The time allowed for unloading and loading ships is referred to as

The time allowed for unloading and loading ships is referred to as "lay days". This term is commonly used in the shipping industry, specifically in the context of chartering ships. Lay days refer to the agreed-upon time period in which the charterer (i.e. the party who has hired the ship) has the right to load and unload cargo on the ship. The lay days are specified in the charter party agreement between the shipowner and the charterer, and the duration can vary depending on the agreement reached. The term "lay days" is used to describe the days when the ship is stationary in port waiting for cargo to be loaded or unloaded.