Risk rating (1–5 stars) used by dry-bulk charterers; combines technical, environmental, and inspection data.
In practice
Operator's Vessel Inspection Questionnaire updates push the rating; persistent low ratings prompt charterer rejections. Operators dispute the rating through the RightShip portal.
Regulatory detail & full definition
Star rating from one to five used by dry-bulk charterers to assess vessel risk before fixing. The rating combines technical condition, environmental performance (CO2 emissions), inspection history, casualty record, age, flag, classification society, and operator reputation. Cargill, Rio Tinto, BHP, Vale, and other major dry-bulk charterers use RightShip ratings to filter offered tonnage; some require minimum three-star and refuse one- or two-star vessels outright. The rating is updated as new data flows; operators dispute components through RightShip's appeal mechanism when inputs are incorrect.