Shipping Terms
HomeShipping Terms › Above High Load Line

Above High Load Line (AHLL)

Also known as: ahll, above high load line

A vessel condition or cargo position located above the high load line marking.

Above High Load Line refers to a situation where a vessel’s draft or cargo position exceeds the high load line marking. Load lines are regulatory marks that indicate the maximum safe loading limits under various conditions. Operating above the high load line can affect vessel stability, seaworthiness, and safety margins. The term is used in stability assessments, compliance checks, and operational discussions to highlight potential regulatory or insurance concerns. Exceeding allowable load lines may result in restrictions, penalties, or refusal of port clearance. Plimsoll Mark (Load Line Disc) – the circular mark on the ship’s hull that defines legal loading limits. TF (Tropical Fresh Water) – maximum draft allowed in tropical fresh water. F (Fresh Water) – maximum draft allowed in fresh water. T (Tropical) – maximum draft allowed in tropical salt water. S (Summer) – standard summer saltwater load line. W (Winter) – reduced draft allowed in winter conditions. WNA (Winter North Atlantic) – most restrictive load line due to severe sea conditions. Above High Load Line (AHLL) – area above the applicable load line, indicating overloading beyond permitted limits.
plimsoll load line disc mark
plimsoll load line disc mark
Search the full Shipping Terms glossary