Stack inbound containers into the correct bays of a container ship: place heavy boxes in lower tiers, distribute reefer units to electrically powered slots, separate IMO hazardous classes, and sequence the stack for port-order discharge. A real-rules stowage puzzle across six ship classes from a small coastal feeder to a 10,000-TEU ultra-large container vessel (ULCV). Covers IMO Container Ship Stability and the Cargo Securing Manual requirements.
Container stowage planning is a core competency for the Chief Officer's cargo endorsement and directly addressed in the STCW Table A-II/2 planning and loading competency. The heaviest topic in the USCG Deck General (cargo) examination module.