Every vessel call starts with a question that shipowners, charterers and operators ask their
agent first: “What will this port call cost us?” The answer comes in the form of two documents
that define how Libyan port agency financials work — the Proforma Disbursement Account
(PDA) and the Final Disbursement Account (FDA). Understanding the difference between the
two, and knowing what information your agent needs to prepare them accurately, can save real
time and prevent unwelcome surprises once the vessel has already sailed.
What Is a PDA?
A Proforma Disbursement Account is an estimated cost breakdown prepared before the vessel
arrives at port. It covers anticipated port dues, agency fees, terminal charges, husbandry costs,
and any other service-related expenses tied to the specific port or terminal of call. A PDA is not
a final invoice — it is a planning tool that allows owners, charterers and operators to budget for
the port call with confidence before the vessel is committed.
What Is an FDA?
The Final Disbursement Account is issued after the vessel has completed its port call and all
operational activities are concluded. It reflects the actual costs incurred, supported by receipts,
invoices and documentation from port authorities, terminals and service providers. A wellmanaged FDA should closely track the original PDA — significant, unexplained variance
between the two is usually a sign of poor cost control or unclear communication with the local
agent.
Why Accuracy Matters
For shipowners and charterers, an accurate PDA is not a courtesy — it is a commercial
necessity. Voyage economics, freight negotiations and internal budget approvals all depend on
it. An agent who underestimates costs to win an appointment, or who fails to flag variable
charges in advance, creates financial exposure that surfaces at the worst possible time: after the
vessel has already sailed and the FDA lands with unexpected figures.
What Information Your Agent Needs
To prepare a precise PDA, Sahab Shipping Agency typically requests the following details as
early as possible:
• Vessel name, IMO number, flag, GT/DWT
• Port or terminal of call and expected ETA
• Cargo type and quantity
• Operation type (loading, discharging, bunkering, crew change, etc.)
• Owners, charterers and any appointed local agent
• Required services (husbandry, crew logistics, CTM, protective agency, etc.)
The earlier this information reaches the agent, the more accurate — and the more useful — the
resulting PDA will be.
How Sahab Keeps the Process Transparent
Sahab Shipping Agency follows a two-step disbursement process for every vessel call across
Libya’s commercial ports and oil & gas terminals: a clear Proforma D/A at the inquiry stage,
followed by a Final D/A supported by full documentation once the port call is complete. Every
cost is explained, every service is itemized, and any deviation from the original estimate is
communicated to the client before it becomes a surprise on the final invoice.
Plan Your Next Port Call With Confidence
Whether you are calling at a commercial seaport or an oil and gas terminal anywhere in Libya,
an accurate PDA is the first step toward a smooth, well-budgeted port call. Share your vessel
and voyage details with our operations team, and we will prepare a transparent Proforma
Disbursement Account tailored to your specific port of call.
Request your Proforma D/A today — our operations team is available 24/7 to support
shipowners, charterers, tanker operators and oil & gas clients across Libya