Arrival Report Rules Every Shipping Pro Must Master – Are You Getting It Right?

 ⚓ "Arrival Report Rules Every Shipping Pro Must Master – Are You Getting It Right?"

❓Did You Know?

• Are your vessel arrival reports being rejected or questioned due to missing info?
• Can a simple error in EOSP or NOR timings impact demurrage calculations?
• Do you know what BIMCO says about berthing vs anchoring reporting protocols?

📜 Clause Breakdown: “Arrival Reports Have to Be Sent After Arrival at Berth or Customary Anchorage…”

This clause is a critical checkpoint in your charter party obligations. Here’s what it mandates and why it matters:

🔍 What the Clause Says (Simplified):

Upon vessel arrival at berth or anchorage, operators must send a detailed arrival report using a prescribed format covering:

1. End of Sea Passage (EOSP):
• 📅 Time and date in GMT & LT
• 🛢 Bunker Remaining On Board (ROB) split by fuel types
2. Notice of Readiness (NOR):
• When it was tendered
3. Arrival Events:
• When anchored/alongside, tugs used
• Draft on arrival
4. Bunkers & Consumption:
• ROB at arrival
• Total distance steamed + fuel consumed
5. Berthing Prospects & Remarks:
• As per agents, including forecasted prospects

⚠️ Common Pitfalls:

• Reporting local time only (missing GMT) leads to demurrage disputes
• Incorrect or missing bunkers at EOSP may cause claims under performance warranty
• Forgetting to update arrival report post berthing if NOR was given at anchorage

🧠 BIMCO & Industry Practices:

According to BIMCO's guidance on voyage performance claims, accuracy in EOSP and NOR times is paramount. EOSP marks the start of laytime counting (subject to valid NOR), and errors here can cause charter party claims.

Case in Point:
A ship was delayed at anchorage and NOR was accepted “WIPON/WIFPON.” However, charterers disputed delay hours due to incomplete initial arrival reporting. It led to a $25,000 demurrage dispute.

🚢 Actionable Steps for Shipping Professionals

🛠 For Operators / Managers:

• Use standard arrival report templates
• Always log EOSP & NOR in both GMT and LT
• Double-check bunker ROBs and fuel breakdown by HSFO/LSFO/MGO
• Include agent’s berthing forecast – even if tentative
• Send revised arrival reports if vessel waits at anchorage before berthing

🤝 For Owners / Charterers:

• Align on "customary anchorage" definitions in C/P
• Confirm if NOR is valid at anchorage or berth only
• Ensure bunker consumption and draft are tracked in voyage reports
• Store arrival reports securely for laytime and performance claims defense

🧭 Final Thoughts

Getting arrival reporting right is not just about compliance – it's about avoiding claims, ensuring transparency, and building trust in charter party performance.

📩 Have you faced challenges in arrival reporting accuracy or charter party disputes? Share your experiences in the comments!

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⚠️ Disclaimer

This content is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or contractual advice. For specific charter party interpretations or claims, please consult a qualified maritime legal expert.