Client or Partner? A Perspective on True Collaboration in Shipping
Introduction: A Matter of Mindset
“What defines a business relationship – contracts, transactions, or trust?”
For decades, the shipping industry has traditionally referred to its customers as “clients,” implying a transactional relationship where services are delivered in exchange for payment. At Prime Navigation Shipping, we have always rejected this notion. From the very beginning, we embraced a different approach—one built on trust, collaboration, and shared success.
To explore this, we turn to Mr. Sotirios Hani El Bassir, Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer of Prime Navigation Shipping, who explains why this distinction matters.
Q: Mr. Bassir, why does Prime Navigation Shipping insist on calling their clients ‘partners’?
A: The word “client” suggests a short-term, transactional relationship—one where services are delivered, invoices are issued, and the relationship is defined by contractual obligations. That’s not how we operate. At Prime Navigation Shipping, we don’t just provide a service; we share responsibility for our partners’ success. When we work with a shipping company, we don’t see them as just another name on a contract. We become part of their operations, invested in their efficiency, their safety, and their compliance. A true partner doesn’t just sell a service; they help navigate challenges, optimize performance, and drive long-term value.
Q: How does this philosophy impact the way Prime Navigation Shipping operates?
A: It changes everything. Unlike most companies in our industry, we have never believed in binding our relationships with rigid contracts. Why? Because a contract doesn’t guarantee trust, commitment, or results—only actions do. While others rely on legal agreements to ensure loyalty, we rely on something stronger: performance, reliability, and partnership. This means we are always focused on delivering value rather than just fulfilling obligations. Our partners stay with us not because they have to, but because they want to.
Conclusion: The Power of True Partnership.
The difference between a client and a partner is more than just terminology—it reflects a company’s entire approach to business. And believe it or not, every single member in our company shares these values.
At Prime Navigation Shipping, we don’t see our work as a series of transactions. We see it as a journey we take together with our partners, navigating challenges, optimizing performance, and ensuring sustainable success.For us, the word “partner” is more than just a term; it is our philosophy, a way of doing business that has guided us for over 20 years.
It is why our brand proudly carries the tagline:
“Your Premier Route Partner.”
Ready to transform your maritime operations? Contact Prime Navigation Shipping for tailored strategies designed to boost your fleet’s efficiency and sustainability.
No Contracts, Just Partnerships.
For 30 years now, our board members CEO and President Capt. Andreas D. Karamitsas and our COO Capt Kostas G. Stamos brought and shared this value to Prime Navigation Shipping. Everyone in our company has stood by this belief: Trust is stronger than contracts.While many in the industry operate within rigid, contract-bound frameworks, we have built our business differently. Instead of contracts, we build relationships. Instead of transactions, we build trust.
