MARITIME – CARGO, LOADING & TABILITY (COMMERCIAL) CALCULATOR
Broken Stowage
A precise tool.
What is the Broken Stowage & How does it work?
Broken stowage refers to the portion of cargo that cannot be perfectly packed due to shape, size, or handling constraints, and is therefore considered as a loss of usable space.
Regulatory bodies typically allow a percentage of the total cargo weight to be treated as broken stowage, ensuring that ship stability calculations remain conservative.
W_{bs}=W_{total}\times\frac{P_{bs}}{100}
W_{bs} = broken stowage weight (t), W_{total} = total cargo weight (t), P_{bs} = broken stowage allowance (%)
Subtracting the broken stowage allowance from the gross cargo weight yields the net cargo weight that contributes to the vessel’s trim and stability assessments.
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Result
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is broken stowage in maritime terms?
Broken stowage refers to the unusable portion of cargo due to its shape, size, or handling constraints.
How do I calculate broken stowage weight?
Multiply the total cargo weight by the broken stowage allowance percentage divided by 100.
Why is broken stowage important in maritime calculations?
It ensures ship stability calculations remain conservative, accounting for unusable cargo space.
What is the typical broken stowage allowance percentage?
Regulatory bodies typically allow 5-10% of the total cargo weight as broken stowage.
Can I use this calculator for all types of cargo?
Yes, but ensure the allowance percentage is appropriate for the specific type and nature of your cargo.
How does broken stowage affect ship stability?
It reduces the usable cargo space, which can impact the ship’s stability and safety at sea.
Is there a maximum limit for broken stowage allowance?
While not universally set, regulatory bodies generally recommend keeping it within 10% to maintain safety margins.
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.