After 80 years in continuous publication, Thomas' Stowage continues to be regarded as the definitive reference on the subject and is recommended by many organisations with an interest in the safe handling and carriage of cargoes.  It is an essential source for ships' officers; the freight, operations and insurance departments of ship owners and operators; ship agents; terminal operators; freight forwarders; container packers; maritime lawyers; train schools and marine insurance companies.
This fifth edition of Thomas' Stowage retains the format of previous editions, thus providing quick reference to procedures and individual commodities.  Part 1, Part 2 and Appendix 5 have been extensively revised while entries in Part 3 have been amended where necessary with particular attention given to dangerous goods and bulk cargoes.  Additionally, a start has been made on rationalising the entries in part 3.
 
Information on some of the more obscure cargoes is retained, bearing in mind that the majority are now shipped in containers.  it should also be borne in mind that the container is, in effect, a miniature cargo hold with all the problems relating to compatibility, stowage, securing, ventilation, etc..