This dissertation presents an analysis of the variables that influence the freight rate of the maritime transportation industry of liquid bulk cargoes, on the spot market in the short term. This analysis will consider both the specific variables of the industry, such as crude oil inventories in United States, price of a vessel, as well as generic variables, such as temperatures, GDP, exchange rates, among others. Although the freight rates usually have small participation comparing with the product`s price (often between 3% and 10%), it is very important when considering profits. Frequently the freight rate will make the whole difference, and will tell if the business was profitable or not, because margins in the crude oil and derivates trade are very tight, due to the strong competition. Understanding how this industry works is of great value for the players of this market. Chartering is responsible for a big share of the logistical costs of oil companies, thus a better performance of this activity will surely bring better global results for them.