Shipping Glossary
Your comprehensive guide to shipping terminology, fixture email structure, and industry jargon
Understanding Fixture Emails
Fixture emails are the backbone of shipping communication. They contain vessel details, charter terms, and commercial information in a condensed format.
Typical Fixture Email Format:
MV OCEAN GLORY / 82kdwt / del Skaw 10-12 Sep / redely Spore-Japan / coal / $12,500 pdVessel Details
Vessel name followed by deadweight tonnage (carrying capacity)
Delivery
Delivery port and date range when vessel becomes available
Redelivery
Redelivery location range where voyage ends
Cargo
Type of cargo to be transported
Rate
Daily hire rate (per day) for the charter
Why This Format?
Fixture emails use abbreviated formats because speed is crucial in shipping markets. Brokers and traders need to quickly communicate vessel availability, terms, and rates across global time zones. This condensed format has evolved over decades to include all essential information in a single line.
Shipping Terms
Essential terminology used in maritime commerce and fixture communications