2011年10月29日 星期六

拒絕無單放貨亦有錯?

壹、【前言】:
所謂「不可流通的運送單證」(non-negotiable transport document),在海運實務界上約可分為兩種:一為「直交提單」(或稱之為「記名式提單(載貨證券)」)(Straight Bill of Lading)(註一) ;另一則為「海上貨運單」(或稱之為「海上提貨單」(Sea Waybill))。

前者,在各國法令與司法實務上的見解不一,有視之為具有「提單」(載貨證券)的性質(即屬於「權利證券」或「物權證券」(Document of Title)),亦有持相反的看法。至於後者,則一致認為非屬於「權利證券」或「物權證券」。

本案中涉及貨物是否有出具「直交提單」的爭議?若有,則受貨人是否需憑正本直交提單,始得要求運送人交付貨物?換句話說,運送人是否得在受貨人未提示正本直交提單的情況下「無單放貨」?香港地方法院在審理的過程中,旁徵博引了若干著名判決先例,饒富趣味,頗值得一探究竟。

貳、【案情事實】:
西元2011年2月8日,香港地方法院(the Hong Kong District Court)判決一家香港的「貨物承攬運送業者」(Freight Forwarder)(註二) ,應該為「受貨人」(the Consignee)在卸貨港(即香港)因無法提示「正本提單」(the original Bill of Lading)(註三) ,而遭拒絕交貨的結果負起損害賠償的責任(註四) 。

基本上受貨人提貨本就應該提示正本提單,運送人始憑單交貨,但在本案中的貨物承攬運送人,本諸此一「原則」要求,卻反遭判決敗訴,並為此付出慘痛的代價,這其中的原委為何?頗令人納悶,然仔細審究其關鍵「主角」,即本案的「正本提單」,發現其性質係屬於所謂的「直交提單」(a straight Bill of Lading)(註五) ,而這套「提單」理應由裝貨港負責貨物承攬運送的World Road公司在西元2008年10月12日,針對託運人所委運的28箱「電腦顯示卡」(computer display cards)所出具,裝貨港為韓國,卸貨港則在香港。

事實上,大家可以發現本案貨物運送的航程相當短,而提單上亦載明屆時受貨人提貨時,應該向World Road在香港的同行代理聲請。換句話說,「託運人」(the Shipper)委託World Road將貨物運抵香港,並交予指定的「受貨人」。而World Road遂委託其在香港的同行代理,即本案中被判決敗訴的這一家香港貨物承攬運送業者,將運抵香港的貨物交付予提單上所列名的「受貨人」。詎料當貨物運抵香港,受貨人請求交付貨物時,卻遭這家香港的「貨物承攬運送人」的拒絕,最後這票貨被送返回World Road的手上。受貨人不甘受損,爰於香港起訴,要求這家位於香港當地的貨物承攬運送人,應該為此而賠償貨物的價值:美金65,926元。

被告的這家香港貨物承攬運送人(即World Road在香港的代理),主張其自World Road所收到的指示係:受貨人必須憑「正本提單」(the original B/L)始得交付貨物,但本案中受貨人從未提示過所謂的「正本提單」,甚至亦無法證明其就是這票貨的「所有權人」。這家位於香港的貨物承攬運送業者,宣稱其完全係依World Road的指示作業,並無任何失誤。這票貨最後在西元2009年1月2日被送返韓國,由World Road收執。

本案的「受貨人」承認其確實並未提示任何的正本提單,因為其本身根本就沒有收到過,但其堅稱這所謂的「正本提單」,根本就沒被World Road正式簽發過。蓋依「託運人」與「World Road」(貨物承攬運送人)兩者間的共識乃:兩者均視「直交提單」並非所謂真正的「提單」(載貨證券),「直交提單」祇是所謂的「海上貨運單」(Sea Waybill)而已,其祇是證明託運人與貨物承攬運送人,針對貨物運交予受貨人這件事,彼此之間互有協議而已。準此,受貨人強調其縱無提示正本提單,這家香港的貨物承攬運送人亦應該依指示立即交付貨物才對。

參、【爭執點】:
一、「直交提單」究竟是「提單」?亦或是「海上貨運單」?
二、受貨人有權毋庸提示正本提單,即得要求放貨?

肆、【判決結果】:
一、「直交提單」並非「提單」,而是「海上貨運單」。
二、本案受貨人有權在毋庸提示正本提單的情況下,要求放貨。

伍、【「提單」與「海上貨運單」的爭議】:
在訴訟的爭辯過程中,受貨人堅稱運送契約的當事人,從未企圖要將當時World Road所簽發的「直交提單」,視為係所謂的「提單」(載貨證券)。更何況託運人與受貨人彼此間的經常性交易行為早已經超過7年,而World Road擔任負責交易的運送任務業已經超過4年矣。託運人指稱World Road擔任此一運送任務已非「生手」,在過去4年內,無論係託運人、亦或是受貨人,均未曾被要求在收受貨物的時候,必須提示任何的「正本提單」始得為之的情況。

託運人認為其已經將貨物的運送與交付程序,全部委由World Road全權負責,且其亦未在任何文件上要求在交付貨物時必須提示任何文件,始得為之。雖然本案中,「直交提單」本身就被賦予「提單」的名稱,但受貨人亦點出此一「直交提單」,並未經World Road簽署的「事實」。託運人從未被交付有任何「正本」或「副本」的直交提單,但此舉並未造成託運人任何的困擾,蓋這票貨的「貨款」早已經在託運人與受貨人之間的帳務往來中,被「抵銷」掉了(off-set)。

香港的這家貨物承攬運送業者,針對前開說辭,則指稱其據World Road表示:託運人從未自World Road處,提領正本的直交提單。祇是依據受貨人所提供的證據資料顯示:當貨物運抵香港,承攬人拒絕交貨時,縱受貨人在沒有積欠任何運費的情況下,受貨人為順利解決此一問題,仍嘗試與World Road聯絡,以取得所謂的正本直交提單,但當時World Road拒絕回應,導致整個問題陷入懸而未決的窘境。

無論如何,這份正本的直交提單從未在訴訟的過程中被出示過。對此,受貨人指稱由此即可以證實託運人在與World Road的委運過程中,針對所謂的「正本提單的出具」根本就沒有任何意思上的合致;更甚者,由此更可以證明本案的「直交提單」並非一般的「提單」(或稱之為「載貨證券」)。此外,受貨人更指出所謂的「直交提單」,其上應該會註明係「非流通」(non-negotiable)的性質(註六) ,且祇限於將貨物交予其上所註明的「受貨人」而已。

祇是僅憑「提單」上的「受貨人」處,是否記載為「依託運人或受貨人的指示」,即將「直交提單」視為「非載貨證券(非提單)」,似稍嫌速斷。在傳統觀念中,我們所瞭解的「直交提單」絕非「一般的載貨證券」,但在Carewins Development (China) Ltd. –v.- Bright Fortune Shipping Ltd.的案件中(註七) ,則認為縱為「直交提單」,運送人仍必須在提示正本後,始得交付貨物(縱使提單上沒有所謂的「簽證條款」者(the attestation clause)(註八) ,亦同)。

在本案中,受貨人抗辯縱然「直交提單」上有所謂的「簽證條款」,但實際上World Road並沒有在上面簽署,是亦不生任何效力。準此,受貨人主張在本案中,並沒有任何的證據顯示:直交提單中有所謂的「簽證條款」植入,或「簽證條款」乃係雙方當事人(指託運人與World Road)在委運之初,即有意將其納入直交提單之中。受貨人堅稱在傳統的作業程序當中,包括:出具一套三份的正本提單,外加「Carewins案」與著名的「Rafaela S案」(註九) 中所強調的簽署等必要程序,在本案中均付諸闕如。

有關受貨人辯稱直交提單上並沒有World Road的簽署,是提單上根本就沒有所謂的「簽證條款」,或許有其道理。但在Carewins案中,Riberiro PJ法官認為:縱然提單上沒有所謂的「簽證條款」,直交提單亦必須提示正本,才能夠進行提貨的動作。單純地未包括「簽證條款」,並無法足以證明「直交提單」並非(或並不想成為)「提單」(「載貨證券」)。

另,在Rafaela案中,Lord Bingham法官則認為:在正常的交易程序中,所謂「善意的商業文書」(a bona fide mercantile document),通常對於文書上的陳述會比較「遲鈍」些。若站在一可能性的平衡立場上,法官在考量直交提單上的內容、條款與使用語言後,對於直交提單並非提單(載貨證券)的證據,通常均不會採納。但如果直交提單,就如同法官最後所發現的一樣,係屬於提單(載貨證券)的話,則在Carewins案中所持正本直交提單必須提示始得領貨的見解,就有其適用。

在本案中,承審法官認為託運人所提示的交易證據,與託運人與World Road是否應嚴格執行正本提單提示的要求,有具體的關聯性。

陸、【受貨人有權要求無單放貨?】:
在本案中,西元2008年11月29日有清楚的證據證明,託運人已經書面要求香港的這一家「貨物承攬運送人」,立即放貨與受貨人。雖然承攬運送人仍舊堅持貨物僅可以在正本提單提示後,始得放予受貨人,但承攬運送人應該知道即使在提單出具的情況下,有一種不需要提示正本提單,仍可以放貨的「電放」(telex-release)特殊情形。

事實上在前開11月29日託運人發給承攬運送人的信件中,已經清楚地指示承攬運送人應該要把這票貨放予受貨人。現在且讓我們回想一下承攬運送人之所以要求受貨人應該提示正本提單始能夠提貨的初衷,乃為保障託運人能夠順利地取得貨款,是對於承攬運送人在收到託運人放貨的書面指示後,仍然堅持拒絕放貨的立場,大家百思不得其解。

承攬運送人唯一的解釋,乃放貨的要求並非來自所謂的「本人」(the Principal)(以被委任為「代理人」的立場來看)(即World Road),是承攬運送人忽視了託運人的指示,未將貨物交予受貨人,反將貨物在西元2009年1月2日運返予World Road收執。

準此,本案承審法官最後判決:由於西元2008年11月29日託運人給予貨物承攬運送人的這封書面通知,內容要求承攬運送人應該儘速將貨物直接放予受貨人,是認定受貨人有權自承攬人處,請求交付貨物,縱使在沒有出示正本提單的情況下亦然。換句話說,這家World Road在香港的代理人,於受貨人未能提示正本提單的情況下,並無權剋扣貨物,蓋提示正本提單的要求,已經在最初階段明顯地被託運人所放棄矣。

柒、【結論】:
本案法官在審視所有提列證據後,認為直交提單上既已經載明受貨人的名稱,且自託運人西元2008年11月29日所簽發予香港貨運承攬運送人的信函中證實:受貨人的確有權利,在所謂「有決定性影響的這一刻」(at the material time)收取此項貨物。

另一方面,託運人亦證實受貨人已經繳清貨款,是在此一時間受貨人早已經是這一票貨物的所有權人了。然香港的這家承攬運送人,卻留置貨物,拒不交付予受貨人,更甚者其竟安排將貨物送返予當初委任它在香港處理交貨事宜的同行(即World Road),是其早已經扭曲了整件事實。

綜上所陳,本案的承審法官認為香港的這家貨物承攬運送業者,亟需負責賠償該票貨的實際價值(即美金65,926元,雙方對於此項數額並無爭議)。蓋其認為「直交提單」與「海上貨運單」無異,祇要受貨人能夠證明其為提單上所載的受貨人,即無需憑單即可以提貨,此一結果與美國司法實務見解相同。但與英國、新加坡(註十) ,與荷蘭(註十一) 等國的司法實務見解不同,蓋這些國家的司法實務見解,均認為直交提單仍係一種適用於海牙或海牙威士比規則的載貨證券,運送人仍有義務憑單始得放貨,不能僅核對受貨人的身份無訛,即予放貨。

最後值得一提的是,在西元2008年的「鹿特丹規則」中的第46條中,已經有明文規定,未來在所謂的「不可流通運送單證」中,將以「是否有載明憑單放貨」為準,來要求運送人是否憑單放貨,爰將可使各國不同的見解轉趨一致矣(全文完)。

(註解):
(註一): 所謂「直交提單」係指在提單上的「受貨人」欄,記載特定人姓名與名稱者而言。此方式的提單,第一次見諸於西元1916年的美國「聯邦載貨證券法」(或稱之為「伯美崙法」(Pomerene Act),其第2條規定:「記名式載貨證券,係指載明貨物交付或指定給特定人的憑證」(a fill in which it is stated that the goods are consignee or destined to a specified person is a straight bill))。
(註二): 或稱之為「無船公共運送人」(NVOCC)。
(註三): 嚴格地說,在本案裡應該是「正本直交提單」(the original Straight Bill of Lading)。
(註四): 案號:[DCC] 3467/2009。
(註五): 「直交提單」又稱「記名式提單」,係屬於「不可流通運送單證」(non-negotiable transport document)的一種(另一種則是「海上貨運單」(Sea Waybill),又稱「海上提貨單」)。
(註六): 「非流通」(non-negotiable)與「非轉讓」(non-transferable)不同。蓋可流通的載貨證券,其「善意持有人」的權利優於前手;而可轉讓的載貨證券,則係後手的權利不得大於前手(基本上與前者相反)。
(註七): 2009 (12 HKCFAR 185)。
(註八): 所謂的「簽證條款」,通常在遺囑與契約中均可看到,該條款主要係由見證人證明文件已在其面前簽署,且簽署的方式亦為其所見證。
(註九): 英國上議院(House of Lords)於西元2008年2月16日,於The Rafaela一案所持的見解。
(註十): 見Voss –v.- APL Co., Ltd.案,[2002] 2 Lloyd’s Rep. 707。
(註十一): 見The Duke of Yare案,APR-RechtB Rotterdam, April 10, 1997。

