retained the original acronym.
B/L form with all Terms & Conditions written on it. Most B/L's are short form which incorporate the long form clauses by reference
2,240 pounds
The long-dated forward is a foreign exchange contract whose maturity exceeds one year; a few have extended over ten years.
Individual employed in a port to load and unload ships.
Without packing.
The Louvre Accord (February 1987) attempted to stop the dollar's fall and stabilize currency relationships by introducing reference ranges among the G-7 currencies. See: Plaza Accord.
A trailer or semi-trailer with no sides and with the floor of the unit close to the ground.
Light vessel
Light-vessel
Lighter
Is a Clean Petroleum Product (CPP) as defined in this section. It is a product of many specialist grades derived through the blending of components known as Base Oils.
Lusophone countries are those in which the official language is Portuguese: Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, Portugal, and Sao-Tome and Principe.
Meter
The standard of marine insurance policy used in the London market by both Lloyd's and companies
Minimum and deposit premium
Marine and war risks
Marine Audio-Visual Instruction Systems
Machinery breakdown
Machinery certificate
Maximum foreseeable loss
Main Hatch
Mean High Water Spring
Marine Insurance Policy
Mean Low Water Springs
Mercantile Marine
Middlewest Motor Freight Bureau.
Managed Network Steering Committee
Maximum probable loss
Mate's receipt
Motor ship, Machinery survey
Mean Time
Mean tidal level
Metalling clause (marine insurance), Machinery certificate
Memorandum of deposit
Main Engine
Minimum / maximum
Mate's Receipt.
Motor ship
Metric tons (2,250 lbs.).
Motor Vessel
Motor Vessel.
Motor yacht
Malicious damage
Months after sight
Cubic Meter
Mina Al Ahmadi
The main continuous deck of a ship running from fore to aft; the principle deck; the deck from which the freeboard is determined.
The process of maintaining roadbed (rail, ties, ballast, bridges etc.) These materials are hauled in special maintenance of way cars, which also include cars that are equipped with heavy equipment, such as cranes and tie replacing machines
The minimum number of officers and crew members that can be engaged on a ship to be considered as sufficient hands with practical ability to meet every possible eventuality at sea.
Mono-ammonium phosphate
A U.S. government agency, while not actively involved in vessel operation, that administers laws for maintenance of merchant marine for the purposes of defense and commerce.
A claim which attaches to the res, i.e., the ship, freight, or cargo.
A branch within the Maritime Administration which deals with Operating Differential Subsidy and Construction Differential Subsidy.
The abbreviated term for the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution by Ships (MARine POLlution) The International regulations concerning the construction of vessels and procedures to be followed to prevent pollution of the sea by oil, no
The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973, as modified by the Protocol of 1978.
Nautical Institute Marine Accident Reporting System
Highest officer aboard ship. Oversees all ship operations. Keeps ships records. Handles accounting and bookkeeping. Takes command of vessel in inclement weather and in crowded or narrow waters. Handles communications. Receives and implements instructions from home office.
Material(s)
Max But As Close To As Possible
Merchant Broker
Motor blocks/ turnings
1,000 board feet. One MBM equals 2,265 C.M.
Methyl tert-butyl ether
Minister Counsellor
Abbreviation for Master Container Freight Station. See CFS.
Militarily Critical Technologies List
Multilateral Development Banks
Marine diesel oil
Metric DeadWeight tons
Main Engine
The measurement ton (also known as the cargo ton or freight ton) is a space measurement, usually 40 cubic feet or one cubic meter. Cargo is assessed a certain rate for every 40 cubic feet or one cubic meter it occupies.
Mediterranean
Middle East Gulf
Moment
A trade alliance between Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay, with Chile and Bolivia as associate members.
Most Environmentally Sensitive Area
Mexico
Medium Frequency
Arrangement Regarding International Trade in Textiles (Multifibre Arrangement)
Most Favored Nation Treatment
Master''s general account
Main Gas Oil
Main hatch
Mean Higher High Water
Ministry of Health and Welfare
Mean high water neaps: and
Mean High water Springs
Megahertz
Marine Insurance Act
Man-in-charge
Member of The Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers, London
Middle
Multilateral Investment Fund
Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency
Minimum / maximum
Millon(s)
Marine insurance policy
Manufactured Imports Promotion Organization
Maritime Institute for Research and Industrial Development.
Miscellaneous
Japan's Ministry of International Trade and Investment
A shipment consisting of more than one commodity, articles described under more than one class or commodity rate item in a tariff.
Matchmaker Program
Motor launch
Abbreviation for Mini Landbridge.
Meters of Liquid Column
Moulded
Mean low low water
Miles
Mean low water
Mean low water neaps. Average depths of water available at the times of low and of high tides during periods of Neap Tides
Mean low water Springs
Mercantile Marine.
Maximum Most Probable Discharge
Maritime Mobile Selective Call Identity Code
Managing Owner
Memorandum of agreement
Market-Oriented Cooperation Plan
Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit.
China's Ministry of Foreign Economy Relations and Trade
More or Less
More Or Less CHarterers OPtion
More or Less Charterers Option
More or Less Charterers Option
More or Less Owners Option
MONitors (fire)
A cable or line to tie up a ship.
Muriate of Potash
Loan issued against some security
Months
Market-Oriented, Sector-Selective
Ministry Of Transpory; Monthly OverTime
Memorandum of Understanding
Memorandum of Understanding (Paris)
Major Projects Agreement
Market Promotion Program
Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications
Medium range
Mutual Recognition Agreement
Morning
Medium range cross-purpose tanker
Motor shop; motor spirit; machinery survey
Merchant Shipping Act
Maritime Subsidy Board.
Manchester Ship Canal; Maritime Safety Committee
Material Safety Data Sheet
Marine Safety Office (U.S. Coast Guard)
Marine Spill Response Corporation
Motor support vessel
Multilateral Trade Organization
Empty.
MTBE is not covered under the chemical code and thus is not subject to the exemptions for carriage of chemicals. MTBE has become a large trade and is often carried in oil vessels as well as chemicals ones. The product is volatile and there is no technic
Maritime Transport Committee, OECD
Months
Mean tidal level
Multilateral Trade Negotiations
Multimodal transport operator
Metric Tonnes
Million metric tonnes per annum
Metric Tonnes
Any ship capable of carrying different types of cargo which require different methods of handling. There are several types of ships falling into this category, for example, ships which can carry roll on/roll off cargo together with containers.
Motor Vessel
Minimum Weight Factor.
Meter Water Column
Motor yacht
The Maastricht Treaty (named for the Dutch town in which the treaty was signed) is also known as the Treaty of European Union. The treaty creates a European Union by: (a) commiting the 12 member states of the European Economic Community to both European Monetary Union (EMU) and political union; (b) introducing a single currency (European Currency Unit, ECU); (c) establishing a European System of Central Banks (ESCB); (d) creating a European Central Bank (ECB); and (e) broadening EEC integration by including both a common foreign and security policy (CFSP) and cooperation in justice and home affairs (CJHA). The treaty, negotiated in 1991 and signed in February 1992, entered into force on November 1, 1993.The Maastricht Treaty envisioned EMU being achieved in three stages: - A first stage (encompassing treaty negotiations and lasting through January 1, 1994) concludes with ratification of treaty amendments needed to establish EMU, including participation by all 12 EEC member states in the Exchange Rate Mechanism; - A second stage (January 1, 1994 through no later than January 1, 1999) involves establishment of the European Monetary Institute (EMI) to support development of a single currency (the ecu) and development of the ECB; - A third stage (starting no later than January 1, 1999) involves irrevocable fixing of exchange rates and the debut of the ECB with transfer of powers necessary for administering economic and monetary union. See: European Central Bank European Currency Unit European Monetary Institute European System of Central Banks Exchange Rate Mechanism
Machinery
The Maghreb states include the three nations of Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia. The European Community concluded a trade and aid agreement in 1976 with these states. The term Maghreb states sometimes also includes Libya and Mauritania. The five Maghreb states created the Arab Maghreb Union. See: Arab Maghreb Union Comite Permanent Consultatif du Maghreb.
A jack up offshore maintenance platform
A semi submersible offshore maintenance platform
Malicious damage
A carrier giving a customer illegal preference to attract cargo. This can take the form of a money refund (rebate); using lower figures than actual for the assessment of freight charges (undercubing); misdeclaration of the commodity shipped to allow the assessment of a lower tariff rate; waiving published tariff charges for demurrage, CFS handling or equalization; providing specialized equipment to a shipper to the detriment of other shippers, etc.
A writ issued by a court; requires that specific things be done
Document that lists in detail all the bills of lading issued by a carrier or its agent or master for a specific voyage. A detailed summary of the total cargo of a vessel. Used principally for Customs purposes.
The MRU advances common policies and cooperation on tariffs and customs regulations, on development projects, and in other economic areas. The Union instituted a common external tariff in 1977. The MRU was established in 1973; headquarters are in Freetown, Sierra Leone.
MIPRO is a non-profit organization, established in 1978 by the joint efforts of the Japanese Government and the private sector to promote imports of foreign manufactured products by hosting exhibitions and providing a wide range of market information. MIPRO's activities are broadly classified into three categories: (a) holding imported product trade exhibitions for buyers and the general public; (b) disseminating information regarding imported products and the Japanese market; and (c) promoting sales of foreign products to Japanese consumers to promote recognition of the quality of imported goods
The maquiladora (or in-bond industry) program allows foreign manufacturers to ship components into Mexico duty-free for assembly and subsequent reexport. Industry established under the maquiladora program is Mexico's second largest source of foreign revenue (following oil exports). The maquiladora programs was established in 1965; in December 1989, the Mexican government liberalized the maquiladora program to make this a more attractive and dynamic sector of the economy. As a result, maquiladora operations may import, duty and import license free, products not directly involved in production, but that support production, including computers and other administrative materials and transportation equipment.
Broadly, insurance covering loss of, or damage to, goods at sea. Marine insurance typically compensates the owner of merchandise for losses in excess of those which can be legally recovered from the carrier that are sustained from fire, shipwreck, piracy, and various other causes. Three of the most common types of marine insurance coverage are free of particular average (f.p.a.), with average (w.a.), and All Risks Coverage.
Broadly, insurance covering loss or damage of goods at sea. Marine insurance typically compensates the owner of merchandise for losses sustained from fire, shipwreck, etc., but excludes losses that can be recovered from the carrier.
Business pertaining to commerce or navigation transacted upon the sea or in seaports in such matters as the court of admiralty has jurisdiction.
Market access refers to the openness of a national market to foreign products. Market access reflects a government's willingness to permit imports to compete relatively unimpeded with similar domestically produced goods.
Market disruption refers to the situation which is created when a surge of imports in a given product line causes sales of domestically produced goods in a particular country to decline to an extent that the domestic producers and their employees suffer major economic hardship.
The Market Promotion Program (MPP) was authorized by the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 and is administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agricultural Service. Under the MPP, surplus stocks or funds from the Commodity Credit Corporation are used to partially reimburse agricultural organizations conducting specific foreign market development projects for eligible products in specified countries. Proposals for MPP programs are developed by trade organizations and private firms. Activities financed by the programs vary from commodity to commodity, and include activities such as market research, construction of a three-story wood demonstration building, construction of a model feed mill, and consumer promotion activities. (MPP is broader in scope than the Targeted Export Assistance [TEA] program, repealed by the 1990 Farm Bill, whose purpose was to assist exports of commoditis hurt by unfair foreign trade practices.)
The MOCP, established in 1990, is aimed at improving long-term business relations between Japan's automotive manufacturers and U.S. auto parts suppliers.
The MOSS talks were begun in January 1985 as bilateral trade discussions between the U.S. and Japan in an effort to remove many trade barriers at once in a given sector. MOSS talks have focused on five sectors: (a) telecommunications, (b) medical equipment and pharmaceuticals, (c) electronics, (d) forest products, and (e) auto parts. Overall, the talks focus high-level attention on reducing certain market obstacles opening communication channels to resolve follow-up disputes
Letters, numbers, and other symbols placed on cargo packages to facilitate identification. Also known as marks.
The physical markings on a product that indicate the country of origin where the article was produced. Customs rules require marks of origin of most countries.
A pointed metal spike, used to separate strands of rope in splicing.
U.S. Customs' automated program under AMS. It allows for electronic reporting of inbound (foreign) cargoes in the U.S.
Matchmaker trade delegations are organized and led by the International Trade Administration to help new-to-export and new-to-market firms meet prescreened prospects who are interested in their products or services in overseas markets. Matchmaker delegations usually target two major country markets and limit trips to a week or less. This approach is designed to permit U.S. firms to interview a maximum number of prospective overseas business partners with a minimum of time away from their home office. The program includes U.S. embassy support, briefings on market requirements and business practices, and interpreter services. Matchmaker events, based on specific product themes and end-users, are scheduled for a limited number of countries each year
An archaic practice. An acknowledgement of cargo receipt signed by a mate of the vessel. The possessor of the mate's receipt is entitled to the bill of lading, in exchange for that receipt.
Merchandise
Freight on which transportation charges are calculated on the basis of volume measurement.
A lifting dock facility using winches to lower and raise platform
A container fitted with a means of forced air ventilation.
Unfreighted B/L with no charges listed.
See: International Agreements.
An in-house bill of lading. A duplicate copy.
See Multiple Containerload Shipment.
See: Balance of Payments
Mercosur (Spanish; Mercosul in Portuguese; or Southern Common Market) is comprised of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Mercosur is scheduled to enter into force in December 1994 for Argentina and Brazil and to enter into force in December 1995 for Paraguay and Uruguay. Mercosur, modeled similarly to the European Community's Treaty of Rome, will establish a common external tariff and eliminate barriers to trade in services. While in the Southern Cone, Chile has not sought entry to Mercosur, but does have an agreement with Argentina which will provide for some similar benefits.
39.37 inches (approximately).
2,204.6 pounds or 1,000 kilograms.
A cargo movement in which the water carrier provides a through service between an inland point and the port of load/discharge. The carrier is responsible for cargo and costs from origin on to destination. Also known as IPI or Through Service.
A unit equal to 5,280 feet on land. A nautical mile is 6076.115.
See: Conventional Arms Transfer.
The MTCL is a document listing technologies that the U.S. Defense Department considers to have current or future utility in military systems. The MCTL describes arrays of design and manufacturing know-how; keystone manufacturing, inspection, and test equipment; and goods accompanied by sophisticated operation, application, and maintenance know-how. Military justification for each entry is included in a classified version of the list.
Minimum Bill of Landing
A naval vessel equipped for detecting explosive marine mines
A naval vessel designed for laying marine mines
A naval vessel equipped for detecting, destroying, removing, or neutralizing explosive marine mines
An intermodal system for transporting containers by ocean and then by rail or motor to a port previously served as an allwater move (e.g., Hong Kong to New York over Seattle). The process of taking inland cargo bound for export to the coast by rail and loading it directly to the ship.
A clause in a Bill of lading which specifies the least charge that the carrier will make for issuing a lading. The charge may be a definite sum or the current charge per ton for any specified quantity.
The lowest charge that can be assessed to transport a shipment.
A vessel equipped for offshore mining operations, most commonly diamonds
The People's Republic of China (PRC) Ministry of Foreign Economic Relations and Trade, MOFERT, was established in March 1982 by combining former separate ministries. MOFERT implements national trade policies through administrative actions, drafting laws and issuing foreign trade regulations. MOFERT does not engage in foreign trade transactions but facilitates the foreign trading corporations (FTCs) which do
Under the Pharmaceutical Affairs Law, MHW is Japan's agency responsible for regulating medical products. The Ministry also is charged with determining Japanese healthcare expenditures.
MITI occupies a central position in Japan's economic bureaucracy and is regarded as one of the three most powerful and prestigious ministries of the central government (along with the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs). In formulating and implementing Japan's trade and industrial policies, MITI is responsible for funding most of Japan's export promotion programs (although operation of these programs is left to JETRO). The Ministry also supervises the export financing programs of Japan's Export-Import Bank, operates several types of export insurance programs, supports research organizations, and facilitates various types of overseas technical and cooperation training programs. Lately, MITI has assumed a role in encouraging imports of foreign products into Japan
MPT is Japan's telecommunications regulatory agency. The Ministry is authorized to adjust supply and demand among service providers to ensure that there is not excessive competition in a given market. To do so, MPT issues administrative guidance to the industry and recommends unification when there appears to be excessive competition in a given market.
The purpose of the MTCR is to limit the proliferation of missiles capable of delivering nuclear weapons, to increase regional stability, and to convey publicly the firm resolve of the partners to address this issue. In April 1987, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the U.K., and the U.S. agreed to establish the MTCR. The regime expanded to include 23 countries, with the addition of Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, and Swizterland. The MTCR does not have permanent organizations but convenes regular meetings to exchange information and coordinate member country stands. Under the MTCR, each member administers missile-related export controls independently. After the MTCR agrees that certain goods and technologies should be controlled for missile proliferation reasons, each member must implement the controls in its own domestic legislation. There is no international entity that oversees the implementation and enforcement of MTCR controls. Items and technology agreed by the MTCR partners to be controlled are listed in the MTCR Annex. The Annex is divided into two groups: Category I (consisting of complete rocket and unmanned air vehicle systems and subsystems) and Category II (encompassing components, equipment, technology, materials used in missile design, development, production or use).
A mobile vessel used for missionary work
A containerload of different articles in a single consignment.
Mixed credit refers to the practice of combining concessional and market-rate export credit as an export promotion mechanism.
A blend of gases tailored to replace the normal atmosphere within a container.
A tanker for the bulk carriage of molasses
A tanker for the bulk carriage of molten sulphur in insulated tanks at a high temperature
A mooring buoy
A vessel equipped to assist with the mooring and/or anchoring of larger vessels. Typically it will have a frame to prevent the ropes and chains fouling on the superstructure
A naval auxiliary vessel designed to assist with the mooring and or anchoring of larger vessels
Mortality
A commitment that a country will extend to another country the lowest tariff rates it applies to any other country. All contracting parties undertake to apply such treatment to one another under Article I of GATT. When a country agrees to cut tariffs on a particular product imported from one country, the tariff reduction automatically applies to imports of this product from any other country eligible for most-favored nation treatment. This principle of nondiscriminatory treatment of imports appeared in numerous bilateral trade agreements prior to establishment of GATT. A country is under no obligation to extend MFN treatment to another country unless both are bilateral contracting parties of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade or MFN treatment is specified in a bilateral agreement
When one country accords another most-favored-nation status, it agrees to extend that country the same trade concessions it grants to any other MFN recipients. For example, in the tariff area, goods from a country accorded MFN status by the U.S. would be assessed the lower column 1 duties in the U.S. tariff schedule. This concept may apply to non-tariff measures as well. GATT members have agreed to accord each other MFN status. Preferential treatment accorded to developing countries, customs unions, and free trade areas all represent allowable exceptions to the MFN concept
Measurement
The MFA is an international umbrella compact, authorized by the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), that allows contracting parties to negotiate bilaterally quantitative restrictions on textile imports (which normally would be considered contrary to GATT provisions) to the extent the importing country considers them necessary to prevent market disruption. The Uruguay Round Agreement on Textiles and Clothing contains an agreed schedule for the gradual phase-out of quotas established pursuant to the MFA over a ten-year transition period, after which textile and clothing trade will be fully integrated into the GATT and subject to the same disciplines as other sectors. See: Committee for the Implementation of Textile Agreements
A container frame fitted to accommodate two or more separate tanks for liquids.
An international compact in which three or more parties participate.
There are five MDBs. See: African Development Bank Asian Development Bank European Bank for Reconstruction and Development Inter-American Development Bank World Bank.
The MIF provides program and project grants to advance investment reform and technical assistance for privatization movements in Latin America and the Caribbean and to encourage domestic and foreign investment in the area. The Fund, an outgrowth of the Enterprise for the Americas Initiative, is administered by the Inter-American Development Bank. MIF was established in January 1993. See: Enterprise for the Americas Initiative.
MIGA was established in April 1988 as a part of the World Bank Group. MIGA encourages equity investment and other direct investment flows to developing countries through the mitigation of noncommercial investment barriers. The agency offers investors guarantees against non-commercial risks; advises developing member governments on the design and implementation of policies, programs, and procedures related to foreign investments; and sponsors a dialogue between the international business community and host governments on investment issues. MIGA provides coverage for equity interests, other forms of direct investment, industrial cooperation such as management and service contracts, licensing and franchising agreements, turnkey contracts, and arrangements concerning transfer of technology and know-how in which the investor assumes a stake in the performance of the venture. See: World Bank
Attainment of an MSA was an achievement intended as part of the Steel Trade Liberalization Program and resulting the Bilateral Consensus Agreements. The MSA would have addressed the underlying causes of unfair trade in steel by eliminating tariffs, nontariff measures such as quotas, and most subsidies in the steel sector, and established a dispute-settlement mechanism. The United States and 34 other countries participated in negotiations for an MSA under the general auspices of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade. MSA negotiations were suspended in March 1992, coincident with the expiration of the steel voluntary restraint agreements
A term describing the eight multilateral rounds of negotiations held under the auspices of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade since 1947. See: Rounds.
Eight rounds of multilateral trade negotiations have been held under GATT auspices since 1947. Each negotiation has had the goal of reducing or eliminating tariffs among signatory countries. The Tokyo and Uruguay Rounds have focused on non-tariff measures as well.
Synonymous for all practical purposes with Intermodal.
A multinational corporation is a business which owns or controls product or service facilities outside the country in which it is based.
A naval auxiliary Vessel for the carriage of munitions
A stationary vessel of interest preserved as a museum exhibit.
MRAs are negotiated on a sectoral basis (such as: telecommunciations, medicial devices, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, processed foods) and allow countries to accept each other's final test results, although quality assurances may be required. Under MRAs, the entire testing and certification process may occur outside the importing country. Under MRA's with the European Community, a U.S. firm would obtain product certification on an EC-wide basis, enabling the firms to market its products throughout the Community. Based on private-law contractual negotiations, subcontracting permits a notified body of the EC to delegate some of its testing responsibilities to a third-country testing lab or quality assessment body. However, the notified body retains ultimate responsibility for final decisions relating to EC certification. Formal discussions between representatives of the U.S. Government and the European Economic Community on entering MRSs began in October 1992.
