New framework for sustainable bulk transfers

The publication comes as ship to ship transfers increase in areas where port infrastructure constraints, draft limitations and rising cargo volumes prevent vessels from accessing conventional berths directly.

“Ship to ship transfers in dry bulk are already happening across the industry, and they are increasing. However, a published standard for dry bulk shipping wasn’t available for consistent application and safe operations,” said John Xylas, chair of INTERCARGO.

Standardised framework

The new “Ship to Ship Transfer Guidelines for Bulk Carriers” establishes a standardised framework for dry bulk handling operations conducted at sea, addressing growing industry demand for safer and more consistent procedures.

Unlike tanker shipping, which already operates under established STS guidance, the dry bulk sector has lacked a dedicated operational standard despite the added complexity associated with varying cargoes, equipment and environmental conditions.

The new framework covers planning, manoeuvring, fendering, cargo handling, emergency response and risk assessment procedures, alongside operational checklists designed to improve safety and reduce port emissions linked to congestion and inefficient cargo movements.

INTERCARGO said the publication was developed using operational experience and technical input from across the bulk industry.

The association expects the guidance to support greater alignment between ports, operators, charterers, insurers and regulators as ship to ship transfers become more widely used across global dry bulk trades.

It added that wider industry adoption will determine how quickly standardised STS practices become embedded across international dry bulk handling operations.