2011年10月27日 星期四

談無單放貨的原告舉證責任

壹、【前言】:
在民事訴訟程序中,當事人若要主張有利於己的事實者,其就前開事實即有所謂的「舉證責任」,而此乃謂之「舉證責任的分配原則」。對此,在台灣民事訴訟法的第277條:「當事人主張有利於己之事實者,就其事實有舉證之責任。但法律別有規定,或依其情形顯失公平者,不在此限」,與中華人民共和國民事訴訟法第64條:「當事人對自己提出的主張,有責任提供證據。當事人及其訴訟代理人因客觀原因不能自行收集的證據,或者人民法院認為審理案件需要的證據,人民法院應當調查收集。人民法院應當按照法定程序,全面地、客觀地審查核實證據」中,均有述及,而此即為司法實踐中關於當事人如何舉證的基本原則。

在海上貨物運送契約「無單放貨」的案件中,原告總是主張被告身為運送人,卻做了「無單放貨」的行為,因而造成原告無法收到貨款損失的事實。對此一主張,若依據前開「舉證責任的分配原則」,針對「無單放貨」的事實,原告理應承擔舉證責任,而其所提供的證據則應該具備有所謂的「真實性」(Authenticity)、「關聯性」(Contingence),與「合法性」(Legitimacy),這樣法院才能採信,以作為認定事實的依據(此即所謂的「證據三性」)。本文擬以中國大陸上海海事法院所審理的一樁「無單放貨」案例,來說明原告的舉證責任所在與程度。

貳、【案情】:
原告「甲貿易公司」以託運人的名義將若干紡織類商品出售給受貨人「乙公司」,貨款總額為美金2萬2千元整,付款方式雙方約定為T/T(電匯,Telegraphic Transfer)。在買賣契約簽署後,甲公司旋即將該批貨物交給被告「丙海運公司」承運,自上海起運至英國Felixstowe港,丙公司為此票貨物簽發了乙套編號為No. SH2057-01-101的提單,而該單上則載明了託運人(the Shipper)為甲公司,受貨人(the Consignee)及受貨通知人(the Notify Party)則均為乙公司,裝載港(the Loading Port)為中國上海,卸貨港(the Discharging Port)則為Felixstowe英國,承運貨物則為1,622箱的紡織品。甲公司開具的發票顯示該批貨物價值為美金2萬2千元,付款條件為T/T。甲公司為前開貨物辦理了報關出口手續。此後,甲公司收到乙公司的部分貨款計美金8千8百元後,即始終未收到剩餘部分的貨款,因此甲公司並未將正本提單依約交付予乙公司以領貨。換句話說,此票貨的正本提單一直都在甲公司的手上。但後來甲公司卻從「實際受貨人」丁公司處,得知提單受貨人已在未持有正本提單的情況下,在卸貨港將貨物提走。

甲公司認為其委託丙公司運送貨物,丙公司向其簽發了正本提單,雙方之間建立了「貨物運送契約」的法律關係,但丙公司卻在未收到正本提單的情況下將貨物放走,嚴重影響其合法的權益,遂據此向上海海事法院,提訴請求丙公司賠償其因丙公司「無單放貨」所造成的貨損美金1萬3千2百元,及相關的利息損失,外加訴訟費用。

參、【爭執點】:
一、甲公司與丙公司的貨物運送關係是否合法有效成立?
二、甲公司依據提單正本而要求丙公司承擔「無單放貨」的責任,是否有法律上與事實上的依據?

肆、【判決結果】:
一、上海海事法院審理認為,甲公司將出口貨物交由丙公司承運,丙公司所簽發的涉案提單正本足以證明丙公司已經接收了甲公司的貨物,以及甲公司與丙公司已經建立了海上貨物運送契約的法律關係。因此,甲公司與丙公司之間的貨物運送契約係依法有效成立的。

二、丙公司身為一貨物運送人,其有義務向提單上所載明的受貨人或依受貨人的指示交付貨物。祇是甲公司雖然持有全套的正本提單,但卻未能夠證明丙公司未憑提單放貨的事實(詳后述)。

此外,甲公司與乙公司約定付款方式為T/T者,且甲公司業已經收到部分的貨款,是甲公司不但未能證明丙公司已經「無單放貨」,其甚至已經收到部分的貨款。在這樣的基礎下,承審法官認為甲公司根據提單要求丙公司承擔「無單放貨」的責任,係缺乏事實上與法律上的依據。因此甲公司的訴請依法無據,不予支持,遂當庭宣判原告甲公司敗訴。

伍、【關於無單放貨事實證據內容的「關聯性」】:
依據目前大陸的司法實務見解,法官在審理「無單放貨」的事實問題時,其首要之務乃係要明確「無單放貨」事實是否發生、何時發生,及如何發生的。一般而言,原告應該要提供:原告在貨物交付地點提不到貨的證明、運送人或其代理人/受雇人對於放貨的確認,與貨物買方或者其他相關方確認已經提領貨物。

本案中,原告向法院提供了一份實際受貨人丁公司的傳真,在傳真內容中丁公司聲稱其已經收到全部貨物,而此份傳真是否即屬於前開所謂「貨物買方或者其他相關方確認已經提領貨物」的證明?祇是本案中原告甲公司並沒有與實際受貨人丁公司簽有任何貨物買賣契約,貨物買賣契約是存在於甲公司與乙公司之間,所以提單上記載的受貨人與受貨通知人均為乙公司而非丁公司。因此由實際受貨人丁公司所出具的傳真,應該不屬於所謂的「貨物買方已經提貨的確認」。

另,縱使丁公司係本案中貨物的最後買家或者受貨人,但是原告並沒有舉證證明丁公司最後是如何取得貨物的,也沒有提供提單記載的受貨人乙公司與丁公司之間的任何轉賣貨物的契約,遂無法舉證證明前開所謂「其他相關方」的「相關之處」,所以丁公司所出具的傳真亦不屬於「其他相關方確認已經提領貨物」的證明。

最後原告除了前開丁公司的傳真之外,並沒有其他證據可以佐證證明實際受貨人確實是丁公司,並且事實上也確實收到了涉案的貨物。相反地,原告甲公司與乙公司約定了T/T付款的支付方式,並已經收到部分貨款,故承審法院認為原告若要依據提單要求被告丙公司承擔無單放貨的責任,是缺乏事實與法律上的依據。

陸、【關於無單放貨事實證據內容的「真實性」】:
依據中華人民共和國的民事訴訟法以及相關證據規定要求(註一) ,凡當事人向法院提供證據時,即應該提供「原件」或者「原物」,以符合證據真實性的具體要求。在無單放貨的糾紛中,原告所提供的任何關於無單放貨的證明、確認等證據,基本上均需要符合上述規定的要求,即應該提供一方所出具的原件。

本案中,原告所提供的關於實際受貨人的證明僅僅是一份傳真,而非原件,即使從證據的真實性審查角度出發,也很難確認此份證據的真實有效性。

柒、【關於無單放貨事實證據內容的「合法性」】:
依照中華人民共和國的民事訴訟法以及相關證據規定要求,如果當事人向法院所提供的證據,係在中華人民共和國領域外形成的,則該證據應當經所在國的公證機關給予證明,並經中華人民共和國駐該國使領館予以認證,或者履行中華人民共和國與該所在國所訂立攸關證明手續的條約規定,當事人向法院提供外文書證或者外文說明資料,應當附有中文譯本。

一般「無單放貨」的案件均具有很強的「涉外因素」,因此許多證據都是在「境外」形成的,且多係屬於外文原本。因此,在原告對無單放貨事實舉證的時候,若涉及前開形式的證據均應該辦理相關的公證或認證手續,並且提供中文譯本,始能符合中華人民共和國法律關於證據法定形式的要求。如果當事人所提供的證據在形式上沒有符合前開法定要求的話,那麼也就無從期待就其證明內容上得到承審法院的認可與採信(註二) 。

本案中,原告甲公司所提供的實際受貨人丁公司出具的傳真係屬於所謂「境外」形成的證據,且又是英文本,但是原告在向法院舉證時既沒有辦理相關的公證或認證手續,更沒有提供相關的中文譯本,是沒有符合中華人民共和國法律有關證據形成的具體要求。雖然在某種程度上,原告辦理前開公、認證手續或者提供中文譯本亦會有一定程度上的舉證困難,而且可能會提高訴訟上的成本,但無論如何依照法律的明文規定,上述手續係屬於必須要辦理的、強制性的原告舉證義務,由於本案原告甲公司並沒有提供符合法定形式的「無單放貨」證據,最後導致其訴請沒有被承審法院接受的結果。

捌、【結論】:
本案中的原告甲公司雖然提供了所謂的「實際受貨人」丁公司所出具的一份傳真,聲稱其已經實際收到涉案的貨物,但是在證據形式暨內容上,均沒有符合所謂「證據三性」的要求(即「關聯性」、「真實性」,與「合法性」),故最後並沒有被負責承審的上海海事法院所採信,是導致於原告最後被判敗訴的最主要關鍵原因。法諺中常有謂:「舉證之所在,就是敗訴之所在」,因此在訴訟程序中,若依規定必須舉證證明對於自己「有利」的事實,但因細故無法充分舉證者,則恐怕就會落得與本案中原告甲公司相同的下場。其實攸關「證據三性」的要求,在許多案例中亦常有所聞,譬如說:一樣是發生在上海海事法院的(2005)沪海法商初字第349號民事判決案件,一樣是「無單放貨」的損害賠償糾紛,由於被告寧波美航所提交有關無船運送人的資格證書等證據均係複印本,且係形成於美國當地,是該境外形成的證據未辦理公證、認證等手續,被法院認為並不符合中華人民共和國法律規定的證據形式,而不能作為證據被採用。

總而言之,無論係依據台灣的「主張有利於己」,亦或是大陸的「誰主張,誰舉證」的舉證責任分配原則,對於所謂「無單放貨」事實的發生,原告均應當先行負擔舉證責任。當然原告關於「無單放貨」事實的舉證也需要符合關於證據的一般要求,即所提供的證據應當具有「關聯性」、「真實性」,與「合法性」,這樣才能被法院依法來採信,作為判決的事實根據(全文完)。

(註釋):
(註一):這裡所謂的「相關證據規定」,係指(中華人民共和國)「最高人民法院關於民事訴訟證據的若干規定」而言,通常簡稱「證據規定」。
(註二): 有關「文書證據力」的部分,在台灣的民事訴訟法則有以下的規定:
第356條(外國公文書):「外國之公文書,其真偽由法院審酌情形斷定之。但經駐在該國之中華民國大使、公使、領事或其他機構證明者,推定為真正」。
第357條(私文書):「私文書應由舉證人證其真正。但他造於真正無爭執者,不在此限」。
第358條(私文書):「私文書經本人或其代理人簽名、蓋章或按指印或有法院或公證人之認證者,推定為真正。當事人就其本人之簽名、蓋章或按指印為不知或不記憶之陳述者,應否推定為真正,由法院審酌情形斷定之」。

2011年10月14日 星期五

試析「船舶貨物裝卸承攬契約」之重要條款(拾)

貳拾肆、【準據法與管轄權(Applicable Law and Jurisdiction)】:
(建議條文一):
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English law.

Any dispute arising out of or in connection with this Agreement shall be referred to arbitration in London in accordance with the Arbitration Act 1996 or any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof save to the extent necessary to give effect to the provisions of this Clause.

The arbitration shall be to three arbitrators. A party wishing to refer a dispute to arbitration shall appoint its arbitrator and send notice of such appointment in writing to the other party requiring the other party to appoint its own arbitrator within fourteen (14) calendar days of that notice and stating that it will appoint its arbitrator as sole arbitrator unless the other party appoints its own arbitrator and gives notice that it has done so within the 14 days specified.

If the other party does not appoint its own arbitrator and give notice that it has done so within the fourteen (14) days specified, the party referring a dispute to arbitration may, without the requirement of any further prior notice to the other party, appoint its arbitrator as sole arbitrator and shall advise the other part accordingly. The award of a sole arbitrator shall be binding on both parties as if he has been appointed by agreement.
(譯文):
本契約受英國法的管轄與解釋。

任何因本契約所產生的爭議,悉提交英國倫敦仲裁,並在不影響本條款效力的情況下,遵守西元1996年的仲裁法、其增修法案,或更新法案的相關規定。

當仲裁程序開始時,仲裁程序悉依當時「倫敦海事仲裁員協會」(LMAA)的規定辦理。

基本上仲裁員應有3名。提交仲裁的當事人應指定其仲裁員,並以書面通知他方,同時要求他方在14天之內指定其自己的仲裁員。若他方未在指定期限內指定其本身的仲裁員者,則提交仲裁的一方當事人所指定的仲裁員,即成為唯一的仲裁員。

如果他方未能在14天之內指定其本身的仲裁員者,則提交仲裁的一方當事人,即得在毋庸繼續通知他方的情況下,將其本身所指定的仲裁員列為本案中的唯一仲裁員,而這唯一指定仲裁員所為的判斷則將拘束雙方當事人。

(建議條文二):
Nothing in this Clause shall prevent the parties agreeing in writing to vary these provisions to provide for the appointment of a sole arbitrator.

In cases where neither the claim nor the counterclaim exceeds the sum of US Dollars fifty thousand (USD50,000) or such other sum as the parties may agree, the arbitration shall be conducted in accordance with the LMAA (London Maritime Arbitrations’ Association) Small Claims Procedure current at the time when the arbitration proceedings are commenced.

Judgment upon the award rendered may be entered in any court having jurisdiction or application may be made to such court for a judicial acceptance of the award and an order of enforcement, as the case may be.

