The Hidden Risks of Simultaneous Multi-Grade Discharge Operations

This article examines how routine bulk cargo-handling operations can evolve into major financial, legal and regulatory exposure when established industry best practices are not followed. In particular, the simultaneous discharge of multiple cargo grades, to multiple receivers, across multiple ports – a practice frequently requested for commercial convenience – can create conditions in which quantity discrepancies are almost inevitable. Once detected, such discrepancies can lead to customs intervention, significant commercial claims and the emergence of complex multi-party disputes.

 

While simultaneous discharge is strongly discouraged, there are occasions where owners are asked to handle multiple grades concurrently in order to save time and reduce port-related costs. In some cases, commercial pressure is placed on owners to take operational decisions that deviate from recommended practice. Intermediate draught surveys can be a valuable tool when different cargo grades are discharged separately, as they allow operators to track the quantity removed after each stage of the operation. However, their usefulness diminishes significantly when multiple grades are discharged concurrently. In such circumstances, intermediate draught surveys can only indicate the total amount of cargo discharged up to that point, without distinguishing how much of each grade has been handled. Any error or misallocation during these operations becomes apparent only at the completion of discharge – at which point, the imbalance has already materialised into a claim.

 

When discharge is finalised, several problems may arise. The most common pattern is the emergence of a shortage under one bill of lading and a corresponding excess under another. These discrepancies immediately attract claims from receivers and, in some jurisdictions, trigger heightened scrutiny by customs authorities. Once customs becomes involved, the situation can escalate quickly. Authorities may view excess delivery as a potential attempt to evade fiscal controls or permit unauthorised importation, even when the underlying issue is purely operational. As a result, owners can face customs fines, administrative penalties and substantial storage obligations for the excess cargo.

 

Financial exposure in these scenarios can be extensive. Typical losses include:

 

• Shortage claims brought by receivers under the relevant bills of lading.
• Customs fines and administrative penalties for under and over-delivery.
• Long-term bonded warehouse storage costs, which in some jurisdictions may extend for several years.
• Additional stevedoring and handling expenses, including re-weighing, segregation and re-delivery.
• Costs associated with the disposal or salvage sale of excess cargo, which is often unavoidable.

 

Depending on the quantity and value of the commodity, overall exposure can potentially reach into the millions of dollars.

 

Above all, transparent communication among all involved parties is essential. Early warnings about potential discrepancies, timely sharing of documentation and coordinated engagement with local authorities can help mitigate the severity of outcomes when issues do arise. Ultimately, adherence to established cargo-handling procedures, backed by robust contractual protections, remains the most effective safeguard against the significant liabilities that can result from simultaneous multi-grade discharge operations.