The Basics of Statement of Facts for Commodity Shippers

A Statement of Fact document is often divided in three parts:

A Header , which contains information such as the name of the vessel, the port location, and the issuing agents contact information; The Body , containing the detailed list of times and events; And the Footer , which may contain technical data, rain logs, stoppage times and reasons, and eventually the signatures from the stakeholders that are involved in this cargo transfer.

A Complete SoF Should Ideally Include:

Notice of Readiness: When the master alerts the port and/or terminal that the ship is in place at the port and available to receive or dispatch her cargo.

Time of Arrival and Departure: The exact times of when the vessel arrives at the port and when it leaves. This will be later used in calculating laytime and processing demurrage.

Berthing Details: This includes when the vessel was berthed, and at which berth or terminal, providing clarity on the location and movement within the port.

Cargo Operations: Details of when loading or unloading commenced and when they were completed, a proxy of a terminal’s efficiency.

Weather Conditions: Weather plays a crucial role in maritime operations, and the SoF should document any stoppages or interruptions due to weather.

Other Relevant Events: Any other significant events or interruptions that might impact operations, cause delays, or impact the demurrage calculation are documented here.

Within the events that are logged into a Statement of Facts, three time frames emerge that are essential for both charterers and shipowners. These periods play a crucial role in assessing operational performance and efficiency, and can later be used to drive better voyage planning and commercial decisions:

• Notice of Readiness to All Fast: Denotes the period where the vessel is available at the port for berthing, up to when the vessel is securely moored and all necessary lines and connections are established. A high NoR to All Fast range can mean congestion at the port or berth, possibly due to a lack of available berthing spaces, weather issues or other logistical delays.
• All Fast to Operations Start: Represents the preparatory activities leading up to the commencement of cargo operations, including necessary inspections and paperwork. A longer time might indicate delays in inspections or equipment readiness at berth.
• Operations Start to Operations Complete: The actual time frame in which the cargo operations—whether loading or unloading—were actively carried out. This is a proxy of a port’s efficiency, and a longer period here can point to inefficiencies in cargo handling, equipment malfunctions, manpower issues, or even complications related to the cargo itself.