It is appropriate that the second edition of this established textbook­ sold in over 150 countries and regarded by many as the standard work on the subject -should be published at a time of great change in the international shipping industry. This edition reflects such change. It also places considerable emphasis on the need for a professional approach in all areas of shipping practice and management in order to provide the high quality service required to sustain and expand international trade, and will help to establish that professionalism. The book is ideal not only for students preparing for shipping examinations but also for persons employed in shipping companies, ashore and afloat. In short it is an aide-memo ire to those engaged in the industry throughout the world and is regarded by many as the shipping executive's handbook. Readers who wish to know more about the basic elements of the subject should also study the com­ panion volume Elements of Shipping (fifth edition). In addition, the sea port operator or executive should study my recently published book Elements of Port Operation and Management. The opportunity has been taken to widen the scope of the book. New chapters have been included on the economics of container­ ization, computerization, roll on/roll off (Ro/Ro) vessels and their features, and counter-trade. In addition, a number of existing chapters have been expanded in the areas of marketing, budgets, political factors, ship finance, BIFFEX, ICHCA, IMO, GCBS, and shipping company mergers and acquisitions.