Freight in full of all port charges, pilotage, consular fees, light dues, trimming, lighterage at loading /discharging ports . . .This expression means that the shipowner must pay all port charges and other expenses specified in the term.

FIATA Bill of Lading. FIATA is the acronym for the International Federation of Forwarding Agents Associations and is based in Zurich, Switzerland.

Fully declared. This is a floating policy in which the total of the amounts reaches the agreed limit. The floating policy comes to an end when it is fully declared.

FAC (Fast as can). This term in a charterparty can apply to the vessel's being loaded or discharged as quickly as is practical, possibly in relation to the custom of the part (COP) or "with customary quick despatch".

Fines. Imposed on the owner for breach by his servants of regulations such as immigration, customs, smuggling by crew members, pollution. Fines for overloading are specifically excluded.

Grain capacity. This is part of the description of the cargo carrying capacity of the ship. It is sometimes termed "Grain space capacity" or "Grain space”.

Fake bills of lading. Some fraudsters are capable of forging bills of lading using high quality colour photocopiers that can reproduce even the printed logo of the earner. These fake bills of lading are usually used in persuading buyers or banks to pay for non-existent cargo. This practice can be prevented if the innocent parties check the name and movements of the vessel named on the bill of lading.

First refusal. In negotiating for the fixture of a vessel a shipowner's shipbroker may attempt to obtain a FIRM OFFER from the charterer or the charterer's agents within a stated time limit.

General Average. “Average” means “partial loss” in this context. “General Average” is closely connected to marine insurance today but actually originated many years before the idea of marine insurance was born.

FCA (free carrier)

FCA FREE CARRIER
(... named place)

Fighting ship. When liner conferences are faced with severe competition from outsiders, the members of the conference may agree to use additional vessels or sailings at very low freight rates.

General average adjustment. This is a very complicated task because of the many interests that may be involved. Average adjusters are appointed before or after GA is declared and they proceed with adjustment.

FHEX (Fridays and Holidays excluded)

Free alongside (FAS). If a charterparty provides for delivery of cargo "free alongside", it is up to the shippers to arrange for delivery of the goods within reach of ship's tackle (cargo handling equipment) unless the custom of the port provides otherwise. In some ports the meaning of this expression may be different. Shippers have fulfilled their obligation if they have arranged for delivery of the goods on pan of the wharf although beyond reach of ship's tackle.

Full knowledge of the local practice is therefore essential.

Grab discharge. Charterers of coal, ore, phosphate in bulk, wheat, bulk sugar, grains etc. which can be discharged by grabs, often stipulate that no cargo must be loaded in "deep tanks".