The rules on the monitoring of cargo carried and other relevant information are laid down in Annex II to Regulation (EU) 2015/757. In particular, the determination of cargo carried for categories of ships other than passenger ships, ro-ro ships and container ships is to be done in accordance with the parameters set out in point (g) of paragraph 1 of Part A to that Annex.

In the case of LNG carriers and container/ro-ro cargo ships, the parameter to be used for calculating cargo carried should reflect industry practices and ensure that the information provided is accurate and comparable over time.

In the case of general cargo ships, the determination of cargo carried should follow a specifically developed approach that takes into account variations in cargo density significant for this ship category. It is appropriate to allow these data to be supplemented on a voluntary basis with additional data in line with the IMO Guidelines for voluntary use of the Ship Energy Efficiency Operational Indicator (EEOI).

In the case of vehicle carriers, the determination of cargo carried should follow a flexible approach based on two different options. In order to better reflect the special relevance of volume, it is appropriate to allow for data on a different additional parameter to be provided on a voluntary basis.

Ro-pax ships should be considered as a specific case in which particular conditions should apply. In view of the mixed service offered by ro-pax ships and to better reflect industry practices, two parameters should be applied to express cargo carried.

For other ship types not falling under any of the above categories nor under those in points (d), (e) and (f) of paragraph 1 of Part A of Annex II to Regulation (EU) 2015/757, a flexible approach should be permitted so as to fully reflect the diversity of ships carrying very different types of cargo. In order to ensure consistency and comparability of data over time in accordance with Article 4(3) of Regulation (EU) 2015/757, the company's choice concerning the most appropriate cargo carried parameter is to be documented in the ship's monitoring plan and applied accordingly.

The Commission has consulted parties concerned on the best industry practices on matters addressed by this Regulation. The consultation was carried out through the ‘Shipping MRV monitoring subgroup’ set up under the umbrella of the European Sustainable Shipping Forum.