Surveyor scope of liquid tanker vessel import & export cargo

The surveyor's scope for liquid tanker vessel imports and export cargo involves a detailed and comprehensive set of tasks to ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant transfer of cargo. This includes the following key areas:

1. Pre-Operation Surveys

Documentation Review

Cargo Documentation: Review all cargo-related documents, including bills of lading, cargo manifests, and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).

Compliance Certificates: Verify certificates such as International Safety Management (ISM) Code compliance, International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code compliance, and relevant environmental regulations (e.g., MARPOL).

Equipment Check


Pumping and Transfer Systems: Inspect pumps, hoses, manifolds, and related transfer equipment for proper functionality and integrity.

Gauging Equipment:
Ensure that gauging and monitoring equipment is calibrated and functioning correctly.

2. Loading Surveys

Pre-Loading Inspection

Tank Cleanliness iInspect cargo tanks to ensure they are clean, dry, and free from residues or contaminants that could affect the new cargo.

Tank Suitability: Verify that the tanks are suitable for the specific type of cargo being loaded, considering compatibility and safety.

Loading Operation Monitoring


Safety Protocols: Monitor loading operations to ensure they are conducted safely and according to the agreed procedures.

Gauging Equipment:
: Ensure adherence to safety protocols, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), spill prevention measures, and emergency procedures.

Measurement and Sampling


Volume Measurement: Measure the quantity of cargo being loaded using calibrated equipment to ensure accurate reporting.

Cargo Sampling:
: Take samples of the cargo for quality analysis and ensure it matches the specifications provided by the shipper.

3. In-Transit Monitoring

Cargo Integrity: Monitor the cargo’s condition during transit, ensuring that there are no leaks, temperature deviations, or other issues that could compromise the cargo..

Security Measures: Verify that the cargo is secure and that appropriate measures are in place to prevent tampering or theft.

4. Discharge Surveys

Pre-Discharge Inspection

Receiving Facility Inspection Inspect the receiving facility's equipment and infrastructure to ensure it is ready and suitable for the discharge operation.

Documentation Check: Review and verify discharge documentation, including cargo manifests and import/export permits.

Discharge Operation Monitoring


Safety and Compliance: Monitor the discharge operation to ensure it is conducted safely and in compliance with local regulations and international standards.

Measurement and Sampling: Measure and sample the discharged cargo to verify the quantity and quality, ensuring it matches the loaded specifications.

5.Post-Operation Surveys

Documentation and Reporting

Final Documentation: Prepare and review final cargo documents, including discharge reports, outturn reports, and certificates of quantity and quality.

Survey Reports: Compile detailed survey reports outlining the findings, including any discrepancies, damages, or issues encountered during the loading, transit, or discharge operations.

Claims and Discrepancies


Claims Handling: Assist in resolving any claims or discrepancies related to the cargo, including shortages, damages, or quality issues.

Investigations: Conduct investigations if any issues arise, providing a detailed analysis and recommendations for corrective actions

6.Regulatory and Environmental Compliance

Environmental Regulations: Ensure compliance with environmental regulations such as MARPOL, including proper handling of any waste or byproducts.

Local Regulations: Ensure that all local regulations regarding import and export, including customs requirements, are met.

By fulfilling these responsibilities, surveyors help to ensure that the import and export of liquid tanker vessel cargo is carried out safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with all applicable regulations and standards.