GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 16, 2026

Beneficial Cargo Owner Agreements

Unlike standard freight contracts based on published tariffs and general terms, Beneficial Cargo Owner (BCO) Agreements govern the relationship between the actual cargo owner, shipping lines, and freight forwarders on an individually negotiated basis.

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Last updated: 16 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

Source: https://www.prologis.com/glossary/beneficial-cargo-owner

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Definition & Explanation

Unlike standard freight contracts based on published tariffs and general terms, Beneficial Cargo Owner (BCO) Agreements govern the relationship between the actual cargo owner, shipping lines, and freight forwarders on an individually negotiated basis. They set service levels—guaranteed sailing frequencies, maximum transit times, equipment availability—agree volume-based freight rates with discount tiers, and define liability caps alongside escalation procedures for delays or damage. Large importers and exporters with consistent, substantial volumes use these contracts to secure planning certainty and reduce reliance on spot market pricing. Responsibilities for booking, documentation, and insurance are explicitly allocated to each party.

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