ICTQual International Level 2 Award in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations

The ICTQual International Level 2 Award in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations is designed for learners who wish to strengthen their understanding of the global shipping industry and build on the foundations gained at Level 1. This internationally recognised qualification introduces learners to the essential practices of shipbroking, chartering, and vessel operations, providing the knowledge and skills required to support professional growth in maritime trade and logistics.

Through this award, learners will explore the principles of chartering contracts, freight calculations, and the operational responsibilities of shipbrokers. The programme also highlights the importance of accurate documentation, effective communication, and compliance with international maritime standards. By engaging with these core areas, learners will gain practical insights into how vessels are chartered, managed, and operated within the complex framework of global trade.

The qualification is particularly valuable for learners seeking to enter the shipping industry, as well as those already working in related roles who wish to formalise their skills with an internationally benchmarked award. It equips learners with the ability to understand market dynamics, support chartering negotiations, and contribute to efficient vessel operations.

Completing this programme offers learners a range of benefits, including enhanced employability, access to international career opportunities, and a clear progression pathway to higher‑level maritime qualifications. Whether learners are based in Pakistan, the UK, the Middle East, or beyond, the ICTQual International Level 2 Award in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations provides a practical and globally relevant platform for professional development in shipping and logistics.

Course overview

International Level 2 Award in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations

To enrol in ICTQual International Level 2 Award in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations, learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners should normally be at least 16 years old at the time of enrolment.
  • Educational Background: Completion of the ICTQual Level 1 Award in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations (or equivalent introductory knowledge) is recommended.Learners should have a basic secondary school education to ensure they can engage with the content effectively.
  • Professional Experience: No formal industry experience is required.However, learners with some exposure to shipping, logistics, or trade will find the course particularly beneficial.
  • English Proficiency: Learners should demonstrate basic English proficiency in reading, writing, and comprehension.This ensures they can understand course materials, complete assessments, and communicate effectively in an international maritime context.
  • Additional Requirements: Access to a computer or smart device with internet connectivity for online study and assessments.A willingness to engage in independent study and applied learning activities.

This qualification, the ICTQual International Level 2 Award in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations, consists of 3 mandatory units.

  1. Principles of Shipbroking
  2. Basics of Chartering Contracts
  3. Maritime Trade Practices

Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual International Level 2 Award in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations:

Principles of Shipbroking

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Explain the role and responsibilities of a shipbroker in global shipping markets.
  • Identify the different types of shipbrokers (chartering, sale and purchase, specialised).
  • Demonstrate understanding of ethical and professional standards in shipbroking practice.
  • Analyse the relationship between shipbrokers, shipowners, and charterers.
  • Interpret market reports and apply them to basic decision‑making scenarios.
  • Recognise the importance of negotiation and client relationship management.
  • Describe the process of matching cargoes with suitable vessels.
  • Apply fundamental shipbroking principles to simple case studies.
  • Appreciate the contribution of shipbroking to international trade and logistics.

Basics of Chartering Contracts

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Define the purpose and structure of a charter party agreement.
  • Distinguish between voyage charters, time charters, and bareboat charters.
  • Interpret key terms and clauses commonly found in chartering contracts.
  • Explain the responsibilities of shipowners and charterers under different agreements.
  • Perform basic freight rate and hire calculations.
  • Recognise the importance of laytime, demurrage, and despatch in chartering.
  • Demonstrate awareness of risk allocation in chartering contracts.
  • Apply contract principles to practical shipping scenarios.
  • Understand the role of brokers in facilitating and documenting chartering agreements.

Maritime Trade Practices

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Identify major global shipping routes and their significance in trade.
  • Explain the role of ports, terminals, and logistics hubs in maritime trade.
  • Recognise different cargo types and their handling requirements.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of international trade documentation (e.g., bills of lading, invoices).
  • Understand the impact of Incoterms on shipping responsibilities and costs.
  • Analyse the influence of supply and demand on freight markets.
  • Describe the role of shipping in supporting global supply chains.
  • Apply trade practice concepts to real‑world shipping case studies.
  • Appreciate the importance of compliance with international regulations in maritime trade.

The ICTQual International Level 2 Award in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations builds on foundational knowledge and equips learners with practical skills to engage more confidently in the global shipping industry. This qualification not only strengthens understanding of shipbroking and chartering practices but also opens doors to structured learning pathways and diverse career opportunities within maritime trade and logistics.

  • Progression to the ICTQual Level 3 Certificate or Diploma in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations.
  • Advancement into specialised maritime qualifications covering charter parties, marine insurance, or port and terminal operations.
  • Development of skills for junior roles in shipbroking firms, chartering desks, or shipping agencies.
  • Opportunities to move into logistics, freight forwarding, and maritime trade support roles.
  • Pathway towards professional certifications in shipping law, maritime finance, or international trade.
  • Enhanced eligibility for internships and trainee positions within global shipping companies.
  • Ability to build towards management‑level diplomas in maritime operations and logistics.
  • Foundation for career mobility across international shipping hubs such as London, Dubai, Singapore, and Karachi.
  • Preparation for continuous professional development (CPD) in areas like sustainability, digitalisation, and risk management in shipping.

FAQs

The programme is designed for:

  • Learners who have completed the Level 1 Award or have equivalent introductory knowledge.
  • Individuals seeking to strengthen their understanding of shipbroking and vessel operations.
  • Career changers or professionals in logistics, trade, or transport who want to broaden their maritime expertise.
  • Learners aiming to progress towards higher‑level maritime qualifications.

Learners may pursue roles such as:

  • Junior shipbroking assistant.
  • Trainee chartering support staff.
  • Shipping agency or port operations assistant.
  • Logistics and freight forwarding support roles.

The ICTQual International Level 2 Award in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations is a 2 days training programme designed to be completed in full-time study over this period, with a focus on both theoretical learning and practical application.

ICTQual International Level 2 Award in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations is offered in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, ICTQual International Level 2 Award in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations, includes assessments consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). These assessments evaluate participants’ understanding of the course material and their ability to apply concepts in practical situations. A minimum score of 75% is required to pass the assessments.cal situations. It is mandatory to pass assessments with a minimum score of 75%