Can bulk carriers be trimmed forward, and for a Handymax size how much can we go with stresses?

flowchart LR
    A[Cargo surface\nunevenness Δh] -->|≤ B/10| B[Max 1.5 m]
    B --> C[BC Code\nMSC.193(79) §5.2.4.3.1]
    C --> D[Handymax beam 28–32 m]
    D --> E[Δh limit = 1.5 m]
    E --> F[Loading manual\nchecks bending moment]

• Can trim forward: Yes — bulk carriers are routinely trimmed forward; trimming is required by the BC Code to reduce cargo shift and structural stress
• Handymax cargo surface limit: unevenness Δh ≤ B/10, capped at 1.5 m (MSC.193(79) Annex 1 §5.2.4.3.1)
• Typical Handymax beam: 28–32 m → B/10 = 2.8–3.2 m, but the 1.5 m cap applies
• Ship trim: forward trim is permissible; exact limits are in the ship’s loading manual and class-approved stability/stress booklet
• Chief Engineer action: verify trim and stresses via loading computer, ensure Δh ≤ 1.5 m, check bending moment and shear force against allowable limits