SSHEX vs SSHINC: The Small Clause That Quietly Changes Voyage Economics
Chartering Insights, Maritime Contracts, Maritime Operations, Shipping Operation Charter Party, Demurrage, Dry Bulk, Freight Market, Laytime, Shipbroking, SSHEX, SSHINC
In shipping contracts, some clauses look minor.
They are often accepted without discussion.
But their impact can extend across the entire voyage.
One of the most underestimated examples:
SSHEX vs SSHINC.
What Do They Mean?
These terms are commonly defined and applied within widely used charter party frameworks such as the BIMCO standard contracts and clauses.
These abbreviations define how time is counted during cargo operations.
- SSHEX: Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays Excluded
- SSHINC: Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays Included
At first glance, the difference appears administrative.
In reality, it is commercial.
Why It Matters
Laytime calculation is directly linked to:
- Loading and discharging duration
- Demurrage or despatch exposure
- Vessel availability for the next employment
Changing how time is counted changes all three.
Global port efficiency and turnaround time dynamics are regularly analysed in reports such as the UNCTAD Maritime Transport Review.
A Practical Scenario
Consider a standard operation:
- Cargo: 30,000 MT bulk
- Loading rate: 10,000 MT per weather working day
Estimated operation time:
3 days.
Now introduce:
- A weekend
- A public holiday
Scenario 1: SSHEX
Under SSHEX:
- Weekend → not counted
- Holiday → not counted
Laytime pauses.
Actual operation duration extends beyond the initial estimate.
Result:
- Longer port stay
- Delayed departure
- Increased positioning risk
Scenario 2: SSHINC
Under SSHINC:
- All days are counted
Laytime continues uninterrupted.
Result:
- Faster laytime consumption
- Higher demurrage exposure (if delays occur)
- More predictable scheduling
The Hidden Difference
The cargo, vessel, and port remain the same.
Only one variable changes:
The clause.
Yet the commercial outcome shifts significantly.
Risk Allocation
SSHEX and SSHINC are not just operational definitions.
They are risk allocation tools.
- SSHEX → reduces charterer exposure
- SSHINC → protects owner time
However, the real impact depends on operational context.
Operational Context Matters
Operational efficiency and port performance considerations are also reflected in broader industry practices outlined by the International Chamber of Shipping.
In inefficient ports:
- SSHINC benefits owners
- Time is continuously counted despite delays
In efficient ports:
- SSHEX benefits charterers
- Faster turnaround reduces risk of extended laytime
The Common Mistake
These clauses are often treated as “standard wording”.
They are rarely negotiated with intent.
This creates hidden exposure.
Because:
Time in shipping is not neutral.
It is priced.
Practical Insight
Before accepting SSHEX or SSHINC, consider:
- Port efficiency
- Expected congestion
- Cargo readiness
- Seasonal disruptions
A small clause can redefine the entire commercial outcome.
You can also review our latest cargo flow and vessel positioning insights on the Market Insight page.
Final Thought
In shipping, complexity does not always come from large terms.
Sometimes, it is embedded in the smallest details.
SSHEX vs SSHINC is one of them.
Because:
A clause that changes time—
Changes everything.
