dead freight

noun

, Commerce.

1. an amount owed by a contractor who charters space in a ship but fails to occupy it fully.
2. the unoccupied space of such a ship.
3. heavy or unwieldy nonperishable freight.

Example Sentences

The merchant will also be liable in damages—known as dead-freight—if he fails to furnish the full cargo promised.

From Project Gutenberg

It must have buoyancy, and suitable accommodation for all the living and dead freight on board.

From Project Gutenberg

And even that one dead freight would abate the profit of the voyage; and so still the Dutch would have the advantage.

From Project Gutenberg