Lightering

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Lightering is the process of transferring oil cargo between vessels of largely different sizes and is undertaken as many port facilities cannot accept ocean-faring tankers of the size of oil transports.

Lightering occurs in the EEZ, generally between 20 nautical miles (40 km) and 60 nautical miles (110 km) from the shore, and can be performed while the ships are at anchor, or whilst underway.

Fenders are used to separate the two ships moored to each other and prevent damage.

Lightering was practiced for all sorts of cargo for centuries, and became more widespread with the 19th century introduction of steamships too large for some of ports they served. Dredging, dock construction and containerization obviated the practice after the middle 20th century, except for oil.