Draught / Draft Surveys

In bulk shipping, knowing the exact quantity of cargo loaded or discharged is critical — commercially, operationally, and legally. A Draught Survey determines this by measuring a vessel’s displacement before and after the cargo operation, using draught readings and hydrostatic data from the vessel’s stability book. It is one of the most reliable and widely accepted methods for cargo quantity verification, used for bulk commodities including grain, coal, scrap metal, fertilisers, and aggregates.

At JM Marine Surveys, we conduct independent Draught Surveys strictly in accordance with the United Nations Code of Draught Survey, ensuring international consistency, accuracy, and fairness for all parties involved. With more than 20 years of hands-on experience across Rotterdam, Antwerp, and Amsterdam, our surveyors combine technical precision with practical knowledge of local port conditions — whether at berth or at anchorage.

Our reports are accepted by major shipping companies, P&I Clubs, charterers, and cargo interests, and are suitable for commercial settlement, charter party compliance, and dispute documentation.

Our Draught Survey process:

Initial Survey (Light / Arrival Condition) — draught readings at six points (port and starboard, forward/midship/aft), plus soundings of ballast, fuel, fresh water, lube oil, and other consumables.

Final Survey (Heavy / Departure Condition) — draught readings repeated after cargo operations, with corrections applied for trim, list, and density.

Displacement Calculation — hydrostatic data from the vessel’s stability book is used to calculate the exact quantity of cargo loaded or discharged, with corrections for hogging, sagging, and seawater density.

Our draught survey service includes:
Precise draft readings at all six draught marks · Full hydrostatic data analysis · Measurement of ballast, fresh water, fuel, lube oil and other consumables · Corrections for trim, list, density, hogging and sagging · Seawater density sampling · Final report with full displacement calculations

Area of Operation:
JM Marine Surveys conducts Draught Surveys throughout Northwest Europe, including Rotterdam, Antwerp, Amsterdam, Vlissingen, Dordrecht, Moerdijk, Terneuzen and Ghent. Attendance can often be arranged on short notice, including at anchorage.

Why JM Marine Surveys:
Independent and impartial — no conflicts of interest · Conducted per the UN Code of Draught Survey · Reports accepted by P&I Clubs, charterers and cargo interests · 20+ years of practical maritime experience · Available 24/7 across NW European ports