SPECIALISTS IN MARITIME AND PORT SURVEYS

We provide comprehensive technical analyses with accurate and impartial reports that ensure operational safety and regulatory compliance within the maritime and port sectors.

(Draft Surveys)

A draft survey is an essential method used to determine the weight of cargo on board a vessel by measuring its draft (the depth of the ship in the water) before and after loading or unloading operations. This type of survey plays a crucial role in ensuring accurate cargo measurement, preventing disputes, and maintaining transparency among shipowners, charterers, and cargo owners. The draft surveyor performs this process to assess the vessel’s displacement and cargo weight, ensuring full compliance with contractual terms and international regulations.

Draft surveys are among the most precise methods for determining cargo weight.

Since a vessel’s draft is directly affected by the weight of the cargo, this method ensures highly accurate measurements based on the vessel’s displacement. It is essential for establishing the correct cargo weight for billing and payment purposes.

Discrepancies in cargo weight can lead to disputes between cargo owners, charterers, and ship operators.

Draft surveys provide an independent and reliable method for calculating cargo weight, reducing the potential for disagreements regarding quantities.

The accuracy and transparency of the results serve as a solid foundation for resolving any conflicts that may arise.

Draft surveys help monitor the vessel’s weight during loading and unloading operations and are essential for preventing overloading. Excess cargo can create unsafe conditions, compromising the vessel’s stability and seaworthiness.

By ensuring that the cargo weight is accurately calculated and aligned with the vessel’s capacity, draft surveys contribute to safe and efficient operations.

Hatch Cover Tests

Hatch Cover Tightness Test

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The hatch cover tightness test is a vital procedure to ensure the integrity and safety of cargo holds, tanks, and vessel compartments—especially after loading or discharging operations. This test involves applying water through hoses, either from inside or outside the vessel, to simulate real operating conditions and detect any possible leaks or water ingress. By performing this test, the vessel’s watertight integrity is verified, preventing risks such as cargo damage, environmental pollution, and safety hazards during transportation.

Ultrasonic Hatch Cover Test

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Ultrasonic inspection is a non-destructive method used to evaluate the tightness of hatch covers. It works by emitting high-frequency sound waves from a transmitter placed inside the cargo hold, while external sensors detect any sound leakage through the sealing system. This method helps identify faults or gaps in the sealing arrangement, providing a reliable and efficient way to ensure the hatch covers maintain watertight integrity, preventing water ingress and protecting the cargo.

Hatch and Cover Sealing Inspections

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Hatch and cover sealing inspections are essential to ensure the safety, protection, and operational efficiency of vessels—especially after cargo handling or maintenance operations. These inspections focus on verifying whether the seals around hatches and covers are intact and functioning properly, preventing leaks, contamination, and unauthorized access.

On/Off-Hire Surveys

On-hire Survey

The on-hire survey is conducted at the beginning of the charter period, when the charterer takes over the vessel. The surveyor evaluates the overall condition of the ship, including maintenance, cleanliness, and operational status. A bunkering inspection is also performed to measure the fuel on board, verifying both quality and quantity in the tanks. This survey ensures that the vessel is in proper working condition and that the fuel levels are accurately recorded, helping to prevent future disputes.

Off-hire Survey

The off-hire survey is carried out at the end of the charter, when the vessel is returned to the owner. As in the initial inspection, the surveyor assesses the vessel’s condition and measures the remaining fuel quantity. Any damage incurred during the charter period is documented, and discrepancies in fuel levels or consumption are verified against the original records. This process helps prevent conflicts related to fuel usage and the vessel’s condition upon redelivery.

Bunker Quantity Survey – BQS

The Bunker Quantity Survey focuses on verifying the amount of fuel on board. During both on-hire and off-hire surveys, it ensures that fuel quantities are accurately measured and properly recorded. The surveyor performs volume measurements (ullage readings), calculates the total fuel in all tanks, and compares the initial and final levels. This inspection is essential to prevent disputes related to fuel consumption during the charter period.

Complementary Surveys

The condition survey assesses the overall state of the vessel during on-hire and off-hire inspections.

The surveyor examines signs of wear, maintenance deficiencies, or damages that may have occurred during the charter period.
 The inspection covers the hull, machinery, cargo holds, safety equipment, and onboard systems.
 It ensures that the vessel complies with operational standards and that any damage is properly recorded and attributed to the responsible party.

When disagreements arise between the shipowner and the charterer regarding fuel quantities or the vessel’s condition, a Dispute Survey is conducted.
The surveyor performs an impartial assessment of the vessel’s condition and fuel levels, helping to resolve the issue based on technical evidence.

This process prevents prolonged legal disputes and ensures fair accountability for both parties.

Pre-Loading Inspections

Pre-Loading Inspection

Conducted before goods are loaded onto transport vehicles. The surveyor ensures that the cargo is properly packed and compliant with the correct loading procedures. The inspection includes checking packaging conditions, identifying potential damages, confirming that hazardous materials are properly labeled, and ensuring compliance with transport regulations. The goal is to prevent issues during loading and ensure that the goods are ready for safe transportation.

Cargo Condition Inspection

This inspection focuses specifically on the state of the goods prior to loading. It is essential to determine whether items are in suitable condition for transport — especially fragile, perishable, or high-value goods. The surveyor checks for any pre-existing damages such as dents, cracks, or contamination, and ensures that the cargo is properly packed to minimize the risk of damage during transit. This type of inspection is particularly important for electronics, luxury products, and food items, where cargo condition is critical.

