Charterer: meaning, definitions and examples

🚢
Add to dictionary

charterer

 

[ ˈtʃɑːrtərər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

business transaction

A charterer is an individual or organization that rents or leases a vessel or transport means for a specific period or purpose. Charterers may either hire the vessel for carrying cargo (known as cargo chartering) or for personal or leisure use, in the case of yacht charters. The responsibilities and rights of the charterer are usually outlined in a charter party, which is a legally binding agreement. The chartering process is significant in the shipping industry, connecting vessel owners with those who need sea transport.

Synonyms

hirer, lessee, tenant

Examples of usage

  • The charterer arranged for the ship to transport goods across the Atlantic.
  • As a charterer, he had specific conditions about the vessel maintenance.
  • The charterer is responsible for all the fuel costs during the voyage.

Etymology

The term 'charterer' originates from the Middle English word 'charter', which means a written document or deed. This is derived from the Latin 'charta', meaning 'sheet of paper' or 'document', and has been used since the medieval period to denote agreements between parties for the use of land, ships, or other resources. Over time, the usage evolved specifically in maritime contexts where vessel renting and leasing became formalized in the 17th century. As shipping commerce expanded with trade, the role of the charterer became more prominent, leading to the development of standardized agreements in the form of charter parties in the 19th century, which are still used today.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,787, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.