Abstract:
Dicky, Febrian. 2025. " Optimizing the Plywood Loading Process to Minimize Broken
stowage on Board MV. ORIENT KING”
This study discusses efforts to optimize the plywood loading process in order to reduce
broken stowage on the MV. Orient King vessel. The background of this research stems
from the author’s direct observations during sea practice, where many issues were found
in the loading process, such as inefficient cargo arrangement, lack of understanding
among deck crew, and weak supervision and communication between ship officers and
shore laborers. These problems result in unused empty spaces (broken stowage), which
can lower loading efficiency and disrupt the ship’s stability. This study uses a qualitative
approach with SWOT analysis to identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and
threats affecting the loading process. Data were collected through direct observation,
documentation studies, and questionnaires distributed to ship officers, deck crew, and
shore laborers. The results show that the main factors causing broken stowage are the lack
of technical training for the deck crew and the suboptimal implementation of the stowage
plan. Additionally, the lashing and chocking processes are often carried out not according
to standards. Based on the analysis, it is concluded that optimizing the loading process
can be achieved through improving technical training for the crew, consistent application
of SOPs, and enhanced coordination among all parties involved. The researcher
recommends that the shipping company provide regular training and strengthen
operational supervision to ensure efficiency and safety in plywood loading on board the
vessel.
