Tally

A tally is the independent count and condition check of cargo as it loads or discharges, performed by a tally clerk who records package numbers, marks, container numbers and seals, and any visible damage or shortage. The tally sheet becomes the primary evidence reconciling manifest against actual outturn, and discrepancies feed the mate’s receipt, claims, and the outturn report. For breakbulk and bagged cargo the tally is unit-by-unit; for containers it logs box and seal integrity at the gate and the quay. Independent tally companies are common where shipper, carrier, and receiver each want a neutral count, and the figure supports demurrage, shortage, and damage claims.