What must a charterer pay if they cancel before loading?

• A. Nothing, as cancellation is their right
• B. Full freight for the voyage
• C. Half the agreed freight
• D. The entire loading cost

Answer: (C)

When a charterer cancels before loading, they are typically obligated to pay half of the agreed freight. This principle is established to balance the rights and responsibilities of both parties in a charter agreement. The cancellation can impose costs and potential losses on the shipowner, who has reserved the vessel, thus the payment of half the freight serves as a form of compensation for this lost opportunity.

This policy protects the shipowner while still providing the charterer with some flexibility in terms of cancellation. The inclusion of such a provision in charter contracts allows for a clear understanding of financial repercussions, preventing disputes over cancellation. The other options do not reflect the common contractual obligations in charter arrangements; for instance, claiming no payment or the entire freight is typically not standard practice in the context of cancellations.