The parties shall use every reasonable endeavor to resolve disputes between them in the shortest possible time consistent with the proper presentation to the expert or arbitration tribunal of their submissions and evidence. The parties will in particular seek, in the absence of any reasonable excuse, to make such submissions and present such evidence within a period of thirty (30) days from the commencement of the proceedings. In the event of unreasonable delay by either party, the expert or the arbitration tribunal shall be entitled to make an award even if that party has failed to make or complete its submissions.
(譯文):
本條款中並未禁止雙方當事人書面合意增修契約,而改採單一仲裁員仲裁的方式為之。

假設索賠案件或其反訴標的所涉及的金額未能超過美金5萬元者(或其他雙方所同意的金額),則仲裁程序即應依照「倫敦海事仲裁人協會」的小額訴訟程序進行。

仲裁判斷出爐後,仍得視個案而定,選擇向有管轄權法院聲請判決,或聲請司法裁定認可之後,隨之進行強制執行的動作。

在不影響對專家或仲裁庭提示證據的情況下,契約雙方應盡一切合理的努力,來解決雙方之間的爭議。在缺乏合理藉口的情況下,契約雙方應特別尋求在程序開始後30天內即提示前開證據。假設契約另一方出現不合理遲延現象的話,則專家或仲裁庭依舊有權在沒有前開證據提示的情況下,做成仲裁判斷。

(說明):
「準據法與管轄」條款,可說是在一般契約中均可以見到的條款,說它簡單可算是簡單,說它制式亦可說是最常見,但其中「學問」之深與內容之廣泛,則足以寫成一本專書。蓋其中對於準據法與管轄地點的「選擇」,可說是「牽一髮而動全局」,祇是如何確定契約所選擇的準據法與管轄地點,是對自己最為「有利」的?當然首要前提,必須是當事人自己最熟悉的,且不是屬於「專屬管轄」的案件,始有可能(如果案件性質係屬於所謂具強制性的「專屬管轄」者,則亦不得由當事人自由選擇)。祇是有時候自己最熟悉的法令,在特殊個案中亦可能不是對自己最有利的法令。因此如何選擇,必須視個別情況而定,在請教過法律專家、律師之後,更應該視自己的實際需求,審慎評估所有的利弊得失之後,始得做出最後與最佳的判斷。而此一判斷,有時候亦常常是個案中最重要的決定。因此當事人斷不得在不經過深思熟慮後,即倉促做出攸關「準據法與管轄權」的選擇。

貳拾伍、【結語】:
本文從開頭到結尾,攸關「船舶貨物裝卸承攬」的這項專題,總共談了23個主要議題,但這其中並沒有涉及諸多「商業上的條款」(譬如說:Berth Productivity(碼頭生產力),即計算每一支吊桿在實際作業時,可以達到的「生產率」到底有多高,以計算碼頭公司未能達到約定標準時的損害賠償金額。其計算公式為:Berth Productivity=Total Moves/Berth Hours),或「技術上的條款」(譬如說:碼頭靠泊計劃,碼頭公司與客戶兩者間,應該如何相互配合的問題,或冷凍櫃、特殊櫃應該如何特別處置的問題等),但藉由介紹在「船舶貨物裝卸承攬」中一般常見的條款,以提供業者與碼頭公司在訂定契約時,可供遵循與思考的模式與方向,乃是本文撰寫的最大目的(全文完)。

試析「船舶貨物裝卸承攬契約」之重要條款(玖)

貳拾壹、【健康、安全與環境的需求(Health, Safety and Environment)】:
(建議條文一):
The Contractor is required to perform all work and provide all Container Terminal Services hereunder in a manner that ensures adequate protection for:

(a) its employees and those of its sub-contractors;
(b) other individuals entering the premises of the Contractor, such as but not limited to independent contractors;
(c) the public;
(d) the environment; and
(e) the Containers, the Cargo and the Container Ship

in full compliance with all applicable international, national, and local health, safety, and environmental laws, rules and regulations.

The Contractor shall strive for a continuous improvement of health, safety and environmental performance and ensure that management of health, safety, and environment is an integral and visible part of the Contractor’s work planning and execution processes.
(譯文):
碼頭公司必須依照國際、國家,與當地攸關健康、安全,與環境的標準,去執行所有的作業,與提供所有的貨櫃碼頭服務,以確保以下的對象均能夠獲得適當的保障:
(a) 碼頭公司的受僱人與次承攬人;
(b) 其他在碼頭公司轄區內的個人,包括但不限於,所謂的「獨立承欖人」(the Independent Contractors);
(c) 一般普羅大眾;
(d) 整體環境;與
(e) 貨櫃、貨物,與貨櫃船。


貨櫃公司會持續改善有關健康、安全,與環境方面的執行成效,並確保對於健康、安全與環境方面的管理,會是其工作計劃與執行階段上一重要與可被檢視的部分。

(建議條文二):
The Contractor is responsible for its sub-contractors’ compliance with health, safety and environment requirements of this Agreement.

The Contractor shall ensure to provide its employees, servants, agents and sub-contractors with the necessary and adequate safety and environment training for performing the Container Terminal Services.

The Contractor shall ensure that its hazardous waste (including such waste that Contractor is required to handle) is being collected, stored and disposed or recycled in an environmentally sound manner.

The Contractor shall establish programs to monitor green house gas emissions and waste amounts from its facility.

The Contractor shall monitor and evaluate its safety performance, as a minimum based on number of Lost Time Accidents (LTAs), and take such actions as are required or appropriate to rectify and improve its overall safety performance.
(譯文):
碼頭公司對於其次承攬人是否能夠遵守本契約中的安全,與環境保護需求,必須負起責任。

為提供貨櫃碼頭服務,碼頭公司確信會提供其受僱人、雇員、代理人,與次承攬人,一套必要與適當的安全與環保訓練課程。

碼頭公司應確保其危險廢棄物(包括碼頭公司必須親自處理的廢棄物),已在符合一流環保標準的情況下,被蒐集、儲存、處置,或再利用。

碼頭公司應設立一計劃,以管控監督自設施本身所排放出的溫室(greenhouse)氣體與廢棄物。

碼頭公司應以「損失工時事故」(Lost Time Accidents)的數量來做為最基本的衡量,以監督與評估其安全執行成效,並採取任何必需與適當的行動,來修正與改善其整體的安全執行成效。

(建議條文三):
The Contractor shall establish and maintain a casualty/emergency response plan to deal with unforeseen events, such as but not limited to fire and explosion, and carry out periodical drills – with the involvement of relevant employees, servants, agents and sub-contractors – including in such a manner and with such frequency as may be required to comply with applicable law and regulation. The Contractor shall provide such casualty/emergency response plan to its agents and sub-contractors and, on request, to the Customer.

The Contractor shall ensure that the customers, its employees, servants, sub-contractors, agents and other individuals receive clear health and safety instructions when entering the Container Terminal.

The Customer will ensure that it employees, servants, sub-contractors and agents follow the health and safety regulations and instructions instated on the Container Terminal by the Contractor.
(譯文):
碼頭公司應該建立與維持一套事故/緊急回應計劃,以面對突發事件的發生,包括但不限於火災與爆炸等意外事故,並應依相關法令定期結合攸關受僱人、雇員、代理人,與次承攬人舉辦演練。碼頭公司應提供前開事故/緊急應變計劃,予其代理人與次承攬人,或應要求提供予客戶參考。

碼頭公司應確保其客戶、受僱人、雇員、次承攬人、代理人,及其他個人,在進入貨櫃碼頭現場時,均已經清楚地瞭解攸關健康與安全的指導準則。

客戶應該確保其受僱人、雇員、次承攬人,與代理人等,均能夠遵守碼頭公司在貨櫃碼頭處所公佈攸關健康與安全的規定與指示。

(說明):
在全球產業日益重視環境保護與健康安全等需求的情況下,若干大型企業在簽約時,均會慎選對象,並提出符合環保需求的合作先決條件。若對方無法履行,或沒有辦法配合提供所謂的「遵循計劃」時(the Compliance Program),則可能喪失未來雙方合作計劃的可能性,爰台灣的產業界,無論係這裡所提及的傳統服務業,亦或是高科技產業等,未來在向外博取訂單時,無不應該事先準備一套環保需求符合計劃,以供客戶參酌,始得以順利訂定契約,而這裡所提供的示範條款,或許可以提供業者未來在規範此一需求時,一個思考的方向。

貳拾貳、【轉讓(Assignment)】:
(建議條文):
Neither Party may assign or transfer its rights, title, interest or obligations under this Agreement without the prior written consent of the other Party (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed), except that Customer may assign or transfer this Agreement to any company or other entity within the same Group. Any assignment or transfer, or any such attempt, in violation of this Clause, is considered a material breach and deemed void and of no effect.
(譯文):
任何一方均不得在未取得他方事前書面同意的情況之下(該同意不得為不合理的保留或遲延),將其在本約中的權利、名義、利益,或責任轉讓予他方,然客戶若將本約轉讓或移轉到與其在同一集團的其他公司者,則不在此限。其他違反本條規定的轉讓或移轉,或類似企圖,則將被視為係一嚴重的無效與違反行為。

(說明):
這裡的「禁止轉讓」條款,是屬於所謂的「一般性」條款,在其他契約中亦可以看得到。蓋當初在簽約的時候,雙方基本上應均會對所謂「合作的對象」,進行「身份」上的「盡職調查」(the Due Diligence Check),以確保未來合作愉快,是若有合作對象表示要將雙方已經簽署的契約移轉予「第三方」的情況下,大多會要求應該取得原合作夥伴的事前書面認諾才可以。蓋當初之所以願意簽署契約,同意合作的前提,乃是著重在對方的履約能力,因此若要更替履約對象,則勢必須先取得另一方的同意始可。祇是如果移轉的對象僅係同一集團下的公司時,則本約例外地允許毋庸踐行前開程序,即可自行轉讓,是乃一常見的「特例」。

貳拾參、【增修與委棄(Modification and Waivers)】:
(建議條文):
This Agreement contains the entire understanding between the Parties and supersedes and replaces any prior written or verbal agreement, representation, understanding, quotation or response to tender.

The Parties agree that neither Party has entered into this Agreement in reliance upon any representation, warranty or statement made by the other Party which is not set out or referred to in this Agreement.

Any additions and modifications hereto must be by written instrument signed by both Parties.

Failure by a Party to insist upon strict performance by the other Party of any term, conditions or provision of this Agreement shall in no way be deemed or construed to constitute a waiver of any right of such Party to insist upon strict performance at all times.
(譯文):
本約涵蓋了簽約雙方所有的認知與瞭解,且超越與取代了之前所有書面或口頭上的合意、承諾、瞭解、報價,或針對要約的回應。

簽約雙方同意沒有任何一方在當初,係依賴他方沒有在本約中所為的任何承諾、保證,或聲明而為簽約行為的。

本約的任何增補均需經雙方書面的簽署確認。

契約的一方未能夠嚴格要求他方依約履行,並不能被認定或視為,即是對於他方放棄要求繼續嚴格遵守或履行契約的權利。

(說明):
「增修與委棄」條款,亦屬於所謂的「一般性條款」,其他類型的契約中亦多有所見。本條款中強調本約的內容乃係當事人之間的合意,其取代了之前雙方所有的書面或口頭上的協議。換句話說,從雙方簽署的時點開始,不論之前雙方之間有任何其他的承諾、瞭解,祇要在契約中未被形之於文字,做成規範的,則無法對於簽約主體產生拘束力。總而言之,本條款中,主要即係強調祇有在契約中有寫到的,才可能對於當事人產生法律上的效力。因此雙方在簽約之際,務必要謹慎小心地審視,是否已經將之前雙方所合意的內容,均形之於文字,而放入契約的內容裡面。另,條款中亦強調契約一方偶爾對於他方的不遵守契約狀況有「宥恕」的行為,並不表示即放棄要求他方嚴格遵守契約規定的權利。換句話說,其並未放棄對於他方主張違約的權利(待續)。

試析「船舶貨物裝卸承攬契約」之重要條款(捌)

拾柒、【管理階層變動(Change of Control)】:
(建議條文):
If at any time during the Term of this Agreement there shall be a proposed or actual Change of Control of Contractor, or of Customer, the affected Party shall promptly notify the other Party in writing thereof.

Within thirty (30) days of becoming aware or receiving notice of the change of control, the other Party may serve written notice on the affected Party terminating this Agreement.

For the purpose of this clause, Change of Control shall mean:
(a) any sale or transfer of shares to any 3rd party of minimum fifty (50) percent + one (1) share of the total shares in the relevant company, or
(b) the possession, direct or indirect by any person or entity other than as presently exists, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of the parent or the Party, whether by the ownership of voting shares and/or exercise of voting rights, by contractual rights or otherwise.

