The intermodal transport of bulk liquid and solid cargoes can present operational challenges for all stakeholders in the transport chain.

Approaching a century after the Hague Rules were established (in 1924), it may at last be clear what is meant by "unit".

Some bulk terminals have contracts which specify a tolerance for the weight of material entering and leaving the terminal. This can result in costly claims for bulk weight discrepancies. It can be best to avoid this - as many terminals do.

Following a decision made in 2008 by the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), the old 'Code of Safe Practice for Solid Bulk Cargoes' (BC Code) was renamed the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargo Code and its first edition is due to become mandatory from 1 January 2011.