New BIMCO clause promotes harmonised ship-shore data exchange

April 20, 2021

BIMCO has published a charter party clause promoting the use of the IMO’s data model framework. The publication is an extension of BIMCO’s strategic objective to encourage greater efficiency and harmonisation in the ship-shore interface.

At present there is no single global format for exchanging information between ships and ports/terminals such as arrival and departure times. A common platform where all the key stakeholders such as port authorities, pilots, agents and terminal operators can share information using a common format on ship arrivals and departures will help improve berth utilisation and port call optimisation.

The BIMCO Port Call Data Exchange Clause 2021 complements the recently published BIMCO Just in Time Arrivals Clause. The two clauses should be used together. However, where Just in Time Arrivals cannot be implemented for commercial reasons, the Port Call Data Exchange Clause can still be used if the relevant port is using the IMO data model framework.

BIMCO is hosting a webinar on Just in Time Arrivals during Singapore Maritime Week on 22 April. Key stakeholders will discuss the opportunities and the challenges that Just in Time Arrivals present to the industry. Sign up for the webinar.

A copy of the BIMCO Port Call Data Exchange Clause 2021 is available here along with explanatory notes. The Just IN Time Arrivals Clause 2021 is available here.

Source: BIMCO