For the avoidance of doubt, any internal reorganization or restructuring shall not be considered a Change of Control.
(譯文):
假設在契約期限內,無論係碼頭公司亦或是客戶,如果遇到可能的或實際上的管理階層變動,則變動的一方即應該以書面方式立即通知另一方。

契約的一方在知悉或收到前開書面通知的30天之內,有權以書面方式通知變動的一方終止本契約的繼續履行。

為本條款的目的,所謂「管理階層變動」意即:
(a) 將相關公司最少50%,外加一股的股份賣出或移轉予第三者,或
(b) 不論係依其所擁有的投票權股數亦或是依約行使投票權,凡直接或間接地由非目前的主體來擁有或控管契約一方或其母公司的管理階層與策略訂定能力者,稱之。

為避免疑義,任何屬於公司內部的組織重整或再造工程,均不得視為係前開所謂的「管理階層變動」。

(說明):
這裡所提到攸關簽約主體管理階層的變動問題,其實在其他契約中凡注重簽約一方的履約能力問題,大抵均會有類似條款的約束。蓋當初雙方會有簽約的合意,完全係看重對方的資格,是若資格有所變動,則勢必在未來履約能力上造成影響,所以應有條款特別來規範。若有此一現象(即原有的管理階層發生變動,而影響到其履約能力時),則授權另一方得自主決斷是否繼續契約的履行(當然其亦可以採取信任新經營團隊的態度,而主張契約的繼續履行)。祇不過若是屬於組織內部的調整、重組,其明顯不會影響原履約能力者,則明示排除在此一範圍之外。

拾捌、【分隔性(Severability)】:
(建議條文):
If any provision of this Agreement is invalid, illegal or unenforceable, in any respect that provision shall be severed from the remainder and the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not be affected or impaired in any way.
(譯文):
假設本契約中的任一條款有無效、不合法,或無法執行的情況發生時,則此一條款即應分隔出來,而不影響到其他條款的效力、合法性,與可執行性。

(說明):
此「分隔性」條款最主要的目的,乃係要將契約中所發現的無效、不合法,或無法執行的條款挑出來,讓其他條款、甚至於整體契約能夠繼續「存活」下去而不受到任何影響,此一條款亦可以在其他種類的契約中發現,係屬於所謂「一般性」的條款。

拾玖、【保密與公開性的限制(Confidentiality and Publicity Restrictions)】:
(建議條文):
The Parties undertakes that all documents, records, correspondence and transactions whether in hand or electric copy concerning the operation and business of the other Party shall always be held and be deemed confidential and shall, save as contemplated by this Clause not be disclosed to any third party. The Parties further agree and undertake that they and their respective directors, officers, employees, advisers, contractors, agents, servants, lawyers or advisers will treat and safeguard as strictly private and confidential the terms and conditions of this Agreement and will not at any time, without the prior written consent of the other, disclose or reveal such terms and conditions to any third party unless such matter is in the public domain (be reason other than disclosure by that party) or if that Party shall be compelled by any judicial authority to disclose any such information.

No Party shall make any announcement, statement or press release concerning the terms and conditions of this Agreement without the prior written consent of the other.

The provisions of this Clause shall remain in full force and effect notwithstanding the expiry of the Term or earlier termination of this Agreement (for whatever reason).

Neither party shall knowingly use or permit the use of any information obtained during their relationship to the disadvantage of the other Party or for the profit of its own or any third party’s interest.

Unless otherwise agreed, neither party shall at any time, whether during or after the Term hereof:
(a) Display or in any other way use the name, the Marks or any content of the other party in which the other Party or any of its affiliates or subsidiaries hold a copyright, in connection with publicity, advertisements, or promotion of a Party’s own business; or
(b) Identify the other Party or any of its affiliates or subsidiaries in any manner on its own customer list or its website (or on any third party website) or include its name in the metatags of any website.
(譯文):
雙方承諾所有有關對方的營運文件、紀錄、聯繫與交易資料(不論係手寫,亦或是電子版本),均應視之為機密,而不得對外揭露(除非本條款另有規定者外)。雙方更進一步同意與承諾其與個別的董事、主管、員工、顧問、承攬人、代理人、受任人,或律師,均應將本約的條款視為機密,且無論如何在沒有取得對方事前書面同意的情況之下,均不得對外揭露本約條款的內容(除非這些事項已經為公眾所知悉,或其係被司法機構所強制揭露的)。

在未得他方事前書面同意的情況下,任何一方均不得對外發表、聲明,或為任何新聞稿揭露攸關本契約條款的內容。

縱使本契約屆期失效或提前終止(無論任何原因),本條款亦持續有效。

任何一方絕不可以在知情的情況下,使用或允許使用在契約有效情況下所取得的任何資訊,去詆譭對方,或為自己或第三人擷取利益。

除非另有同意,否則任何一方均不得在任何時間(無論係在契約期限內或之後):
(a) 指示或以其他方式使用他方或其子公司、分公司,在公開場合、刊登廣告,或業務推廣上,擁有著作權保護的名稱、標誌,或任何其他內容;或
(b) 在其客戶名單或網頁上(或其他第三人的網頁上)標示他方或其子公司或分公司的名稱,或在任何網頁上將他方名稱列為「元標記」(meta tags)。

(說明):
這裡談到攸關保密與公開聲明的限制問題,事實上此一條款亦多可在其他不同類型的契約中見到,可說是一重要的條款,但亦常常為一般人所忽視。由於在契約的談判過程中,雙方多多少少均會釋放出一些攸關自己,或其子公司、分公司的營業機密或資訊,因此在談判之初或之前,其實雙方即應該就此部分,議定保密的條款或備忘錄,避免在談判破裂,無法簽署正式契約時,仍能夠確保之前所釋放的資訊,仍然能夠被保護。

至於負有保密責任的主體,則不限於契約主體一方,甚至包括其董事、職員、代理人、顧問等,均要求負起保密的責任。至於保密責任的存續期間,則不因為契約的提前或屆期終止而失效,是為另一需注意之點(保密的存續期間,可以視雙方與實際產業上的需求而訂定,並不一定是永久持續。蓋有可能保密資訊,經過一段期間,即有可能因為產業的水準進一步提昇,而失去其保密的意義矣)。

本條款中,另外提及攸關使用對方名稱或標誌上的限制,概公司名稱或標誌,大抵均會有商標權或其他智慧財產權的登記,因此在使用上應該要有所節制,並不因為此一契約的簽署,即視為對於此而有所開放。

貳拾、【安檢措施(Security Measures)】:
(建議條文):
Customer is a validated member of the U.S. C-TPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism), and will enroll into similar frameworks under development, amongst others currently in the EU based on the WCO (World Customs Organization) Framework of Standards. It is Customer’s obligation to communicate its cargo custodial responsibilities under C-TPAT and other customs-to-business supply chain security partnerships to its transportation related service providers. These include, whether relevant to the services that Contractor provides to and for the Customer under this Agreement:

(a) Adequate physical containers and deterrents that guard against unauthorized access to Contractor’s facility;
(b) For all cargo and containers subject of this Agreement, container integrity must be maintained to protect against the introduction of unauthorized material and/or persons while in Contractor’s custody and/or control;
(c) In compliance with applicable laws and regulations, Contractor must have processes in place to screen prospective employees and to periodically check current employees, as appropriate.

Contractor will periodically be requested to confirm its commitment to Customer’s security expectations. For further information regarding the C-TPAT security commitment, please consult the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) website for the appropriate security criteria at: http://www.customs.gov/xp/cgov/import/commercial_enforcement/ctpat/security_criteria/
(譯文):
客戶係參與美國「海關-商貿反恐怖聯盟」(the U.S. C-TPAT)(註一) 的有效會員,除此之外其亦準備加入目前歐盟根據全球海關組織的標準架構,所發展出來的類似組織。客戶應盡的責任,包括將其在C-TPAT所應盡的貨物保管責任,與其他位於海關作業供給鍊上提供運送服務攸關的安管夥伴,取得溝通聯繫。這其中包括,在本約中碼頭公司所提供予客戶的若干服務內容:

(a) 適當的圍籬與阻隔,以防範外人非法入侵碼頭公司;
(b) 本約中所有的貨物或貨櫃,在碼頭公司的管領範圍內,必須防範貨櫃的完整性不被非法入侵的物質及(或)人員所破壞;
(c) 在相關法令許可的前提之下,碼頭公司在適當場合必須對於嫌疑員工進行監控措施,並對於目前員工進行不定期抽檢。

碼頭公司將會不定期地被客戶要求確認是否達到安檢需求。攸關C-TPAT安檢承諾需求,請直接上美國「海關邊境保護局」的網站,以擷取相關訊息:http://www.customs.gov/xp/cgov/import/commercial_enforcement/ctpat/security_criteria/

(說明):
碼頭公司所經營的範圍,通常非常遼闊,因此安檢措施必須非常嚴謹,始得確保客戶的貨物安全無虞。因此契約中要求碼頭公司必須依照美國C-TPAT所制定的相關要求,來執行安檢措施,應該不算係一過分的請求。至於C-TPAT詳細的需求,則在契約中亦提供美國「海關邊境保護局」的專屬網站,以供碼頭公司查詢(待續)。

(註解):
(註一):C-TPAT是美國國土安全部海關邊境保護局(即U.S. Customs and Border Protection, 簡稱CBP),在911事件發生後所提議成立的自願性計劃,並於西元2002年4月16日正式施行。C-TPAT全名為Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism, 即「海關-商貿反恐怖聯盟」。透過C-TPAT的安全建議,CBP希望能與相關業界合作建立供應鍊安全管理系統,以確保供應鍊從起點到終點的運輸安全、安全訊息,及貨況的流通,從而阻止恐怖份子的滲入。

試析「船舶貨物裝卸承攬契約」之重要條款(柒)

拾伍、【違約情事(Events of Default)】:
(建議條文一):
The following shall constitute Events of Default on the part of a Party to this Agreement:
(a) Failure by a Party to observe any term, condition or provision of this Agreement, including but not limited to, any breach of a representation, warranty, undertaking or obligation contained herein after having been given not less than fourteen (14) days written notice from the non-defaulting Party asking the defaulting Party to rectify the same;
(b) A petition is filed, or an order made, or an effective resolution passed, for the compulsory or voluntary winding-up or dissolution of a party (other than for the purposes of amalgamation or reconstruction in respect of which prior written notice has been received from the other Party) or any proceedings analogous to winding up proceedings are begun in any jurisdiction in relation a Party or if a Party suspends payment of, or is unable to or admits inability to pay its debts in general as they fall due or makes any special arrangement or composition with creditors generally or any class of its creditors;
(c) An administrator, administrative receiver, receiver or trustee or similar official is appointed over the whole, or material part, of the property, assets or undertaking of a Party or if a Party applies for, or consents to, any such appointment;
(d) An encumbrance takes possession of, or distress or execution is levied upon, the whole or a material part, of the property, assets or undertaking of a Party; or
(e) A Party ceases, or threatens to cease, to carry on its business, or disposes or threatens to dispose of a material part of its properties, assets or undertakings, or such a part is seized, nationalized, appropriated or compulsorily purchased by or under the authority of any government whether de jure or de facto.
(譯文):
以下將構成契約當事人一方的違約情事:
(a) 在未違約方以不少於14天的書面通知要求補正後,違約的一方仍無法遵守本約的約定,包括但不限於違反本約的聲明(representation)、保證(warranty)、承諾(undertaking),或責任(obligation)事項。
(b) 一項強制性或自願性的解散(winding-up)或清算(dissolution)聲請、命令,或有效決議已被提出、發布,或作成(但為了公司合併(amalgamation)或重整(reconstruction)的目的,且已經收到事前書面通知者,則不在此限),或其他被解讀成解散程序已經開始的程序,或有暫停付款、無法付款,或承認無力償付一般性到期債務的現象,或其與一般債權人或其他有優先受償債權人有為特別安排或整合的情況發生。
(c) 管理人、行政上清算人、清算人或受託人,或其他類似人員已被指定,來管理一方全部,或主要部分資產,或契約一方聲請或同意前開人員的指定。
(d) 一方的所有或主要資產有被設定負擔、擔保,或被聲請強制執行的情形。
(e) 一方停止或可能停止營業,或處置或可能處置其主要資產,或其被政府機構(無論係法律上的(de jure)或者是事實上的(de facto)政府機構)扣押、國營化、侵吞,或強制收購。

(建議條文二):
Upon the occurrence of any Event of Default, the non-defaulting Party may give written notice of the Event of Default to the defaulting Party. Such notice shall set forth in adequate detail the nature of the Event of Default and, in the case of Events of Default which the non defaulting Party considers are capable of remedy, the steps necessary to rectify such event of Default. Following the giving of such notice of an Event of Default, the Parties agree, in respect of Events of Default under Clause (a) above which the non-defaulting Party considers capable of remedy, to consult for a period of up to fourteen (14) days (or such longer period as the Parties may agree) as to what steps shall be taken to cure or mitigate the consequences of the Event of Default in question.

The non-defaulting Party shall have the right to terminate this Agreement by giving the defaulting Party no less than seven (7) days written notice either on giving notice under above mentioned clause or, in respect of Events of Default Clause (a) which the non-defaulting Party considers capable of remedy, following the expiry of the consultation period set out in the above mentioned clause.

In respect of Events of Default under Clause (b)-(e) above, the non-defaulting Party may terminate the Agreement instantly against written notice to such effect to the defaulting Party.
(譯文):
發生違約情事,未違約的一方得以書面通知違約的一方。前開通知應適當地敘明違約情事的本質,與補救的措施(假設該情事在未違約的一方認為係可以補救的話)。在前開通知發出後,針對前開違約情況(a),在未違約方認為可補救的情況下,契約雙方同意在14天內(或其他同意更長的期間)彼此協商出一補救或減少違約影響的措施。

未違約的一方在前開通知出具時,或針對前開違約情況(a),在協商期間終止後,得終止本契約的繼續履行。

至於違約情況(b)至(e),則未違約方得立即以書面的通知終止本契約的繼續履行。

(說明):
「違約情事」條款在一般契約中,大多會依違約的類型予以分門別類,針對若干不是太「嚴重」的違約情事,似均會給予所謂的「寬限期間」(grace period)予以補救(譬如說:前開範例條款中的(a)類即為適例)。至於比較嚴重的違約情事,譬如說:強制性或自願性的解散、清算公司,則似無給予寬限期間的必要,契約當事人遇有此一情況,即得立即選擇終止契約的繼續履行。

總而言之,「違約情事」條款可說係屬於一般性的條款,在多數契約中均可以看的見。然當事人首應注意者,乃對於若干屬於管理學上的「組織再造」,或集團公司內部整合合併的情況,建議可以預先給予豁免,以避免這種情況亦被誤認為係屬於「違約」,進而導致啟動「違約情事」機制的一連串動作。

拾陸、【不可抗力(Force Majeure)】:
(建議條文一):
The Parties shall be excused from performing all or part of their obligations under this Agreement, shall not be deemed to be in breach of any of their obligations hereunder and shall not be liable for any breach of their obligations hereunder, if and to the extent that, they are unable to perform or are prevented from performing their respective obligations hereunder by reason of an Event of Force Majeure which has been notified by the Party affected by the Event of Majeure to the other.