And; North
North Continent
National Association of Securities Dealers and Investment Managers
Noth Atlantic Treaty Organization
No claim for accident reported
National Committee on International Trade Documentation
No commercial value
Not east of
National Economic Development Council
Not elsewhere mentioned.
Not elsewhere specified.
Nominal horse-power
No known or reported loss
(Lloyd's) Underwriters Non-Marine Association
National Motor Freight Classification.
Not north of
Notice of cancellation
Net operating profit
North Pacific Coast Freight Bureau.
Non vessel operating common carrier
New York Standard Time
Not applicable / Not acceptable / Not available
New building
New charter, New crop
Not east of
Not north of
Not south of
Not west of
No advice, No account, Not applicable
No funds
No mark
New terms (grain trade)
North Atlantic; North America; nearest approach
Not always Afloat
Not Always Afloat but Safely Aground
National Advisory Council on International Monetary and, Financial Policies
A free trade agreement comprising the U.S.A., Canada, and Mexico.
Naphta
A private organization having representatives throughout the main harbors in the U.S. It is empowered to inspect cargoes of a hazardous nature and issue certificates which are automatically approved by the Coast Guard.
A flag carrier owned or controlled by the state.
New building
National Cargo Bureau
National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan
Non-conformance report (ISM)
Norwegian Continental Shelf
North Coast South America
No commercial value
National Defense Executive Reserve
No Deadfreight For Charterers Account Provided Minimum Quantity Supplied
The opposite to Spring Tides
Abbreviation for Not Elsewhere Classified.
Negotiations
Not East of but including Greece
Not east of but including Greece and excluding Albania, Yoguslavia and former Yoguslavia
Not east of but including Greece and excluding Yoguslavia and former Yoguslavia and Albania
Shipments consisting entirely of units of a single commodity, such as cars, lumber, or scrap metal.
Not elsewhere provided
Abbreviation for Not Elsewhere Specified.
When three or more different sizes of an article are placed within each other so that each article will not project above the next lower article by more than 1/4 inch.
Implies that cargo is presented stacked in the contour of similarly shaped cargo, it may be likened to a stack of plates
The number of tons of cargo which a vessel can carry when loaded in salt water to her summer freeboard marks. Also called cargo carrying capacity, cargo deadweight, and useful deadweight.
Free of charters' commission.
Equals gross tonnage minus deductions for space occupied by crew accommodations, machinery, navigation equipment, and bunkers. It represents space available for cargo (and passengers). Canal tolls are based on net (registered) tonnage.
The weight of the goods alone without any immediate wrappings; e.g., the weight of the contents of a tin can without the weight of the can.
North East of West Coast Italy
Nigeria
No heat crude
Nominal horse power
Norwegian International Ship Registry
New Jason clause in C/P
Nippon Kaiji Kyokai
Nippon Kaiji Kyokai
Nautical mile
Norwegian Maritime Directorate
National Motor Freight Classification.
Nautical miles per day
Not north of George Washington Bridge (i.e. New York)
Not North Of George Washington Bridge
Number
A sum of money normally paid by a charter airline to a scheduled airline in order that it waives its right of objection to its government, thus allowing a charter to take place. The amount is usually a fixed percentage of the gross cost of a charter. Tantamount to a bribe, this is common practice in the Middle East and Africa.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Not On Banned List
Not Otherwise Enumerated.
Not Otherwise Herein Provided.
Abbreviation for Not Otherwise Indexed.
Abbreviation for Not Otherwise Indexed By Name.
Norwegian controlled foreign company in lowtax country
New Orleans
Nominations
Non Reversible Laytime
A shipping line which operates on a route served by a liner conference but which is not a member of that conference.
then saved days will not be added to discharge time allowed.
North Pacific (Ports)
Notice of Readiness, or Not Otherwise Rated.
Notice of Readiness tendered and accepted
Norwegian classification society.
Notice of Readiness tendered
Abbreviation for Not Otherwise Specified.
Nitro Phosphatic Kompound
Northern Range of Ports (in US)
National Response Centre
Net registered tons. This tonnage is frequently shown on ship registration papers; it represents the volumetric area available for cargo at 100 cubic feet = 1 ton. It often is used by port and canal authorities as a basis for charges.
No sparring
New South Wales (Australia)
Net Tons.
Not to count
Not to count, even if used
Not to count, unless used
Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular (USCG publication)
Non-vessel-operating common carrier, a ships agent, conducts business for the ship but does not operate the vessel.
Non-vessel owing common carrier
North West Europe
New York
New York
New York Produce Exchange Charter Party== Time Charter Form==
The NAC is responsbile for coordinating U.S. participation in the international financial institutions and the policies and practices of agencies of the U.S. government that make, or participate in making, foreign loans or that engage in foreign financial, exchange, or monetary transactions. With regard to international financial institutions, the Council seeks to ensure that their operations are conducted in a manner consistent with U.S. policies and objectives and with lending and other foriegn financial activities of U.S. government agencies. The Council formulates and reviews policies and programs for use by the U.S. representatives to these institutions and advises the Secretary of the Treasury on:- Policies and selected proposed transactions of the institutions; - Proposed actions by these institutions requiring U.S. approval on such subjects as the flotation of securities, increases in quotas and subscriptions, and changes in their articles of agreement; and - Problems relating to the administration and management of the international finnancial institutions. NAC membership includes: the Departments of the Treasury (as chair), State, and Commerce, the U.S. Trade Representative, the Federal Reserve System, the Export-Import Bank, and the International Development Cooperation Agency
In its international role, the NAL cooperates in database production, compilation of world lists of journals, publication exchange, cooperative indexing, and intern training. The NAL serves as the U.S. center for the international agricultural information system. The NAL's AGRICOLA database covers all aspects of agriculture via bibliographic records to documents, including international agricultural trade topics such as policy, research, flows of commodities, environmental, taxation, and sociological impacts. AGRICOLA is produced soley by the NAL. The NAL's Agricultural Trade and Marketing Information Center (ATMIC) disseminates information on agribusiness, countertrade (barter), exports, and trade development. The NAL is located in Beltsville, Maryland. See: Agriculture Information System
NASDA is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization of the 50 state departments of agriculture and those from the trust territories of Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, and the Virgin Islands. Headquarters are in Washington, D.C.
The National Association of State Development Agencies, NASDA, was formed in 1946 to provide a forum for directors of state economic development agencies to exchange information, compare programs, and deal with issues of mutual interest. NASDA's organization includes International Trade and Foreign Investment components. Trade activities include maintenance of a State Export Program Database
The NDER Program, which is operated by the Commerce Department's Bureau of Export Administration, recruits and trains experienced business executives and other qualified civilians to serve in key government positions during periods of emergency. These reservists would augment Department of Commerce staff as required to respond to national security emergencies.
The NIC is comprised of the U.S. National Intelligence Officers and concentrates on problems of particular geographic regions and functional areas such as economics and chemical/biological warfare.
National security controls restrict exports of U.S. goods and technology which would make a significant contribution to the military potential of another country and thus be detrimental to Western countries' national security.
The NSC was established by the National Security Act of 1947 to advise the President with respect to the integration of domestic, foreign, and military policies relating to national security.
NSDs provide policy or procedural guidance and are signed by the President. In 1989, the President reorganized the national security council committee process (separate from the EARB). As reorganized, under the NSC, there are committees for CoCom, terrorism, nonproliferation, etc. NSDs were known as National Security Decision Directives, NSDDs, before President Bush's reorganization. NSD-1 reorganized the process; NSD-10 established the committees. The scope of coverage and the players are about the same under the NSD and NSDD processes.
In some cases, despite a finding of foreign availability of a controlled commodity, control is maintained over exporting the commodity because it is deemed a national security sensitive item. The term national security override is used to describe this circumstance. The term has also been used in other contexts. For example, under a November 16, 1990 directive, the President tasked the interagency control groups to move as many dual use items from the State Department's International Munitions List to the Commerce Department's Commerce Control List. In some circumstances, a national security override is applied to prevent transfer of a particular item.
Legislation, passed in 1981, that created the U.S. Travel and Tourism Administration and required the establishment of the Tourism Policy Council and the Travel and Tourism Advisory Board.
An annual report by USTR that identifies significant foreign barriers to and distortions of trade.
National treatment affords individuals and firms of foreign countries the same competitive opportunities, including market access, as are available to domestic parties.
This GATT Negotiating Group was formed as a direct result of pressure from resource-rich LDCs to have an additional forum to deal with their special concerns, including the removal of barriers to trade in natural resource-based products. There are different interpretations among participants as to whether this group includes only three traditional product areas examined during the early 1980s GATT Work Program on NRBPs: non-ferrous metals and minerals; fish and fish products; and wood and wood products, or whether the Group may also discuss barriers in non-traditional product areas such as energy-based products
Distance of one minute of longitude at the equator, approximately 6,076.115. The metric equivalent is 1852.
Any small undefined naval vessels
The B/L is a title document to the goods, issued to the order of a party, usually the shipper, whose endorsement is required to effect is negotiation. Thus, a shipper's order (negotiable) B/L can be bought, sold, or traded while goods are in transit and is commonly used for letter-of-credit transactions. The buyer must submit the original B/L to the carrier in order to take possession of the goods
A document of title (such as a draft, promissory note, check, or bill of lading) transferable from one person to another in good faith for a consideration. Non-negotiable bills of lading are known as straight consignment. Negotiable bills are known as order b/l's.
Within the Uruguay Round, a negotiating group is a forum in which contracting parties plan and manage the multilateral negotiations dealing with a particular issue. In the Uruguay Round, there are two major groups, the Group of Negotiations on Goods (GNG) and the Group on Negotiations of Services (GNS). Within the GNG, there are 14 issue-oriented subgroups.
Articles packed so that one rests partially or entirely within another, thereby reducing the cubic-foot displacement.
Net foreign investment is the sum of U.S. exports of goods and services, receipts of factor income, and capital grants received by the United States (net), less the sum of imports of goods and services by the United States, payments of factor income, and transfer payments to foreigners (net). It may also be viewed as the acquisition of foreign assets by U.S. residents, less the acquisition of U.S. assets by foreign residents. It includes the BPA statistical discrepancy.
The weight of an empty cargo-carrying piece of equipment plus any fixtures permanently attached.
(0.2+0.02 log10(Vc)) Vc (4d/3D)2, for passenger ships the following formula is added: 1.25 (GT+10000)/10000 (N1+(N2/10)), where Vc is the volume of cargo holds, D is the distance between ship's bottom and the uppermost deck, d is the draught N1 is the number of cabin passengers, and N2 is the number of deck passengers.) Ton is figured as an 100 cubic foot ton.
Weight of the goods alone without any immediate wrappings, e.g., the weight of the contents of a tin can without the weight of the can.
A naval vessel for laying submarine nets from boom defences
Opposite to Gross Terms
An organization established by the members of an ocean conference acts as a self-policing force with broad authority to investigate tariff violations, including authority to scrutinize all documents kept by the carriers and their personnel. Violations are reported to the membership and significant penalties are assessed.
Cargo which has been booked but does not arrive in time to be loaded before the vessel sails. See also Windy Booking.
The Customs tariff used by most countries worldwide. It was formerly known as the Brussels Tariff Nomenclature and is the basis of the commodity coding system known as the Harmonized System.
A revolving letter of credit that prohibits the amount not used during the specific period from being available afterwards
Required by some countries for protection against the dumping of certain types of merchandise or products.
See Straight B/L. Sometimes means a file copy of a B/L.
A cargo consolidator in ocean trades who will buy space from a carrier and subsell it to smaller shippers. The NVOCC issues bills of lading, publishes tariffs and otherwise conducts itself as an ocean common carrier, except that it will not provide the actual ocean or intermodal service.
Front of a container or trailer - opposite the tail.
Harmful to personnel or the environment.
A cargo vessel arranged to carry nuclear fuel in flasks
A nuclear fuel carrier which is loaded and unloaded by way of a ro-ro ramp
Ocean and Rail.
Over All
Overall length
Oil companies International Marine Forum
Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development, headquartered in Paris with membership consisting of the world's developed nations
Original fross premium income (reinsurance)
Outstanding marine claims advisory settlements
Original net premium income (reinsurance)
Overseas Private Investment Corporation.
Owner's risk, Original rate
Owner's Risk of Deterioration.
Owner's risk of breakage.
Open shelter deck
Over age
On board
Open charter. Open cover. Old charter. Old crop. Overcharge
Overdeck
Order Notify; Own Name.
Order of.
Overrideing commission
On sample, Out of stock, On sale or return
On truck
On arrival at or of the port
Owners agents both ends
On arrival first sea pilot
Overage
On arrival harbour pilot station
Overall length (same as LOA)
Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries
Organization of American States
Ocean Bill of Lading
Ore/bulk/oil vessel
A multipurpose ship that can carry ore, heavy dry bulk goods and oil. Although more expensive to build, they ultimately are more economical because they can make return journeys with cargo rather than empty as single-purpose ships often must.
On board quantity
Overseas Business Report
Offshore Banking Unit
Operating Committee
Oil Co-ordination Committee; Outward clearance certificate
Olio Combustibile Denso (Fuel oil)
A document, issued by a shipping line to a shipper which serves as a receipt for the goods and evidence of the contract carriage.
Oil Companies International Marine Forum: An oil company consultative organisation, with a secretariat based in London, funded by the oil company members to represent the Oil Industry on marine safety, marine standards and international legislation. OCIM
See Overland Common Points.
Outside diameter
Official Development Assistance
Oil discharge monitor
Oil Discharge Prevention and Contingency Plan
Abbreviation for Operating Differential Subsidy. An amount of money the U.S. government paid U.S. shipping companies that qualify for this subsidy. The intent was to help offset the higher subsidy. The intent was to help ofset the higher cost of operating a U.S.-flag vessel. The ODS program is administered by the U.S. Maritime Administration and is being phased out.
Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development
Overseas Economic Cooperation Fund
Organization of Eastern Caribbean States
Office of Export Licensing
Original Equipment Manufacture
Office of Foreign Assets Control
Ocean Freight Differential
In a time charter, the owner is entitled to a limited time for his vessel to be off hire until such time as the vessel may be repaired or dry-docked.
An airline that sells in a market to which it does not operate. An off-line carrier will use another operator to link with its network.
Discharge of cargo from a ship.
Any of the licensed members of the ship's complement.
Special vessels employed in exploration for, development of or continuous production of, subsea oil and gas.
Off-hire
Office of History and Archaeology (ADNR)
Open hatch bulk carrier
Organization of the Islamic Conference
Office of International Cooperation and Development
A book or log kept by the master of an oil tanker wherein every discharge or escape of oil is recorded.
A ship designed for the carriage of oil in bulk, her cargo space consisting of several or many tanks. Tankers load their cargo by gravity from the shore or by shore pumps and discharge using their own pumps.
An unlicensed member of the engine room staff who oils and greases bearings and moving parts of the main engine and auxiliaries. Most of this work is now done automatically and the oiler merely insures it operates correctly.
OIL RECovery
Orderly Marketing Agreement
Office of Munitions Control
Onwards
Ore oil carrier
Operator
Oil Pollution Act; Owners Protecting Agent
The United States Oil Pollution Act 1990. The U.S. Federal Regulations concerning Oil Pollution Protection in US waters and off-shore economic exclusion areas. Requirements of the Act are contained in 33 CFR and 46 CFR .
Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries
A cargo insurance policy that is an open contract; e.g., it provides protection for all of an exporter's shipments afloat or in transit within a specified geographical trade area for an unlimited period of time, until the policy is cancelled by the insured or by the insurance company. It is open because the goods that are shipped are also detailed at that time. This usually is shown in a document called a marine insurance certificate.
Pricing systems that are flexible and not subject to conference approval. Usually applied to products in which tramps are substituted for liners.
A term used in place of flag of convenience or flag of necessity to denote registry in a country which offers favorable tax, regulatory, and other incentives to ship owners from other nations.
Overseas Private Investment Corporation
Option
(1) A deck crew member who is subordinate to the Able Bodied Seamen. (2) An apprentice AB, assists AB's bosun, and officers, keeps facilities clean.
A large ship designed to be used for the carnage of ore. Because of the high density of ore, ore carriers have a relatively high center of gravity to prevent them being still when at sea, that is, rolling heavily with possible stress to the hull.
A large multi-purpose ship designed to carry cargoes wither of ore or other bulk commodities or oil so as to reduce the time the ship would be in ballast if restricted to one type of commodity. This type of ship is sometimes called bulk-oil carrier.
Abbreviation for Origin Rail Freight Station. Same as CFS at origin except an ORFS is operated by the rail carrier participating in the shipment.
Owner's Risk of Leakage.
Owner's Risk of Becoming Wet.
Abbreviation for Over, Short or Damaged Usually discovered at cargo unloading
One safe berth
Open shelter deck or closed shelter deck (vessel)
Open Shelter Deck
On-Scene Incident Commander
One safe port
One safe port or berth
Oil Spill Removal Organization
Offshore supply vessel
Overtime
An able-bodied seamen entrusted with the steering of a vessel.
A railroad movement involving at least three railroad carriers at which CSXT is neither the first nor the last carrier
A situation where there are too many ships generally or in a particular trade for the level of available cargoes.
Orientation Visits
Owners
Otherwise
Owners
Owners
Ocean bill of lading
Ocean bill of landing
Occurrence
A receipt for the cargo and a contract for transportation between a shipper and the ocean carrier. It may also be used as an instrument of ownership which can be bought, sold, or traded while the goods are in transit. To be used in this manner, it must be a negotiable Order Bill-of-Lading.- A Clean Bill-of-Lading is issued when the shipment is received in good order. If damaged or a shortage is noted, a clean bill-of-lading will not be issued.- An On Board Bill-of-Lading certifies that the cargo has been placed aboard the named vessel and is signed by the master of the vessel or his representative. On letter of credit transactions, an On Board Bill-of-Lading is usually necessary for the shipper to obtain payment from the bank. When all Bills-of-Lading are processed a ship's manifest is prepared by the steamship line. This summarizes all cargo aboard the vessel by port of loading and discharge. - An Inland Bill-of-Lading (a waybill on rail or the pro forma bill-of-lading in trucking) is used to document the transportation of the goods between the port and the point of origin or destination. It should contain information such as marks, numbers, steamship line, and similar information to match with a dock receipt
A contract for transportation between a shipper and a carrier. It also evidences receipt of the cargo by the carrier. A bill of lading shows ownership of the cargo and, if made negotiable, can be bought, sold or traded while the goods are in-transit.
OFD is the amount by which the cost of the ocean freight bill for the portion of commodities required to be carried on U.S. flag vessels exceeds the cost of carrying the same amount on foreign flag vessels. When applied to agricultural commodities shipped under Food for Peace, OFD is the amount paid by the Commodity Credit Corporation.
See: Freight Forwarder.
OHG (German, meaning: general partnership) is characterized by the unlimited and direct liability of all partners who are jointly and severally liable. Their liability cannot be restricted. The partnership must carry the family name of at least one partner with reference to the kind of partnership (such as & Co.).
The Department of Agriculture's OICD is responsible for cooperative international research, scientific and technical exchanges, and liaison with internaitonal agricultural organizations. OICD also directs training and technical assistance in efforts in approximately 80 development countries.
See: Defense Trade Controls.
Financial flows to developing countries and multilateral institutions provided by official agencies of national, state, or local governments. Each transaction must be:- administered with the promotion of the economic development and welfare of developing countries as its main objective; and concessional in character and contain a grant element of at least 25 percent.
The term offsets is an umbrella label for a broad range of industrial and commercial compensation practices required as a condition of purchase in commercial or government-to-government sales of either military or high-cost civilian hardware. Whether commercial or military, offsets involve overseas production that results in the creation or expansion of industrial capacity in the importer's country. The compensatory forms of offset include coproduction, licensed production, subcontractor production, overseas investment, and technology transfer. Coproduction permits a foreign government or producer to acquire the technical information to manufacture all or part of a U.S.-origin article. Licensed production of a U.S.-origin article involves transfer of technical information under direct commercial arrangements between a U.S. manufacturer and a foreign government or producer. Subcontractor production of a U.S.-origin article usually involves a direct commercial arrangement between the U.S. manufacturer and a foreign producer but does not necessarily involve license of technical information. Overseas investment arising from an offset agreement involves capital contribution toward the establishment or expansion of a subsidiary or joint venture in a foreign country. Technology transfer arises from agreement to conduct research and development abroad, to provide technical assistance to a subsidiary or joint venture of overseas investment, or to perform other activities under direct commercial arrangement between a U.S. manufacturer and a foreign entity. Countries require offsets for a variety of reasons: to ease (or offset) the burden of large defense purchases on their economies, to increase domestic employment, to obtain desired technology, or to promote targeted industrial sectors. Governments sometimes impose offset requirements on foreign exporters, as a condition for approval of major sales agreements in an effort to either reduce the adverse trade impact of a major sale or to gain specified industrial benefits for the importing country. In these circumstances, offset requirements may be direct or indirect, depending on whether the goods and services are integral parts of the product. In a direct offset, a U.S. manufacturer selling a product uses a component that is made in the purchasing country. In an indirect offset, the exporter would buy products that are peripheral to the manufacture of its product. See: Countertrade
See: Offshore Banking Unit.
An OBU is normally a foreign bank which conducts domestic moneymarket, Eurocurrency, and foreign exchange settlements. OBUs cannot accept domestic depostis but their activities are unrestricted by domestic authorities. OBUs are located in major financial centers (known as offshore banking centers) with liberal reserve, tax, and capital market requirements.
Offshore manufacturing is the foreign manufacture of goods by a domestic firm primarily for import into its home country.
A single or multi functional offshore support vessel
A vessel for the transportation of stores and goods to offshore platforms on an open stern deck and equipped with a towing facility
A non propelled storage barge for dry cargoes
A tanker for the bulk carriage of refined petroleum products, either clean or dirty, which is not suitable for trading in open waters
As defined by the International Trade Administration, old-to-market is a term which refers to committed/experienced larger-scale firms. A significant portion of manufacturing capability may be foreign sourced. Export sales volume is often in excess of 15 percent of total sales.
A notation on a bill of lading that cargo has been loaded on board a vessel. Used to satisfy the requirements of a letter of credit, in the absence of an express requirement to the contrary.
A notation on a bill of lading that the cargo has been stowed on the open deck of the ship.
