TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE

1. Definitions

In these Terms and Conditions:

• "Platform" means the ShippingBaba digital marketplace and all associated services, websites, and applications;
• "Company," "we," "us," or "our" refers to ShippingBaba, a company registered in Singapore;
• "User," "you," or "your" refers to any individual or entity accessing or using the Platform;
• "Vessel Owner" means any party owning or controlling vessels listed on the Platform;
• "Disponent Owner" means a party having commercial control of a vessel through charter;
• "Broker" means an intermediary facilitating transactions between parties;
• "Operator" means a party managing vessel operations and voyage planning;
• "Merchant" means a party buying or selling cargo;
• "Shipper" means a party requiring cargo transportation services;
• "Voyage Offering" means a proposed shipping route and service posted on the Platform;
• "Booking" means a confirmed reservation for cargo space on a vessel;
• "Services" means all features, tools, and functionalities provided through the Platform;
• "Content" means any information, data, text, images, or materials posted on the Platform;
• "IMO" refers to the International Maritime Organization;
• "DWT" means deadweight tonnage;
• "Layday" means the agreed date for vessel readiness to load or discharge cargo.

2. Platform Services

2.1 Service Description

ShippingBaba provides a digital B2B/B2C marketplace platform that facilitates:

• Creation and management of voyage offerings for dry-bulk cargo shipments;
• Voyage planning and route optimization tools;
• Cargo booking and space reservation systems;
• Direct communication between vessel operators and cargo owners;
• Negotiation and enquiry management;
• Document management including bills of lading, charter parties, and shipping documents;
• Payment processing and settlement services;
• Real-time tracking and status updates;
• Market data and analytics tools;
• Fleet management capabilities.

2.2 Platform Role

The Company acts solely as an intermediary platform connecting maritime service providers with cargo owners. We do not:

• Own, operate, or charter vessels;
• Act as a carrier or freight forwarder;
• Take possession of cargo;
• Guarantee vessel performance or cargo delivery;
• Provide maritime insurance or coverage;
• Act as principal in any transaction.

2.3 Service Availability

While we strive for 24/7 availability, the Platform may be subject to scheduled maintenance, upgrades, or unforeseen interruptions. We do not guarantee uninterrupted access to Services.

3. Registration and Account

3.1 Eligibility

To use the Platform, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old;
• Have legal capacity to enter binding contracts;
• Provide accurate and complete registration information;
• Not be prohibited from using the Platform under applicable laws;
• If registering on behalf of an entity, have authority to bind that entity.

3.2 Account Registration

Registration requires:

• Valid business information and registration numbers;
• Verified email address and phone number;
• Banking and payment details for transaction processing;
• IMO numbers for vessel owners/operators;
• Valid maritime certificates and licenses where applicable;
• KYC (Know Your Customer) documentation as required.

3.3 Account Security

You are responsible for:

• Maintaining confidentiality of login credentials;
• All activities under your account;
• Immediately notifying us of unauthorized access;
• Ensuring compliance with security protocols;
• Regular password updates and two-factor authentication where available.

3.4 Account Verification

We reserve the right to verify user identity, business credentials, and financial standing. Failure to provide requested verification may result in account suspension or termination.

6. Payment Terms

6.1 Platform Fees

Users agree to pay:

• Transaction fees: 2.5% of freight value;
• Subscription fees: As per selected plan;
• Additional service charges as posted on the Platform;
• Payment processing fees charged by third-party providers.

6.2 Payment Methods

Accepted payment methods include:

• Bank wire transfers;
• Letters of credit (where applicable);
• Major credit cards and digital payment processors;
• Platform wallet system (where available).

8. Liability and Disclaimers

8.1 Platform Liability Limitations

TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW:

• The Platform is provided "AS IS" without warranties of any kind;
• We disclaim all implied warranties including merchantability and fitness for purpose;
• We are not liable for indirect, consequential, or punitive damages;
• Our maximum liability is limited to platform fees paid in the preceding 12 months;
• We are not responsible for third-party actions or vessel performance;
• We do not guarantee cargo safety, delivery times, or voyage completion.

12. Data Protection

12.1 Privacy Policy

Our collection and use of personal data is governed by our Privacy Policy, which forms part of these Terms. By using the Platform, you consent to data processing as described therein.

12.2 Data Security

While we implement reasonable security measures, we cannot guarantee absolute security of data transmitted over the internet. Users should take appropriate precautions.

15. Governing Law

These Terms and Conditions are governed by the laws of Singapore, without regard to conflict of law principles. The exclusive jurisdiction for any disputes not subject to arbitration shall be the courts of Singapore.

International maritime conventions and trade customs (INCOTERMS, UCP, etc.) apply to relevant transactions as appropriate.

20. Contact Information