The term broken stowage refers to the cargo space that is inevitably wasted when loading goods onto a vessel or vehicle. This wasted space can occur due to various factors, including the shape and size of the cargo, the packing methods used, and the configuration of the available storage areas. The amount of broken stowage is typically expressed as a percentage of the total cargo space.
Broken stowage is a relevant concept in maritime law and shipping regulations. It is often discussed in the context of cargo insurance claims, where the loss of cargo space may affect the valuation of goods. Legal professionals may encounter this term when dealing with contracts of carriage, shipping agreements, and liability issues related to cargo handling. Users can manage some aspects of these issues using legal templates provided by US Legal Forms.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
For instance, if a shipping container is designed to hold 1,000 cubic feet of cargo but only 800 cubic feet can be effectively utilized due to the shape of the items being shipped, the broken stowage would be 20 percent.
(Hypothetical example) A shipping company may face a claim for broken stowage if they fail to optimize the loading of a cargo ship, leading to significant unused space that could have been filled with additional goods.
| Term | Definition | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Wasted space | Any unused cargo space, not specifically related to the shipping context. | Broken stowage is specifically tied to shipping and cargo loading. |
| Stowage | The act of loading cargo onto a vessel. | Broken stowage refers to the space lost during this process. |
If you are dealing with issues related to broken stowage, consider reviewing your shipping agreements and insurance policies. It may be beneficial to consult with a legal professional for complex matters. Additionally, explore US Legal Forms for templates that can assist you in managing your shipping documentation effectively.
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Broken stowage is the percentage of cargo space that is wasted during the loading process.