A trade arrangement in which goods are shipped to a foreign buyer before, and without written guarantee of, payment. Because this method poses an obvious risk to the supplier, it is essential that the buyer's integrity be unquestionable.
A non propelled open barge for the carriage of bulk cargoes
A large single deck cargo vessel with full width hatches and boxed holds for the carriage of unitised dry cargo such as forest products and containers. Many are fitted with a gantry crane
A marine insurance policy that applies to all shipments made by an exporter over a period of time rather than to one shipment only.
A container fitted with a solid removable roof, or with a tarpaulin roof so the container can be loaded or unloaded from the top. Shipping container that has an open top instead of a solid roof to enable cargo, such as timber, to be loaded from the top. The container is covered by waterproof sheeting while in transit.
The Operating Committee (chaired by the Commerce Department) is the first step in resolving interagency disputes over the disposition of license applications for dual-use items not reviewed by one of the other interagency working groups. The other working groups include: (a) the Subgroup on Nuclear Export Coordination (SNEC), chaired by State for applications involving nuclear concerns; (b) the Missile Technology Export Control Group (MTEC), chaired by State for applications involving missile technology concerns; and (c) the Shield, chaired by State for applications involving chemical or biological warfare concerns. These committees review applications and participate in the dispute resolution. Prior to any escalation to the Advisory Committee on Export Policy (ACEP), all applications must be reviewed by one of these working groups. See: Advisory Committee on Export Policy
ODS is a payment which the U.S. government makes to vessels carrying the American flag to offset the difference in operating costs between U.S. and foreign carriers.
A comparison of a carrier's operating expense with its net sales. The most general measure of operating efficiency.
Operation Exodus is a U.S. Customs Service export enforcement program that was developed in 1981 to help stem the flow of the illegal export of U.S.-sourced arms and technology to the Soviet bloc and other prohibited destinations.
The highest level of cube utilization that can be achieved when loading cargo into a container.
B/L covering cargo with more than one discharge point option possibility
A bill of lading term to provide surrender of the original bill of lading before freight is released; usually associated with a shipment covered under a letter of credit.
A bilateral agreement between governments by which one government limits exports to the other. Similar to a voluntary export restriction agreement or a voluntary restraint agreement. Used to address injury to a domestic industry. Contracts negotiated between two or more governments, in which the exporting nation undertakes to ensure that international trade in specified sensitive products will not disrupt, threaten, or impair competitive industries or workers in importing countries.
Bilateral agreements limiting imports from one country to another. OMAs are generally undertaken to avoid imposition of unilateral import restrictions.
A single deck cargo ship fitted with two longitudinal bulkheads. Ore is carried in the centreline holds only
A bulk carrier arranged for the alternative (but not simultaneous) carriage of oil products
An ore carrier arranged for the alternative (but not simultaneous) carriage of crude oil
OECD provides a forum for discussion of common economic and social issues facing the United States, Canada, Western Europe, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. OECD was founded in September 1960 as successor to the Organization for European Economic Cooperation (OEEC) which had administered European participation in the Marshall Plan. OECD seeks to achieve the highest sustainable economic growth and employment and a rising standard of living in member countries while maintaining financial stability and thus contribute to the world economy. Members include: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States. OECD headquarters are in Paris, France. See: Arrangement on Guidelines for Officially Supported Export Credits
The Organization (French: Organisation pour la Mise en Valeur du Fleuve Senegal, OMVS) promotes hydroelectric, irrigation and navigation use of the Senegal river. The organization was established in March 1972; headquarters are in Dakar, Senegal. Members include: Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Mauritania, and Senegal.
OATUU is recognized as the sole representative of African organized labor by the Organization of African Unity (OAU) and the International Labor Organization (ILO). OATUU is formally non-aligned and independent of all internaitonal trade union organizations, but maintains relations with trade unions worldwide. OATUU headquarters are in Accra, Ghana.
The OAU, founded in May 1963 with 32 African countries, has since grown beyond 5 members. The Organization aims to further African unity and solidarity, to coordinate political, economic, cultural, scientific, and defense policies; and to eliminate colonialism in Africa. Members include: Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Central Africa Republic, Chad, Comoros, Congo, Cote d'Ivoire, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Ethopia, Gabon, the Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Swaziland, Tanzania, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, Zaire, Zambia, Zimbabwe. OAU headquarters are in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The OAS (Spanish: Organizacion de los Estados Americanos, OEA), or the Pan American Union, is a regional organization created in Bogota, Colombia in April 1948 (entered into force in December 1951) which promotes Latin American economic and social development. Members include the United States, Mexico, and most Central American, South American, and Caribbean nations. Members include: Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba (participation suspended), Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, St. Christopher-Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, the United States, Uruguay, and Venezuela. The U.S. accredits an Ambassador to the OAS. The OAS secretariat is located in Washington, D.C. See: Sistema de Informacion al Comercio Exterior
OAPEC was created in 1968; members include: Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Kuwait, Libya, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and the United Arab Emirates. Headquarters are in Cairo, Egypt. See: Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries.
OECS was intended to promote territorial integrity; changing focus includes the recent founding of an export development agency. The Organization was established in 1981; headquarters are in St. Lucia. Members include: Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, Saint Christopher and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent, and the Grenadines.
An association of the world's oil-producing countries, formed in 1960, with headquarters in Vienna, Austria. The chief purpose of OPEC is to coordinate the petroleum policies of its members: Algeria, Ecuador, Gabon, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Libya, Nigeria, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Venezuela. See: Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries.
The OIC, established in May 1971, promotes cooperation in cultural, economics, scientific and social areas among Islamic nations. Headquarters are located in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. About half the ICO members are also members of the Organization of African Unity. OIC members include: Afghanistan, Algeria, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Benin, Brunei, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Comoros, Cyprus, Djibouti, Egypt, Gabon, the Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, Turkey, Uganda, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.
Location where shipment begins its movement
The part of the B/L set that has value, especially when negotiable; rest of set are only informational file copies. Abbreviated as OBL
A document which requires proper signatures for consummating carriage of contract. Must be marked as original by the issuing carrier.
A vessel used for an undefined activity. Not designed for operation in open sea
Transaction or interchange that occurs at the time a container leaves a rail or water terminal.
Quantity of cargo loaded in excess of minimum agreed
To charge more than the proper amount according to the published rates
Cargo more than eight feet high which thus cannot fit into a standard container
A term stated on the bills of lading offering lower shipping rates to importers east of the Rockies, provided merchandise from the Far East comes in through the West Coast ports. OCP rates were established by U.S. West Coast steamship companies in conjunction with western railroads so that cargo originating or destined for the American Midwest and East would be competitive with all-water rates via the U.S. Atlantic and Gulf ports. Applies to eastern Canada.
These are marketing studies of America's major trading partners which provide updated export and economic outlooks, industrial trends, trade regulations, distribution and sales channels, transportation, and credit situation in individual countries.
The OECF, a Japanese government development financial institution, provides developing countries and areas with grants and long-term, low-interest loans. As a result of difficulty in distinguishing between the Fund and the Export-Import Bank of Japan, a 1975 reorganization put OECF in charge of all direct loans to be made as official development assistance (ODA) with the grant element of 25 percent of more. The Fund was created in 1961; headquarters are in Tokyo, Japan. See: Export-Import Bank of Japan Japan International Cooperation Agency.
OPIC is a government corporation which assists U.S. private investments in less developed nations by providing direct loans and loan guarantees, insuring against a broad range of political risks, and providng a variety of investor services. The overseas investments may include distributorships owned by U.S. manufacturers which are consistent with the economic interests of both the United States and the developing country involved. OPIC was formed as a part of the Agency for International Development in 1961 and became an independent agency 10 years later
Standard Carrier Abbreviation Code identifying an individual common carrier. A three letter carrier code followed by a suffix identifies the carrier's equipment. A suffix of U is a container and C is a chassis.
A vessel designed for re-oxygenating waterways where waters have low levels of oxygen through pollution
Private & Confidential
Protection and indemnity insurance
Protection & Indemnity Club. A mutual Association formed by shipowners to provide protection from large financial loss by one member by contribution towards that loss by all members. The P & I Clubs cover liabilities not insurable by the shipowner in th
Private & Confidential
Protection and indemnity
Profit and Loss
Paid on delivery
Particular average
Premium advice note
Permanent Bunkers
Port dues
Property damage only
Persian Gulf
Personal injury
Peril insured against
Premium income limit
Public liability
Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954.
Mandates that 50 percent of government impelled cargoes be carried under U.S. flag. Known as the 50/50 shipping law.
Probable maximum loss
Pay on delivery, Port of distress
Perpendicular
Policy proof of interest
Pacific Standard Time
Premium transfer
Particular average. Power of attorney. Private account
Price Current, Petty Cash, Percent, Particular charges, profit commission
Purchase enquiry
Pro Forma
Persian Gulf
Partial loss
Promissory note
Public sale
Particular average
Pacific Australia Direct
Abbreviation for Please Authorize Delivery Against Guarantee. A request from the consignee to the shipper to allow the carrier or agent to release cargo against a guarantee, either bank or personal. Made when the consignee is unable to produce original bills of lading.
A U.S. Customs program that allows entry documentation for an import shipment to be filed at one location, usually an inland city, while the merchandise is cleared by customs at the port of entry, normally a seaport. May be ineffective with certain types of high-risk cargoes, such as quota-regulated textiles or shipments from drug production regions. Cities where there is a natural flow of cargo are actually paired in the program; e.g., Atlanta, an inland city, is linked with Savannah, a seaport.
Panama
A vessel designed to be just small enough to transit the Panama Canal
Private & Confidential
Protection and Indemnity's (Club) name
Where part of an airline's scheduled flight is sold as if it were a charter in its own right. Often incorrectly used as a synonym for split charter.
Partial loss or damage to goods.
A passenger ship that its authorized to carry over twelve passengers.
Past Us
Permanent bunkers; poop and bridge
Pacific Basin Economic Council
Poop, bridge and forecastle
Period of Charter, Port Clearance; Port Consumption
Pure car carrier
Part cargo, parcel cargo
Per calendar month (hire)
Panama Canal Net Tonnage
Patent Cooperation Treaty
Pure car and truck carrier
Port dues
Punta De Madeira
Per day pro-rata
Centrally Planned Economy
President's Export Council
Pacific Economic Cooperation Council
President's Export Council, Subcommittee on Export, Administration
Private Export Funding Corporation
Rates and/or changes on shipments transported in containers or trailers and rated on the basis of the category of the container or trailer.
By Itself
By the Day
Any cargo that loses considerable value if it is delayed in transportation. This usually refers to fresh fruit and vegetables
Approved floats meant as life preservers and carried on board American ships.
Progress evaluation and review technique
Pro Forma
Personal Floatation Device
Policy Framework Paper
Petroleum Floating Storage Offloading
Per freight ton
Persian Gulf
Per Geared Hatch
Port handling charges
Per hatch day
Philippines
Port health officer
Per Hatch Per Day
Person in charge
A railroad term for trailers loaded on flat cars
As used in marine insurance policies, the term denotes petty thievery-the taking of small parts of a shipment-as opposed to the theft of a whole shipment or large unit. Many ordinary marine insurance policies do not cover against pilferage, and when this coverage is desired it must be added to the policy.
A person who is qualified to assist the master of a ship to navigate when entering or leaving a port.
The enclosed space on the navigating bridge from which a ship is controlled when under way.
The act carried out by a pilot of assisting the master of a ship in navigation when entering or leaving a port. Sometimes used to define the fee payable for the services of a pilot. Assisting the master of a ship in navigation when entering or leaving a port.
A fee payable by the owner or operator of a ship for the services of a pilot. This fee is normally based on the ship's tonnage.
P & I Oil Pollution Indemnity Clause
Post-Initiated Promotion
That weight of a ULD above which a higher tariff applies. In effect, it is an incentive to maximize cargo density.
Protectively Located spaces (Marpol 13g).
A particular street address or other designation of a factory, store, warehouse, place of business, private residence, construction camp, or the like at a point.
This term, as used in the Containerized Cargo Rules, means the location of the floor, dock, platform, or doorway at the CFS to which cargo is first delivered by the shipper or agent thereof.
Pre-License Check, Public Limited Company
Please
Per Long Ton
Pacific Maritime Association.
Passing Muscat outbound
Provided minimum quantity supplied
Per Metric Ton
Place of acceptance
Pilot on board
Port of call
Abbreviation for: - Port of Discharge. - Port of Destination. - Proof of Delivery. A document required from the carrier or driver for proper payment
A particular city, town, village, or other community or area which is treated as a unit for the application of rates.
Abbreviation for: - Port of Loading. - Petroleum, Oil, and Lubricants
Free-running trailers owned by leasing companies
Purchase Options
Port of refuge
A government body (city, county, or state) which in international shipping maintains various airports and/or ocean cargo pier facilities, transit sheds, loading equipment, or warehouses for air cargo. It has the power to levy dockage and wharfage charges, landing fees, and other costs.
An identifying set of letters, numbers, or geometric symbols followed by the name of the port of destination that are placed on export shipments. Foreign government requirements may be exceedingly strict in the matter of port marks.
A port where a vessel is off-loaded and cargo discharged.
A port where cargo is loaded aboard the vessel, lashed, and stowed.
Position
POTable water
The POW WOW is a trade show (held annually in the United States and annually in Europe) which brings together U.S. sellers and foreign buyers of travel-related services pertaining to travel to the United States.
Purchase Price
Personnel Protective Equipment
Parts Per Million
Propose
Please Propose
Pumps
Please Propose
Prompt
Picked ports of U.K
Province of Quebec
Polish Register
Primary Response Action Contractor
Cargo shipped already in a cargo sling or net, such as coffee in bags or coconut shells. It is usually prepared and loaded at the pier, ready for the vessel's arrival and subsequent loading.
Use penalty assessed to shippers or consignees for holding private trailers or containers at the origin or destination terminal in excess of allotted free time
National Preparedness for Response Exercise Program
Generally speaking, freight charges both in ocean and air transport may be either prepaid in the currency of the country of export or they may be billed collect for payment by the consignee in his local currency. On shipments to some countries, however, freight charges must be prepaid because of foreign exchange regulations of the country of import or rules of steamship companies or airlines.
A Latin term frequently encountered in foreign trade that means on first appearance. When a steamship company issues a clean bill of lading, it acknowledges that the goods were received in apparent good order and condition and this is said by the courts to constitute prima facie evidence of the conditions of the containers; that is, if nothing to the contrary appears, it must be inferred that the cargo was in good condition when received by the carrier.
Private
(1) A number assigned by the carrier to a single shipment, used in all cases where the shipment must be referred to. (2) The number used in identifying waybills and freight bills. Pro means progressive and agents use progressive numbers for this identification
Combined Products and Bulk Carrier
A tanker which is generally below 70,000 deadweight tons and used to carry refined oil products from the refinery to the consumer. In many cases, four different grades of oil can be handled simultaneously.
Equipped to extract petroleum, e.g. oil production ship.
When used with the title of a document, the term refers to an informal document presented in advance of the arrival or preparation of the required document, in order to satisfy a customs requirement.
The delivery receipt copy of a freight bill indicating the name of the person who signed for a package with the date and time of delivery.
A ship designed to carry propane in liquid form. The propane is carried in tanks within the holds; it remains in liquid form by means of pressure and refrigeration. Such ships are also suitable for the carriage of butane.
Price from or to an intermediate point; may be used only to construct an interline price; i.e., a combination of two prices
Port
Port state control
Passing
Pounds per square inch; pre shipment inspection
Port State Information Exchange (USCG)
Passing
Pacific Standard Time; Per Short Ton
Post-Shipment Verification
Private terms
Preferential Trade Area for Eastern and Southern African, States
Per ton
Pumps
Past Us
Private Voluntary Organizations
Per Workable Hatch
Per Workable Hatch Day
Per Weather Working day
Py-gas
Pacific coast ports
The PBEC is a private sector group organized in 1967 to promote regional trade and investment. PBEC currently includes about 1,000 corporations and 14 national membership committees.
The PECC is a nongovernmental organization founded in 1980 and aimed at promoting cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region. Members are drawn from 20 countries and territories: Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, the Pacific Islands, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and the United States.
The Pacific Rim, referring to countries and economies bordering the Pacific ocean, is an informal, flexible term which generally has been regarded as a reference to East Asia, Canada, and the United States. At a minimum, the Pacific Rim includes Canada, Japan, the People's Republic of China, Taiwan, and the United States. It may also include Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, Hong Kong/Macau, Indonesia, Laos, North Korea, South Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Pacific Islands, the Philippines, Russia (or the Commonwealth of Independent States), Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. As an evolutionary term, usage sometimes includes Mexico, the countries of Central America, and the Pacific coast countries of South America.
Itemized list of commodities with marks/numbers but no cost values indicated
A U.S. Customs program wherein at least two designated Customs ports will enter cargo that arrives at either port without the necessity of an in-bound document.
A platform with or without sides, on which a number of packages or pieces may be loaded to facilitate handling by a lift truck.
A single or multi deck cargo ship loaded and unloaded by way of pallets lift(s). There are no weather deck hatches
A technical rail ramp, used for equalization of points not actually served
A published rate that is never assessed because no freight moves under it.
An arrangement whereby a steamship company, under rules and regulations established in the freight tariff of a given trade, accepts small packages at rates below the minimum bill of lading, and issues a parcel receipt instead of a bill of lading.
A chemical tanker with many segregated cargo tanks to carry multiple grades of chemicals as defined in the International Bulk Chemical Code. Typically these can have between 10 and 60 different tanks
The Paris Club has become a popular designation for meetings between representatives of a developing country that wishes to renegotiate its official debt (normally excluding debts owed by and to the private sector without official guarantees) and representatives of the relevant creditor governments and international institutions. These meetings usually occur at the request of a debtor country that wishes to consolidate all or part of its debt service payments falling due over a specified period. Meetings are traditionally chaired by a senior official of the French Treasury Department. Comparable meetings occasionally take place in London and in New York for countries that wish to renegotiate repayment terms for their debts to private banks. These meetings are sometimes called creditor clubs.
The Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property, first adopted in 1883, is the major international agreement providing basic rights for protecting industrial property. It covers patents, industrial designs, service marks, trade names, indications of source, and unfair competition. The U.S. ratified this treaty in May of 1887. The treaty provides two fundamental rights:- The principle of national treatment provides that nationals of any signatory nation shall enjoy in all other countries of the union the advantages that each nation's laws grant to its own nationals. - The right of priority enables any resident or national of a member country to, first, file a patent application in any member country and, thereafter, to file a patent application for the same invention in any of the other member countries within 12 months of the original filing and receive benefit of the original filing date. The resident or national of a member country also can claim the filing date of a trademark application or industrial design filed in another member country within six months of the filing date in his or her own country or country of residence
Multipurpose containerships where one or more but not all compartments are fitted with permanent container cells. Remaining compartments are used for other types of cargo.
Under letters of credit, one or more shipments are allowed by the phrase partial shipments permitted.
See Insurance, Particular Average.
Pass-through operations (also called transshipments) involve a foreign country's use of one country in a trade bloc as a means of gaining preferential treatment from other countries in the bloc.
A vessel certificated to carry more than 12 passengers, some of whom may be accommodated in cabins
A vessel used for carriage of passengers with purpose of a to b transport on rivers/lakes/canals, not suitable for open sea voyages.
A container ship with accommodation for the carriage of more than 12 passengers
A vessel certificated to carry more than 12 passengers, all of whom may be accommodated in cabins
A landing craft certificated to carry more than 12 passengers
A ro-ro cargo ship with accommodation for more than 12 passengers
A vessel designed for the transportation of Vehicles. Not designed for operation in open sea
A ro-ro cargo ship for the additional carriage of rail-vehicles and with accommodation for more than 12 passengers
A vessel designed for the transportation of Vehicles or Rail vehicles. Not designed for operation in open sea
The Patent Cooperation Treaty, PCT, is a worldwide convention, open to any Paris Convention country. The PCT entered into force in 1978. Unlike the Paris Convention, which addresses substantive intellectual property rights, the PCT addresses procedural requirements, aiming to simplify the filing, searching, and publication of international patent applications.
A non military vessel used for patrol duties
A naval vessel for patrolling duties
Passenger Vessel
A party named in an instrument as the beneficiary of the funds. Under letters of credit, the payee is either the drawer of the draft or a bank.
A party responsible for the payment as evidenced by the given instrument. Under letters of credit, the payer is the party on whom the draft is drawn, usually the drawee bank.
A vessel equipped for the carriage of pearl shells
A charge, based on a fixed daily rate.
Performance requirements refers to government-mandated or -approved activities that investors must undertake, usually as a condition of establishment or operation in a particular country.
Those causes of loss for which the carrier is not legally liable. The elemental risks of ocean transport.
The period, usually 6 months, beginning at least 150 days before and continuing 30 days after the first day of the month when an antidumping petition is filed, during which an exporter's home market (or third country) and United States prices and other appropriate facts are investigated to determine whether sales to the United States have been at less than fair value.
The Committee (French: Comite Permanente Interetats de Lutte contre la Secheresse dans le Sahel, CILSS) provides drought protection assistance to the eight countries of the Sahel region (Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Chad, the Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, and Senegal) through such forms as food silo construction, agricultural development, improving roads, and preventing desertification. The Committee, founded in 1976, works in cooperation with the United Nations, the World Bank, the European Economic Community, and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development
Any vessel which has been decommissioned as a non floating permanent facility
Personal Accident
See: Foreign Person.
A diplomatic representative who is acceptable to the government of the country where he or she is assigned.
A diplomatic representative who is no longer acceptable to the government of the country where he or she is assigned.
This term refers to oil earnings of petroleum-exporting countries in excess of their domestic needs and deposited in dollars in Western banks. However, a large part of the revenues that OPEC countries were unable to spend has been recycled to oil-importing countries in an attempt to balance international accounts.
Portfolio
A certificate issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to satisfy import regulations of foreign countries; indicates that a U.S. shipment has been inspected and found free from harmful pests and plant diseases.
The act of calling for freight by truck at the consignor's shipping platform
The structure perpendicular to the shoreline to which a vessel is secured for the purpose of loading and unloading cargo.
A shipment loaded into a container at the pier or terminal, thence to the consignee's facility.
Containers loaded at port of loading and discharged at port of destination.
