Maritime Glossary
Trim
Also known as: longitudinal trim
The difference between a vessel's aft draft and forward draft.
Status: ActiveVerified: Source confidence: high (95%)
Full Definition
Trim = aft draft − forward draft. A vessel trimmed by the stern (positive trim) is normal and improves hydrodynamic efficiency and steering. Trimmed by the head (forward draft > aft draft) may cause slamming and reduced bridge visibility. Trim is adjusted by redistributing ballast, fuel, or cargo. Trim optimisation can reduce fuel consumption by 1–2%. Classification rules specify maximum permissible trim.
Domain Tags
vessel measurementsseamanshipengineering