In maritime shipping operations, the moment when a vessel completes a charter period (Off-Hire) is a critical stage to accurately determine the remaining fuel on board for handover between the shipowner and the charterer. To ensure transparency, accuracy, and to prevent potential disputes, Bunker Off-Hire Survey services play an essential role.
What is a Bunker Off-Hire Survey?
A Bunker Off-Hire Survey is the process of inspecting and determining the quantity of fuel remaining on board a vessel at the time when the charter party ends. The survey results serve as the basis for settlement or reimbursement of bunker quantities between the shipowner and the charterer in accordance with the terms agreed in the charter party.
The types of fuel commonly inspected include:
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Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO)
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Marine Gas Oil (MGO)
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Marine Diesel Oil (MDO)
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Lubricating Oil
Bunker Off-Hire Survey Procedure
The surveyors of VM CONTROL conduct the bunker survey in accordance with international surveying practices, which generally include the following steps:
1. Verification of Vessel Documents and Conditions
Confirm the off-hire timing and review relevant documentation, including bunker tank plans and vessel particulars.
2. Measurement of Bunker Tanks
Conduct sounding or ullaging measurements in all bunker tanks to determine the actual fuel levels on board.
3. Determination of Temperature and Density
Measure the bunker temperature and determine fuel density in order to calculate accurate volume and weight.
4. Calculation of Remaining On Board (ROB)
Use tank calibration tables to convert measurement data into the actual quantity of bunkers remaining on board.
5. Preparation of Survey Report
A detailed survey report is prepared and submitted to the relevant parties, including:
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Shipowner
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Charterer
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Shipping Agent
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Ship Management Company
The Importance of Bunker Off-Hire Survey
This service provides several key benefits:
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Ensures transparent bunker handover between parties
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Minimizes potential disputes between shipowner and charterer
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Provides independent and objective evidence
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Supports accurate bunker settlement and cost calculation
Bunker Survey Services by VM CONTROL
With an experienced team of marine surveyors, VM CONTROL provides professional Bunker Off-Hire Survey services with high accuracy, efficiency, and compliance with international surveying standards.
We are committed to delivering:
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Professional survey procedures
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Standardized and reliable measuring equipment
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Clear and transparent reporting
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24/7 service support at major seaports in Vietnam
CONTACT INFORMATION
VIET MARINE CONTROL JOINT STOCK COMPANY – VM CONTROL
📍 Address: 1831/10/9 Huynh Tan Phat Street, Quarter 2, Nha Be Commune, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
📞 Hotline: +84 981 600 440 / +84 918 114 742
🌐 Website: www.vietmarinecontrol.com.vn
📧 Email: info@vietmarinecontrol.com.vn
🔵 Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/vm-control-234252386