What is organization's charter?

An organization's charter is a formal document that creates the organization as a legal entity. It defines or mandates its functions and lays down rules for conduct and/or governance. For business, charter is an alternative term for articles of incorporation.

Charter is also used when a group uses another business's assets for an agreed upon time. For example, in a voyage charter, the charterer hires the vessel for a single voyage, while the vessel's owner provides the master, crew, bunkers and supplies. In a time charter, the vessel is hired for a specific amount of time. The owner still manages the vessel but the charterer gives orders for the employment of the vessel, and may sub-charter the vessel on a time charter or voyage charter basis.