Bunker fuel refers to the fuel used to power ships in international maritime transport. The term dates back to the coal-powered era when vessels stored fuel in bunkers. Today, it commonly applies to several types of marine fuel, including heavy fuel oil (HFO), marine gas oil (MGO), and liquefied natural gas (LNG).
Bunker fuel plays a critical role in global shipping operations. Its cost significantly affects freight rates and is typically passed on to shippers through surcharges such as the Bunker Adjustment Factor (BAF).
