Bulk carriers are an essential part of global seaborne trade, accounting for 15-17% of the global merchant fleet. Operations involving bulk carriers require careful planning and preparation to maintain cargo quality and avoid voyage delays and disputes, with cargo hold cleaning being a critical aspect of all preparations.

The efficiency of bulk carriers largely depends on their cargo holds and their carrying capacity. The entire process of loading, safely transferring, and unloading cargo is complex and requires thorough preparation, with cargo hold cleaning being a key link. Despite time constraints, this step cannot be overlooked as it directly impacts the entire basic operational process.

Complying with regulatory requirements for safe cargo cleaning is not a simple task, requiring consideration of equipment, necessary documentation, and appropriately trained crew members to ensure that cargo holds are properly cleaned after each discharge and are ready for the next loading. But why is cargo hold cleaning so important?

Failing to meet the expected requirements in terms of proper cleaning can not only lead to claims related to cargo quality, such as contamination, but may also result in charter party disputes and off-hire claims.