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.