Amendments to the International Code for the Safe Carriage of Grain in Bulk 06.11.2025 11:50
Amendments to the International Code for the Safe Carriage of Grain in Bulk (“Grain Code”) have been adopted by IMO Resolution MSC.552(108).
With regard to Resolution MSC.552(108) which is an amendment to the International Code for the Safe Carriage of Grain in Bulk (Resolution MSC.23(59), hereinafter referred to as the Grain Code), please be informed as follows.
Ships subject to the Grain Code which carry grain in bulk in a newly defined class of loading conditions on and after 1 January 2026.
Newly defined class of loading conditions "specially suitable compartment, partly filled in way of the hatch opening, with ends untrimmed" (Refer to Figures below):
Existing partly filled condition:
Newly defined partly filled condition:
For this new loading pattern, a new calculation must be made for grain shift moment and volume curves, listed from the level of the bottom of the end girder to the top of the hatch coaming – see the following figure:
The Grain Code amendments enter into force 1 January 2026 and will be applicable to newbuildings with keel laid on or after this date, whereby the yard/designer will need to implement the additional curves in the grain loading manual and in the loading computer.
For ships constructed prior to 1 January 2026, but not yet delivered, it is recommended that the owner and yard understand the Grain Code amendments and implement the same set of standards to ensure safe operations.
For ships already in operation, an addendum to the existing grain loading manual can be prepared and submitted to Classification Society for approval if found relevant for the respective ship.