Loading Supervision

During the loading process, the surveyor monitors how the cargo is handled and stowed within the transport unit. They ensure that the goods are evenly distributed, properly organized, and securely fastened to prevent movement or damage. The surveyor also confirms that all loading operations comply with legal and safety requirements, such as weight limits and hazardous material transport regulations.

Hull and Machinery Surveys

Damage Survey

If a vessel experiences an accident — such as a collision, grounding, or structural failure — a damage survey is performed to assess the extent of the damage. The surveyor determines whether repairs are feasible and provides recommendations for the necessary corrective actions. This survey is essential to ensure that the vessel is safe to operate again after the incident and to support insurance claims and indemnity processes.

Accident or Incident Investigation

In the event of a maritime accident or incident, an investigation survey is carried out to analyze the causes and consequences. The surveyor assesses the damage, inspects the equipment involved, and prepares a report that can be used for legal or insurance purposes. This type of survey is crucial for identifying the root causes of incidents and preventing future occurrences.

P&I Surveys (Claims and Protest Support)

These surveys assess damage and provide evidence for insurance claims and protests, supporting stakeholders in insurance and dispute resolution processes. The surveyor plays a key role in assisting the ship’s master whenever an issue arises during vessel operations. Their expertise ensures that problems are addressed quickly and effectively, minimizing risks and delays.

If a problem occurs, the surveyor can provide technical guidance by assessing the situation, identifying potential causes, and recommending immediate corrective actions.

Whether involving cargo operations, structural issues, equipment failures, or disputes, the surveyor acts as a reliable consultant, helping the master handle complex situations.

Additionally, the surveyor documents findings, gathers evidence, and liaises with relevant parties — such as port authorities, classification societies, and insurers — to support claims, protests, or necessary adjustments.

Their presence enhances decision-making, ensuring that operations comply with regulations and that the vessel continues operating safely and efficiently.

Container Inspections

Pre-Shipment Inspection

Conducted before the container is loaded with cargo. The surveyor checks the container’s condition to ensure there are no structural defects such as dents, rust, or holes that could compromise cargo safety. This inspection also confirms that the container is clean, dry, and free of contaminants — especially important for goods requiring specific conditions.

Stuffing Inspection

During the loading process, the surveyor ensures that the cargo is packed correctly with proper weight distribution. The container must be securely locked to prevent cargo shifting during transport, which could cause damage or create safety hazards. The inspection also verifies that the container seals are intact and properly recorded.

In-Transit Inspection

While the container is in transit, periodic inspections may be required — particularly when routes pass through high-risk security zones or extreme weather areas. These checks help ensure that the container remains in proper condition throughout the journey.

Post-Arrival Inspection

Upon arrival at the destination, an inspection is conducted to confirm the container’s integrity. The surveyor checks for signs of tampering, damage, or contamination that may have occurred during transportation. It is also the time to verify that the cargo matches the shipping documents and is in good condition.

Customs Inspection

In many cases, customs authorities conduct inspections to verify that the container’s contents match the declared goods and comply with trade regulations. These inspections are crucial to prevent illegal shipments or smuggling activities.



Cargo Sampling (IMSBC Code)

Ensures compliance with the IMSBC Code through the collection and analysis of bulk cargo samples to verify their characteristics and guarantee safe handling. Sample collection is also performed to support dispute resolution.


Ensuring cargo quality during the loading process is essential to maintaining the integrity of goods throughout maritime transport.

A thorough analysis helps detect any damages, contamination, or nonconformities with specifications before the cargo is stuffed into containers.

This process prevents financial losses, disputes, and delays at the destination. Quality monitoring also ensures that sensitive or perishable items are properly handled, preserving their condition during the entire journey.

Flexible inspection services tailored to each client’s specific needs, providing quick and effective solutions for unexpected issues or operational requirements.

Conducting crane inspections on board a vessel prior to operations is essential to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulations. A comprehensive pre-operation survey helps identify potential mechanical failures, preventing delays, equipment damage, or risks during cargo handling.
 Regular maintenance and inspections ensure that cranes remain in optimal working condition, minimizing the risk of accidents.

In the event of a failure or accident, an immediate inspection is crucial to determine the cause, assess the extent of the damage, and implement corrective actions.

These post-incident inspections help prevent recurrences, reinforce operational safety, and ensure that all lifting equipment meets the required standards before operations resume

Lashing Inspections

A Lashing Certificate is an essential document in maritime operations, certifying that cargo has been properly and securely fastened on board a vessel.The term lashing refers to the process of securing cargo to prevent it from moving or shifting during transport — which could cause damage to the cargo itself or to the vessel.A qualified surveyor inspects the cargo lashing arrangements to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations, issuing the corresponding Lashing Certificate.This professional plays a key role in ensuring the integrity of the lashing system and the safety of both the vessel and the cargo throughout the voyage.

Cargo Safety

The primary purpose of a Lashing Certificate is to ensure that cargo is firmly secured to prevent movement during transportation. Proper lashing prevents cargo from shifting, which could result in damage to the goods, other cargo on board, or the vessel itself. A qualified surveyor ensures that all lashing arrangements meet the required standards, protecting both the cargo and the crew.


Regulatory Compliance

International maritime regulations — such as those established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) — require that cargo be properly secured to ensure safety during transport. A Lashing Certificate issued by a qualified surveyor confirms compliance with these standards, helping to prevent fines, penalties, or legal issues resulting from improper cargo securing. In addition, it ensures that the vessel meets the required safety standards, minimizing risks associated with improperly lashed cargo during navigation.

Contact us to learn more about our inspection and survey services and find the best solution for your operation.

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