A mobile container-handling crane used to load/unload containers to/from railcars
A transportation arrangement in which truck trailers with their loads are moved by train to a destination. Also known as Rail Pigs.
A vessel equipped for pile driving operations
Piferage
A vessel from which pilots operate
A vessel equipped to carry small stones and aggregates and to deliver them via a flexible fall pipe system to bury pipes and cables on the sea bed
A platform supply ship equipped with increased scantlings & longer deck space for the transportation of pipes
A vessel primarily equipped to lay solid or flexible pipes on the sea bed
A pipe layer also equipped with a large crane or derrick
A jack up offshore pipe layer platform
A semi submersible offshore pipe layer platform
Pipeline protection broadly refers to the protection accorded by a country for inventions, usually for pharmaceutical and agrichemical products, which already exist prior to that country's making patent protection available for such inventions.
Place where cargo leaves the care and custody of carrier.
Location where cargo enters the care and custody of carrier.
A vessel for the transportation of stores and goods to offshore platforms on an open deck, typically at the stern. May also be fitted with specialist under deck tanks for water, cement and/or drilling mud
In a September 1985 meeting at the Plaza Hotel in New York, G-5 officials ratified an initiative to use exchange rates and other macropolicy adjustments as the preferred and necessary means to bring about an orderly decline in the value of the dollar. The agreement, intended to curb increasing U.S. trade imbalances and protectionist action, supported orderly appreciation of the main non-dollar currences against the dollar.
A series of horizontal lines, corresponding to the seasons of the year and fresh or saltwater, painted on the outside of a ship marking the level which must remain above the surface of the water for the vessel's stability.
The place at which a shipment is received by a carrier from the shipper.
The PFP lays out the steps a country will take while receiving structural adjustment assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). It describes the origins of the country's difficulties, corresponding improvement efforts, and requisite financing as well as probable impacts on environment and society. The paper, updated annually, is developed by the recipient government in collaboration with IMF and the World Bank. By design, it also serves as a vehicle for attracting orderly assistance from other donors.
With regard to Eximbank and Overseas Private Investment Corporation programs, political risk coverage normally includes defaults or losses due to action of inaction by governments, including war and civil unrest, expropriations, and inconvertibility of local currency to dollars. Losses due to currency devaluation are not considered a political risk.
A vessel equipped for the primary function of pollution control. Typical types include oil spill recovery vessel and a pollution and debris collector
U.S. federal law enacting conditions by which a B/L may be issued. Penalties for issuing B/L's containing false data include monetary fines and/or imprisonment
A non propelled pontoon whose function is unknown
- Harbor with piers or docks. - Left side of a ship when facing forward. - Opening in a ship's side for handling freight
Port shopping is the practice of exporters and importers choosing a particular port on the basis of their assessment of Customs' treatment, rather than on the quality of physical facilities and efficiency.
An inspection of a vessel carried out by the national marine authority of the Country in which the vessel is visiting.
Port where a ship discharges or receives traffic.
Port where cargo is unloaded and enters a country.
Place where cargo is loaded and leaves a country.
In general, any foreign investment that is not direct investment is considered portfolio investment. Foreign portfolio investment includes the purchase of voting securities (stocks) at less than a 10 percent level, bonds, trade finance, and government lending or borrowing, excluding transactions in official reserves.
This is a scheduled low budget trade promotion totally within resources at post, such as BIO, BFC, or BSP.
PSVs are conducted to determine that a commodity is being used for the purposes for which its export was licensed. Firms or individuals representing the end user, intermediate consignees, or the purchaser may be subject to inquiries pertaining to the post-shipment verification. As part of the PSV process, BXA forwards a cable to the U.S. embassy or consulate in the respective geographical location to conduct an on-site inspection to ensure that the commodity is physically present and used as stated in the application. Post-shipment verifications are usually conducted six-to-eight months subsequent to export of the commodity. PSVs are also conducted by BXA agents.
A committee of private industry representatives in foreign countries which is responsible for selecting invitees to the International POW WOW.
A single deck cargo vessel for the carriage of fine powders such as fly ash. There are no weather deck hatches
License or permission to use a port
Lifts temporary quarantine of a vessel; granted pratique by Health Officer.
PLCs are conducted to determine that dual-use items on an export license application are destined for a legitimate end-use by a reliable end-user. Firms or individuals representing the licensee (the applicant), the consignee, the purchaser, the intermediate consignee, or the end user may be subject to inquiries pertaining to the pre-license check. As part of the process, BXA forwards a cable to the U.S. embassy or consulate in the respective geographical location to conduct an inspection or meet with company representatives to conduct inquiries on BXA's behalf.
A process employed in the shipment of citrus fruits and other perishable commodities. The fruit is packed and placed in a cold room from which the heat is gradually extracted. The boxes of fruit are packed in containers that have been thoroughly cooled and transported through to destination without opening the doors.
These special trade advantages (e.g. tariff preferences) are given by governments to trading partners in order to promote export growth and development. These are often granted by developed countries to LDCs. Licensing practices, quotas or preferential application of other measures, including taxes, can also be granted in the non-tariff area.
PTA, established in 1981, supports economic development and cooperation (agriculture, communications, customs, industry, monetary affairs, natural resources, and trade). Membership includes: Burundia, Comoros, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Rwanda, Somalia, Swaziland, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. PTA's headquarters are in Lusaka, Zambia.
The dumping determination by the International Trade Administration announcing the results of the investigation conducted within 160 days (or, in extraordinarily complicated cases, 210 days) after a petition is filed or an investigation is self-initiated by the International Trade Administration. If the International Trade Administration determines that there is a reasonable basis to believe or suspect that the merchandise under consideration is being sold or is likely to be sold at less than fair value, liquidation of all affected entries is suspended, and the matter is referred to the International Trade Commission. Preliminary determination also refers to the decision by the ITC where there is a reasonable indication that an industry in the United States is materially injured, or threatened with material injury, or the establishment of an industry in the United States is materially retarded by reason of the imports of the merchandise which is the subject of the petition. The ITC must make its decision within 45 days after the date on which the petition is filed or an investigation is self-initiated by the International Trade Administration. If this determination is negative, the investigation is terminated. See: Tariff Act of 1930
Premiums reducing
Premium reserve (reinsurance)
Freight charges paid by the consignor (shipper) prior to the release of the bills of lading by the carrier.
The President's Export Council (PEC) advises the President on government policies and programs that affect U.S. trade performance; promote export expansion; and provide a forum for discussing and resolving trade-related problems among the business, industrial, agricultural, labor, and government sectors. The Council was established by Executive Order of the President in 1973 and was originally composed only of business executives. The Council was reconstituted in 1979 to include leaders of the labor and agricultural communities, Congress, and the Executive branch. Twenty-eight private sector members serve at the pleasure of the President with no set term of office. Other members include five U.S. Senators and five Members of the House, the Secretaries of Agriculture, Commerce, Labor, State, and Treasury, the Chairman of the Export-Import Bank, and the U.S. Trade Representative. The Council reports to the President through the Secretary of Commerce. The President's Export Council, Subcommittee on Export Administration (PECSEA), formed in June 1976, advises the PEC, the White House, and Commerce on all export control matters, including those which affect Commerce, State, Defense and Energy. The PECSEA membership comprises 25 industry representatives, selected by the Secretary of Commerce.
See: Title and Rank.
The country that has the largest portion of total GATT trade in a product imported into a given country. The principal supplier has first rights to negotiate compensation should a country assess a duty in excess of its bound rate. Any tariff concessions granted to the principal supplier are granted automatically to all other countries accorded MFN status.
A government requirement that an importer deposit in a commercial bank or central bank a specified sum of money (usually a percentage of the value of the imports my for a specified length of time as a condition of importing). These deposits are often held without interest and thus represent a real cost. They are recognized as barriers to trade.
PEFCO is a private company, accessed through its member banks and a few exporters, that works with Eximbank in using private capital to finance U.S. exports. The corporation acts as a supplemental lender to traditional commercial banking sources by making loans to public and private borrowers located outside of the United States who require medium and/or longer-term financing of their purchases of U.S. goods and services
PVOs are non-profit, tax-exempt and nongovernmental organizations governed by a group of private /citizens whose purpose is to engage in voluntary, charitable and development operations overseas. The U.S. Agency for International Development has registered over 150 PVOs which are eligible to receive USAID funding.
A Latin term meaning For the sake of form.
An invoice provided by a supplier prior to the shipment of merchandise, informing the buyer of the kinds and quantities of goods to be sent, their value, and important specifications (weight, size, and similar characteristics).
A Latin term meaning In proportion.
Commodity groupings used for export control purposes. See: Export Control Classification Number.
A tanker built to comply with Annex 1 of Marpol 73/78 for the carriage of oil and engaged in the trade of carrying oil other than crude oil. This includes both clean and black products.
A jack up offshore production platform
A semi submersible offshore production Platform
A vessel primarily equipped for testing the quality and amount of oil produced by a well
Oil which has been produced as the direct result of a refining process. The resultant product may be Clean Petroleum Products - CPP (Naptha, Gasoline, Gas Oil, Base Oils etc. Or Dirty Petroleum Products - DPP (Fuel Oils etc.)
A non propelled tank barge for the carriage of oil products
A tanker for the bulk carriage of refined petroleum products, either clean or dirty
A self propelled tanker barge for the bulk carriage of refined petroleum products, either clean or dirty
Profit commission (reinsurance)
For the purposes of constructed value in an antidumping duty investigation or review, the profit used is the profit normally earned by a producer, from the country of export, of the same or similar product as that under investigation. By statute, the amount of profit shall not be less than 8 percent of the sum of general expenses and cost.
The Bureau of Export Administration uses the project license to authorize large-scale exports of a wide variety of commodities and technical data for specified activities. Those activities are restricted to capital expansion, maintenance, repair or operating supplies, or the supply of materials to be used in the production of other commodities for sale. Items intended for resale in the form received are not permitted and must be effected under a Distribution License.
Single tariff item, established to move multiple commodities needed for a specified project, usually construction.
The use of restrictions to discourage imports and artificially help domestic producers compete with foreign suppliers.
With regard to antidumping cases, a term for the order under which most business proprietary information is made available to an attorney or other representative of a party to the proceeding. See: Tariff Act of 1930.
The Protest System, a part of Customs' Automated Commercial System, tracks protests from the date they are received through final action. A protest is the legal means by which an importer, consignee, or other designated part may challenge decisions made by a District Director of Customs.
See: International Agreements Title and Rank.
A legal device that enabled the original contracting parties to accept general GATT obligations and benefits, despite the fact that some of their existing domestic legislation at that time discriminated against imports in a manner that was inconsistent with certain GATT provisions. Although meant to be temporary, the Protocol has remained in effect; and countries that signed the PPA in 1947 continue to invoke it to defend certain practices that are otherwise inconsistent with their GATT obligations. Countries that acceded to the GATT after 1947 have also done so under the terms of the Protocol.
Petrograd Standard (timber trade)
See: Limited (Liability).
A name usually given to a State body having control or regulation of public utilities.
Person authorized by transportation lines to publish tariffs or rates, rules, and regulations for their account.
A vessel designed for carrying paper pulp
Procedure where carrier tests the temperature of the internal flesh of refrigerated commodities to assure that the temperature at time of shipment conforms to prescribed temperature ranges.
A platform dedicated to pumping operations
A short semi-trailer used jointly with a dolly and another semi-trailer to create a twin trailer.
A statutory term used in dumping investigations to refer to the United States sales price of merchandise which is sold or likely to be sold prior to the date of importation, by the producer or reseller of the merchandise for exportation to the United States. Certain statutory adjustments (e.g., import duties, commissions, freight) are made, if appropriate, to permit a meaningful comparison with the foreign market value of such or similar merchandise. See: Tariff Act of 1930.
Within the context of export controls, the purchaser is that person abroad who has entered into the export transaction with the applicant to purchase the commodities or technical data for delivery to the ultimate consignee.
An agent who purchases goods in his/her own country on behalf of large foreign buyers such as government agencies and large private corporations.
Purchasing power parity is a theory which states that exchange rates between currencies are in equilibrium when their purchasing power is the same in each of the two countries.
A vessel equipped to push cargo carrying barges and pontoons. May be articulated to work with specifically designed barge(s)
Quota share
Questionnaire 88; Q88.com is a web based questionnaire generator that allows you to create questionnaires for vessels.
Quality assurance representative (ISM)
Qualified Individual (OPA 90)
Quality
Quantitative Restrictions
Quote
Quantity
Unlicensed members of the engine department who attend to a fully automated engine room.
Accommodations.
Quay weight; Quay weight and Tonnage Dues
Quality
These are meetings involving trade ministers from the U.S., the European Community, Canada, and Japan to discuss trade policy matters.
Explicit limits, usually by volume, on the amount of a specified commodity that may be imported into a country, sometimes also indicating the amounts that may be imported from each supplying country. Compared to tariffs, the protection afforded by QR's tends to be more predictable, being less affected by changes in competitive factors. Quotas have been used at times to favor preferred sources of supply. The GATT generally prohibits the use of quantitative restrictions, except in special cases, such as those cited in Articles XX (which permits exceptions to protect public health, national gold stocks, goods of archeological or historic interest, and a few other special categories of goods), or Article XXI (which permits exceptions in the interest of national security), or for safeguard purposes, when the appropriate procedures in Article XIX have been followed
A restraint placed on an operation to protect the public against a health hazard. A ship may be quarantined so that it cannot leave a protected point. During the quarantine period, the Q flag is hoisted.
A wedge-shaped piece of timber used to secure barrels against movement.
The quantity of goods that may be imported without restriction during a set period of time.
Absolute quotas permit a limited number of units of specified merchandise to be entered or withdrawn for consumption during specified periods. Tariff-rate quotas permit a specified quantity of merchandise to be entered or withdrawn at a reduced rate during a specified period. Quotas are established by Presidential Proclamations, Executive Orders, or other legislation. The Quota System, a part of Customs' Automated Commercial System, controls quota levels (quantities authorized) and quantities entered against those levels. Visas control exports from the country of origin. Visa authorizations are received from other countries and quantities entered against those visas are transmitted back to them. Control of visas and quotas simplify reconciliation of other countries' exports and U.S. imports.
An offer to sell goods at a stated price and under stated terms.
Range of tide
Riots and civil commotions
Rapeseed Association Terms
Roils, civil commotions and strikes
Running days
Running down clause
Royal National Life-boat Institution
Reinsurance Offices Association
Rust, oxidation and discolouration
Return premium
Revised Statutes (U.S.A.)
Roits, Strikes and Civil Commotions
Rye terms
Rubber Trade Association
Refer to acceptor
Refer to drawer
Rate of exchange
Return to port for orders
Revenue ton
Round voyage
Return of post for orders
Response Action Contractor
Research in Advanced Communications in Europe
Maintains and monitors radio, sends, and receives messages. Often maintains electronic navigation equipment.
Rotterdam - Amsterdam Pipeline
Richards Bay
Richards Bay Coal Terminal
Restrictive Business Practices
Running Costs----The expenses of operating a merchant ship.---
Research octane number
Federal Region Oil & Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
Regular Catalog Show
Receivers
Running days
Running down clause
Redelivery; Re-delivery of Vessel on Time Charter
Radar
Recapitulation of the terms and conditions agreed
Redelivery; Re-delivery of Vessel on Time Charter
Redelivery; Re-delivery of Vessel on Time Charter
Redelivery; Re-delivery of Vessel on Time Charter
Refrigerated
Refrigerator ship; a vessel designed to carry goods requiring refrigeration, such as meat and fruit. A reefer ship has insulated holds into which cold air is passed at the temperature appropriate to the goods being carried.
An insulated shipping container designed to carry cargoes requiring temperature control. It is fitted with a refrigeration unit which is connected to the carrying ship's electrical power supply.
Reference
Refrigerating; Refrigeration.
Regarding
Registered Tonnage.
Value assigned a shipment with a maximum value per pound; used for liability purposes
To sub-charter
Remit
Representative
Require
A cargo which enables a ship to return loaded to the port or area where her previous cargo was loaded.
Reversible
The exact reverse of the route a loaded car traveled from its destination, including all carriers and junctions involved
If loading completed sooner than expected at load port, then days saved can be added to discharge operations
Option for charterers to add together time allowed for loading & discharging relative to terms of a particular charter party
Request for quotation.
Regards
Range
Registro Italiano Navale
Registro Italiano Navale
Regional Marine Operations
Round voyage
Range
Rate not reported
(1) A ship designed to accommodate cargo that is rolled on and rolled off. Some Ro/Ro vessels can accommodate containers and/or breakbulk cargo. A Ro/Ro Vessel can be self-sustaining. (2) Freight ship or ferry with facilities for vehicles to drive on and off (roll-on roll-off); a system of loading and discharging a ship whereby the cargo is driven on and off on ramps. Equipped with large openings at bow and stern and sometimes also in the side, the ship permits rapid loading and discharge with hydraulically operated ramps providing easy access. Fully loaded trucks or trailers carrying containers are accommodated on the deck.
Remaining on board
Reference Our Cable....(date)
Phosphate Rock
Cargo which is on wheels, such as truck or trailers, and which can be driven or towed on to a ship.
Roll On/Roll Off
Reference Our TeLeX ...(date)
Rotterdam
A charge on charter flights levied by some governments before traffic rights are granted. Sometimes called a no objection fee. It is usually a fixed proportion of a total charter value.
Revolutions (or rotations) per minute
Revolutions (or rotations) per second
Repeat
Required
Regional Response Team
Register of Shipping of the Russia-- Russian Classification Society-
Right time of ship departure/arrival; Rye terms
Rate to be agreed
Round trip distance
Round voyage
Abbreviation for Released Value Not Exceeding. Usually used to limit the value of goods transported.The limitation refers to carrier liability when paying a claim for lost or damaged goods.
Returned Without Action
Reference Your Cable...(date)
Reference Your TeLeX...(date)
A platform for operating radar equipment from
A vessel specifically adapted for used as a radio broadcasting station
A slang term for an open-top trailer or container with a tarpaulin cover
The amount of money an ocean carrier pays to the railroad for overland carriage.
The time that the container was discharged (grounded) from the train.
A single or multi deck cargo ship with rails for the carriage of rail vehicles which are loaded via ramps
Railroad terminal where containers are received or delivered and trains loaded or discharged. Originally, trailers moved onto the rearmost flatcar via a ramp and driven into position in a technique known as circus loading. Most modern rail facilities use lifting equipment to position containers onto the flatcars.
A movement where the load initiates at an origin rail ramp and terminates at a consignee's door.
A movement of equipment from an origin rail ramp to a destination rail ramp only.
The personal rank that a Foreign Service officer maintains even when occupying a job of higher or lower rank.
A formula of the specific factors or elements that control the making of a rate. A rate can be based on any number of factors (i.e., weight, measure, equipment type, package, box, etc.).
Roads
Roads
Under ICC and common law, the requirement that a rate not be higher than is necessary to reimburse the carrier for the actual cost of transporting the traffic and allow a fair profit.
An illegal form of discounting or refunding that has the net effect of lowering the tariff price. See also Malpractice.
Recapitulation
Validated at time cargo is received by ocean carrier to commence movement but before being validated as Onboard.
Reciprocal memoranda of understanding (MOU) are broad bilateral umbrella MOUs that seek to reduce trade barriers on defense procurement. They usually call for the waiver of buy national restrictions, customs and duties to allow the contractors of the signatories to participate, on a competitive basis, in the defense procurement of the other country. These agreements were designed in the late 1970's to promote rationalization, standardization, and interoperability of defense equipment within NATO. At that time, the MOU's were also intended to reduce the large defense trade advantage the United States possessed over the European allies. The first agreements were signed in 1978.
The reduction of a country's import duties or other trade restraints in return for comparable trade concessions from another country. Reciprocity includes the lowering of customs duties on imports in return for tariff concessions from other countries; the negotiated reduction of a country's import duties or other trade restraints in return for similar concessions from another country. Reciprocity is a traditional principle of GATT trade negotiations that implies an approximate equality of concessions accorded and benefits received among or between participants in a negotiation. In practice this principle applies only in negotiations between developed countries. Because of the frequently wide disparity in their economic capacities and potential, the relationship between developed and developing countries is generally not one of equivalence. The concept of relative reciprocity has emerged to characterize the practice by developed countries to seek less than full reciprocity from developing countries in trade negotiations. Red Clause - An Authorization in a commercial letter of credit authorizing the advising/negotiating bank to make a limited advance to the seller before the shipment to the buyer is made. Such advances can be made up to 100% of the shipment value. These advances enable the seller to procure supplies for manufacturing or shipment. Negotiations of Red Clause credits are restricted to the bank making the advances in order to assure that proceeds from the shipment are used to repay the advances
B/L set which has completed a prescribed number of edits between the shippers instructions and the actual shipment received. This produces a very accurate B/L
Changing the consignee or destination on a bill of lading while shipment is still in transit. Diversion has substantially the same meaning.
A right claim against the guarantors of a loan or draft or bill of exchange
An Authorization in a commercial letter of credit authorizing the advising/negotiating bank to make a limited advance to the seller before the shipment to the buyer is made. Such advances can be made up to 100% of the shipment value. These advances enable the seller to procure supplies for manufacturing or shipment. Negotiations of Red Clause credits are restricted to the bank making the advances in order to assure that proceeds from the shipment are used to repay the advances
A label required on shipments of flammable articles.
For export control purposes: the shipment of U.S. origin products from one foreign destination to another. For statistical reporting purposes: exports of foreign-origin merchandise which have previously entered the United States for consumption or into Customs bonded warehouses for U.S. Foreign Trade Zones.
Refrigerating machinery
A single deck cargo vessel for the carriage of refined sugar. Sugar is loaded in bulk and bagged in transit (BIBO - Bulk In - Bag Out)
A multi deck cargo ship for the carriage of refrigerated cargo at various temperatures
Reinstatement
A group of points to which rates are made the same as or in relation to rates to other points in group.
To transfer containers from one ship to another when both vessels are controlled by the same network (carrier) manager.
Funds sent by one person to another as payment.
A naval auxiliary vessel for general work and repair operations
A naval auxiliary vessel for homogenous dry cargo
A naval auxiliary vessel. Designed for fuel, lubricants & general stores for transfer to warships at sea.
