On-Hire Bunker Survey – Product Tanker
This case study outlines an independent on-hire bunker quantity survey conducted prior to vessel delivery under charter. The assignment focused on verifying fuel quantities onboard at handover and protecting the commercial position of all parties at charter commencement.
Challenge
The client required an independent verification of fuel quantities remaining onboard at the commencement of a charter period. Accurate bunker determination was necessary to establish a fair financial settlement between the owner and charterer and to prevent potential quantity disputes.
Technical Scope & Methodology
PAMS attended onboard prior to vessel delivery and conducted a comprehensive bunker quantity survey, including:
- Physical sounding of bunker, diesel oil, and lubricating oil tanks.
- Verification of tank calibration tables.
- Measurement of product temperatures and densities.
- Calculation of Remaining On Board (ROB) quantities.
- Cross-checking vessel records against observed quantities.
- Photographic documentation of relevant measurements and tank data.
Findings
The survey established the quantities of fuel, diesel oil, and lubricants remaining onboard at the time of delivery. All measurements were independently verified using approved surveying practices and recorded for inclusion in the final report.
Outcome
PAMS issued an independent bunker survey report documenting verified Remaining On Board (ROB) quantities at the time of charter delivery. The report provided an objective basis for commercial settlement between the contracting parties and minimized the potential for subsequent bunker quantity disputes.
Frequently Asked Questions: On-Hire Bunker Surveys
What is an on-hire bunker survey?
An on-hire bunker survey is a technical verification of the exact fuel quantities (HFO, MDO, LSMGO) remaining onboard at the specific moment a vessel is delivered to a charterer.
Why is an independent bunker survey important?
It provides a neutral, third-party basis for financial calculations. This prevents costly disputes between owners and charterers regarding bunker consumption and delivery quantities.
What technical steps are taken during the survey?
Our surveyors perform physical tank soundings, verify temperature readings, review vessel calibration tables, and apply density corrections to ensure 100% accuracy in the final report.
Does PAMS document the vessel's condition as well?
Yes. While the primary objective is bunker quantity verification, surveyors may record observations affecting the accuracy of measurements, including tank accessibility, gauging arrangements, and any conditions relevant to the survey findings.