The Shipper Agreement serves as a crucial legal framework for managing shipping arrangements in the Philippines' maritime environment. It is typically used when establishing ongoing shipping services between a carrier and a company requiring regular transportation of goods across the Philippine archipelago or internationally. The agreement encompasses essential elements required by Philippine law, including compliance with MARINA regulations, port authority requirements, and the Civil Code. The document addresses key aspects such as service specifications, rates, liability allocation, insurance requirements, and dispute resolution mechanisms, while considering the unique challenges of Philippine maritime operations. This type of agreement is particularly important given the Philippines' geography and its heavy reliance on maritime transport for both domestic and international trade.

1. Parties: Identification and details of the Shipper and Shipping Company, including complete legal names, addresses, and registration details

2. Background: Context of the agreement, brief description of the parties' businesses, and purpose of entering into the shipping arrangement

3. Definitions: Detailed definitions of key terms used throughout the agreement, including technical shipping terms and legal terminology

4. Scope of Services: Detailed description of shipping services to be provided, including types of cargo, routes, and frequency of services

5. Service Requirements: Specific requirements for cargo handling, loading/unloading, packaging, and documentation

6. Rates and Payment Terms: Pricing structure, payment schedules, invoicing procedures, and payment methods

7. Obligations of the Shipper: Responsibilities of the shipper including cargo preparation, documentation, and compliance requirements

8. Obligations of the Carrier: Responsibilities of the shipping company including service standards, vessel requirements, and safety measures

9. Liability and Insurance: Allocation of risks, liability limitations, insurance requirements, and claims procedures

10. Term and Termination: Duration of the agreement, renewal terms, and conditions for termination

11. Force Majeure: Provisions for unforeseen circumstances and their impact on contractual obligations

12. Confidentiality: Protection of confidential information and trade secrets

13. Dispute Resolution: Procedures for resolving disputes, including jurisdiction and governing law provisions

14. General Provisions: Standard legal clauses including notices, amendments, assignments, and severability