We have obtained information on the amendment to the International Grain Code, MSC.552(108), adopted by IMO MSC 108 and effective 1 January 2026.

The Grain Loading Manual of a vessel includes three types of heeling moments: Fully Loaded and Trimmed (F-T), Fully Loaded and Untrimmed (F-UT), and Partly Filled (PF). The heeling moment values for PF cargoes were previously based on the assumption that the cargo would be trimmed throughout the compartment, including at the ends of the hold.

However, for PF cargoes where a compartment in way of the hatch opening is partly filled with untrimmed ends, the applicable heeling moment was previously unclear. The amendment formally recognises this intermediate loading condition and requires the Grain Loading Manual to include the corresponding heeling moment values.

For full details, please refer to the attached advisory from NCB (National Cargo Bureau).