International Chamber of Shipping develops and promotes shipping industry best practices and guidance through a wide range of publications and free resources that are used by ship operators globally.
You can download most publications from the list below for free and purchase the paid-for publications from the ICS Publications site.
This fourth edition was withdrawn and replaced by the fifth edition practical and easy to understand workbook supports the owner, Master and the ship’s crew with cyber security risk management. It contains comprehensive checklists to assist with the day-to-day management of onboard cyber security and facilitates collaboration between ships, onshore IT departments and equipment manufacturers.
Shipping will continue to play a vital role in helping national economies to chart a course towards economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. This Trade Policy Review outlines some of the major strategic projects undertaken by the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) on behalf of the global shipping industry, in promoting and advancing the principles of free trade, fair competition and market access, to ensure that policymakers are equipped with the most accurate and up-to-date industry information.
September 2022Reports, Positions and Papers | Free
Biofouling, Biosecurity and Hull Cleaning
This first edition was withdrawn from sale and superseded by the second edition in October 2024. This publication describes the various types of biofouling and the problems it can cause for ship operation and the marine environment. It examines the use of anti-fouling systems to prevent the build-up of biofouling as well as the options available for ship cleaning. It also sets out biofouling legislation and guidelines. The book includes data sheets for a number of hull cleaning companies worldwide.
A call to action to governments from the global shipping industry. This manifesto is intended to ensure that, in the best interests of all national economies, the world will continue to have access to efficient and more cost effective maritime services.
Over the last few years and particularly since the start of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic there has been an increase in cases of shipping companies finding it difficult to repatriate the bodies or ashes of deceased seafarers quickly enough, and in accordance with the religious beliefs and customs of both the deceased seafarer and their next of kin. This guide sets out the core considerations for dealing with a death on board and details common burial practices for some of the world's leading religions.
Decarbonisation and the creation of (net) zero carbon fuels presents a significant economic opportunity for shipowners, companies and countries, as fuel producers, importers and exporters. This report presents new research that demonstrates how shipping will play a fundamental role in delivering these fuels globally and act as an enabler for governments and industries to achieve their climate targets.
Decarbonisation and the creation of (net) zero carbon fuels presents a significant economic opportunity for shipowners, companies and countries, as fuel producers, importers and exporters. This summary report outlines how shipping will play a fundamental role in delivering these fuels globally and act as an enabler for governments and industries to achieve their climate targets.
The devastating impact of the pandemic was unforeseen, but its potential effects were not entirely unexpected and the shipping industry had highlighted these previously, including through submissions to UN fora, following the outbreaks on Ebola, Avian Flu and SARS. The research outlined in this report investigates macro and micro-effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the shipping industry and highlights some key lessons learned.
The On Board Training Record Book for Electro-Technical Officers (ETO Cadets) helps shipowners and managers ensure compliance with international regulations and helps ETO cadets understand the training required to develop their skills and competencies. It can also be used by training academies, administrations and insurers as a universal and standard approach to tracking ETO cadet training and career development.