A negotiating approach whereby requests are submitted by a country to a trading partner identifying the concessions another seeks through negotiations. Compensating offers are similarly tabled and negotiated by delegates of the countries involved.
A vessel equipped for research and/or survey (e.g. geophysical, hydrographic)
A research vessel for Naval support
A vessel designed for research. Not designed for operation in open sea
Member countries of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have a reserve tranche position to the extent that their quotas exceed the IMF's holdings of its currency in the General Resources Account, excluding holdings arising out of purchases made by the member under all policies on the use of the IMF's general resources. A member may purchase up to the full amount of its reserve tranche at any time, subject only to the requirement of balance of payments need. A reserve tranche position does not constitute a use of IMF credit and is not subject to charges or to an expectation or obligation to repurchase. See: International Monetary Fund
Quantitative restrictions that have been maintained by governments before they became contracting parties to GATT and, hence, permissible under the GATT grandfather clause. Most of the residual restrictions still in effect are maintained by developed countries against the imports of agricultural products.
A stationary vessel used as a floating restaurant.
A condition within the letter of credit which restricts its negotiation to a named bank.
Articles handled only under certain conditions.
Actions in the private sector, such as collusion among the largest international suppliers, designed to restrict competition so as to keep prices relatively high
Action taken by a country whose exports are adversely affected by the raising of tariffs or other trade restricting measures by another country. The GATT permits an adversely affected contracting party (CP) to impose limited restraints on imports from another CP that has raised its trade barriers (after consultations with countries whose trade might be affected). In theory, the volume of trade affected by such retaliatory measures should approximate the value of trade affected by the precipitating change in import protection.
For export control purposes: the return of a license application without action is used when the application is incomplete, additional information is required, or the product is eligible for a General License.
A ton on which the shipment is freighted. If cargo is rated as weight or measure (W/M), whichever produces the highest revenue will be considered the revenue ton. Weights are based on metric tons and measures are based on cubic meters. RT=1 MT or 1 CBM.
An inland point provided by an allwater carrier's through bill of lading in the U.S. by first discharging the container in an East Coast port.
Tariff advantages once offered by developing countries to imports from certain developed countries that granted them preferences. Reverse preferences characterized trading arrangements between the European Community and some developing countries prior to the advent of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) and the signing of the Lome Convention.
An instrument that can be modified or cancelled at any moment without notice to and agreement of the beneficiary, but customarily includes a clause in the credit to the effect that any draft negotiated by a bank prior to the receipt of a notice of revocation or amendment will be honored by the issuing bank. Rarely used since there is no protection for the seller
A letter of credit which can be cancelled or altered by the drawee (buyer) after it has been issued by the drawee's bank.
An antidumping duty order may be revoked or a suspended investigation may be terminated upon application from a party to the proceeding. Ordinarily the application is considered only if there have been no sales at less than fair value for at least the two most recent years. However, the International Trade Administration may on its own initiative revoke an antidumping duty order or terminate a suspended investigation if there have not been sales at less than fair value for a period of 3 years. See: Tariff Act of 1930.
An irrevocable letter issued for a specific amount; renews itself for the same amount over a given period
RightShip is a boutique ship vetting specialist, promoting safety and efficiency in the global maritime industry, including drybulk.
The Rio Group is a political forum of Latin American and Caribbean countries which promotes regional political, economic and social cooperation. The Group is comprised of 13 countries, including 11 permanent members: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Chile, Ecuador, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela and two rotating members which representing the Central American countries and the Caribbean nations.
A single or multi deck cargo ship for the carriage of laden vehicles which are loaded via ramps
A vessel designed for the transportation of Ro-Ro Cargo. Not designed for operation in open sea
A shortening of the term, Roll On/Roll Off. A method of ocean cargo service using a vessel with ramps which allows wheeled vehicles to be loaded and discharged without cranes.
Anchorage Area
A vessel equipped to transport rocket sections to isolated launch sites
To re-book cargo to a later vessel.
Ships specially designed to carry wheeled containers or trailers using interior ramps
Rollback refers to an agreement among Uruguay Round participants to dismantle all trade-restrictive or distorting measures that are inconsistent with the provisions of the GATT. Measures subject to rollback would be phased out or brought into conformity within an agreed timeframe, no later than by the formal completion of the negotiations. The rollback agreement is accompanied by a commitment to standstill on existing trade-restrictive measures. Rollback is also used as a reference to the imposition of quantitative restrictions at levels less than those occurring in the present
The side-to-side (athwartship) motion of a vessel.
Rotation number
Cycles of multilateral trade negotiations under GATT, culminating in simultaneous agreements among participating countries to reduce tariff and non-tariff trade barriers. - 1st Round: 1947, Geneva (creation of the GATT) - 2nd Round: 1949, Annecy, France (tariff reduction) - 3rd Round: 1951, Torquay, England (accession & tariff reduction) - 4th Round: 1956, Geneva (accession and tariff reduction) - 5th Round: 1960-62, Geneva (Dillon Round; revision of GATT; addition of more countries) - 6th Round: 1964-67, Geneva (Kennedy Round) - 7th Round: 1973-79, Geneva (Tokyo Round) - 8th Round: 1986-93, Geneva (Uruguay Round)
The manner in which a shipment moves; i.e., the carriers handling it and the points at which the carriers interchange.
Complementary equipment for terminal and overtheroad handling containers.
The RPFB is a new financial institution set up with the assistance of the European Community. The Bank is intended to develop efficient financial systems in Russia capable of channeling foreign and domestic investment into priority areas by providing medium and long-term financial and high quality investment banking advisory services to businesses.
RUIE promotes commerical links between Western firms and Soviet defense firms. The Union, an independent agency created by the Russian Central government, consists of hundreds of major entreprises and associations.
South; Summer loadline
Sale and purchase
Shelter deck
Signing and Releasing
Signing and Releasing Bill(s) of Lading
Signing and accounting (procedure)
Shipping and Forwarding Agent
Sundays and holidays excepted in lay days
Sue & Labor (charges)
Short Bill
Station to station
Salvage Association
Single buoy mooring
Settlement of claims abroad
Scientific Commission on Oceanic Research
Sea damage
Single administrative document
Standard Dutch Hull Form
Subject to endorsement on the policy
Shaft horse-power
Short Interest, Sum Insured International System of Units (System International)
Simplification of Industrial Trade Procedures Boad
Semi knocked down
Seller's option
Ship owner's liability
Service of suit
Supra Protest
Ship repairers' liability
Same sea and country or coast
Simultaneous settlements clause
Standard shipping notice
Side Thruster
Shipper's weights
Seawater damage
Standard wire gauge
Short delivery
Subject to Acceptance (insurance)
Abbreviation for: - Sight draft. - Sea damage.
Statement of facts
Survey Fee
Sum insured
State/Industry-Organized, Government-Approved
Sue and labor
Sue and labor clause
Sue and labor charges
Shipping note
Ship owner
Signing and Releasing Bill(s) of Lading
Suez laden, Suez ballast
Stem, suppliers, receivers, charterers management
Safe arrival; subject to approval
Safe Anchorage;South America; South Australia; South Africa; Safe Anchorage; Salvage Association
Sociedad Anonima
Saturday afternoon/Sundays and holidays excepted.(Excluded)
South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation
Stem and Berth in order
Special American Business Internship Training Program
South African Bureau of Standards
Southern African Customs Union
Southern African Development Community
Single anchor leg mooring
(1) The rescue of goods from loss at sea or by fire. Also, goods so saved, or payment made or due for their rescue. (2) The property which has been recovered from a wrecked vessel, or the recovery of the vessel herself.
Sale and purchase
Search And Rescue
Societe e Responsabilite Limitee
Satellite Communication
Satellite Navigation
Saturday P.M
Saturdays PM Sundays and holidays excluded
Saturdays, Sundays and holidays excluded
Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays Included
Safe berth
Standby engine
Single buoy mooring; Soyabean meal
Single buoy/point mooring
Safe berth
Segregated Ballast Tanks: These are tanks that are completely segregated from the cargo oil and fuel oil systems and which are permanently allocated to the carriage of ballast. Requirements for meeting the SBT criteria are detailed in MARPOL 13.
Segregated Ballast Tanks Protectively Located
Standard Carrier Alpha Code
See Owner Code.
Any service that operates under a set timetable.
Suez Canal Net Tonnage
Sub-area Contingency Plan (10 regional plans that supplement the AK Unified Plan)
A rate applied to narrowly specified commodities and usually granted on relatively large shipments. Theoretically, it is of limited time duration.
Self Discharging
Single Decker bulk carrier
Specially Designated Nationals
Special drawing right (limitation of liability)
Single Decker Self-trimming bulk carrier
Summer deadweight
South East Asia
A series of trials conducted by the builders during which the owner's representatives on board act in a consulting and checking capacity to determine if the vessel has met the specifications.
Sea-barge, a barge carrier design similar to LASH but which uses rollers to move the barges aboard the ship; the self-propelled loaded barges are themselves loaded on board as cargo and are considerably larger than those loaded on LASH ships.
Costs charged for transporting goods over the sea. This SEAFREIGHT does not cover any haulage or loading/discharging costs but the sea transport only.
A device fastened to the doors on a railcar or trailer used to secure its contents and to insure the integrity of a shipment
(1) Statement on the condition of the vessel. It has valid certificates, is fully equipped and manned (2) The sufficiency of a vessel in materials construction, equipment, crew and outfit for the trade in which it is employed. Any sort of disrepair to the vessel by which the cargo may suffer - overloading, untrained officers, etc., may constitute a vessel unseaworthy.
A certificate issued by a classification society surveyor to allow a vessel to proceed after she has met with a mishap that may have affected its seaworthiness. It is frequently issued to enable a vessel to proceed, after temporary repairs have been effected, to another port where permanent repairs are then carried out.
The distance between two ground points within a route.
U.S. Commerce Department document, Shipper's Export Declaration.
Support for East European Democracy
A vessel that has its own cranes and equipment mounted on board for loading and unloading. Used in ports where shore cranes and equipment are lacking.
A containership which has her own crane for loading and discharging shipping containers enabling the ship to serve ports which do not have suitable lifting equipment.
A bulk carrier which is equipped with gear for unloading cargo.
Self Discharging
Self Discharging
Seminar Mission
Are usually 12.0 meter flatbed road trailers
Deck supported by pillars, fastened to pontoons. The pontoons are half submerged during operations. Kept in position by anchors (or by dynamic positioning). Normally equipped with its own propulsion machinery.
State Export Program Database
SERM - SIRE Enhanced Report Manager: SIRE Tanker and Barge Reports and VPQs/BPQs are available electronically 24 hours a day, 365 days per year via the internet to qualified Recipients. SIRE recipients are kept abreast of details of reports held in the d
San Francisco; Stowage factor; Summer Freeboard
Securities and Futures Authority
Sun Flowers
Shared Foreign Sales Corporation
Solo Fair (Washington procured)
Specific gravity
Selling, General and Administrative (Expenses)
Saturday and Holidays Excluded.
Sundays and holidays excepted, even if used
Sundays and holidays excepted, even if used both end
Sundays and holidays excepted, unless used
SHIELD is an interagency export control committee that reviews licenses involving chemical or biological weapons.
This refers to movements or changing positions of cargo from one place to another. This can easily endanger the seaworthiness or cargoworthiness of the ship.
Saturday and Holidays Included.
A person or firm who transacts all business in a port on behalf of shipowners or charterers. Also called shipping agent; agent.
The seaworthiness of a ship regarding the centrifugal force which enables her to remain upright.
An organization of shippers formed to collectively and services with the conferences of ship operators.
A form required by the U.S. Treasury Department and completed by a shipper showing the value, weight, consignee, and destination of export shipments as well as the Schedule B identification number.
2,000 pounds.
Cargo manifested but not loaded.
State Historic Preservation Office (or Officer)
Shuaibu
Sundays and Holidays excepted
Sundays and Holidays included
Standard Industrial Classification
Single decker
Permanent Secretariat of the General Treaty on Central American Economic Integration
The Society of International Gas Tanker & Terminal Operators: The Society is a non-profit making company, formed to promote high operating standards and best practices in gas tankers and terminals throughout the world. It provides technical advice and s
Similar
Shipment over one railroad
Ship Inspection Report Exchange: The OCIMF managed database system that will hold the Inspection Reports carried out by participating members. The aim is to reduce the duplication of the number of inspections carried out on vessels.
Standard International Tariff Classification
Simplification of International Trade Procedures (Board)
Are bearers (timber or steel) positioned under cargo to enable fork lift handling at port, and for ease of rigging and lashing on board ship
Superior kerosene oil
South Korea
Sailed
Shippers load and count. All three clauses are used as needed on the bill of lading to exclude the carrier from liability when the cargo is loaded by the shipper
A tank in a tanker into which slops are pumped. These represent a residue of the ship's cargo of oil together with the water used to clean the cargo tanks. They are left to separate out in the slop tank.
Slop Tanks
Sludge Tank
Safety Management Certificate
Safety Management Manual (ISM)
Safety Management System
Shipped on board
Shipper Owned Container
Statement of facts
Currency which is not fully convertible to all currencies but only to some other soft currencies.
International Convention for Safety Of Life At Sea (1974/78): The International regulations which relates to the safe construction and safety equipment to be carried on all sea going self propelled vessels.
Swedish Official Measure
Shipboard oil pollution emergency plan (ISM)
State On-Scene (On-Site) Commander
Under hook
Safe Port
Abbreviation for Subject to Particular Average. See also Particular Average.
Skaw - Passero range
St. PetersBurg
Speed, Ship pays dues
Speed and Consumption
An industry wide standard used to identify a location served by a common carrier
Single point mooring
Spain
Singapore
A charter for a particular vessel to move a single cargo between specified loading port(s) and discharge port(s) in the immediate future. Contract rate (spot rate) covers total operating expenses, i.e., bunkers, port charges, canal tolls, crew's wages and food, insurance and repairs. Cargo owner absorbs, in addition, any expenses specifically levied against the cargo.
Spot
Soviet Register
Signing and Releasing Bill(s) of Lading
Slops Receiving Station
Spill Response Team
Service speed; Special Survey; Steamship
Same sea and country coast
Single Side Band
Scientific Support Coordinator
Saturdays, Sundays and holidays excluded
Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays Included
Summer salt water
Side tank
It is paramount that a vessel is stable in all respects at all times. When cargo is loaded / discharged, the stability is monitored by a computer, which takes into account the weight and position of cargo within the vessel
Stationed near an offshore in-stallation, responsible for evacuating its crew in emergencies. Also performs continuous guard function, warning other vessels to keep their distance from installations, etc.
A standard numerical code system developed by the United Nations to classify commodities used in international trade.
Self-trimming bulk carrier
Starboard
Said to contain.
Abbreviation for Standard Transportation Commodity Code.
International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978
Standards
A duly appointed and authorized representative in a specified territory acting on behalf of a steamship line or lines and attending to all matters relating to the vessels owned by his principals.
A company usually having the following departments: vessel operations, container operations, tariff department, booking, outbound rates, inward rates, and sales. The company can maintain its own in-country offices to handle regional sales, operations, or other matters, or appoint steamship agents to represent them doing the same. Some lines have liner offices in several regions and appointed agents in others.
Referring to the readiness of cargo which is often a prerequisite to the fixing of a vessel
The foremost part of a ship
The reverse movement of a vessel.
International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978
Clean galley and mess halls, set tables, prepare salads, and clean living quarters.
Seafarers training certification and watch-keeping
Salvage tug
Steel
A penalty assessed to shippers or consignees for holding private trailers or containers at the origin or destination terminal in excess of allotted free time
A general term for provisions, materials and supplies used aboard ship for the maintenance of the crew, and for the navigation, propulsion, and upkeep of the vessel and its equipment.
(a) The lacing of cargo in a vessel in such a manner as to provide the utmost safety and efficiency for the ship and the goods it carries. (b) The placing of goods in a ship in such a way as to ensure the safety and stability of the ship not only on a sea or ocean passage but also in between ports when parts of the cargo have been loaded or discharged.
Cubic space (measurement tons occupied by one ton (2240 lbs. or 1000 kgs of cargo))
An insurance clause referring to loss or damage directly caused by strikers, locked-out workmen, persons' participation in labor disturbances, and riots of various kinds. The ordinary marine insurance policy does not cover this risk. Coverage against it can be added only by endorsement.
ship to ship
Said to weigh.
Subjects
Subjects
An economic benefit granted by a government to producers of goods or services, often to strengthen their competitive position. Sue & Labor Cause. A provision in marine insurance obligating the assured to do things necessary after a loss to prevent further loss and to act in the best interests of the insurer.
A bond insuring against loss or damage or for the completion of obligations
Sailing vessel
Salt Water Arrival Draft
Salt water draft
Salt water departure draft
Safe working load
Salt Water Sailing Draft
Single Swinging Winches
Synacomex
The General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) permits two forms of multilateral safeguards: (a) a country's right to impose temporary import controls or other trade restrictions to prevent commercial injury to domestic industry, and (b) the corresponding right of exporters not to be deprived arbitrarily of access to markets. Article XIX of the GATT permits a country whose domestic industries or workers are adversely affected by increased imports to withdraw or modify concessions the country had earlier granted, to impose, for a limited period, new import restrictions if the country can establish that a product is being imported in such increased quantities as to cause or threaten serious injury to domestic producers, and to keep such restrictions in effect for a such time as may be necessary to prevent or remedy such injury
A sailing vessel used to train merchant/naval seamen or youth training.
A sailing vessel of unspecified function
An agent who distributes, represents, services, or sells goods on behalf of foreign sellers.
A vessel equipped for salvage operations
A naval auxiliary vessel fitted with salvage equipment.
An embargo imposed by a Government against another country.
SASO was established in April 1972 as the sole Saudi Arabian government organization to promulgate standards and measurements in the kingdom. Primarily, SASO promulgates standards for electrical equipment and some food products. Some of these standards have been adopted by the Gulf Cooperation Council.
Schedule B is a U.S. Bureau of the Census publication and is based on the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (Harmonized System). Export statistics are initially collected and compiled in terms of approxiximately 8,000 commodity classifications in Schedule B, Statistical Classification of Domestic and Foreign Commodities Exported from the United States. See: Tariff Schedules of the United States Annotated
Scope determinations deal with the product coverage of antidumping and countervailing duty orders. The Department of Commerce will determine -- in response to an application from an interested party or on its own initiative -- whether a certain product is included within the scope of an antidumpting and countervailing duty order.
Document indicating the goods were loaded onboard when a document of title (b/L) is not needed. Typically used when a company is shipping goods to itself.
Ocean vessels constructed with heavy-duty submersible hydraulic lift or elevator system at the stern of the vessel. The Sea-Bee system facilitates forward transfer and positioning of barges. Sea-Bee barges are larger than LASH barges. The Sea-Bee system is no longer used.
The part of a voyage that is not wholly within inland waterways or harbour walls / port limits.
A vessel equipped for catching seals
A vessel equipped for rapid response search & rescue operations
Section 201, the escape clause provision of the Trade Act of 1974, permits temporary import relief, not to exceed a maximum of eight years, to a domestic industry which is seriously injured, or threatened with serious injury, due to increased imports. Import relief, granted at the President's discretion, generally takes the form of increased tariffs or quantitative restrictions. To be eligible for section 201 relief, the International Trade Commission (ITC) must determine that: (a) the industry has been seriously injured or threatened to be injured and (b) imports have been a substantial cause (not less than any other cause) of that injury. Industries need not prove that an unfair trade practice exists, as is necessary under the antidumping and countervailing duty laws. However, under section 201, a greater degree of injury -- serious injury -- must be found to exist, and imports must be a substantial cause (defined as not less than any other cause) of that injury. If the ITC finding is affirmative, the President's remedy may be a tariff increase, quantitative restrictions, or orderly marketing agreements. At the conclusion of any relief action, the Commission must report on the effectiveness of the relief action in facilitating the positive adjustment of the domestic industry to import competition. If the decision is made not to grant relief, the President must provide an explanation to the Congress. See: Escape clause Trade Act of 1974
Under section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, as amended, Commerce determines whether articles are being imported into the U.S. in quantities or circumstances that threaten national security. Based on the investigation report, the President can adjust imports of the article(s) in question. Commerce must report on the effects these imports have on national security and make recommendations for action or inaction within 270 days after starting an investigation. Within 90 days of the report, the President decides whether to take action to adjust imports on the basis of national security. The President must notify Congress of his decision within 30 days. See: Trade Expansion Act of 1962.
Under section 301, firms can complain about a foreign country's trade policies or practices that are harmful to U.S. commerce. The section empowers the USTR to investigate the allegations and to negotiate the removal of any trade barriers. USTR may also self-initiate investigations. Specific timeframes for conducting the investigations are specified by law. Section 301 requires that GATT's dispute resolution process be invoked where applicable and, if negotiations fail, to retaliate within 180 days from the date that discovery of a trade agreement violation took place.
Section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 requires investigations of unfair practices in import trade. Under this authority, the International Trade Commission applies U.S. statutory and common law of unfair competition to the importation of products into the United States and their sale. Section 337 prohibits unfair competition and unfair importing practices and sales of products in the U.S., when these threaten to: (a) destroy or substantially injure a domestic industry, (b) prevent the establishment of such an industry, or (c) restrain or monopolize U.S. trade and commerce. Section 337 also prohibits infringement of U.S. patents, copyrights, registered trademarks, or mask works.
Section 416 of the Agricultural Act of 1949 provides for the donation of food and feed commodities owned by Agriculture's Commodity Credit Corporation and is focused on people in developing countries.
SGA is the sum of:- General and administrative expenses (such as: salaries of non-sales personnel, rent, heat, and light); - Direct selling expenses (that is, expenses that can be directly tied to the sale of a specific unit, such as: credit, warranty, and advertising expenses); and - Indirect selling expenses (that is, expenses which cannot be directly tied to the sale of a specific unit but which are proportionally allocated to all units sold during a certain period, such as: telephone, interest, and postal charges).
