The York-Antwerp Rules (YARS) govern general average cases by reason of being incorporated into contracts of carriage. First instigated by an international conference in York in 1864, their objective is to promote international uniformity in dealing with general average and to make the process involved commercially effective. 

The YARs 2016 include a number of minor changes that are not necessary to discuss in detail; they include an amended numbering system and greater consistency in the terms used. More significant changes and additions are shown in bold blue type that are followed by a brief explanation. Some of the issues that have been dealt with have a long history and are often complex; therefore the explanations are offered only as a general guide to assist those involved in marine insurance and other maritime industries.