Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Transshipment • Charter Party • Pilotage

Charter Party

Term from Marine Travel industry explained for recruiters

A Charter Party is a legal contract between a ship owner and someone who wants to use their ship (called a charterer). Think of it like a rental agreement, but for ships. This document spells out all the important details like how long the ship can be used, what it will carry, how much it costs, and who's responsible for different expenses. When you see this term on a resume, it usually means the person has experience handling these shipping contracts. It's sometimes also called a "charterparty" or "c/p" for short.

Examples in Resumes

Negotiated and reviewed Charter Party agreements for bulk carrier vessels

Managed Charter Party compliance for a fleet of 15 container ships

Handled disputes related to Charter Party and C/P terms

Drafted and modified Charterparty agreements for international shipping routes

Typical job title: "Charter Party Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Chartering Manager Ship Broker Maritime Contract Specialist Vessel Operations Manager Charter Party Analyst Maritime Legal Specialist Shipping Operations Coordinator

Where to Find Charter Party Specialists

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a dispute between owners and charterers regarding demurrage claims?

Expected Answer: A senior candidate should explain how they would review documentation, calculate time periods, negotiate between parties, and possibly recommend legal action if needed. They should mention the importance of maintaining good relationships while protecting their company's interests.

Q: What experience do you have with different types of charter parties?

Expected Answer: Should be able to discuss time charters, voyage charters, and bareboat charters, explaining the key differences and when each is most appropriate to use.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the essential clauses that must be included in a charter party agreement?

Expected Answer: Should mention key elements like vessel details, charter period, payment terms, loading/unloading responsibilities, and any special conditions. Should understand why each clause is important.

Q: How do you ensure charter party compliance?

Expected Answer: Should explain monitoring vessel performance, maintaining documentation, checking deadlines, and ensuring all parties meet their obligations.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the difference between a time charter and a voyage charter?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that a time charter is hiring a ship for a period of time while a voyage charter is hiring it for a specific journey, and basic differences in cost structure.

Q: What documents typically accompany a charter party?

Expected Answer: Should mention basic documents like bills of lading, vessel certificates, and cargo manifests, showing understanding of basic shipping documentation.