Statement of Facts

Statements of Facts (SoF)

A Statement of Facts (SoF) is a detailed report of a vessel's activities from its arrival and cargo operation commencement to its departure. It is a formal written communication used in the shipping industry to indicate all events during a ship's stay in port in chronological order.

The SOF is used for the calculation of the laytime and demurrage. By offering transparency and precise documentation, the SOF may aid in the resolution of potential conflicts.

Statement of Facts in Shipping

The Statement of Facts is an essential document in ship chartering, maritime logistics and shipping. It details all the critical elements and activities that take place while the vessel is at port.

Serving an an official record of the vessel's port activities, the SOF captures any deviations or discrepancies in the timeline, which can have significant financial implications. These documents are often used to resolve disputes regarding demurrage charges and provide an accurate account of events in the event of legal disputes or investigations.

Components of a Statement of Facts

The Statement of Facts (SOF) usually has a standardized form. The format of a SoF may vary, but it generally includes the following information:

• Title: The document is typically labeled as a"Statement of Facts" or "SOF" at the top.
• Parties: The names of the shipowner, charterer, and port agent are usually included.
• Cargo Details: The port of loading or discharge, and the cargo type and quantity.
• Dates and Times: The arrival and departure dates and times, as well as the time spent at the berth, are recorded.
• Cargo Operations: The start and end times of cargo loading and unloading are noted, along with any delays or interruptions.
• Weather Conditions: Any weather-related factors that may have affected the cargo operations or laytime are mentioned.
• Tugboat Usage: If tugboats were used during the vessel's stay in port, the details of their arrival and departure are included.
• Other relevant information: Any additional details that may be necessary for the calculation of laytime and demurrage - such as delays caused by customs inspections or equipment breakdowns - are also recorded.

BIMCO Statement of Facts

A frequently used SoF form is that of BIMCO, which provides a standardized template for the document. The SoF is typically prepared by the port agent or the shipmaster and is signed by the master of the vessel, the port agent, and a representative of the charterer, shipper, or receiver, as applicable.

BIMCO, a prominent organization within the shipping industry, also produces a number of standard contracts for charter party agreements.