The U.S.-Japan Semiconductor Trade Arrangement is a bilateral agreement which came into effect on August 1, 1991, replacing the prior 1986 Semiconductor Trade Arrangement. The new Arrangement contains provisions to: (a) increase foreign access to the Japanese semiconductor market and (b) deter dumping of semiconductors by Japanese suppliers into the U.S. market, as well as in third country markets. In evaluating market access improvement, both governments agreed to pay particular attention to market share. The expectation of a 20 percent foreign market share by the end of 1992 is included in the Arrangement. The Arrangement explicitly states, however, that the 20 percent figure is not a guarantee, a ceiling, or a floor on the foreign market share
The SCO is the senior U.S. and Foreign Commercial Officer at an embassy and reports in-country to the Ambassador. At major posts, this position carries the title of Commercial Counselor; in key posts, Minister Counselor. Usually reporting to the SCO are a Commercial Attache and Commercial officers. The latter are sometimes assigned to subordinate posts throughout the country.
Separation procedure (signing and accounting)
A string of vessels which makes a particular voyage and serves a particular market.
As provided in the Shipping Act of 1984, a contract between a shipper (or a shippers association) and an ocean common carrier (or conference) in which the shipper makes a commitment to provide a certain minimum quantity of cargo or freight revenue over a fixed time period, and the ocean common carrier or conference commits to a certain rate or rate schedule as well as a defined service level (such as assured space, transit time, port rotation or similar service features). The contract may also specify provisions in the event of nonperformance on the part of either party.
A shared FSC is a foreign sales corporation consisting of more than one and less than 25 unrelated exporters. See: Foreign Sales Corporation.
A pontoon with sheerlegs for lifting
Means all self propelled vessels in excess of 100 tons gross, designed for the carriage of bulk oil, liquefied gas or chemicals and which are chartered for sea going trade, i.e. a seagoing tanker vessel
An individual or company selling equipment and supplies for ships
A charge for delaying a steamer beyond a stipulated period.
Measure time onboard ship. One bell sounds for each half hour. One bell means 12:30, two bells mean 1:00, three bells mean 1:30, and so on until 4:00 (eight bells). At 4:30 the cycle begins again with one bell.
A list, signed by the captain of a ship, of the individual shipments constituting the ship's cargo. A statement listing the particulars of all shipments loaded for a specified voyage.
All rigging, cranes, etc., utilized on a ship to load or unload cargo.
A shipment is all of the cargo carried under the terms of a single bill of lading.The tender of one lot of cargo at one time from one shipper to one consignee on one bill of lading.
The person or company who is usually the supplier or owner of commodities shipped. Also called Consignor.
A form required by the Treasury Department and completed by a shipper showing the value, weight, consignee, destination, etc., of export shipments as well as Harmonized Schedule B (see above) identification number.
A joint Bureau of the Census' International Trade Administration form used for compiling U.S. exports. It is completed by a shipper and shows the value, weight, destination, etc., of export shipments as well as Schedule B commodity code.
Shipper's communication(s) to its agent and/or directly to the international water-carrier. Instructions may be varied, e.g., specific details/clauses to be printed on the B/L, directions for cargo pickup and delivery.
The document required by the carrier or freight forwarders to obtain (besides the data needed) authorization to issue and sign the air waybill in the name of the shipper.
Shipments loaded and sealed by shippers and not checked or verified by the carriers.
A non-profit entity that represents the interests of a number of shippers. The main focus of shippers associations is to pool the cargo volumes of members to leverage the most favorable service contract rate levels.
The act of the U.S. Congress (1916) that created the U.S. Shipping Board to develop water transportation, operate the merchant ships owned by the government, and regulate the water carriers engaged in commerce under the flag of the United States. As of June 18, 1984, applies only to domestic offshore ocean transport.
Effective June 18, 1984, describes the law covering water transportation in the U.S. foreign trade.
Amends the Act of 1984 to provide for confidential service contracts and other items.
Shipper's instructions to carrier for forwarding goods; usually the triplicate copy of the bill of lading.
Shipping weight represents the gross weight in kilograms of shipments, including the weight of moisture content, wrappings, crates, boxes, and containers (other than cargo vans and similar substantial outer containers).
A vessel adapted for uses as a shopping complex
A prop or support placed against or beneath anything to prevent sinking or sagging.
Commodities in short supply may be subject to export controls to protect the domestic economy from the excessive drain of scarce materials and to reduce the serious inflationary impact of satisfying foreign demand. Items that the U.S. controls for short supply purposes include petroleum and petroleum products, unprocessed western red cedar, and shipment of horses by sea. The controls are included in the Export Administration Regulations.
Opposite of Long Form B/L, a B/L without the Terms & Conditions written on it. Also known as a Short Form B/L. The terms are incorporated by reference to the long form B/L.
2,000 pounds.
Polyethylene or similar substance heat-treated and shrunk into an envelope around several units, thereby securing them as a single pack for presentation or to secure units on a pallet.
A tanker for the bulk carriage of crude oil specifically for operation between offshore terminals and refineries. Is typically fitted with bow loading facilities
A lift truck fitted with lifting attachments operating to one side for handling containers.
A container fitted with a rear door and a minimum of one side door.
A draft payable upon presentation to the drawee
The SEA, which entered into force in July 1987, was the first significant revision of the Treaty of Rome. The SEA provides the legal and procedural support for achievement of the single European Market by 1992. The SEA revised the EEC Treaty and, where not already provided for in the Treaty, majority decisions were introduced for numerous votes facing the Council of Ministers, particularly those affecting establishment of the single European Market and the European financial common market. The role of the European Parliament was strengthened; decisions on fiscal matters remained subject to unanimity.
SIMIS, operated by the Commerce Department's International Trade Administration, provides information, assistance, and advice on how to do business in the European Community's internal market
(English: Foreign Trade Information System) is a databank which provides foreign trade information to the public and private sectors of member countries of the Organization of American States (OAS). The System includes information on the U.S. import and export markets, markets of other OAS member countries, and trade information on the European Community and Japan
Sack
Battens, or a series of parallel runners, fitted beneath boxes or packages to raise them clear of the floor to permit easy access of forklift blades or other handling equipment.
Loaded containers moving within the railroad system that are not clearly identified on any internally generated reports.
A wire or rope contrivance placed around cargo and used to load or discharge it to/from a vessel.
A vessel's berth between two piers.
An articulated five-platform railcar. Used where height and weight restrictions limit the use of stack cars. It holds five 40-foot containers or combinations of 40- and 20-foot containers.
One of two or more B/L's which have been split from a single B/L
Placing a container where required to be loaded or unloaded.
A piece of equipment designed to lift containers by their corner castings
The force that holds a vessel upright or returns it to upright if keeled over. Weight in the lower hold increases stability. A vessel is stiff if it has high stability, tender if it has low stability.
An articulated five-platform rail car that allows containers to be double stacked. A typical stack car holds ten 40-foot equivalent units (FEU's).
A rail service whereby rail cars carry containers stacked two high on specially operated unit trains. Each train includes up to 35 articulated multi-platform cars. Each car is comprised of 5 well-type platforms upon which containers can be stacked. No chassis accompany containers.
A late B/L; in banking, a B/L which has passed the time deadline of the L/C and is void
A standard numerical code used by the U.S. Government to classify products and services.
A standard numeric code developed by the United Nations to classify commodities used in international trade, based on a hierarchy.
A vessel primarily equipped to perform safety standby duties. Will be fitted with accommodation and facilities for the rescue, reception and initial care of survivors from offshore installations accidents
The right side of a ship when facing the bow.
A law limiting the time in which claims or suits may be instituted.
A non propelled pontoon used for the purpose of generating a steam supply
A group of vessel operators joined together for the purpose of establishing freight rates.
An indemnity issued to the carrier by a bank; protects the carrier against any possible losses or damages arising from release of the merchandise to the receiving party. This instrument is usually issued when the bill of lading is lost or is not available.
The end of a vessel. Opposite of bow.
A vessel for catching fish by trawling with nets handled over the stern
Individual or firm that employs longshoremen and who contracts to load or unload the ship.
A vessel for the carriage of large stones for the construction of breakwaters and the like; stones are discharged sideways from a flat deck
A complete package of pick up or delivery services performed by a carrier from origin to final consumption point.
Mobile truck equipment with the capacity for lifting a container within its own framework.
A letter of credit that contains a limited engagement clause which states that the issuing bank promises to pay the beneficiary upon presentation of the required documents at its counters or the counters of the named bank
Indicates the shipper will deliver the goods to the consignee. It does not convey title (non-negotiable). Most often used when the goods have been pre-paid
A non-negotiable bill of lading which states a specific identity to whom the goods should be delivered. See Bill of Lading.
Removing cargo from a container (devanning).
Putting cargo into a container.
Substitute
Subject Details
Subject Stem
A qualification on the approval to use a vessel that requires the owner or Charterer (or both) to obtain a positive response from the owner or Charterer (or both) that the vessel subject (qualification) is lifted before the vessel can be fixed (chartered)
A combat vessel designed to operate underwater
A combat vessel specifically designed for the pursuit and attack of submarines
A naval auxiliary vessel specifically adapted for the recovery of stranded submarines
A non naval submersible craft
To put in place of another; i.e., when an insurance company pays a claim it is placed in the same position as the payee with regard to any rights against others.
Substantial corrosion exists if the diminution of the structural element under consideration is in excess of 75% of the maximum allowable diminution, as defined by the vessel's Classification Society for each structural element.
A vessel equipped to obtain material from the sea bed by use of a suction pipe. The material may be carried on board, transferred to other vessels, pumped ashore or deposited elsewhere using a spray
A non propelled dredger pontoon fitted with suction equipment
Oil tanker designed to transit the Suez Canal with full cargo
A wharf licensed and attended by Customs authorities.
Person employed by a ship owner, shipping company, charterer of a ship or shipper of goods to supervise cargo handling operations. Often called a port captain
A logistical management system which integrates the sequence of activities from delivery of raw materials to the manufacturer through to delivery of the finished product to the customer into measurable components. Just in Time is a typical value-added example of supply chain management.
A supply platform, jack up (Lift Boat)
A semi submersible offshore supply platform
A vessel equipped as a general purpose supply vessel to remote communities (e.g. on islands, in the Arctic)
An extra or additional charge.
The U.S. federal body charged with enforcing acts of the U.S. Congress that affect common carriers in interstate commerce. STB replaced the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) in 1997.
An additional extra tax.
Range of tide
Abbreviation for Transportation and Exportation. Customs form used to control cargo movement from port of entry to port of exit, meaning that the cargo is moving from one country, through the United States, to another country.
Technical and Clauses Committee
Tongued and grooved (timber trade)
Trial Balance
Tobe advised, To be agreed
Time charterer's interest
Tonnage deadweight
Trade expenses
Trans-Europe Express
Twenty Foot Equivalent Unit (containers): A measurement of cargo-carrying capacity on a containership, referring to a common container size of 20 ft in length.
Tropical freshwater
Tongued, grooved and beaded
Total loss
Total loss only
Total loss of vessel only
Time on Risk
Terms of trade
Tanker Owners' Voluntary Agreement Concerning Liability for Oil Pollution
Tons per inch
Third party liability
Theft, pilferage and non-delivery
Tale quale (as found)
Total sum insured
Telegraphic transfer
Timber Trade Federation
Transport, wages, maintenance and care
Time charter
Revenue per day
Total loss
Trans Pacific
Time sheet
Tanks
Technical Advisory Committee
Thursday afternoons Fridays and holidays excepted
The extreme section at the aft end of a ship's propeller shaft.
A list of incoming and outgoing cargo checked by the tally clerk on the dock.
A river barge designed for the carriage of liquid bulk cargoes.
Trade Assistance and Planning Office
Integrated Tariff of the European Community
imposes a 50-percent tariff on maintenance and repair work done on U.S.-flag vessels in foreign shipyards. Also, U.S.-flag vessels either must be built in the United States or have been a U.S.-flag vessel for at least 3 years to be eligible to carry preference cargo.
Trans Atlantic Round Voyage
To be advised
To be declared
To be mutually agreed
To Be Nominated. (When the name of a ship is still unknown.)
To the Best Of Owners Knowledge
To Be Renamed
To Be Renamed
Time charter
Time charter equivalent
Time charter hire
Third Country Initiative
Tank Cleaning
Convention on the International Combined Transport of Goods
Third Country Meat Directive
Time Charter Party
Time charter Trip
Total Calcuated Volume
Time charter yield
Table of Denial Orders
Tween Decker
Tons deadweight
Targeted Export Assistance Program
Toxic, explosive, corrosive and hazardous (dangerous cargo)
Telephone Conversation
Any cargo requiring carriage under controlled temperature.
That portion of the sea up to a limited instance which is immediately adjacent to the shores of any country and over which the sovereignty and exclusive jurisdiction of that country extend.
Abbreviation for Twenty foot Equivalent Unit. (6.1m). A standard unit for counting containers of various lengths and for describing container ship or terminal capacity. A standard 40' container equals 2 TEUs.
Trade Fair (Overseas-Recruited)
Trade Fair Certification
Tropical fresh water loadline
Tug
Terminal handling charges,
A charge made for certain handling services performed at terminals.
In charge of eight to twelve watch. Maintains lighting fixtures. Repairs malfunctioning accessories in living quarters. Assist other engineers as directed.
In charge of eight to twelve watch. Makes sure emergency survival equipment (lifeboats, life rings, etc.) is in order. Assists other officers as directed.
An independent retailer of intermodal transportation, may be a shipper agent or association
THRuster
Treaties and Other International Acts Series
Temporary Importation under Bond
A U.S. Customs' temporary admission into the U.S.A. under a conditional bond for articles not imported for sale or for sale on approval.
Trade Information Center
Tax Information Exchange Agreement
Trade and Investment Facilitation Talks
Textiles Information Management System
Taking inward pilot
- Transport International par la Route. Road transport operating agreement among European governments and the United States for the international movement of cargo by road. Display of the TIR carnet allows sealed containerloads to cross national frontiers without inspection.
Trailer Load. The quantity of freight required to fill a trailer; usually more than 10,000 pounds.
Trucking company which dedicates trailers to a single shipper's cargo, as opposed to an LTL (Less Than Truckload) carrier which transports the consolidated cargo of several shippers and makes multiple deliveries.
Tonnage mark
Tanker Management Self Assessment: The Tanker Management and Self Assessment (TMSA) programme provides ship operators with a means to improve and measure their own management systems. The programme encourages ship operators to assess their safety managem
Time to next cargo
Tonnage
Tons
To be Named; To be narrowed; To be Nominated
Abbreviation for Trailer on Flat Car. The movement of a highway trailer on a railroad flatcar. Also known as Piggyback.
Tomorrow
2,240 pounds - Freight rates for liner cargo generally are quoted based on a certain rate per ton, depending on the nature of the commodity. This ton, however, may be a weight ton or a measurement ton.
A measurement used in the economics of transportation to designate one ton being moved one mile. This is useful to the shipper because it includes the distance to move a commodity in the calculation.
The carrying capacity of the ship in terms of the weight in tons of the cargo, fuel, provisions, and passengers which a vessel can carry.
Taking Outward Pilot
To fill a ship which is already partly loaded with cargo.
Total commission
Tanker Owners Voluntary Agreement Concerning Liability for oil Pollution
When one or more vessels are being towed; when a tug is towing one or more floating objects; to pull an object in the water by means of a rope.
Trans Pacific Round Voyage
Tons per centimeter
Tons per cubic meter
Tons per day
Tons per inch
Trans Pacific Round Voyage
Tons registered
A carrier's system of recording movement intervals of shipments from origin to destination.
A term used to define a geographic area or specific route served by carriers.
Maritime area usually specified by range of ports in which a vessel may operate
A vessel that does not operate along a definite route on a fixed schedule, but calls at any port where cargo is available.
Vessels operating without a fixed itinerary or schedule or charter contract.
The number expressing the maximum radiation level in a package or ULD.
Sets the standards for interchange of transportation data
The transfer of a shipment from one carrier to another in international trade, most frequently from one ship to another. Because the unloading and reloading of delicate merchandise is likely to cause damage, transshipments are avoided whenever possible.
The relationship between a ship's draughts forward and aft.
To Be Renamed
Truckload rates apply where the tariff shows a truckload minimum weight. Charges will be at the truckload minimum weight unless weight is higher.
Triple super phosphate
Topside tank
Turn Time; Telegraphic transfer; That; TankTop
Turn Time Both Ends
Total
Tubarao
A small vessel designed to tow or push large ships or barges. Tugs have powerful diesel engines and are essential to docks and ports to maneuver large ships into their berths. Pusher tugs are also used to push enormous trains of barges on the rivers and inland waterways of the U.S. Oceangoing salvage tugs provide assistance to ships in distress and engage in such work as towing drilling rigs and oil production platforms.
Tank Vessel Examination (USCG)
Twin Decker
Tween Decker
Tons per working or Workable hatch per day
Thanks your telex
The TDO is a list of individuals and firms that have been disbarred from shipping or receiving U.S. goods or technology. Firms and individuals on the list may be disbarred with respect to either controlled commodities or general destination (across-the-board) exports. The list is published in the Export Administration Regulations
Rear of a container or trailer-opposite the front or nose.
A vessel equipped to clean the tanks of other vessels and remove and transport slops
A combat vessel with strengthened bow ro-ro ramp for loading and discharge of tanks and other military vehicles
A seagoing vessel capable of carrying oil, gas or chemicals in bulk, whether it be a barge or ship.
A tanker whose cargo is unspecified
(1)Ships fitted with tanks to carry liquid cargo such as: crude petroleum and petroleum products; chemicals, Liquefied gasses(LNG and LPG), wine, molasses, and similar product tankers (2)A tanker is a bulk carrier designed to transport liquid cargo, most often petroleum products. Oil tankers vary in size from small coastal vessels of 1,500 tons deadweight, through medium-sized ship of 60,000 tons, to the giant VLCCs (very large crude carriers).
The weight of a container and/or packing materials without the weight of the goods it contains. In railcar or container shipments, the weight of the empty railcar or empty container.
A tax assessed by a government in accordance with its tariff schedule on goods as they enter (or leave) a country. May be imposed to protect domestic industries from imported goods and/or to generate revenue. Types include ad valorem, specific, variable, or some combination.
(1) A general term for any listing of rates or charges. The tariffs most frequently encountered in foreign trade are: tariffs of international transportation companies operating on sea, land, and in the air; tariffs of international cable, radio, and telephone companies; and the customs tariffs of the various countries that list goods that are duty free and those subject to import duty, giving the rate of duty in each case. There are various classes of customs duties. A publication setting forth the charges, rates and rules of transportation companies
Title VII of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended, provides for the imposition of antidumping duties on imported merchandise found to have been sold in the United States at less than fair value, if these sales have caused or are likely to cause material injury to, or materially retard the establishment of, an industry in the United States. The following terms and phrases are commonly used in connection with procedings under The Tariff Act of 1930, as amended. See: Administrative Review Antidumping Duty Antidumping Investigation Notice Antidumping Duty Order Antidumping Petition Assessment Class or Kind of Merchandise Constructed Value Cost of Production Critical Circumstances Deposit of Estimated Duties Disclosure Meeting Dismissal of Petition Dumping Margin Exporter's Sales Price Fair Value Final Determination Foreign Market Value Hearing Period of Investigation Preliminary Determination Protective Order Purchase Price Revocation of Antidumping Duty Order & Termination of Suspended Investigation Section 337 Summary Investigation Suspension of Investigation Suspension of Liquidation.
A tariff anomaly exists when the tariff on raw materials or semi-manufactured goods is higher than the tariff on the finished product
The agreement by contracting parties to maintain the duty rates on specified goods at negotiated levels or below. Bindings are provided for in GATT Article II.
This term refers to the common situation whereby raw materials and less processed goods are generally dutied at lower rates than more processed versions of the same or derivative goods. For instance, the import duty in most countries is generally higher for petrochemicals than for the petroleum and other raw materials necessary for their production. It is argued by primary commodity exporting nations that this situation confers a higher degree of protection for the processing industries of importing countries than nominal tariff rates would suggest.
A tariff that remains at the same level until a certain quantitative limit (quota) is reached. The duty on imports ports in excess of that level will be higher
Application of a higher tariff rate to imported goods after a specified quantity of the item has entered the country at a lower prevailing rate.
A comprehensive list of the goods which a country may import and the import duties applicable to each product.
Effective 1979 to January 1989, the U.S. import statistics were initially collected and compiled in terms of the commodity classifications in the Tariff Schedules of the United States Annotated (TSUSA), an official publication of the U.S. International Trade Commission embracing the legal text of the Tariff Schedules of the United States (TSUS) together with statistical annotations. This publication was superseded by the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States Annotated for Statistical Reporting Purposes (HTSUSA) in January 1989. Effective 1979 to January 1989, the U.S. export statistics were initially collected and compiled in terms of the commodity classifications in Schedule B, Statistical Classification of Domestic and Foreign Commodities Exported from the United States. Schedule B is a U.S. Bureau of the Census publication and, during this period, was based on the framework of the TSUS. In January 1989, this publication was replaced by Schedule B based on the Harmonized System
An import tax that is usually assessed at a flat rate over and above whatever duties are assessed.
A TIEA imposes on the agreeing countries a mutual and reciprocal obligation to exchange information relating to the enforcement of their respective tax laws. A TIEA provides a means by which a signatory government can pursue certain tax evaders, particularly in cases involving large tax claims or drug enforcement. Countries that sign a TIEA agree to: (a) exhange tax information at the government level in a form admissable to U.S. or host country courts; (b) collect information without regard to the taxpayer's nationality; (c) establish a means for compelling the production of tax information; and (d) ensure that local laws do not prohibit the sharing of tax information. A TIEA can support tourism in a signatory country because the Agreement facilitates Internal Revenue Service approval of the destination as a necessary business expense (deductible for Federal income tax purposes) for U.S. citizens and companies which seek to justify attendance at business conventions and seminars in a signatory country
The TACs are voluntary groups of industry and government representatives who provide guidance and expertise to Commerce on export control matters, including evaluation of technical issues; worldwide availability, use and production of technology; and licensing procedures related to specific industries. TACs have been set up for: (a) materials (Materials Technical Advisory Committe, MATAC), (b) biotechnology (Biotechnology Technical Advisory Committee, BIOTAC), (c) computer systems (CSTAC), (d) electronics (ETAC) (formerly semiconductors), (e) sensors (STAC) (formerly electronic instrumentation), (f) materials processing equipment (MPETAC) (formerly automated manufacturing equipment), (g) regulations and procedures (RPTAC), (h) telecommunications equipment (TETAC), and (i) transportation and related equipment (TRANSTAC).
