Chartering

Term from Marine Travel industry explained for recruiters

Chartering is the business of renting or leasing ships, boats, or other vessels for transportation of cargo or passengers. It's similar to how you might rent a car, but on a much larger scale for ocean-going vessels. People who work in chartering help arrange these vessel rentals, negotiate prices and terms, and ensure all paperwork and regulations are followed. This can include different types like time charter (renting a ship for a specific period) or voyage charter (renting a ship for a specific journey). Think of it as match-making between ship owners and companies that need to move cargo or people across water.

Examples in Resumes

Managed Chartering operations for a fleet of 15 cargo vessels

Negotiated Charter contracts resulting in 30% cost savings

Led Ship Chartering activities for Mediterranean routes

Coordinated Vessel Charter arrangements for bulk cargo transportation

Typical job title: "Chartering Managers"

Also try searching for:

Charter Broker Chartering Executive Ship Broker Vessel Operations Manager Maritime Operations Manager Charter Operations Manager Chartering Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where a chartered vessel is delayed, causing significant financial impact?

Expected Answer: A senior chartering professional should discuss contingency planning, contract clause negotiations, dispute resolution processes, and maintaining client relationships while minimizing financial impact.

Q: What factors do you consider when negotiating a long-term charter agreement?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of market rates, vessel conditions, operational costs, contract terms, insurance requirements, and risk assessment strategies.

Mid Level Questions

Q: Explain the difference between voyage charter and time charter.

Expected Answer: Should be able to clearly explain that voyage charter is hiring a ship for a specific journey while time charter is hiring for a set period, including the pros and cons of each.

Q: How do you assess the suitability of a vessel for a specific charter requirement?

Expected Answer: Should discuss checking vessel specifications, cargo capacity, crew capabilities, compliance with regulations, and matching these to client needs.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic documents required in a charter agreement?

Expected Answer: Should mention charter party agreement, bill of lading, vessel certificates, insurance documents, and basic regulatory paperwork.

Q: What information do you need to gather from a client before starting to search for a suitable vessel?

Expected Answer: Should list cargo type and volume, desired dates, ports of loading/discharge, special requirements, and budget considerations.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of charter agreements
  • Vessel documentation processing
  • Communication with ship owners and clients
  • Market research and rate analysis

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Contract negotiation
  • Route and vessel optimization
  • Risk assessment
  • Client relationship management

Senior (5+ years)

  • Strategic planning and market analysis
  • Complex negotiation handling
  • Crisis management
  • Team leadership and mentoring

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic maritime terminology
  • Lack of understanding of charter party agreements
  • Poor negotiation skills
  • No experience with shipping documentation
  • Unfamiliarity with maritime regulations and compliance