Rotation Term

The Rotation Term is an arrangement in international trade transportation, commonly used in bulk or commodity shipping. It refers to the carrier calling at multiple loading or discharging ports in an agreed sequence, with loading and unloading operations at each port carried out within a fixed time window or in rotation order. Use cases include consolidating cargo at multiple ports and coordinating multiple ports of call in liner shipping. Points to note: the rotation order, time nodes, and liability for delays must be clearly specified; if one port is delayed, it may affect operations at subsequent ports, so flexible clauses should be included in the contract. Unlike a 'direct call clause,' a rotation term allows the vessel to call at multiple ports in sequence rather than stopping at only one port; compared with a 'free call clause,' a rotation term places greater emphasis on sequence and time constraints. Foreign trade practitioners should align the rotation arrangement with the letter of credit requirements, ensuring consistency with the bill of lading and shipment period to avoid document discrepancies caused by inconsistent port order.