Notwithstanding the above mentioned clause the Parties shall:
(a) make all reasonable efforts to prevent or minimize and thereafter mitigate any delays or costs occasioned by any Event of Force Majeure, including recourse to alternative acceptable sources of services, equipment and materials; and
(b) use their best efforts to ensure the earliest possible resumption of normal performance of this Agreement and any related agreements after the occurrence of any Event of Force Majeure and perform their obligations hereunder and thereunder to the maximum extent practicable.
(譯文):
假如在某種程度上,契約當事人因為已經宣告的不可抗力事件導致無法履行或被迫無法履行其各自的責任者,其即毋庸履行本約中所有或部分的責任,同時也不會被視為係違反約定或應為此負責。

雖有前開規定,契約當事人應:
(a) 盡所有合理的努力去避免、縮小,與控制任何因不可抗力事件所導致的遲延或費用,包括向其他可接受的替代性服務、設備與材料進行追索,及
(b) 盡最大努力以確保本契約及其他相關契約,在發生不可抗力事件後,早日回歸正常運作,與盡最大的可能去履行各自的責任。

(建議條文二):
Notwithstanding the above mentioned clause, no relief shall be granted to a Party pursuant to this Clause to the extent that such failure or delay in performance would have nevertheless been experienced by such Party had the relevant Event of Force Majeure not occurred.

If the Contractor cannot provide all or a substantial part of the Container Terminal Service or otherwise substantively perform its obligations under this Agreement as a result of an Event of Force Majeure for a period exceeding sixty (60) days, or such shorter or longer period as may be agreed by the Parties in writing, then either Party may terminate this Agreement by notice in writing to the other provided always that if, as a result of an Event of Force Majeure it is likely, in the Customer’s reasonable opinion, that all or a substantial part of the Container Terminal Services are likely to be materially affected and not performed by the Contractor in accordance with this Agreement within such sixty (60) day period then the Customer shall be entitled, in its sole discretion, to freely switch the affected part of its operation and Container and Cargo volumes to an alternative terminal or terminals to prevent from suffering further loss and/or damage arising from the Event of Force Majeure for as long as the Event of Force Majeure persists.

Notwithstanding the above mentioned clause, neither Party shall be entitled to claim or collect any damages, proceed to exercise its right of termination or suspend performance, or proceed to exercise its rights to serve a notice of an Event of Default while the applicability, nature or effect of an Event of Force Majeure is disputed by the other Party hereunder.
(譯文):
雖有前開規定,但假設攸關的不可抗力事件並未發生,亦未有所謂違約或遲延履行的情況發生,則不會有前開豁免的適用。

假設碼頭公司因不可抗力事件,導致無法提供所有或主要部分的貨櫃碼頭服務超過60天(或其他雙方書面同意較短或較長的期間),則任何一方均得以書面通知他方終止本約的繼續履行,但祇要是在客戶合理的判斷下因為類似不可抗力事件的發生,所有或主要部分的貨櫃碼頭服務可能嚴重地會受到影響,導致碼頭公司無法在前開60天內依約履行的話,則客戶即得以自有的判斷,自行轉換其受影響的部分,與調整貨櫃與貨物的總量到其他替代碼頭,以防阻更進一步的損失繼續擴大。

縱有前開規定,但祇要對於不可抗力事件的適用、本質,或影響,雙方若仍有爭執的話,則任何一方即不得針對損害、保險金要求賠償或收受、暫停履行,或依約簽發違約通知。

(說明):
所謂的「不可抗力」,顧名思義即事件之所以發生,已超乎雙方所得控制的範圍,是其造成合約的無法繼續履行,但當事人均毋庸對此負責。雖然如此,但雙方當事人仍應盡所有合理的努力,去防阻或縮小任何因為不可抗力事件所造成的遲延或費用;並盡最大的努力去回復損害發生前的原狀。

另,值得一提的是(雖然在一般「不可抗力」條款中,常常是被忽略的部分):假設不可抗力事件已經持續將近60天(或其他當事人所同意的天數),則授權合約的任何一方均有權終止合約的繼續履行。此舉等於給了雙方當事人一個下台階,究竟會造成此一現象,並不能歸咎於任一合約當事人,所以適時地給予當事人可以跳脫困境的機會,可說是一「立意甚佳」的舉動(待續)。

試析「船舶貨物裝卸承攬契約」之重要條款(陸)

拾壹、【保險(Insurance)】:
(建議條文一):
Without in any way relieving the Contractor or detracting from its obligations and liabilities the Contractor shall, at its own expense, procure and maintain during the Term hereof policies of insurance with first class insurance companies covering and meeting i) any and all obligations and liabilities assumed by it under this Agreement and ii) any requirements by law, including public and third party liability.

Contractor shall perform any obligation required of it by such insurance/insurance providers and do nothing which could invalidate such insurance(s).

Contractor shall ensure that all its insurance policies provide that Customer is given immediate written notice of any cancellation, termination, suspension, revocation or material amendment in cover of such insurance(s).
(譯文):
在不免除或減輕碼頭公司責任的情況下,碼頭公司同意以自己的費用,在契約有效期間內,向一流保險公司購買取得合乎本契約與法令要求的保險(包括公共與第三人責任險在內)。

碼頭公司應該履行前開保險公司所要求的責任,且同意不做任何會使保單失效的行為。

遇有保單遭受到取消、延宕、撤銷,或大幅修正的情況時,碼頭公司應該立即通知客戶知悉。

(建議條文二):
If requested by the Customer, the Contractor shall provide the Customer with a copy of certificate or certificate of insurance evidencing the above arrangements. No such request or absence of such request shall be construed as waving the Contractor’s obligations to arrange any insurance required by law or by this Agreement.

No insurances or the limits of such insurances shall be construed in any way as a limit of Contractor’s liability hereunder.

Breach of any of Contractor’s obligations in this Clause shall be deemed a material breach of this Agreement and entitle Customer to terminate this Agreement immediately without liability or obligation on giving written notice to such effect, and/or to take out required insurance at a reasonable level on behalf of the Contractor, at the Contractor’s expense.
(譯文):
依客戶的要求,碼頭公司應即提供「保險證明文件」或其繕本以證明前開安排。客戶沒有要求並不表示碼頭公司即得毋庸依約或法令安排保險。

保險上的安排或限制,並不能視為就是對碼頭公司在責任履行上的限制。

碼頭公司違反本條的規定,將被視為係一嚴重的違約情況,客戶對此得立即以書面通知終止契約履行,而毋庸負擔任何責任,並得以碼頭公司的費用購置合理的保險。

(說明):
在「船舶貨物裝卸承攬契約」中,對於碼頭公司保險上的安排,設下了若干規範,其中包括必須向一流保險公司購買保單,至於何謂「一流」保險公司,則視市場上的信用評等結果而定。另,碼頭公司依照客戶的要求,亦必須提供「保險證明文件」供客戶收執。遇有保單遭到取消、撤銷等失效情況時,碼頭公司亦應該於第一時間立刻讓客戶知悉。

碼頭公司違反此一「保險」的規定,將被視為係一「嚴重」的違約現象,其結果可能導致「貨物裝卸承攬契約」的終止,爰碼頭公司不可不慎矣。

拾貳、【偷渡者/未經核准地潛入船舶(Stowaways/Unauthorized Access to Ships)】:
(建議條文一):
The Contractor warrants that it will enforce strict controls to prevent unauthorized access to the Port and/or the Container Terminal and will provide such additional security personal and equipment at the Port and/or the Container Terminal so as to ensure that the Containers and the Container Ships at the Port and/or the Container Terminal are safe and secure at all times.

The Customer warrants that it will arrange for access control to be performed at the gangway on all Customer Container Ships whilst berthed at the Container Terminal, in order to assist the Contractor to prevent stowaways and/or unauthorized access to the Customer Container Ships.
(譯文):
碼頭公司保證其會進行嚴格的管控,以防止未經授權人員潛入港口及(或)貨櫃碼頭,並會在港口及(或)貨櫃碼頭處提供額外的安全人員與設備,以確定在港口及(或)貨櫃碼頭內的貨櫃與貨櫃船舶均受到安全的保護。

客戶保證其會在所有客戶的貨櫃船停泊在貨櫃碼頭時,在舷梯前安排進出入管制,以協助碼頭公司防阻偷渡客及(或)未經核准人員潛入客戶的貨櫃船。

(建議條文二):
Notwithstanding the above, in the event that stowaways or other unauthorized persons are found on-board any of the Customer Container Ships either berthed at, or which have been berthed at, the Container Terminal and whether found whilst at the Container Terminal or after departure, and such persons may have, or did in fact, gain access to the Customer Container Ship whilst berthed at the Container Terminal, then all reasonable and necessary costs, expenses, fees, fines, penalties and other and/or liabilities incurred by or on behalf of the Customer shall be for the account of the Contractor. The Customer shall, if necessary, provide copy documentation and receipts to support any amounts claimed against the Contractor by the Customer under this Clause, where applicable.

Contractor warrants and undertakes to implement each and every security measure necessary or desirable to ensure that the Port and the Container Terminal complies with the highest international standards concerning security and the Contractor shall grant to the Customer the right to audit and/or approve such security measures at any time throughout the Term.
(譯文):
雖然如此,假設在客戶貨櫃船上發現有偷渡客或其他未經核准的人員,不論現正停泊或曾經停泊在貨櫃碼頭處,也不論是在貨櫃碼頭處或離開碼頭後,這些人或許在停泊時,已經取得許可進入客戶的貨櫃船(實際上的確如此),則客戶因此所產生的所有合理與必要的成本、支出、費用、罰金、懲罰,及(或)責任均應該由碼頭公司負責。客戶在必要的情況下,應提供文件與收據,以證實其向碼頭公司索賠的數額。

為確保港口與貨櫃碼頭能夠達到國際上的最高安全標準,碼頭公司保證與承諾其會執行每一項安全措施,而客戶在碼頭公司的授權下,亦得於契約有效期間內,隨時稽查核准前開安全措施。

(說明):
碼頭公司營運範圍,往往橫跨數座碼頭,幅員遼闊,然在船舶靠泊進行裝卸時,則常常會因為作業繁忙,而導致無法兼顧到人員管制的這個部分。縱使平日在進出港區的時候,即有門禁管制,但偷渡案件仍層出不窮,可見安全防護部分仍有加強的空間。以碼頭使用者的角度而言(即契約中的所謂「客戶」),碼頭公司提供安全的防範,以阻擋偷渡客或其他未經核准人員的入侵,乃是最基本應為的措施,所以其可以在契約有效期間內,去審視(甚至去核准)碼頭公司所為的安全防護措施是否妥當。

拾參、【結果性損害(Consequential Damages)】:
(建議條文):
Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, neither Party shall be responsible for or liable to the other for any consequential, punitive or other similar indirect loss or damages, whether foreseeable or not, which shall include, without limitation, loss of profits, loss of revenue or business or goodwill and event if such claim or liability were to be based upon any breach by a Party of its obligations under this Agreement or any negligent act, fault or omission by a Party.
(譯文):
除非本約另有規定,否則任何一方均不對結果性、懲罰性,或其他類似間接性的毀損或滅失負責,不論前開損害是否係可以被預見,但包括並不限於,利潤、營收、營業,或善意上的損失均屬之。即使前開索賠或責任,係因為契約一方的違約、過失、錯誤,或忽略行為所導致,仍有適用的餘地。
(說明):
所謂「結果性的損害」(the Consequential Damages)(或稱之為「衍生性的損害」),其包括了所謂利潤上的損失等,祇是該損失是遠隔的、間接的,如果當事人要獲得此一賠償,則必須舉證證明此一損害是違約方在訂約的時候即得預見或應當預見的(前乃是「一般性」的規定,但在本約中其已經排除縱使「損害」係可以預見的,其仍不在可以請求賠償的範圍之內)。另,本「貨物裝卸承攬契約」針對此類損害的發生,明訂縱使是因為契約當事人一方的過失所造成,亦有適用的餘地。事實上,此一觀念散見於一般契約之中,爰未來大家在草擬契約的時候,均可以參考應用。契約中亦澄清縱使損害的發生,係因為當事人的過失所造成的違約狀況,亦有適用的餘地。換句話說,面對此一「結果性的損害」,則除非另有規定外,否則不論任何情況,當事人均毋庸負責。

拾肆、【終止(Termination)】:
(建議條文):
This Agreement shall, subject to this Clause, terminate on the expiry of the Term or it may be terminated in any of the following ways:
(a) on at least three (3) months written notice from one Party to the other;
(b) In accordance with the Clause of Events of Default, instantly following the occurrence of an Event of Default;
(c) As a result of a continuing Event of Force Majeure in accordance with the Clause of Force Majeure; or
(d) Upon the occurrence of a breach of the Contractor’s insurance obligations, in accordance with Clause of Insurance.

Any such termination shall be without prejudice to the rights and liabilities of the parties which may have accrued as at the date of such termination or any rights and liabilities which may accrue thereafter in respect of any breach, fault, act or omission prior to such termination and shall be without prejudice to any provisions of this Agreement which are expressed to remain in force following any termination.

