Glossary term

On-deck Cargo

Cargo carried on the weather deck rather than in a hold, with different risk and insurance treatment.

Goods stowed on deck and exposed to the elements. Carriers commonly exclude or limit liability for deck cargo, and standard cargo insurance may cover it on narrower terms unless specifically arranged.

Containers are routinely carried on deck as a matter of course; for breakbulk, deck stowage is a decision with consequences worth agreeing in advance.