A specification which sets forth characteristics a product must meet (such as levels of quality, performance, safety or dimensions) in order to be imported.
BXA regulations define technical data as information of any kind that can be used, or adapted for use, in the design, production, manufacture, utilization, or reconstruction of articles or materials. Technology can be either tangible or intangible. Models, prototypes, blueprints or operating manuals (even if stored on recording media) are examples of tangible technology. Intangible technology consists of technical services, such as training, oral advice, information guidance and consulting.
This term is used to characterize the transfer of knowledge generated and developed in one place to another, where is it is used to achieve some practical end. Technology may be transferred in many ways: by giving it away (technical journals, conferences, emigration of technical experts, technical assistance programs); by industrial espionage; or by sale (patents, blueprints, industrial processes, and the activities of multinational corporations).
Used for sending messages to outside companies. Messages are transmitted via Western Union, ITT and RCA. Being replaced by fax and internet
A device to record temperature in a container while cargo is en route.
When an importer makes entry of articles brought into the United States temporarily and claimed to be exempt from duty under Chaper 98, Subchapter XIII, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States, a bond is posted with Customs which guarantees that these items will be exported within a specified time frame (usually within one year from the date of importation). Failure to export these items makes the importer liable for the payment of liquidated damages for breach of the bond conditions. (See 19 CFR 10.31.). The Temporary Importation under Bond (TIB) is usually twice the amount of duties and other payments the importer would otherwise be required to pay. Merchandise imported under TIB is usually for sales demonstration, testing, or repair
The offer of goods for transportation or the offer to place cars or containers for loading or unloading.
Time and date for payment of a draft.
An assigned area in which containers are prepared for loading into a vessel, train, truck, or airplane or are stacked immediately after discharge from the vessel, train, truck, or airplane.
A terminal buoy
A charge made for a service performed in a carrier's terminal area.
TOR is World Bank parlance referring to the preparation of a description of the assignment for consultants to be selected by borrowers following World Bank procedures.
The point at which sellers have fulfilled their obligations so the goods in a legal sense could be said to have been delivered to the buyer. They are shorthand expressions that set out the rights and obligations of each party when it comes to transporting the goods. Following, are the thirteen terms of sale in international trade as Terms of Sale reflected in the recent amendment to the International chamber of Commerce Terms of Trade (INCOTERMS), effective July 1990: exw, fca, fas, fob, cfr, cif, cpt, cip, daf, des, deq, ddu and ddp.
The TSB is an international body which meets in Geneva at the GATT to monitor the Multi-Fiber Arrangement. The TSB receives reports of all textile restrictions and can make recommendations to participants. It can mediate disputes between parties to the MFA but has no binding powers. Membership is balanced between importing and exporting members.
A mobile vessel used as a theatre
The TCI was created to help countries establish an export control system on strategic commodities. Such countries, while not members of CoCom, would establish export control systems that provide levels of protection as close as possible to those provided by CoCom. Such systems include: (a) import certifications and delivery verifications, (b) controls over reexports of CoCom-origin, controlled goods and indigenous exports of CoCom-controlled goods, (c) cooperation in pre-licensing and post-shipment checks, and (d) cooperation on enforcement matters. The United States supports the third country initiative through section 5(k) of the Export Administration Act, which allows it to provide selected non-CoCom countries with the same licensing benefits provided to CoCom members
The TCMD is a regulation by which the European Community controls meat imports based on sanitary requirements. The TCMD requires individual inspection and certification by EC veterinarians of U.S. meat plants wishing to export to the EC.
The dollar value of contracts above which government entities are covered by the government procurement code.
A single bill of lading covering receipt of the cargo at the point of origin for delivery to the ultimate consignee, using two or more modes of transportation
The total rate from the point of origin to final destination.
The charge for moving a container through a container yard off or onto a ship.
Tied aid credit refers to the practice of providing grants and/or concessional loans, either alone or combined with export credits, linked to procurement from the donor country.
A loan made by a government agency that requires a foreign borrower to spend the proceeds in the lender's country.
A contract for leasing between the ship owners and the lessee. It would state, e.g., the duration of the lease in years or voyages.
A draft that matures either a certain number of days after acceptance or a certain number of days after the date of the draft.
- A unit used in comparing freight earnings or expenses. The amount earned from the cost of hauling a ton of freight one mile. - The movement of a ton of freight one mile.
100 cubic feet. Generally refers to freight handled.
A type of air circulation in a container. In top air units, air is drawn from the bottom of the container, filtered through the evaporator for cooling and then forced through the ducted passages along the top of the container. This type of airflow requires a special loading pattern.
A combat vessel designed for launching torpedoes, usually small and fast
A naval auxiliary vessel designed for recovering unexploded or training torpedoes
A naval auxiliary vessel for testing and conducting trails on torpedoes
The charge made for towing a vessel
A vessel designed for tug, towing or pushing operations. Not designed for operation in open sea
Poison which can affect personnel through inhalation, absorption or ingestion. For the purposes of this policy the term toxic is taken to include all products which give off vapours containing substances for which exposure limits are recommended as they
Time in port
Unit of highway motive power used to pull one or more trailers/containers.
A time or a date draft that has been accepted by the buyer (the drawee) for payment at maturity.
Persons and property carried by transport lines.
The truck unit into which freight is loaded as in tractor trailer combination. See Container.
A vessel equipped for training seafarers
A vessel used for training merchant or naval seamen.
An ocean carrier company operating vessels not on regular runs or schedules. They call at any port where cargo may be available.
A non propelled pontoon used for the storage and or trans shipment of cargoes
A vessel equipped for the trans shipment of dry cargo to other vessels alongside. May also be able to store cargo until trans shipment.
A letter of credit that allows the beneficiary to transfer in whole or in part to another beneficiary any amount which, in aggregate, of such transfers does not exceed the amount of the credit. Used by middlemen
Applies to lightening operations and ship to ship (STS) transfers both at anchor and underway, or where vessels are double banked alongside a berth.
To move cargo from one place to another.
Allows foreign merchandise arriving at one port to be transported in bond through the U.S. to be exported from another port, without paying duty.
To transfer goods from one transportation line to another, or from one ship to another.
Place where cargo is transferred to another carrier.
A vessel for catching fish by trawling with nets handled over the side
A vessel primarily equipped to operate submersibles for digging trenches on the sea bed for pipes and cables
A naval auxiliary vessel. Designed for carrying troops
Release of merchandise by a bank to a buyer while the bank retains title to the merchandise. The goods are usually obtained for manufacturing or sales purposes. The buyer is obligated to maintain the goods (or the proceeds from their sales) distinct from the remainder of the assets and to hold them ready for repossession by the bank.
Time at sea
A vessel equipped with a towing winch to tow other vessels (either in harbour or in open sea) and with manoeuvring capabilities to assist vessels to berth/unberth in ports. May also be able to push barges and other vessels
A tug for naval support
In water transportation, the time it takes between the arrival of a vessel and its departure.
A set of four twistable bayonet type shear keys used as part of a spreader to pick up a container or as part of a chassis to secure the containers.
A pallet so designed that the forks of a fork lift truck can be inserted from two sides only.
Unified claims system
United Kingdom and Le Havre-Antwerp-Dunkirk range
United Kingdom and Le Havre-Hamburg range
United Kingdom for orders
Ultra large crude carrier
United Nations
U.N. Conference on the Law of the Sea
U.N. Conference on Trade and Development
U.N. Development Program
U.N. Disaster Relief Co-ordinator
U.N. Environment Program
U.N. Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
Ultimate net loss
A U.S. affiliate is a U.S. business enterprise in which there is foreign direct investment -- that is, in which a single foreign person owns or controls, directly or indirectly, 10 percent or more of its voting securities if the enterprise is incorporated or an equivalent interest if the enterprise is unincorporated. The affiliate is called a U.S. affiliate to denote that the affiliate is located in the U.S. (although it is owned by a foreign person).
A document required on merchandise imported into the United States.
That fleet of merchant ships owned by United States citizens or corporations and registered under flags of convenience or necessity such as Liberia or Panama. The term is used to emphasize that, while the fleet is not U.S.-flag, it is effectively under U.S. control by virtue of the ship's owners and can be called to serve U.S. interests in time of emergency.
The USML identifies those items or categories of items considered to be defense articles and defense services subject to export control. The USML is similar in coverage to the International Munitions List (IML), but is more restrictive in two ways. First, the USML currently contains some dual-use items that are controlled for national security and foreign policy reasons (such as space-related or encryption-related equipment). Second, the USML contains some nuclear-related items. Under Presidential directive, most dual-use items are to be transferred from the USML to the Commerce Department's dual- use list. State, with the concurrence of Defense, designates which articles will be controlled under the USML. Items on the Munitions List face a stricter control regime and lack the safeguards to protect commercial competitiveness that apply to dual-use items.
are registered in the United States and are subject to additional U.S. laws and regulations to which foreign-flag vessels are not. They must be owned by U.S. citizens, corporations, or governments and must be crewed mainly by U.S. citizens.
United States, North of Cape Hatteras
Unlimited transhipment
Underwriting account
Under construction
Underdeck
Under repair
Under or on deck
Abbreviation for the Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits, published by the International Chamber of Commerce. This is the most frequently used standard for making payments in international trade; e.g., paying on a Letter of Credit. It is most frequently referred to by its shorthand title: UCP No. 500. This revised publication reflects recent changes in the transportation and banking industries, such as electronic transfer of funds.
Abbreviation for Uniform Freight Classification.
Ultra High Frequency Band Radio
Union Internationale des Telecommunications
United Kingdom
United Kingdom / continent range
United Kingdom or Continent (Bordeaux-Hamburg range)
United Kingdom or Continent (Gibraltar-Hamburg range)
United Kingdom or Continent (Le Havre-Hamburg range)
United Kingdom or Continent
United Kingdom Continental Shelf
Ultra Large Crude Carriers. Tankers larger than 300,000 dwt.
A pallet or container for freight.
Usual Marketing Requirements
Unleaded motor spirits
United Nations
United Nations EDI for Administration, Commerce and Transport. EDI Standards are developed and supported by the UN for electronic message (data) interchange on an international level.
United Nations Capital Development Fund
United Nations Conference on Environment and Development
United Nations Commission on International Trade Law
United Nations Conference on Science and Technology for, Development
United Nations Conference on Trade and Development
United Nations Disaster Relief Organization
United Nations Development Programme
United Nations Environment Program
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural, Organization
United Nations Fund for Population Activities
United Nations General Assembly
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
United Nations Children's Fund
United Nations Industrial Development Organization
International Institute for the Unification of Private Law
United Nations Institute for Training and Research
The organization which negotiates international mail charges.
Unleaded
A space where alarm bells are installed on the bridge of a ship to trace or rectify any machinery faults. The computerized devices will report any fault immediately it appears and the engineers on board can attend to the necessary ramifications.
Unquote
The state or condition of a vessel when it is not in a proper state of maintenance, or if the loading equipment or crew, or in any other respect is not ready to encounter the ordinary perils of sea.
United States of America
United States Atlantic Coast
Unless sooner commenced
United States Coast Guard
United States Dollar
United States East Coast
United States Fish and Wildlife Service
United States Gulf of Mexico
United States North of (Cape) Hatteras (northern range)
United States North Pacific
United States South of (Cape) Hatteras
United States West Coast
Unless Used
Unless Used/If used (in which Case) Actual Time Used To Count
Unless Used (Which Case) Actual Time Used To Count
Unless Used If Used Actual Time Used To Count
Unless Used In Which Case Time Actually Used To Count
The space not filled with liquid in a drum or tank.
The UBO of a U.S. affiliate is that person, proceeding up the affiliate's ownership chain beginning with and including the foreign parent, that is not owned more than 50 percent by another person. The UBO consists of only the ultimate owner, other affiliated persons are excluded. If the foreign parent is not owned more than 50 percent by another person, the foreign parent and the UBO are the same. A UBO, unlike a foreign parent, may be a U.S. person.
The ultimate consignee is the person located abroad who is the true party in interest, receiving the export for the designated end-use
Freight that has not been called for or picked up by the consignee or owner.
A letter of credit forwarded to the beneficiary by the advising bank without engagement on the part of the advising bank
To charge less than the proper amount.
An underwater system
This term refers to any act, policy, or practice of a foreign government that: (a) violates, is inconsistent with, or otherwise denies benefits to the U.S. under any trade agreement to which the United States is a party; (b) is unjustifiable, unreasonable, or discriminatory and burdens or restricts United States commerce; or (c) is otherwise inconsistent with a favorable section 301 determination by the U.S. Trade Representative
Rules for letters of credit drawn up by the Commission on Banking Technique and Practices of the International Chamber of Commerce in consultation with the banking associations of many countries. See Terms of Payment.
U.S. Customs' standardization: four-alpha code unique to each carrier placed in front of nine digit B/L number; APL's unique B/L Identifier is APLU. Sea-land uses SEAU. These prefixes are also used as the container identification
Packages loaded on a pallet, in a crate or any other way that enables them to be handled at one time as a unit.
A train of a specified number of railcars, perhaps 100, which remain as a unit for a designated destination or until a change in routing is made.
- The consolidation of a quantity of individual items into one large shipping unit for easier handling. - Loading one or more large items of cargo onto a single piece of equipment, such as a pallet.
Removal of a shipment from a vessel.
A single deck cargo vessel for the carriage of urea in bulk. May be self discharging
A small multi functional response vessel not dedicated to a particular function
Valuation clause
Vessel Traffic Systems
Voyage charter
Very Much
Transportation charges assessed shippers who declare a value of goods higher than the value of carriers' limits of liability.
Value Added Tax
Volume Correction Factor
Vapour Emission Control System. See Vapour Returns System.
Vessel Experience Factor
Vegetable oil
Voluntary Export Restriction
Vacuum gas oil
Very High Frequency Band Radio
Vessel Inspection Questionnaire: Inspection format utilised by the OCIMF SIRE system.
Variable Levy
Very Large Bulk Carrier
Very Large Crude Carriers: Tankers between 200,000 and 300,000 dwt.
Very large ore/oiler (carrier)
Very Large Product Carrier
Vessel Management Services, Inc. (subsidiary of CMC)
Vessel-operating multimodal transport operator
Voice of America
Vessel operating carrier
Volume
A contract whereby the shipowner places the vessel at the disposal of the charterer for one or more voyages, the shipowner being responsible for the operation of the vessel.
Vessel Pays Dues
Vessel Particulars Questionnaire: Description data format utilised by the OCIMF SIRE system.
Voluntary Restraint Agreement
Vessel Response Plan
Vapour Recovery System, see below.
Vessel
Vessel traffic management system
Vessel traffic system
A document issued by the U.S. government authorizing the export of commodities for which written export authorization is required by law. Two types exist: an Individual Validated License (IVL) and a Special License
Authentication of B/L and when B/L becomes effective.
Valued added counseling is defined as assessing a company's current international business operations and assisting a client in one or more of the following: (a) identifying and selecting the most viable markets; (b) developing an export market strategy; (c) implementing the export market strategy; and (d) increasing market presence.
A tax which is assessed at each stage of production on the amount of value contributed at each stage to the final product.
The date on which payment must be made by the named bank. This date is determined by the payee, the payer or the bank.
The U.S. Customs Service defines value for Customs purposes only as the value submitted on the entry documentation by the importer which may or may not reflect information from the manufacturer but in no way reflects Customs appraisement of the merchandise.
A European Community (EC) tax assessed on the increased value of goods as they pass from the raw material stage through the production process to final consumption. The tax on processors or merchants is levied on the amount by which they increase the value of items they purchase. The EC charges a tax equivalent to the value added to imports and rebates value-added taxes on exports.
A term for stowing cargo in a container.
The practice where vapours in the ullage space of a vessel are returned to the shore via dedicated piping, during the loading or ballasting operation. (VRS = Vapour Recovery System, VECS = Vapour Emission Control System)
Costs that vary directly with the level of activity within a short time. Examples include costs of moving cargo inland on trains or trucks, stevedoring in some ports, and short-term equipment leases. For business analysis, all costs are either defined as variable or fixed. For a business to break even, all fixed costs must be covered. To make a profit, all variable and fixed costs must be recovered plus some extra amount.
A tariff subject to alterations as world market prices change, the alterations are designed to assure that the import price after payment of the duty will equal a predetermined gate price.
Valued
A cargo ship designed for the bulk transport of Vegetable oils in tanks. Tanks will be stainless steel or lined. New vessels will be classified as chemical carriers
A tanker for the bulk carriage of vegetable oils which is not suitable for trading in open waters. New vessels will be classified as chemical tankers as defined in the International Bulk Chemical Code
A multi deck cargo ship for the carriage of new cars and trucks which are loaded via ramps
A container designed with openings in the side and/or end walls to permit the ingress of outside air when the doors are closed.
An export trading company that integrates a range of functions taking products from suppliers to consumers
All ships, tankers and barges used or capable of being used for the transportation of bulk hydrocarbons (including liquefied gases), bulk chemicals and bulk dry cargoes, and all craft involved in marine related operational activity associated with the hig
The international carrier is obligated to make declarations of the ship's crew and contents at both the port of departure and arrival. The vessel manifest lists various details about each shipment by B/L number. Obviously, the B/L serves as the core source from which the manifest is created.
Allows equipment and supplies arriving at one port to be loaded on a vessel, aircraft, etc., for its exclusive use and to be exported from the same port.
Visas are required by many countries for entry of a foreigner. A visa is a stamp in a foreign national's passport issued by a U.S. consular officer which creates a legal presumption that there are no apparent reason to deny entry into the U.S. Regardless of the stamp, the final decision to grant admission is made by an officer of the U.S. Immigration Service at the port of entry
A program of selected countries to eliminate the visa requirement on a test basis.
A committee of U.S. tourism managers located in foreign markets. Visit USA Committees work with USTTA and the U.S. & Foreign Commercial Service in planning and promoting travel to the U.S.
Namely. Used in tariffs to specify commodities.
Related to Consolidated B/L; those B/L's absorbed in the combining process. Different from Canceled B/L.
A liquid from which gas evaporates rapidly. For the purpose of this policy the term volatile is taken to include any naturally volatile product with a flash point of less than 60 degrees C or any product being carried at a temperature that is higher tha
An understanding between trading partners in which the exporting nation, in order to reduce trade friction, agrees to limit its exports of a particular good. Also called voluntary restraint agreement.
Informal bilateral or multilateral understandings in which exporters voluntarily limit exports of certain products to a particular country destination in order to avoid economic dislocation in the importing country and the imposition of mandatory import restrictions. These arrangements do not involve an obligation on the part of the importing country to provide compensation to the exporting country, as would be the case if the importing country unilaterally imposed equivalent restraints on imports.
Generally, a bilateral arrangement whereby an exporting country agrees to reduce or restrict exports without the importing country having to make use of quotas, tariffs or other import controls. These agreements are generally undertaken to avoid action by the importing country against imports that may major or in some way threaten the positions of domestic firms in the industry in question.
see Charter, Voyage.
Winter loadline mark;World Scale
With Average
Water ballast, Warehouse Book, Way Bill
West Britain/East Ireland
West Coast
World Confederation of Labor
West coast of South America
Wireless direction finder
Warranted existing class maintained
Western European Union
World Federation of Trade Unions
World Health Organization
Abbreviation for Weight or Measurement; the basis for assessing freight charges. Also known as worm. The rate charged under W/M will be whichever produces the highest revenue between the weight of the shipment and the measure of the shipment.
World Meteorological Organization
Winter North Atlantic
With particular average
Warehouse receipts
Without reference to date
Wording to be agreed
Western Truck Lines.
West Africa
Within
Weight and /or Measurement
Warehouse warrant
Warranted
WAter
West African Clearing House
West African Development Bank
West African Economic Community
West Africa
West Asia gulf
World Agricultural Outlook Board
Insurance issued by marine underwriters against war-like operations specifically described in the policy. In former times, war risk insurance was taken out only in times of war, but currently many exporters cover most of their shipments with war risk insurance as a protection against losses from derelict torpedoes and floating mines placed during former wars, and also as a safeguard against unforeseen warlike developments. In the U.S.A., war risk insurance is written in a separate policy from the ordinary marine insurance; it is desirable to take out both policies with the same underwriter in order to avoid the ill effects of a possible dispute between underwriters as to the cause (marine peril or war peril) of a given loss.
World Administrative Radio Conference
A receipt of commodities deposited in a warehouse identifying the commodities deposited. It is non-negotiable if permitting delivery only to a specified person or firm, but it is negotiable if made out to the order of a person or firm or to a bearer. Endorsement (without endorsement if made out to bearer) and delivery of a negotiable warehouse receipt serves to transfer the property covered by the receipt. Warehouse receipts are common documents in international banking.
the goods while in transit between the initial point of shipment and the point of destination with certain limitations, and also subject to the law of insurable interest. The warehouse-to-warehouse clause was once extremely important, but marine extension clauses now often override its provisions.
An agreement written in a marine underwriter's insurance policy which must be strictly and literally complied with. A violation voids the insurance, e.g., trading warranties. (2) Implied Warranty: - Fundamental conditions implied in a contract of marine insurance are seaworthiness of the vessel and the legality of the venture.
The day at sea is divided into six four-hour periods. Three groups of watchstanders are on duty for four hours and then off for eight, then back to duty. Seamen often work overtime during their off time.
Water ballast; Waybill
Water Ballast Tank
West coast
West Coast Africa
Whether (in) customs cleared (clearance) or not
Whether Cleared Customso r Not
Worst Case Discharge
West Coast India
World Confederation of Labor
West Coast of North America
West coast of South America
West Coast United Kingdom
West Coast United States
What Can You Offer
What Can You Propose
Working days
West Britain/East Ireland
Whether entered customs clearance or not
Whether entered customs house or not
Whether entered (in) Customs of not
(1) GrossThe weight of the goods including packing, wrappers, or containers, both internal and external. The total weight as shipped. (2) Net - The weight of the goods themselves without the inclusion of any wrapper. (3) Tare - The weight of the packaging or container. (4) Weight/Measurement Ton - In many cases, a rate is shown per weight/measurement ton, carrier's option. This means that the rate will be assessed on either a weight ton or measurement ton basis, whichever will yield the carrier the greater revenue. For example, the rate may be quoted based on 2,240 pounds, 40 cubic feet, one metric ton, or one cubic meter. (5) Weight Ton There are three types of weight ton: the short ton, weighing 2,000 pounds; the long ton, weighing 2,240 pounds; and the metric ton weighing 2,204.68 pounds. The last is frequently quoted for cargo being exported from Europe.