In the event of termination, the parties agree to comply with any obligation arising hereunder up to the termination date and, as appropriate, thereafter.
(譯文):
依本條款規定,本約於契約期滿或得依以下方式終止之:
(a) 以至少3個月的書面通知終止他方;
(b) 立即在發生違約情事後,依違約條款終止契約;
(c) 不可抗力事件持續中,依不可抗力條款終止契約;或
(d) 依保險條款,在碼頭公司違反保險義務時終止之。

針為契約終止前的違約、過錯、作為或不作為,該終止並不影響終止時已發生的權利與義務,或終止後可能會產生的權利與義務,且不會對於終止後已經明示依舊有效的條款造成影響。

發生終止情事時,契約雙方同意履行因此所產生的責任,直至終止當日或其後適當期日為止。

(說明):
「終止條款」亦屬於一般性的條款,其他契約中均有適用的機會。除契約屆滿期限自然終止之外,本約中亦授權契約的任一當事人,得以3個月的事前書面通知自由地終止契約的繼續履行,而毋庸負擔任何解約責任。或還有違約情況,在寬限期間後(grace period)仍未獲改善者,未違約的一方即得立即終止契約的繼續履行,並得另行請求違約一方的損害賠償責任。至於遇到「不可抗力」(Force Majeure)事件,在60天過後該不可抗力若仍持續存在時(註一) ,則任何一方即得終止契約的繼續履行(待續)。

(註解):
(註一):這裡的「60天」僅係舉例,亦有「180天」的規定,完全係視雙方當事人之間的合意而定。

試析「船舶貨物裝卸承攬契約」之重要條款(伍)

玖、【責任、補償與責任限制(Liability, Indemnity and Limitation of Liability)】(續):
(建議條文五):
Customer’s Liabilities and Indemnity:
Without prejudice to:
- remedies for specific performance of any obligation under this Agreement; and,
- rights of termination expressly set out in this Agreement,

The remedy of the Contractor in respect of any act or omission or negligence or breach/default of the Customer or any of the Customer’s sub-contractors and agent under or connected to this Agreement shall, with the exception of personal injury to or death of third parties or any willful acts and misconduct, be for damages(s) in contract and in lieu of (and not cumulative with) any other rights in tort.

(a) The Contractor shall notify the Customer without under delay upon becoming aware or any matter which gives rise to or may give rise to a claim for loss or damage(s) including injury or death under this Agreement stating in reasonable detail the nature of the matter and claim, and so far as practicable, the amount claimed.
(b) The Customer shall be liable for and shall indemnify the Contractor against any liability for claims or legal actions of any kind, including costs and expenses incidental thereto, in respect of:
(i) loss or damage to property of any person including that of the Contractor; and,
(ii) personal injury or death to persons.
caused, in each case, by the breach/default or negligence of the Customer, its agent or sub-contractors.
(譯文):
客戶的責任與補償:
在不影響本約攸關責任履行所生的補償,與終止權的情況下,因為客戶、其次承攬人,與代理人的作為、不作為、過失或違約行為造成碼頭公司損失的補償責任,將祇限於契約上所載的損失,而不包括或累計其他因為侵權行為所得主張的權利(對於第三者所造成的人身傷亡,或因為客戶的故意失當行為,則不在此限)。

(a) 碼頭公司應該於知悉毀損或滅失事件發生或可能發生的情況下,立即通知客戶攸關事件的本質與可能會索賠的金額(包括人身傷亡的部分)。
(b) 客戶應對碼頭公司因為(i)財產的滅失或毀損,及(ii)人員傷亡等事件所產生的索賠或訴訟案件,負擔起補償的責任(包括附屬的費用與支出)。

以上每一情況的發生均係因為客戶、代理人,或次承攬人的違約或過失所造成的。

(建議條文六):
The maximum liability of the Customer to the Contractor in relation to each incident shall:
in the case of loss or damage of whatever kind to property be limited to twenty million US Dollars (USD20,000,000); and
in the case of personal injury or death be limited to one million US Dollars (USD1,000,000) per person.
(譯文):
針對每一事件,客戶對於碼頭公司所負的最大責任為:
財產的毀損或滅失限制在美金2千萬元,及
人員的傷亡限制在每個人美金1百萬元。

(建議條文七):
The limitation(s) of liability per incident set out in the above mentioned shall relate to the whole of any losses and/or damages which may arise upon any one distinct occasion, although such losses and/or damages may be sustained by more than one person, and shall apply whether the liability arises at common law or by statute and notwithstanding such common law or anything contained in such statute.

Any liabilities of the Customer to the Contractor under this Agreement shall be limited and/or exempted as follows:

(a) In respect of any claim of the Contractor governed by an applicable international convention or mandatory national law governing the liability of owners and/or charterers (including without limitation charterers of slots) and/or operators and/or managers of ships and/or contractual carriers, or as may be limited by the Customer’s Bill of Lading, to the amount applicable or apportioned as a result of the invocation of a limitation of liability or any defense, exemption or exclusion from liability including by establishment of a limitation fund under such convention, law or Bill of Lading;
(b) The Contractor shall make no claim against the Customer for an amount less than US$500 (five hundred United States dollars) per incident or series of incidents arising from a common cause; and
(c) Except as expressly provided in this Agreement, in no circumstances shall the Customer be liable to the Contractor for any indirect or consequential loss or damages incurred or suffered by the Contractor including but not limited to loss of business, loss of earnings or profits.
(譯文):
前開條款中每一事件的責任限額,均與每一單一個案所產生的毀損及(或)滅失有關,雖然毀損(或)滅失可能會影響不止一個人,亦會適用普通法或成文法攸關的責任規定(不論普通法或成文法的規定如何)。

凡本約中客戶對於碼頭公司所負的責任,將會依以下規定限制及(或)排除之:

(a) 碼頭公司依照國際公約或國家強制法令規範船東、傭船人(包括但不限於艙位租用)、船舶營運人、管理人,及(或)契約運送人部分所為的索賠,或受限於客戶提單條款,將因責任限制條款的適用、責任的抗辯、免除或排除(包括因前開公約、法令或提單所成立的責任基金),而受限於適用或分攤的額度。
(b) 凡因一般原因所造成的單一事件或一連串事件的賠償金額,少於美金500元者,碼頭公司同意不向客戶進行索賠。
(c) 除非本約另有明文規定外,碼頭公司對於任何間接性或結果性的滅失或毀損,包括但不限於商業上的損失、營業上或利潤上的損失等,不得向客戶請求賠償。

(建議條文八):
In the event any claim is made against the Contractor by any third party in connection with the performance of the Container Terminal Services, the Customer shall indemnify the Contractor in respect of liability, loss or damage (including all reasonable legal fees) arising out of any such third party’s claim, but only to the extent that such liability, loss or damage is caused by a negligent act, fault or omission of the Customer.
(譯文):
假設有第三人因貨櫃碼頭服務的提供而向碼頭公司求償的話,則客戶同意對此負擔補償的責任(包括合理的法律費用),但祇限於前開責任、毀損或滅失,係導因於客戶本身的過失、過錯或失誤的行為。

(建議條文九):
In case of any claim for loss, damage or injury/death, the Contractor shall without undue delay notify the Customer of any such claim which the Contractor considers to have been caused by the Customer and shall take such action and give such information and assistance, as the Customer may reasonably request.
(譯文):
遇有任何滅失、毀損或傷亡的索賠,碼頭公司如果認為係因客戶所導致的結果,應立即通知客戶,暨在客戶合理要求下採取措施與提供資訊與協助。

(建議條文十):
Mitigation: Notwithstanding any other provision herein, both the Contractor and the Customer shall, at all times, take all reasonable steps to minimize and mitigate any loss, damage and/or costs and expenses for which the relevant Party is entitled to bring a claim against the other pursuant to this Agreement.
(譯文):
限縮:不論本約其他規定,碼頭公司與客戶兩者均應隨時採取合理的步驟,來減輕或限縮彼此得依約求償的任何滅失、毀損,及(或)費用與支出。

(說明):
如同前述,這裡的「責任、補償與責任限制」條款,可以說是「船舶貨物裝卸承攬契約」中最重要,且最具關鍵性的部分,在談完「碼頭公司應該負的責任與補償」部分之後,即談及「客戶的責任與補償」部分。兩相比較,兩者間的責任與補償有其共通之處,譬如說:均祇對於「違約責任」負責(the Breach of Contract),而不觸及到所謂「侵權責任」的問題(the Tort)(當然除非因客戶的故意失當行為,造成第三者的人身傷亡,始有「侵權行為」的問題)。另,客戶對於所謂「間接性損害」或「結果性」的滅失或毀損,亦明白表示毋庸負責。與「碼頭公司」的責任相同,在這裡「客戶」亦明白放棄對於小額案件的索賠(即少於美金500元的損害案件)。

除此之外,客戶對於碼頭公司應負的責任限額,亦明文訂定在美金2千萬元(財損部分),與美金1百萬元(每人)(人身傷亡的部分)之內。客戶若因國際公約或自行出具的提單條款,享有任何責任限制的特權時,則碼頭公司要求亦得比照援引。

拾、【求償通知(Claim Notification)】:
(建議條文):
(a) Either Party must without undue delay notify the other of an event which customarily a survey of loss or damage.
(b) The Customer shall not be entitled to pursue a direct claim against the Contractor under the terms of this Agreement unless the Customer has notified the Contractor of the claim not later than six (6) months after becoming aware of the event or occurrence giving rise to the direct claim, and shall have brought a formal claim or commenced formal proceedings in respect of the direct claim not later than twelve (12) months after becoming aware the event or occurrence giving rise to the direct claim, unless prior extension has been requested and granted.
(c) In respect of any claim or action arising under or connected with any indemnity in favor of the Customer contained in this Agreement, the Customer shall:
(i) within six (6) months of becoming aware of the claim or action against it, notify the Contractor in writing of the claim or action (the “Customer Indemnity”) against which the Customer is seeking to be indemnified together with all details of the Customer Indemnity in the actual knowledge or possession of the Customer at the time and becoming known to it at any time thereafter;
(ii) where the Customer Indemnity relates to a claim or action by any third party against the Customer, upon written request of the Contractor, permit the Contractor to take over the defense of such third party claim or action, provided always that it is reasonably possible and does not prejudice the Customer and that all costs of defense are borne by the Contractor.
(譯文):
(a) 任何一方遇有需要調查毀損或滅失情況時,應毫不遲疑地立即通知他方。
(b) 假若客戶未能於知悉事件發生後的6個月內向碼頭公司提出索賠,12個月內正式提出訴訟,除非前開期限有經提出延期並獲得許可,否則客戶即無法依約向碼頭公司直接求償。
(c) 任何依約有利於客戶的索賠或求償,客戶應該
(i) 於知悉後6個月內書面通知碼頭公司,據實以告所有詳細內容,並負責隨時補充之(此稱之為「客戶的補償」);
(ii) 當前開「客戶的補償」係有關於第三者對於客戶的索賠或求償時,則在合理可能且不影響客戶的情況下(所有抗辯費用的支出均由碼頭公司負責),應碼頭公司的書面要求,客戶允許碼頭公司負責對於此一第三者的抗辯事宜。

(說明):
「索賠通知」在某種程度上係屬於關鍵位置,足以影響到權利人的請求權行使。就以一般的貨損索賠為例,台灣的海商法第56條第1項規定:「貨物一經有受領權利人受領,推定運送人已依照載貨證券之記載,交清貨物。但有下列情事之一者,不在此限:一、…二、…三、毀損滅失不顯著而於提貨後3日內,以書面通知運送人者。…」,換句話說,貨物受領權利人若未能於提貨後3日內,以書面通知的方式通知運送人攸關貨物毀損滅失的情況,則未來縱在貨物受領之日或自應受領之日起1年內起訴者,亦喪失其貨損請求權矣。

在本契約中,客戶若未能於知悉事件發生後的6個月內,向碼頭公司提出索賠通知者,除非雙方另有協議延長期限,否則客戶即無法依約向碼頭公司直接聲請賠償事宜(待續)。

試析「船舶貨物裝卸承攬契約」之重要條款(肆)

玖、【責任、補償與責任限制(Liability, Indemnity and Limitation of Liability)】:
(建議條文一):
Contractor’s Liabilities and Indemnity:
Without prejudice to:
- remedies for specific performance of any obligation under this Agreement; and,
- rights of termination expressly set out in this Agreement,

The remedy of the Customer in respect of any act or omission or negligence or breach/default of the Contractor or of its servants, agents or sub-contractors under or connected to this Agreement shall, with the exception of personal injury to or death of third parties or any willful acts and misconduct of the Contractor or of its servants, agents and sub-contractors, be for damages(s) in contract and in lieu of (and not cumulative with) any other rights in tort.

