Cargo Liens

Cargo liens, in the context of maritime law, refer to a legal claim a shipowner or other party has over goods being transported on a ship. If the owner of the cargo fails to pay for services such as shipping or handling, the shipowner can retain possession of the cargo until the debt is settled. This ensures that service providers have a way to secure payment, effectively allowing them to hold the cargo as collateral. This lien is automatically recognized under maritime law, reflecting the unique relationship between shipping, commerce, and security interests at sea.