ABSTRACT
Parties generally agree to use a certain type of charter form and then add or delete clauses to reflect the circumstances of each individual fixture. The charter form selected depends on several factors, such as trade, cargo and parties involved. A charter means that the owner or the disponent owner in one way or another promises to put a vessel or a certain transportation capacity at the disposal of the charterer. A shipper who wants to book cargo space on board a vessel contacts the agent of a particular line, who then often confirms by a so-called booking note. When the goods have been received for shipment or shipped on board a bill of lading will be issued on behalf of the carrier. One important feature is that there is a distinction between conventional liner shipping and modern liner shipping. Modern liner shipping is based on container and ro/ro transportation.
