Statement of facts
SOF
Meaning
A statement of facts (SOF) is the agent's record of every event during a port call, from arrival and NOR to hoses off, used to calculate laytime.
Also written as Time sheet
Statement of facts explained
The SOF lists times for arrival, NOR tendered, free pratique, anchoring, berthing, all fast, hoses connected, start and finish of cargo, stoppages with reasons, and departure. It is signed by the master and agent, sometimes the terminal too.
The SOF is the factual base of the laytime statement and demurrage claim. Errors or missing remarks in it are a common reason demurrage claims are cut.
Watch out for
Make sure the reason for every stoppage is recorded. “Waiting for shore” and “ship's pump problems” lead to completely different laytime results.
Related terms
Laytime statement
A laytime statement is the calculation that sets out laytime allowed, time used at each port, exceptions and the resulting demurrage or despatch.
Notice of Readiness
A notice of readiness (NOR) is the master's formal notice that the ship has arrived and is ready in every respect to load or discharge.
Letter of protest
A letter of protest (LOP) is a formal written complaint from the master or terminal recording a problem, such as slow pumping or a cargo discrepancy.
Demurrage time bar
A demurrage time bar is the deadline, usually 90 days after discharge, by which the owner must present a fully documented demurrage claim.