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Big bag (FIBC – flexible intermediate bulk container)
A large sack made of woven polypropylene that usually carries 500–1,500 kg of granules, powder or flakes and is lifted by forklift on its loops. Its safe working load (SWL) and safety factor (5:1 single-trip, 6:1 multi-trip) are specified under ISO 21898. For combustible powders use Type B, C or D bags against static electricity; food and pharma need food-grade bags with liners. It cuts packaging and handling cost compared with 25 kg bags.
Bill of lading (B/L) B/L
The key document of sea transport, issued by the carrier to show that it has received or loaded the goods. It has three functions: a receipt for the cargo, evidence of the contract of carriage and, when issued “to order”, a document of title. Because whoever presents an original can take delivery, it is the backbone of letters of credit and cash-against-documents deals. A “clean on board” B/L shows the goods were loaded in apparent good order.
Bulk cargo (dry and liquid bulk)
Cargo loaded directly into a ship’s hold or tanks without packaging: grain, coal, iron ore, scrap, fertiliser and cement are dry bulk; crude oil, fuels, vegetable oils and chemicals are liquid bulk. Ship sizes are classed as Handysize (15–35k dwt), Supramax/Ultramax (50–64k), Panamax/Kamsarmax (65–82k) and Capesize (over 100k dwt). Quantity is determined by draft survey or weighbridge and quality by sampling at loading and discharge.
Bunker adjustment factor (BAF)
A variable surcharge that carriers add to the base freight to pass on fluctuations in ship-fuel (bunker) prices. It is usually revised quarterly or monthly in line with VLSFO prices in Singapore and Rotterdam. BAFs rose markedly after the IMO 0.5 % sulphur cap took effect in 2020; always ask whether a freight quote includes BAF.