Key takeaways
- State which expenses the calculation deducts.
- Do not describe TCE as final net profit.
Trace a simple calculation
ILLUSTRATIVE — invented teaching inputs. Assume revenue of 600,000 USD, voyage costs of 240,000 USD and a voyage duration of 30 days. TCE = (600,000 − 240,000) ÷ 30 = 12,000 USD per day.
This deliberately simplified example excludes ownership costs and does not represent a freight market observation. A real estimate needs a documented treatment of commissions, positioning time and relevant voyage expenses.
- Identify the revenue basis and the deductions being modelled.
- Define the beginning and end of the voyage period.
- Compare alternatives using that same boundary and expense policy.
The Baltic Exchange TCE calculator overview describes converting freight assessments into a daily earnings comparison.
Common mistakes
Avoid adding a ballast leg to one estimate while omitting equivalent positioning from another. Do not treat an apparently precise result as more reliable than its uncertain duration and cost assumptions.
Where Zeaclub fits
Zeaclub offers digitalised procedures across the voyage workflow.
Zeaclub supports agentic, AI-assisted operations with a human in control.
Explore Zeaclub
Educational information only; not legal, financial or trading advice. Contract wording and applicable rules control. Verify current requirements and obtain qualified advice before acting.
Frequently asked questions
Is TCE a hire offer?
No. It is a calculated earnings measure, not automatically an available contract.
Does TCE equal profit?
No. Costs outside the stated voyage calculation still matter.
Why can two TCE estimates differ?
They may use different expenses, durations, revenue assumptions or voyage boundaries.
Which input should be reviewed first?
Start with the assumptions most uncertain or most influential for the decision.