Rotation Condition is a term commonly used in foreign trade transportation, especially when multiple batches and multiple ports of loading and unloading are involved. It means the carrier calls at different ports in the agreed sequence, and the loading or unloading order at each port is fixed and may not be changed at will. This condition usually appears in charter parties or bill of lading clauses to specify the order of the vessel's ports of call and the corresponding rights to load or discharge. Use cases include: bulk cargo, multi-port LCL, liner shipping, etc. Note: if the rotation condition is not clearly stated, the carrier may adjust the order of calls, causing extra costs or delays for the cargo owner; it is the opposite of the 'Any Order' clause, which allows the carrier to freely choose the port order. Unlike 'port rotation', Rotation Condition emphasizes the fixed order agreed in the contract rather than flexible adjustments in actual operations. Foreign trade practitioners should clearly list the rotation ports and sequence in the contract to avoid disputes.
📝 Examples
1. According to the charter party, this shipment must be discharged at Shanghai, Singapore, and Rotterdam in sequence under the Rotation Condition; please ensure the agents at each port prepare in advance. (Note: specifies the discharge order and requires agent cooperation.)
2. The bill of lading states that the Rotation Condition applies, so the vessel must call at Qingdao, Busan, and Los Angeles in that order and may not stop at Los Angeles first and then return to Busan. (Note: emphasizes that the order cannot be changed and prevents the carrier from adjusting it at will.)
💡 Foreign Trade Tips
Foreign trade terms are the foundation of international business communication
Trade practices may vary slightly by country; pay attention when using them
When using terms in contracts, specify the applicable version (e.g., Incoterms 2020)
For unfamiliar terms, use GlobalSync's multilingual email helper to confirm with your partner