Question 1

What is the difference between voyage charter and time charter?

Accepted Answer

A voyage charter hires a vessel for a specific journey between named ports, with the shipowner responsible for operating costs. A time charter hires the vessel for a set period, giving the charterer operational control over where the vessel trades, while the shipowner covers vessel operating costs. Voyage charters suit single shipments; time charters suit charterers who need sustained vessel capacity.

Question 2

What does FIOS mean in chartering?

Accepted Answer

FIOS stands for Free In Out Stowed — meaning the shipowner is not responsible for the costs of loading, discharge, or stowage. These costs fall to the charterer. FIOS LSD extends this to include lashing, securing, and dunnaging. Understanding the cost matrix (FLT, FILO, LIFO, FIFO, FIOS LSD) is critical to comparing freight rates accurately.

Question 3

How long does it take to arrange a sea charter?

Accepted Answer

A straightforward voyage charter to a major port can typically be arranged within 3-7 business days, subject to vessel availability and cargo readiness. Complex multi-port or specialist heavy lift charters may require 2-4 weeks of planning. MHT Forwarding maintains established Commercial Operating Agreements with vessel owners, which can significantly reduce lead times.

Question 4

What documentation is required for a sea charter?

Accepted Answer

Core documentation includes the charter party (BIMCO standard form), bill of lading, cargo manifest, commercial invoice, packing list, and certificate of origin. Hazardous cargo requires MSDS and IMDG declarations. Some West African destinations require additional port-specific documentation, pre-shipment inspection certificates, or local import licences. MHT Forwarding manages all documentation as part of the service.

Question 5

Can MHT Forwarding handle heavy lift and out-of-gauge cargo by sea charter?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Heavy lift and out-of-gauge (OOG) cargo is a core specialisation. We have experience chartering vessels for transformers, oilrig equipment, industrial machinery, and construction plant — including a 91-tonne transformer from Mumbai to Dakar and oilrig tubings from Stavanger and Aberdeen to Luderitz. Specialist vessel selection, pre-port surveys, and heavy lift coordination are managed in-house.

Question 6

What regions does MHT Forwarding cover for sea chartering?

Accepted Answer

MHT Forwarding has chartered vessels to destinations across West Africa (Nigeria, Angola, Senegal, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Ghana, Mozambique), North Africa (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt), Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. We are particularly experienced on West Africa trade lanes and maintain strong relationships with port agents across the region.

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