Time bars in maritime claims: the deadlines that sink good claims

Atlas Claims InsightsPublished 7 October 2026 · Reviewed 14 October 2026 · 4 min read

In shipping, a claim can be entirely valid and still fail, simply because it was not presented on time or in the right form. Time bars are one of the most common reasons owners and charterers lose money they are owed.

Contractual time bars for demurrage

Many voyage charter parties, especially tanker forms, require a demurrage claim to be presented within a short period after discharge, often 60 or 90 days, together with specified supporting documents. These clauses are strictly applied by the English courts and London arbitrators. If key documents are missing from the submission, the claim, or part of it, can be time-barred even though it was sent on time.

Cargo claims under the Hague and Hague-Visby Rules

Where the Hague or Hague-Visby Rules apply, the carrier is discharged from liability for loss or damage to cargo unless suit is brought within one year of delivery, or of the date when the goods should have been delivered. The parties can agree an extension, but it should be confirmed in writing before the year expires.

General limitation periods

Outside specific contractual or convention time bars, claims for breach of contract under English law are generally subject to a six-year limitation period from the date of breach. Treat this as a long-stop, not a target: evidence and leverage fade much sooner.

How to protect your claims

• Check the time bar clause in every charter party at fixture, and diarise the deadline.
• Build a standard demurrage submission pack matching the documents your usual forms require.
• Collect statements of facts, NORs, pumping logs and port documents during the voyage, not afterwards.
• Request any time extension in writing, and obtain written confirmation.
• If a deadline is close, act immediately. Time bars rarely move.

This guide is general information about the law of England and Wales as at October 2026. It is not legal advice and may not cover your situation. Atlas Claims is not a law firm; for advice on your legal rights or on litigation, consult a qualified solicitor.