The shipping industry is pivotal in facilitating global trade and commerce in today’s interconnected world.
As we embark on the BIMCO 180 programme, our journey begins with a comprehensive overview of shipping's significance in the global economy. Through key statistics and real-world examples, we will explore how shipping enables the movement of cargoes across continents, encompassing bulk commodities, containerised goods, and specialised cargoes like LNG and RO-RO shipments.
We will cover the web of stakeholders that drive commercial shipping, from shipowners and charterers to port operators and brokers. Understanding their roles and responsibilities underscores the importance of coherent collaboration to ensure efficient global trade logistics.
What will you learn?
In this brief, yet informative 180-minute programme, you will be introduced to the essentials of commercial shipping and given an overview of how the maritime industry operates.
This course is an excellent starting point for anyone looking to familiarise themselves with the basics of commercial shipping. If you are considering pursuing more in-depth BIMCO courses, this programme will lay the groundwork, offering fundamental insights to enhance your experience and understanding of, for example, the various BIMCO Masterclasses. Whether you are new to the shipping industry or are simply seeking a refresher, this overview will equip you with the knowledge needed to navigate the fundamentals of commercial shipping.
Day 1 - 90 minutes
- The Role of Shipping in Global Trade
• Importance of shipping in the global economy.
• Key statistics and figures demonstrating shipping’s contribution to international trade.
• Types of goods transported by sea (bulk, containerised, liquid, etc.).
- Types of Vessels and Cargoes
• Overview of different types of ships (e.g., container ships, bulk carriers, tankers, etc.).
• Explanation of the types of cargo these vessels carry.
• Specialised shipping (e.g., LNG carriers, RO-RO vessels, coastal shipping).
- Key Stakeholders in Commercial Shipping
• Overview of the key players in the shipping industry (shipowners, charterers, brokers, agents, port operators, etc.).
• Explanation of the roles and responsibilities of each stakeholder.
• The importance of collaboration among stakeholders
Day 2 – 90 Minutes
- Voyage Planning and Execution
• Introduction to voyage planning (route selection, weather considerations, etc.).
• Overview of key documents required (bills of lading, etc.).
• Operational aspects (port operations, loading/unloading, etc.).
- Chartering and Freight Contracts
• Explanation of the different types of chartering (voyage charter, time charter, bareboat charter).
• Overview of standard shipping contracts and how they link with the commodity sales contract
• Key considerations in negotiating and executing a charter party.
- Risk Management in Shipping
• Introduction to risks in shipping (weather, piracy, sanctions, cargo damage, etc.).
• Overview of risk mitigation strategies (insurance, etc.).
• Role of regulatory frameworks (SOLAS, MARPOL, etc.).
Starting time (for both sessions 1 and 2)
08:00 UTC
10:00 CEST
See the time in your local time zone.
Why choose to participate?
Participating in the BIMCO course on commercial shipping offers valuable insights for professionals new to the maritime industry, working in government agencies, international NGOs, or any organisation with a touchpoint in international maritime transport. Whether involved in policy development, regulatory oversight, or international development projects, this course will help you understand the foundational aspects of global trade and the maritime industry.
With a brief yet comprehensive overview of shipping's role in the global economy, the different types of vessels and cargoes, and the key players in the sector, you will gain a clearer understanding of how maritime logistics impact global supply chains. This knowledge will enhance your effectiveness in your current role and provide a strong foundation for those considering further in-depth training in commercial shipping.
How will this course help your professional development?
This short but focused course offers a practical introduction to the commercial shipping industry. Guided by BIMCO, a leading voice in the shipping sector, this course provides real-world insights into shipping’s role in global trade, the types of vessels and cargoes involved, and the key stakeholders in the industry.
Designed to equip you with an overview in just a few hours, this course will help you make informed decisions and collaborate effectively with maritime professionals. It also serves as a stepping stone for those interested in further BIMCO training, allowing you to build expertise that can enhance your professional opportunities in the maritime and global trade sectors.
Course materials
BIMCO issues electronic course files as an Adobe PDF file enabling you to make personal notes. All documentation and presentations will be in English. Course access details will be provided a week before the course start date if the registration is completed.
