Loading cargo. Before loading a ship a cargo plan must be drawn up

Before loading a ship a cargo plan must be drawn up. This document is usually drawn up at the Chief Controller's office since this office directs cargo work in the sea-port. While abroad the Agent and the Master draw up a cargo plan. When the plan is ready the stevedore may begin loading. 

Firstly, he secures the necessary number of gangs, secondly he supplies the tackles which the dockers need in their work and at last the stevedore supervises the correct tonnage allotment for the holds. He checks up if cargoes are stowed and trimmed properly. Even stowage of cargoes secures a reliable stability of the ship loaded.

Before starting loading the crewmen clear the hatches and get ready the winches, derricks and cranes, if any. They roll back the tarpaulins from the hatches, remove the hatchboards or any other hatch covers, remove the beams. When everything is done, they consider the hatches to be cleared and ready for loading.

Different kinds of cargoes are loaded by corresponding equipment and appliances. For example, cases call for steel slings, nets and pallets; bags require cargo nets and canvas slings. Extraweights, if any, are usually loaded by either heavy derricks, the lifting capacity of which is over 5 tons, or by quay cranes.

Creating a ship cargo plan involves several steps to ensure the efficient and safe stowage of cargo on a vessel. Here's a general outline of the process:

1. Cargo List Preparation:

• Cargo Type: Identify the type of cargo (containers, bulk, liquid, etc.).
• Weight and Volume: Record the weight and volume of each cargo item.
• Destination: Note the destination port for each cargo item to plan unloading.

2. Vessel Information:

• Ship Capacity: Know the ship's capacity, including weight limits and volume.
• Deck and Hold Layout: Understand the layout of the ship’s deck and holds.
• Stability Data: Review the ship’s stability information to maintain proper balance.

3. Cargo Distribution:

• Weight Distribution: Distribute cargo to maintain the ship’s balance and stability.
• Stacking Plan: Create a stacking plan to ensure that heavier cargo is placed at the bottom and lighter cargo on top.
• Special Cargo: Identify and properly stow hazardous materials or perishable items.

4. Load Sequencing:

• Loading Order: Plan the sequence of loading to ensure efficient and safe operations.
• Access: Ensure that the cargo that needs to be unloaded first is easily accessible.

5. Stowage Plan Creation:

• Diagram: Draw a diagram of the ship’s cargo holds and deck.
• Cargo Placement: Indicate where each cargo item will be placed.
• Labeling: Use labels and codes for easy identification of cargo items.

6. Verification:

• Check Compliance: Verify that the stowage plan complies with safety regulations.
• Review Stability: Ensure that the ship’s stability is maintained.
• Final Review: Conduct a final review with the ship’s crew and relevant personnel.

Tools and Software:

• Manual Planning: Use graph paper and markers for simple plans.
• Software: Utilize specialized software like Loadstar, StowMan, or MACS3 for complex plans.

Creating a detailed and accurate cargo plan is crucial for the safety and efficiency of the vessel's voyage. Proper planning ensures the ship's stability and compliance with maritime regulations.