Payload achieved as against available, expressed as a percentage. Volume rather than weight frequently limit cargo; load factors of 100 percent are rarely achieved.
Net weight of goods plus the inside packing.
Western Europe
Western European Union
With following alterations
World Food Council
World Federation of Development Financing Institutions
World Food Program
World Health Organization
Per working (workable) hatch per day
Wheat
Wordscale hours, terms and conditions
Whether In Berth or Not.
Whether (in) customs cleared (clearance) or not
Whether in Free Pratique or Not
World Intellectual Property Organization
Whether in Port Or Not
Whether in Port or Not
Wing Tank
A marine insurance term meaning that shipment is protected for partial damage whenever the damage exceeds a stated percentage.
An insurance term meaning that partial loss or damage of goods is insured. The damage generally must be caused by sea water, and many terms specify a minimum percentage of damage before payment. It may be extended to cover loss by theft, pilferage, delivery, leakage, and breakage.
A term indicating shipper's agent or representative is empowered to make definitive decisions and adjustments abroad without approval of the group or individual represented. (See Advisory Capacity)
Waterline
Waterline to top of hatch coaming
Water level to manifold
Water Line-To-Hatch Coaming
World Meteorological Organization
Winter North Atlantic loadline mark
Washed overboard
Without Guarantee
An index representing the cost of time chartering a tanker for a specific voyage at a given time. The index is given at Worldscale 100, which represents the price in dollars per ton for carrying the oil at that rate. The negotiated rate will be some percentage of the index value.
Weather Permitting
Abbreviation for With Particular Average.
Weather Permitting Day
War risks
Wide Range Destillate
Wire Rods In Coils
World Scale
Worldscale Hours Terms and Conditions
Weather And Safe Navigation Permitting
World Tourism Organization, World Trade Organization
World Trade Data Report
World Tourism Market
Working time saved
Working time saved both ends
Working time saved both ends
Within Vessel's natural segregation
Weather Working; World Wide
Worldwide and always within Institute Warranty Limits
Weather Working Days.
Weather working days, Sundays and holidays excluded
Waterside Workers' Federation
When, Where, Ready
Insurance coverage for loss of goods resulting from any act of war.
A place for the reception, delivery, consolidation, distribution, and storage of goods/cargo.
Document that identifies goods imported when placed in a bonded warehouse. The duty is not imposed on the products while in the warehouse but will be collected when they are withdrawn for delivery or consumption.
Allows merchandise that has been withdrawn from a bonded warehouse at one port to be transported in bond to another port, where a superseding entry will be filed.
Allows merchandise that has been withdrawn from a bonded warehouse at one port to be transported in bond through the U.S. to be exported from another port, without paying duty.
Allows merchandise that has been withdrawn from a bonded warehouse at one U.S. port to be exported from the same port exported without paying duty.
The storing of goods/cargo.
The declaration given by an owner that action has or will be taken to ensure that his vessel complies with International, statutory, or company requirements. (It requires a degree of trust in its use - an owner found to have broken a warranty might gain
A vessel equipped for the transportation, treatment and/or (now illegal) discharge at sea of waste material
A vessel equipped to inject water into settled sediment which then moves under the influence of gravity and/or density gradients
A non propelled dredger pontoon equipped to inject water into settled sediment which then moves under the influence of gravity and/or density gradients
A non propelled tank barge for the carriage of water
A tanker for the bulk carriage of water
A self propelled tanker barge for the bulk carriage of water
A tanker for the bulk carriage of water which is not suitable for trading in open waters
A naval auxiliary vessel. Designed for the carriage of bulk water in tanks expressly for naval support
A document prepared by a transportation line at the point of a shipment; shows the point of the origin, destination, route, consignor, consignee, description of shipment and amount charged for the transportation service. It is forwarded with the shipment or sent by mail to the agent at the transfer point or waybill destination. Abbreviation is WB. Unlike a bill of lading, a waybill is NOT a document of title.
Wording
A naval auxiliary vessel for testing and conducting trails on any weapon systems
Associations engaged in exporting that combine the products of similar producers for overseas sales. These associations have partial exemption from U.S. anti-trust laws but may not engage in import, domestic or third country trade or combine to export services
A cargo on which the transportation charge is assessed on the basis of weight.
Measurement ton 40 cubic ft or one cubic meter. Net ton, or short ton 2,000 lbs. Gross ton/long ton 2,240 lbs. Metric ton/kilo ton 2,204.6 lbs. Cubic meter 35.314 cubic ft.
Also known as stack car. A drop-frame Rail flat car.
A vessel primarily equipped to maximize oil production from a well
CEAO (French: Communaute Economique de l'Afrique de l'Ouest), created in 1974, includes: Benin, Burkina Faso, Cote d'Ivoire, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, and Senegal. (Togo has observer status). The CEAO operates as a free trade area for agricultural products and raw materials and as a preferential trading area for approved industrial products, with a regional cooperation tax (TCR) replacing import duties and encouraging trade among members. A Community fund (FOSIDEC) promotes private lender Community participation in advancement of the Community's least developed nations (Burkina Faso, Mali, Mauritania, and Niger). CEAO envisions eventual creation of a customs union and coordination of fiscal policies. Community headquarters are in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
WARDA conducts research on rice improvement in mangrove swamps, inland swamps, upland conditions, and irrigated conditions. The Association is one of several centers associated with the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research. WARDA was established in 1970; headquarters are in Bouake, Cte d'Ivoire. Members include 16 West African countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Chad, Cte d'Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo. See: Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research. West African Clearing House - WACH (French: Chambre de Cooperation de l'Afrique de l'Ouest, CCAO) provides settlement of payments services among central bank and other monetary authorities in West Africa. WACH was established in 1975 (began operations in 1976); headquarters are in Freetown, Sierra Leone. Membership includes the Central Bank of West African States (representing Benin, Burkina Faso, Cte d'Ivoire, Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Togo) as well as The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone
The West African Development Bank, WADB, (French: Banque Quest-Africaine de Developpement, BOAD) promotes regional economic development and integration in West Africa. The Bank was established in 1973 (began operations in 1976); headquarters are in Lome, Togo. WADB members include: Benin, Burkina Faso, Cte d'Ivoire, Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Togo.
WAMU (French: Union Monetaire Quest Africaine, UMOA) began operation in 1963 and was revised in 1973. The Union comprises seven French-speaking African countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Cote d'Ivoire, Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Togo which share a: (a) central bank (Banque Centrale des Etats de l'Afrique de l'Ouest) which coordinates the Union's monetary and credit policies; (b) common currency (CFA Franc) which is freely convertible into the French Franc at a fixed parity; and (c) a common regional development bank, the West African Development Bank. WAMU headquarters are in Daka, Senegal.
The WEU was created in October 1954 (began operations in May 1955) to promote mutual defense and progressive political unification of its members. The Union, which serves interests between those furthered by the European Economic Community and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, has faced the need to change and has become focused on three missions: humanitarian aid, peacekeeping, and crisis management and some peace enforcement considerations. Membership, which included Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, the United Kingdom, has been increasing toward approximately 40 nations as a result of negotiations on membership or associate status with Greece, Turkey, Norway, Iceland, Denmark, and Ireland. WEU headquarters moved from London, England to Brussels, Belgium in December 1992.
Wharf
A vessel equipped for catching whales
A charge assessed by a pier or dock owner for handling incoming or outgoing cargo.
Charge assessed by a pier or dock owner against freight handled over the pier or dock or against a steamship company using the pier or dock.
A vessel equipped for the installation of wind turbines in shallow waters
A semi submersible vessel equipped for the installation of wind turbines in shallow waters
A vessel fitted with wind turbines to generate electricity
A freight booking made by a skipper or freight forwarder to serve space but not actually having a specific cargo at the time the booking is made. Carriers often overbook a vessel by 10 to 20 percent in recognition that windy booking cargo will not actually ship.
A cargo ship designed for the bulk transport of Wine in tanks. Tanks will be stainless steel or lined. New vessels will be classified as chemical carriers
A vessel designed to run at high speed using foils to create an air cushion raising the vessel just off the waters surface
A marine insurance term meaning that a shipment is protected from partial damage whenever the damage exceeds 3 percent (or some other percentage). If the ship is involved in a major catastrophe, such as a collision, fire or stranding, the minimum percentage requirement is waived and the insurance company pays for all of the damage.
A phrase preceding the signature of a drawer or endorser of a negotiable instrument; signifies that the instrument is passed onto subsequent holders without any liability to the endorser in the event of nonpayment or nondelivery.
A term indicating that a shipper's agent or representative is empowered to make definitive decisions and adjustments abroad without approval of the group or individual represented.
A single deck cargo vessel with high freeboard for the carriage of wood chips. May be self discharging
A non propelled pontoon used for working or maintenance functions
A multi functional vessel for general work and repair operations
(Copy of Charter Party - not being signed and may contain unchecked errors
WARC refers to the conferences convened regularly by the United Nations' International Telecommunications Union (ITU) to allocate and regulate radio frequencies for the purposes of television and radio broadcasting, telephone data communications, navigation, maritime and aeronautical communication, and satellite broadcasting.
The WAOB acts as the focal point for U.S. economic intelligence related to domestic and international food and agriculture. The Board coordinates and clears all commodity and aggregate agricultural and food-related data used to develop outlook and situation material within the Department of Agriculture. WAOB was established in 1977.
WFDFI (Spanish: Federacion Mundial de Instituciones Financieras de Desarollo, WFDFI) promotes improved technical operations of, and coordination among, worldwide development banking activities. Federation members include development financing institutions. The Federation was established in 1979; headquarters are in Madrid, Spain.
The WFC is a UN body which was created in December 1974 to help eliminate hunger and malnutrition. The Council monitors world food production, consumption, and trade patterns. The Council provides a forum for international discussion and assistance on ways of improving food production in developing countries and in increasing world food security. WFC headquarters are in Rome, Italy.
The WFP, created in 1963, is a United Nations program with headquarters in Rome, Italy. WFP administers the International Emergency Food Reserve and supports projects which incease agricultural production, nutrition, and social and economic development in developing countries.
The WHO (French: Organisation Mondiale de la Sante, OMS) is a specialized agency of the United Nations which sets standards for the quality control of drugs, vaccines, and other substances affecting health. WHO was established in July 1946; headquarters are in Geneva, Switzerland. See: Codex Alimentarius Commission.
WIPO (French: Organisation Mondiale de la Propriete Intellectuelle, OMPI) promotes protection of intellectual property around the world through cooperation among states, and administers various Unions, each founded on a multilateral treaty and dealing with the legal and administrative aspects of intellectual property. The Organization was established in 1967 (came into force in 1970), and became a specialized agency of the United Nations in December 1974; headquarters are in Geneva, Switzerland.
One of the 15 'specialized agencies' of the United Nations system of organizations. WIPO, located in Geneva, is responsible for the promotion of the protection of intellectual property (copyrights, trademarks, patents) throughout the world through cooperation among states, and for the administration of various 'Unions,' each founded on a multilateral treaty and dealing with the legal and administrative aspects of intellectual property.
Originally established under another name in 1875, the WMO was reconstituted and renamed in 1951. The WMO facilitates worldwide cooperation in establishing a network for meteorological, hydrological, and geophysical observations, for exchanging meteorological and related information, and for promoting standardization in meteorological measurements. Organization headquarters are in Geneva, Switzerland.
The WTO, associated with the United Nations, is an intergovernmental technical body dealing with all aspects of tourism. The Organization promotes and develops tourism as a means of contributing to economic development, international understanding, peace, and prosperity. The WTO provides a world clearing house for the collection, analysis, and dissemination of technical tourism information and it offers national tourism administrations and organizations a means for multilateral approaches to international discussions and negotiations on tourism policy and practice. The Organization was established in November 1974; headquarters are in Madrid, Spain.
Provisions to establish the WTO were reached in the Uruguay Round of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). The WTO is scheduled to be established no later than 1997 as an international organization of comparable stature to the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. The Organization is expected to facilitate implementation of trade agreements reached in the Uruguay Round by bringing them under one institutional umbrella, requiring full participation of all countries in one new trading system, and providing a permanent forum to discuss new issues facing the international trading system. The WTO system will be available only to countries which: (a) are contracting parties to the GATT, (b) agree to adhere to all of the Uruguay Round agreements, and (c) submit schedules of market access commitments for industrial goods, agricultural goods, and services
WTDR is an International Trade Administration fee-based service which provides a confidential background report on a specific foreign firm, prepared by commercial officers overseas. WTDRs provide information about the type of organization, year established, relative size, number of employees, general reputation, territory covered, language preferred, product lines handled, principal owners, financial references, and trade references. WTDRs include narrative information about the reliability of the foreign firm.
Warranted
Warranties
Warranty
Sundays and holidays excepted
Ex-warehouse
ssheX / sshinC
ssheX / ssheX
In excess of
Excess loss reinsurance
Excess point
York/Antwerp Rules, 1950
York Antwerp; York Antwerp Rules
York Antwerp; York Antwerp Rules
York Antwerp; York Antwerp Rules
Your Cable
Revenue, not necessarily profitable, per unit of traffic.
Yugoslavia
A non cargo carrying vessel normally used for Leisure
A semi submersible heavy load carrier specifically arranged for the carriage of yachts
A classification, storage or switching area.
Established the standard basis for adjusting general average and stated the rules for adjusting claims.
Yacht
Zulu (Greenwich Mean Time)
La Zone Franc
Zulu (Greenwich Mean Time)
The Zangger Committee of the Nonproliferation Treaty Exporters examines controls enacted pursuant to the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty by refining the list of items requiring nuclear safeguards. The Zangger Committee consists of 23 Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) nuclear supplier nations which includes all nuclear weapons states except France and China. Through a series of consultations in the early 1970's, the countries of the Zangger Committee compiled a trigger list of nuclear materials and equipment. The shipment of any item on the list to a non-nuclear weapons state triggers the requirement of International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards. Since the Zangger Committee is associated with the NPT, its members are obligated to treat all non-nuclear weapons parties to the treaty alike. For fear of discrediting the NPT, the Zangger countries cannot target strict nuclear controls toward certain nations with questionable proliferation credentials; the NPT binds them to assist non-nuclear weapons states with peaceful atomic energy projects.
Always afloat, after arrival
Against all risks
Account
as far as applicable
After hatch
Any one location
Also for (referring to ports to be touched by the ship)
Original bill of lading surrendered to the carrying ship at the discharge port in exchange for the goods
At or towards the rear of a ship.
At or towards the middle of a ship.
Amount
Seizure of a ship by an authority of a court of law either as a debt security or to prevent the ship from departing until a dispute is settled.
Board measure (timber)
Berth terms
Barrels per day
Total cubic capacity of a ship's hold available for carrying solid cargo.
A heavy weight, usually sea water, necessary for the stability and safety of a ship at sea that is not carrying cargo.
Sand bank that forms at the mouths of rivers and that often limits the type of ships that are able to reach up-river destinations.
Relatively heavy cargo stowed at the bottom of a hold to provide a ship with stability when at sea or a minimum quantity of cargo required by a shipping line for calling at a port for loading.
Barrels
A location alongside a quay where a ship loads or discharges cargo.
Brake horsepower
Reservation made by a shipper or his agent with a carrier to carry certain defined goods between locations.
Curved forward part of a ship.
Between perpendiculars
Bushels
Cost and freight
Cost and insurance
Cubic feet. Carried forward
Cost, freight and insurance
Cost, insurance, freight and exchange
Cost, insurance, and freight London terms
Cost, insurance, freight, commission and interest
Charterers' pay dues
Constructive total loss
Certificate of insurance
Sequence of letters and numbers, unique to each ship, that identify the ship.
Cancelling
Capacity
Cleared
Abbreviation for centimeter.
Liner bill of lading published by the Baltic and International Maritime Conference (B.I.M.C.O.).
Person who gives goods to a carrier for delivery to a consignee. A person or company shown on the bill of lading as the shipper.
With, Cumulative
Established practice at a port which becomes part of a contract of carriage unless otherwise identified in the contract.
Draught
Deals and battens (timber)
Deals, battens and boards
Despatch discharging only
Dead freight
Despatch loading only
Direct port
Deadweight
Deadweight capacity
Deadweight tonnage
Delivered
Delivered sound (grain trade)
Delivery and re-delivery
Lifting equipment on board a ship generally used for loading and discharging cargo.
Remove goods from a ship.
Decimeter
Alternative spelling of draught.
Designates the depth of water available at a port or place.
Option general cargo
Deadweight tonnage
Each and every accident
Each and every loss
Each and every occurrence
Except otherwise herein provided
Estimated
Free alongside
Fast as you can
Fair average quality
Free alongside ship, Firsts and seconds (American lumber)
Free of capture and seizure
Free discharge. Free delivery. Free despatch. Free docks
Free from alongside, Free foreign agency
Fore hatch
Free-in
Full interest admitted
Free into bunkers. Free into barge
Free-in-and-out
Free in and out stowed
Free in and out stowed and/or trimmed
Free in and out trimmed
Free of income tax
Free in wagon
For orders, Firm offer, Full out terms (grain trade)
free on board
Free on car, Free of charge
Free of damage
Free on quay
Free on rail
Full out rye terms (grain trade)
Free on steamer
Free on truck
Free on wagon. First open water
Free of riots and civil commotions
Fire risk on freight
Full terms; despatch money, payable on all time saved on the chartered time for loading and discharging the cargo
For their repective rights and interests
Fresh water damage
Full written line (insurance)
Nationality of a ship or the country where the ship is registered
Floating wreckage from a shipwreck.
Fathoms (timber)
See pratique.
Feet
Forward
Good fair average
Good merchantable brand
Good merchantable quality
Good ordinary brand
Gross register tons
Guaranteed
Hour
Hook and oil damage
Held covered (insurance)
Hectares
Hogshead
Hook damage
Space below the deck of a ship that is used to carry cargo. The holds of a ship are numbered for purposes of cargo identification and location.
Cleaning a hold after cargo has been discharged.
The time allowed by charter for the dual operation of loading and discharging the cargo
Horsepower
In and/or overdeck
In full
Intaken piled fathom
In respect of
Jettison and washing overboard
A structure projecting out to sea, designed to protect a port from waves but also used to berth ships.
Arm of a crane which extends outwards. At one end hangs the hook used for lifting goods.
Conversion of a ship to increase its cargo area capacity by dividing the ship and adding a new section.
kilohertz
Longitudinal girder at the lowest point of a ship.
kilogram
kiloliter
kilometer
One nautical mile (6,080 feet or 1,852 meters) per hour
liter
Low middling clause (cotton trade)
Liability not yet determined
Lump sum
Laid up, Letter of undertaking
Goods that have been jettisoned but are attached to a floating object so that they can be recovered.
Distance north or south of the equator.
Loading
Loads
Maximum length between the farthest ends of a ship.
Weight of an individual piece of cargo lifted or carried.
To load and discharge cargo by lifting it on and off a ship via cranes. This is the method generally used for containers.
A company that operates a ship on a regular basis between advertised ports and offers space for goods in return for freight based on a tariff of rates.
Length overall
Distance east or west of the Greenwich meridian.
meter
Missing package
Port that handles a significant proportion of a country's seaborne trade. It normally can accommodate many ships and has a wide range of facilities.
Term often used in liner bills of lading to describe the shipper, receiver or consignee, bill of lading holder or the agent of any of these.
All the ships of a country carrying goods.
1,000 kilograms.
More than one product carried on board a ship.
General purpose crane capable of moving around a port. Some types are capable of lifting very heavy loads.
Measurement
Not south of
Not west of
Information not available. Net absolutely
Not always afloat
Net dead weight
Not exceeding
Not elsewhere provided
Not elsewhere specified
Not otherwise provided
Net proceeds
No risk, net register
No risk after discharge
Not sufficient
Weight of the goods only which does not include their packing.
Over all
On account of
On or before
On demand
Outward
Overall
Port whose main or only type of cargo handled is oil. This port is often characterized with deep water jetties to accommodate large oil tankers and with storage tanks and refineries.
Freight rate negotiated by a shipper with a shipping line for shipping in excess of a minimum agreed quantity of cargo on any one ship.
Shipping container with side doors that drop down to give unrestricted access to the sides of the container for loading or discharging.
Cargo that is destined for one of the ship's discharge ports, where the exact port is not known when the goods are loaded. The optional cargo is stowed so that it can be removed at any of the optional ports without disturbing other cargo.
Bill of lading that bears the original signature of the master of a ship or his agent.
To stow an item of cargo on top of another in a ship.
Port of call
Picked ports, Per procurationem (on behalf of)
Policy proof of interest
Private terms
Passed. Paid
Package
Premium
Flat-bottomed vessel with a shallow draft
Harbor having facilities for ships to moor, load, or unload.
Prepaid
Prompt loading
Permission granted by the authorities at a port, after assessing the health of those on board the arriving ship, to allow them to make physical contact with the shore.
Port bunkers
Quantity at Captain's option
Quotation
Quotation
Solid structure alongside a navigable waterway, used for loading and unloading of ships.
Running days
Remain, -ing on board
Respective rights and interests
Volume of a ship expressed in tons.
Residue, reserve
System of loading and unloading a ship where the cargo is driven on and off ramps.
Cargo on wheels that can be driven or towed on to a ship.
Subject to approval no risk
survey before shipment
Salvage charges
Salvage loss
Same sea and country coast
Sailing vessel
Subject to approval
Sailed
Unless caused by
Under proof
Use and occupancy
Value as in original policy
Ship or boat.
Without benefit of salvage
Weight guaranteed
Washed overboard
Without prejudice, Weather permitting
Waterproof paper packing
War risk only
Weather working days
Document used as a receipt for goods. Unlike a bill of lading it is not a document of title. This document is also synonymous with liner waybill, ocean waybill, or sea waybill.
Structure built alongside the water where ships berth for loading or unloading goods
Refined products
ECCB, established in October 1983, promotes economic development, monetary stability and credit and exchange among eight member nations. Bank headquarters is in Basseterre, St. Kitts.
Weight
Ex coupon
Ex interest
Failure of a ship to steer a straight course.