The bulk shipper's declaration: a short form, a detailed process
Establishing what goes the bulk shipper’s declaration can take a laboratory, a battery of tests, and judgement across multiple separate regulatory codes. The declaration (in Australia, AMSA form 268) sits under the SOLAS Convention, and on a single page it draws together the IMSBC Code classification, the chemical hazard from the IMDG Code, and the classification relating to MARPOL Annex V. Underpinning these regulations is the UN GHS. The form is simple; the classification behind it is often not. Some cargoes are straightforward; others require an extensive testing and assessment process.
A Decade of Global Materials Classification
Over the past decade, Davoren Environmental has supported transport classification and maritime compliance work across a broad range of mineral products, operating environments and global supply chains. This interactive map reflects the geographic reach and technical diversity of projects undertaken over the past ten years.
The International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code 2023 Edition
The IMSBC Code, 2023 Edition, with amendments 07-23, is now in effect, becoming mandatory on January 1, 2025. It adds 12 new cargo schedules, including for Baryte and Brown Fused Alumina. The updates also require shippers to provide bulk density on cargo declarations, revise the Fish Meal schedule, and update several key circulars concerning safety guidelines and test procedures.
The International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code 2022 Edition
The IMSBC Code, 2022 Edition, with amendments 06-21, is now in effect. It updates existing cargo schedules and adds 10 new ones, including for Bauxite Fines and Ferronickel Slag. The new edition also introduces a new test for bauxite and revises guidance on fire-extinguishing systems and fumigation, all to improve safety in solid bulk cargo transport.
The International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code 2020 Edition
The IMSBC Code, 2020 Edition, with amendments 05-19, is now in effect. The new edition updates existing cargo schedules and adds 10 new ones, including schedules for Bauxite Fines and Flue Dust. It also introduces a new test for bauxite, updates fire-extinguishing system exemptions, and revises fumigation guidelines, all aimed at improving the safety of solid bulk cargo transport.
The International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code 2018 Edition
The 2018 edition of the IMSBC Code, effective January 1, 2019, brings crucial updates for shipping solid bulk cargoes. The amendments (04-17) introduce 13 new cargo schedules, including for Foam Glass Gravel and Sugarcane Biomass Pellets.
Key changes also include:
Clarified responsibilities for determining the Transportable Moisture Limit (TML).
Mandatory declaration by shippers if a cargo is Harmful to the Marine Environment (HME).
A new test procedure for determining the TML of coal.
These updates ensure safer, more environmentally compliant shipping practices for a wider range of solid bulk cargoes.