The Customer shall notify the Contractor without under delay upon becoming aware or any matter which gives rise to or may give rise to a claim for loss or damage(s) under this Agreement stating in reasonable detail the nature of the matter and claim, and so far as practicable, the amount claimed.
(譯文):
碼頭公司的責任與補償:
在不影響本約攸關責任履行所生的補償,與終止權的情況下,因為碼頭公司、其雇員、代理人,或次承攬人的作為、不作為、過失或違約行為造成客戶損失的補償責任,將祇限於契約上所載的損失,而不包括或累計其他因為侵權行為所得主張的權利(對於第三者所造成的人身傷亡,或因為碼頭公司、其雇員、代理人,或次承攬人的故意失當行為,則不在此限)。

客戶應該於知悉毀損或滅失事件發生或可能發生的情況下,立即通知碼頭公司攸關事件的本質與可能會索賠的金額。

(建議條文二):
The Contractor shall be liable for and shall indemnify the Customer against any liability for claims or legal actions of any kind, including costs and expenses incidental thereto, in respect of:
(a) loss of, damage to and/or delay in delivery of any Customer Containers whilst in the custody and/or control of the Contractor, its servants, agents or sub-contractors;
(b) loss of, damage to and/or delay in delivery of any Cargo in the charge of the Customer, its agent, sub-contractors or their assignees whilst in the custody and/or control of the Contractor, its servants, agents or sub-contractors;
(c) loss of or damage to and/or delay to any Customer Container Ship (including, but not limited to, gear and other equipment) whilst at the Terminal;
(d) loss of, damage to and/or delay in delivery of any Hazardous Cargo in the custody and/or control of the Contractor, its servants, agents or sub-contractors; and
(e) injury or death to any person including where caused by or arising out of bad stowage of and in Containers stuffed by the Contractor, its servants, agents or sub-contractors

caused, in each case, by the breach/default or negligence of the Contractor, its servants, agents or sub-contractors.
(譯文):
碼頭公司應對於以下情況所產生的索賠責任或訴訟案件(包括費用與支出項目)對客戶負擔補償責任:

(a) 在碼頭公司、其雇員、代理人,或次承攬人管領範圍內的客戶貨櫃,發生滅失、毀損,及(或)遲延交付;
(b) 在碼頭公司、其雇員、代理人,或次承攬人管領範圍內,對於客戶、其代理人、次承攬人,或受讓人所負責處理的貨物,造成滅失、毀損,及(或)遲延交付;
(c) 客戶貨櫃船停泊在碼頭時,所發生的滅失、毀損,及(或)遲延(包括,但不限於,起重吊桿及其他設備);
(d) 在碼頭公司、其雇員、代理人,或次承攬人管領範圍內,對於「危險貨品」所造成的滅失、毀損,及(或)遲延;及
(e) 因碼頭公司、其雇員、代理人,或次承攬人不正確的貨櫃堆疊,所導致的人員傷亡。

以上每一情況的發生均係因為碼頭公司、其雇員、代理人,或次承攬人的違約或過失所造成的。

(建議條文三):
The maximum liability of the Contractor to the Customer in relation to each incident shall:
(a) in the case of loss of, damage to and/or delay in delivery of any Customer Containers be the lesser of either the depreciated value of the Container or the actual cost of repair, if in the Customer’s absolute discretion the affected Container is repairable, provided that in no-circumstances shall the liability exceed:

Two thousand five hundred US Dollars (USD 2,500) in the case of any regular 20’ dry Container;
Three thousand nine hundred US Dollars (USD 3,900) in the case of any regular dry Container of more than 20’ in length;
Twenty five thousand US Dollars (USD 25,000) in the case of any 20” reefer Container; and
Twenty eight thousand US Dollars (USD 28,000) in the case of any reefer Container of more than 20” in length:

The depreciated value of the Container shall be calculated on the basis of the respective value above with a straight line depreciation of 5.5% per annum from the date of manufacturing as per the Container’s container safety certificate until the day before the incident. However, the depreciation value shall in no circumstances be less than 40% of the respective value above.
(b) in the case of loss of or damage to and/or delay to any Customer Container Ship be limited to twenty million US Dollars (USD 20,000,000);
(c) in the case of injury or death to any person be limited to one million US Dollars (USD 1,000,000) per person.

Provided further that, in the cases of loss of, damage to and/or delay in delivery of any Cargo and Hazardous Cargo in no circumstances shall the Contractor’s liability exceed:

 the limits of liability upon which the Customer could rely in a claim brought against it in accordance with the terms and conditions contained within the Customer’s standard bill of lading or other contract of carriage in respect of the Cargo or Hazardous Cargo in question or,
 such other sum as the Customer may finally be adjudged to pay in respect of any cargo liability or, if applicable,
 the Customer Container Ship’s limitation fund

and on the understanding that if the Customer has agreed with any third party to increase the limits of its liability in any bill of lading or other contract of carriage in the case of valuable Cargo, Hazardous Cargo or otherwise, such increased limits shall only apply if the Customer shall have first notified the Contractor of such increased limits and the Contractor has agreed to accept such limits.
(譯文):
針對每一事件,碼頭公司對於客戶所負的最大責任為:
(a) 如果是客戶貨櫃的滅失、毀損或遲延者,則須視貨櫃的折舊價值或實際維修費用孰者為低為準(假設客戶判斷該貨櫃仍能修復的話),但無論如何其賠償責任不得超過:

一般20呎乾櫃 :美金2,500元
超過20呎的一般乾櫃 :美金3,900元
20呎冷凍櫃 :美金25,000元
超過20呎的冷凍櫃 :美金28,000元

貨櫃的折舊價值應依前開標準,自貨櫃出廠取得安全證書之日起,到事件發生的前一天為止,以每年5.5%的直線折舊比例計算,但折舊價值絕對不會低於前開標準的40%。
(b) 如果是客戶貨櫃船舶的滅失、毀損或遲延者,則限於美金2千萬元;
(c) 如果是人員傷亡者,則限於每個人美金1百萬元。

另,針對客戶貨物、危險貨物的滅失、毀損或遲延,碼頭公司的責任將不超過:
 依該貨物或危險貨物的提單或運送契約條款,客戶所得主張的責任限額,或
 客戶得最終自行調整的金額,或
 客戶貨櫃船舶的責任限制基金(如果適用的話)。

且假設客戶在其提單或運送契約上,因為載送高價貨物、危險貨物,或其他因素,而與第三者達成提高其責任限額的決定時,則此一決定僅有在客戶有事先通知且碼頭公司同意接受的情況下,始有適用的餘地。

(建議條文四):
The limitation(s) of liability per incident set out in the above mentioned shall relate to the whole of any losses and/or damages which may arise upon any one distinct occasion, although such losses and/or damages may be sustained by more than one person, and shall apply whether the liability arises at common law or by statute and notwithstanding such common law or anything contained in such statute.

Any liabilities of the Contractor to the Customer under this Agreement shall be limited and/or exempted as follows:

(a) Except as expressly provided in this Agreement, in no circumstances shall the Contractor be liable to the Customer for any indirect or consequential loss or damages incurred or suffered by the Customer including, but not limited to, loss of business, loss of earnings or profits;
(b) The Customer shall make no claim against the Contractor for an amount less than US$500 (five hundred United States dollars) for any single incident or series of incidents arising from a common cause;
(c) Unless stuffed and/or packed by the Contractor, the Contractor shall not be liable for loss or damage to any Cargo caused by insufficient protection or packing of the Cargo within the Container;
(d) The Customer shall not make any claim or allegation against any employee or agent of the Contractor which imposes or attempts to impose upon any such person any liability whatsoever or howsoever arising including any liability for negligence in connection with the Cargo or their carriage or handling, the provision of Terminal services or actions or omissions of any visitor of the Customer; and
(e) The Customer shall incorporate in its bill of lading to be issued for all Cargo carried by the Customer and loaded or discharged at the Container Terminal, a term providing that the Contractor shall be entitled to the benefit of all defences and limitations of liability, to the extent they are available to the Customer.
(譯文):
前開條款中每一事件的責任限額,均與每一單一個案所產生的毀損及(或)滅失有關,雖然毀損(或)滅失可能會影響不止一個人,亦會適用普遍法或成文法攸關的責任規定(不論普通法或成文法的規定如何)。

凡本約中碼頭公司對於客戶所負的責任,將會依以下規定限制及(或)排除之:

(a) 除本約另有明文規定外,碼頭公司絕不對於任何間接、結果性的毀損或滅失向客戶負責,包括,但不限於,營業上的損失,及收入或利潤上的損失。
(b) 凡因一般原因所造成的單一事件或一連串事件的賠償金額,少於美金500元者,客戶同意不向碼頭公司進行索賠。
(c) 除非係由碼頭公司進行貨物的裝填,否則碼頭公司針對貨櫃內因為包裝不當或保護不足所造成的貨物毀損或滅失,並不負擔任何責任。
(d) 客戶不得向碼頭公司的受僱人或代理人進行任何訴訟或索賠程序,企圖要求這些人對於貨物運送或處理上的過失、碼頭所提供的服務,或客戶的訪客的作為或不作為所造成的損失負責。
(e) 針對在本貨櫃碼頭裝卸運送的貨物,客戶應於提單中加註碼頭公司亦得主張其所得享有的責任限制條款及抗辯。

(說明):
「責任、補償與責任限制」條款,可以說是「船舶貨物裝卸承攬契約」中最重要,且最具關鍵性的部分,因為在這項條款裡會把碼頭公司在履行貨物裝卸承攬契約時,應負的責任與補償的最大範圍(包括契約的另一方,即攸關客戶責任與補償的部分),在這裡作清楚與明白的敘述,好讓雙方(包括保險公司在內)均能夠事先瞭解,以評估風險。

首先,條款中針對碼頭公司對於客戶所應該負的責任即開宗明義地限制在所謂「違約責任」(the Breach Contract Liability)的範圍內,並不包括所謂的「侵權行為責任」部分(the Tort Liability)(除非係攸關第三者的人員傷亡事件,或碼頭公司本身的故意失當行為所造成的,始有涉及「侵權行為」的問題)。另,針對客戶的貨櫃、亦或是貨物,凡祇要係置放於碼頭公司的管領範圍內所發生的滅失、毀損或遲延,碼頭公司均需對此負責。祇是其前提仍必須是碼頭公司在履約時有過失者,始得為之。在前開「過失責任」前提成立下,碼頭公司對於客戶的貨櫃、船舶,與人員傷亡的損害賠償限額,亦明文設定「限額」。針對客戶的貨物或危險貨物滅失、毀損的賠償額度,亦限制在客戶提單所訂定的賠償限額內。最後,針對事故損失在美金500元以內的話,客戶亦同意放棄主張,以減少契約雙方在文書作業上所產生的時間與費用浪費(待續)。

試析「船舶貨物裝卸承攬契約」之重要條款(參)

陸、【帳單與付款(Invoices and Payment)】:
(建議條文一):
The Customer shall pay the Contractor for the Container Terminal Services performed in accordance with the confidential schedule of rates hereto, which shall remain fixed for the duration of the Term unless otherwise adjusted in accordance with the provisions of this Clause.

If the Contractor is requested by the Customer to perform services other than Container Terminal Services set out herein, the Contractor shall perform such other services at rates and terms to be agreed between the Parties.
(譯文):
客戶為碼頭公司所提供的貨櫃碼頭服務應該依照本約所訂定的保密費率支付費用,而該費率除非依本約其他規定得以調整外,否則即應於本約效期內固定不變。

若客戶要求碼頭公司執行本約所約定貨櫃碼頭服務以外的事項者,碼頭公司即應該依照雙方另所同意的費率與條款來執行前開額外事項。

(建議條文二):
The Contractor shall, following each port call by a Customer Container Ship and without undue delay and no later than seven (7) days thereafter, submit an invoice covering the port call of that Customer Container Ship which shall include details and amounts charged for the use of the Container Terminal Services during that port call as well as supporting vouchers and sub-vouchers.

Any such disbursements must properly accounted for port call by port call and duly supported by vouchers and/or sub-vouchers. All supporting vouchers and/or sub-vouchers shall be in English, or accompanied by a true English translation, and shall clearly state the Container Terminal Services and any other services rendered and their purpose.
(譯文):
在不遲於客戶貨櫃船靠泊後7日內,碼頭公司即應開立發票連同所有的證明文件在內向客戶請款,而發票內容應包括靠港後使用貨櫃碼頭服務的明細與費用。

所有費用的支出應依照每一次的靠港紀錄為適當地計算,並輔以票證佐證。所有用以證明的票證,均應以英文記載,或輔以英文翻譯,並清楚地敘明所有的貨櫃碼頭服務及其他服務與目的。

(建議條文三):
All invoices shall be properly supported by a summary sheet containing confirmation of the matters to which the invoice relates.

The Customer shall pay all due and undisputed invoices or parts thereof into the account of the Contractor designated in the Contractor’s invoice within thirty (30) days after the date of receipt of each such invoice. If, notwithstanding this, the Customer pays any invoice within ten (10) days of receipt of such invoice, a rebate of three (3) percent shall apply and may be deducted by the Customer from the invoice before the Customer effects payment.

All undisputed invoice amounts which remain unpaid beyond the aforesaid thirty (30) day period shall bear interest at the annual rate of three (3) percent above the minimum lending rate set by the national or central bank, as applicable, of the country or territory of the relevant currency for any period after each amount has become overdue. Any invoice amounts which are disputed by the Customer shall only entitle the Customer to withhold payment of those amounts of the invoice which are in dispute.
(譯文):
所有發票均應該適當地佐以載有確認攸關發票事項的總表。

客戶應該於收到發票後的30天之內,依碼頭公司所指定的帳戶支付所有到期且沒有爭議的帳單。雖然如此,如果客戶在收到前開帳單的10天內,即行支付發票金額者,即得事先預扣3%的回饋金。

所有沒有爭執的發票金額,在前開30天後仍未支付者,即應負擔相關貨幣所在地國的國營或中央銀行所訂定最低貸款利率外加3%的遲延利息。任何有爭執的發票金額,客戶得先行保留而不予支付。

(建議條文四):
In so far as an amount of an invoice is disputed such dispute shall be resolved between the Parties in accordance with the provisions of Applicable Law and Jurisdiction save that for a period of thirty (30) days from the date on which the Customer raised the dispute the Parties shall endeavor to resolve the same amicably through good faith negotiations. Following resolution of the dispute any amount agreed or found to be payable by the Customer shall be paid within thirty (30) days of the date of resolution without accruing any late payment interest.

