- New Optional Loading Condition Introduced for Grain Carriage.
- Changes Apply to Both New and Existing Ships.
- Shipowners Required to Update Grain Loading Manuals and Systems.
The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has made some important updates to the International Grain Code with Resolution MSC.552(108)¹, set to kick in on January 1, 2026. These changes will apply to both new and existing ships, introducing a new optional loading condition designed to enhance flexibility and safety when transporting grain in bulk, reports Brittania P&I.
Existing and New Loading Conditions
Right now, the Grain Code recognises three loading conditions:
- Filled compartments, trimmed
- Filled compartments, untrimmed
- Partly filled compartments
With the new amendment, there’s a fourth loading condition added: Specially suitable compartment, partly filled at the hatch opening, with ends untrimmed
Scope of the New Loading Condition
This new condition is relevant for any specially suitable compartment that isn’t filled to the brim at the hatch opening but is filled to a level that meets or exceeds the bottom edge of the hatch end beams. This means the grain surface is likely to stay at its natural angle of repose outside the hatch perimeter unless it’s trimmed.
When there are untrimmed voids at the ends, it can get tricky to determine the applicable heeling moment. To tackle this, the new amendment acknowledges this specific loading condition and mandates that the Grain Loading Manual include the relevant heeling moment values for these situations. This will allow for an exemption from trimming the ends.
Regulatory and Port State Scrutiny
Organisations like the ‘National Cargo Bureau’³ have suggested that grain loading manuals be updated proactively to reflect the new loading condition. As a result, authorities at many loading ports will likely pay closer attention to ships that meet this criterion, ensuring that the grain loading manual accurately represents the actual loading condition.
Implications for Shipowners and Operators
If you’re a shipowner or operator planning to use this new loading condition, it’s essential to update your grain loading stability manuals. Make sure to include the revised grain shift moment and volume curves that reflect this new loading scenario. Don’t forget, the updated manual or an addendum needs to be submitted to your ship’s Flag Administration or Recognised Organisation (RO) for approval.
Additionally, it’s crucial to update the onboard grain loading computers to align with these new conditions and calculation assumptions. To stay compliant and avoid any operational hiccups, shipowners should aim to submit the revised documentation well before the 1 January 2026 deadline.
Operational Benefits of the Amendment
This amendment tackles some real-world challenges in grain loading operations, especially in situations where trimming can be labour-intensive or just plain impractical. By officially recognising this intermediate condition, the IMO is working to boost safety while also providing more operational flexibility.
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Source: Brittania P&I