The Contractor will accept self-billing via EDI if and when the Customer is able to perform this. The terms of such EDI self-billing are to be agreed between the Parties.
(譯文):
祇要雙方對於發票金額有所爭執,即應該依照契約內有關「準據法與管轄法院」的規定加以解決,但自客戶提出爭執點30天內,雙方應嘗試先以「協商」的方式解決之。爭執解決後的協議或應付款項,客戶應於30天內支付但毋庸負擔任何遲延利息。

當客戶可以使用電子數據交換系統支付款項時,碼頭公司亦願意配合辦理。屆時雙方應再協議適用電子數據交換系統付款的攸關條款。

(說明):
其實有關「帳單的開立與服務款項的支付」事宜,應該係屬於所謂「一般性」的條款,在所謂的「船舶貨物裝卸承攬契約」中並沒有異於一般契約的「特殊性」,在這裡僅提供大家日後在草擬契約時的參考而已。但,其中一項比較特殊的付款條件值得注意的,乃客戶如果在收到碼頭公司所開立的發票10天之內即行支付的話,就可以獲得高達3%的激勵回饋方案,頗值得未來在收取費用操作上的考量與應用。另,針對有爭議的帳單,客戶亦得選擇先行保留而不予支付,俟雙方協商有結果之後再行支付,而對於這一段協商期間,條文中亦直接明示客戶對此並毋庸支付任何遲延利息。

柒、【查核權(Right to Audit)】:
(建議條文):
The Contractor shall and will procure that its sub-contractors shall, maintain true and complete records, books and systems in accordance with any applicable law and regulations, good business practices. Contractor and its sub-contractors shall retain all records, books and systems entries for the longer of twenty six (26) months or any retention requirements by law or regulation, save always that, in respect of any records, books and systems entries relating to a claim, such records, books and systems entries shall be retained until such time as that claim has been finally resolved, and Contractor shall prepare such documents, papers and reports in respect of the Container Terminal Services as may reasonably be required by the Customer, or by any competent authority or body.

The Customer may, from time to time, by written notice to the Contractor, request and then make, an audit of all records, books, papers, documents and systems in relation to the Container Terminal Services and otherwise related to the performance by the Contractor of its obligations under this Agreement. Any such audit shall be performed during normal office hours at the Customer’s cost, but the Contractor shall provide every assistance to the Customer when performing such audits.
(譯文):
碼頭公司(同時要求其次承攬人)會依照法令與商業上的慣例,維持真實與完整的紀錄、表冊,與系統,除非因涉訟要求而必須保留到訴訟程序終結為止,否則碼頭公司與其次承攬人祇會依法令保留所有紀錄、表冊,與系統的登錄26個月,或執行其他保留要求。碼頭公司依客戶或其他有權機關或組織的合理要求,應提供攸關貨櫃碼頭服務文件與報告。

客戶得隨時以書面通知碼頭公司,要求查核所有與貨櫃碼頭服務與其他依約執行義務攸關的紀錄、書冊、文件與系統。前開查核動作應該於正常的工作時間以客戶的費用進行,但碼頭公司應隨時給予必要的協助。

(說明):
「查核權」的這個部分,也是屬於所謂「一般性」的條款。碼頭公司在這裡直接明示其對於「文件」的保留時效,為文件作成之日後的26個月之內。當然,碼頭公司配合提供文件暨資料義務的前提,乃係依照法令與所謂商業的慣例為之。至於客戶願意自費進行所謂「查核」的動作,碼頭公司即應該配合辦理,祇不過其可以要求客戶的查核動作不能影響到其正常的工作進行而已。

捌、【代表委員會(Representative Committee)】:
(建議條文):
The Parties shall establish a representative committee comprising representative of the Contractor and the Customer to act on their respective behalves to meet no less frequently than every two (2) months during the Term to discuss as a minimum the following issues:

(a) Operating requirements;
(b) Performance standards;
(c) Berthing schedules; and
(d) Operation safety.
(譯文):
契約雙方各派代表以合組成立一「代表委員會」,每2個月至少應討論到以下議題:
(a) 營運需求;
(b) 執行表現水準;
(c) 靠泊計劃;及
(d) 營運安全。

(說明):
為求「船舶貨物裝卸承攬契約」執行上的順遂,本契約中要求雙方各派「代表」,組成所謂的「代表委員會」,並於至少每2個月的開會頻率,共同討論若干重要議題,其中包括所謂的營運需求、碼頭公司的執行表現水準、船舶的靠泊計劃,與整個裝卸承攬作業的安全性等議題。相信藉由如是「委員會」的督促,勢必能夠促進契約履行的順遂,並保障雙方的權利義務(待續)。

試析「船舶貨物裝卸承攬契約」之重要條款(貳)

陸、【代理(Agent)】:
(建議條文一):
The Customer may, subject to prior notification in writing to the Contractor, appoint an agent in respect of the Container Terminal Services and other services and facilities provided by the Contractor pursuant to this Agreement, in which event, the Customer shall be deemed to have authorized the Agent to act on the Customer’s behalf in respect of all matters hereunder including to pay to or receive from the Contractor all sums due under this Agreement unless the Customer notifies the Contractor to the contrary at the time of such appointment or any time thereafter and:
(譯文):
除非另行通知,否則客戶即得以事前書面通知,就碼頭公司所提供的「貨櫃碼頭服務」、其他服務暨設施,指定一代理人代為處理包括依本約收支款項等事宜,及:。

(建議條文二):
(a)The Contractor shall be entitled at any time and from time to time hereafter, to act upon any instruction, request, notice or other communication from the Agent without prior reference to the Customer and to receive from and to pay to the Agent any sums due under this Agreement (including any rebate);
(譯文):
(a)碼頭公司毋庸與客戶確認,即得隨時依前開代理人的指示、要求、通知,或其他說明而行事,及依約收支款項(包括任何折扣在內)。

(建議條文三):
(b)Any payment made by the Contractor to the Agent pursuant to this Agreement shall be held by the Agent in trust for the Customer and the receipt of the Agent of such payment shall be a full and sufficient discharge of the Contractor in respect of such payment;
(譯文):
(b)碼頭公司依約支付予代理人的款項,應由代理人代客戶信託保管。代理人對於前開款項所為的收執,足為免除碼頭公司支付義務的證明。

(建議條文四):
(c)Any payment made by the Contractor to the Agent pursuant to this Agreement shall only be made to the Agent for the time being when such payments fall due without any apportionment or deduction whatsoever with any other person;
(譯文):
(c)碼頭公司依約支付予代理人的款項,應於期限屆至時支付予代理人而不得有第三人參與分配或抵減的情況下為之。

(建議條文五):
(d) The power granted to the Contractor under sub-clause (a) above shall continue until the Contractor receives notice from the Customer to cease acting upon such communication or to cease the receipt and/or making of such payments from and to the Agent thereafter.
(譯文):
(d)前開第一項的授權有效期間,將持續到碼頭公司收到客戶要求終止時為止。

(說明):
客戶在自己分身乏術的時候,可以授權所謂的「代理人」代為及代受意思表示,而碼頭公司在如是情況下,即毋庸再與客戶做重覆的確認(double-check),即得信賴「代理人」的作為或不作為,並將其最後的效果歸屬在客戶(即「本人」)身上,此一條款可謂係針對所謂「代理」的一般性規定,亦可謂係與一般民法上攸關「代理」的規定暨效果並無不同。

柒、【客戶與碼頭公司的聲明、保證與承諾(Representations, Warranties and Undertakings of the Customer and Contractor)】:
(建議條文一):
The Customer hereby represents, warrants and undertakes to the Contractor that:

Its shall, throughout the Term, pay the Rates and all other amounts agreed to be paid by it under this Agreement for Container Terminal Services or such other services provided to it;

It shall, throughout the Term, comply fully with the terms of this Agreement and all applicable laws and regulations issued by any competent authority having jurisdiction;

It shall, throughout the Term, be duly incorporated, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the place of its incorporation, have full power to carry on its business and own its property and to enter into and perform its obligations under this Agreement, - and shall, throughout the Term, comply with all statutory and other requirements relative to its business:-
(a) it has taken all necessary corporate and other steps and has obtained all necessary consents and approvals (if any) to authorize the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement;
(b) this Agreement, as executed and delivered, constitutes and continues, throughout the Term, to constitute, valid and legally binding obligations on the Customer in accordance with its terms; and
(c) it shall, throughout the Term, observe and comply with all operating requirements regarding the Customer Container Ships and Customer Containers imposed by the Contractor pursuant to the laws of the jurisdiction where the Port is situated, or as otherwise accepted by the Customer.
(譯文):
客戶於此聲明、保證與承諾:
其於契約效期內會依約定費率支付費用;
其於契約效期內會遵守契約與法令的規定;
其於契約效期內係有效成立且合法生效的公司,其有營業與擁有自己資產的權利,包括簽署與履行本約的權義。其於契約效期內,會遵守攸關其業務的所有法定或其他需求:
(a) 為執行與履行本約,其已經採取所有必要的步驟,亦已取得所有必要的同意與許可;
(b) 本約經簽署成立生效之後,於效期內有效約束客戶依約履行的義務;
(c) 其於契約效期內,應遵守碼頭公司針對船舶與貨櫃依法所頒行的操作規則,或其他客戶所願意遵守的規則。

(說明):
一般契約內均會針對簽約主體給予若干聲明、保證與承諾事項,其實其宣誓的意義大於實質上的意義。雖然如此,但其仍有其法律上的效力,具有拘束當事人的性質,爰若有違反,自屬違約而有後續責任補償的問題。

(建議條文二):
The Contractor hereby represents, warrants and undertakes to the Customer that:

It has obtained and will, throughout the Term, obtain and maintain in full force and effect all consents, licenses, authorizations, approvals, exemptions of any governmental, fiscal, monetary or other agency or authority and all other acts, conditions or things necessary for or required to ensure (i) the due execution, delivery and performance by it of and under this Agreement (ii) its compliance with, and performance of the terms and conditions of this Agreement; and (iii) the legality and validity of and the enforceability against it of, or admissibility in evidence of, this Agreement,

(a) it shall, throughout the Term, be duly incorporated, validly exist and in good standing under the laws of the Port is situated, have full power to carry on its business and own its property and to enter into and perform its obligations under this Agreement, and shall, throughout the Term, comply with all statutory and other requirements relative to its business. Each Party agrees to furnish the other Party such evidence of its due authorization and execution of this Agreement as the other Party may reasonably require.
(b) this Agreement, as executed and delivered, constitutes and continues, throughout the Term, to constitute, valid and legally binding obligations on the Contractor in accordance with its terms;
(c) it shall throughout the Term, comply fully with the terms of this Agreement and with all applicable laws and regulations issued by any authority having jurisdiction;
(d) it shall, throughout the Term, cooperate with the Customer to reduce the costs incurred in respect of the Container Terminal Services provided to the Customer and its Container Ships and when any such reduction is attributable to the joint efforts of the Contractor and the Customer, the benefit of such reductions shall be shared equally between the Contractor and the Customer;
(e) it shall throughout the Term be fully compliant with the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code) and, upon request, provide the Customer with documentation of such compliance, and promptly advise the Customer of issues of non-compliance and/or where certificate is withdrawn;
(f) assist the Customer, at the Customer’s cost and expense and as the Customer reasonably requires, to obtain and maintain all licenses and permits necessary for the Customer to operate and to continue operating at the Container Terminal.
(譯文):
碼頭公司於此聲明、保證與承諾:
在契約效期內,其已經取得及即將取得及保有所有政府、財政、金融上或其他機關組織的同意函、證書、授權書、核准、豁免的有效性,及為確保(i)履約與執行的正當;(ii)契約的遵守與履行;及(iii)契約的合法、有效、可執行,與被認同,所為的其他一切行為。

(a) 其於契約效期內,依港口所在地國的法律合法成立、生效與營業,有權執行業務與擁有自己的資產,及依約履行其義務。其於契約效期內,會遵守所有攸關其營業上的所有法令及其他要求。在合理的請求下,契約的一方同意提供他方其有合法授權及執行契約的證明;
(b) 本約一經簽署即於約定效期內,構成約束碼頭公司依約履行的義務;
(c) 其於契約效期內會嚴格遵守本約的規定,及其他管轄機關所頒行的法令;
(d) 其於契約效期內會與客戶攜手合作,以降低有關貨櫃碼頭服務的所有成本與費用。若雙方共同降低成本與費用的努力有成,則所生的利益應由碼頭公司與客戶平均分享;
(e) 其於契約效期內應嚴格遵守「國際船舶與港口設施保安規則」(the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code)),及應客戶的要求提供遵守的證明。除此之外,亦應該立即通知客戶若其有任何未能遵守及(或)證書被撤銷的情況;
(f) 以客戶的費用及依客戶的合理要求,協助客戶取得及維持所有客戶於貨櫃碼頭運作所需的證書與核准函。

(說明):
與前開「客戶的聲明、保證與承諾」做一比較,這裡祇不過是要求的項目顯然增多而已,尤其是有關碼頭營運的政府許可證書,及「國際船舶與港口設施保安規則」(ISPS Code)遵守,則是最大的不同點。碼頭公司在審閱契約條款的時候,即應自忖其是否可以達到這些要求。若有任何困難,即應該立即提出修正的要求,免得屆時無法遵守,而造成違約的情況發生。其實所有的契約磋商過程都一樣,在當事人收到契約稿本的時候,即應該謹慎地仔細研讀,預想未來是否會有任何履行上的困難,及所有可能會發生的情況,始得「防範於未然」,讓整份契約能夠走的長長遠遠、平平順順。蓋當事人莫不希望契約一經簽署完成,即可以束之高閣,毋庸再予理會矣。祇是這種「理想狀況」,有賴當事人的努力以赴,與諸多因素的配合,才有可能達成(待續)。