Pre-loading and Out Turn Surveys
At JM Marine Surveys, we conduct detailed pre-loading surveys of steel products and project cargo to assess the condition of the cargo prior to loading. These surveys are essential to identify any pre-existing damages such as rust, deformation, scratches, or coating defects, and to ensure proper stowage and securing arrangements are in place before the voyage begins.
Our surveyors work closely with the ship’s master and officers during loading operations, assisting with the documentation and marking of any damages on the mate’s receipts and the bill of lading. This is crucial in protecting the shipowner’s and charterer’s interests, especially in the event of claims at the port of discharge.
Without proper remarks on the mate’s receipt, the carrier may be held liable for damages that were already present before loading. Our involvement ensures accurate documentation and helps avoid unnecessary disputes or financial exposure.
By appointing JM Marine Surveys, you can rely on professional, independent reporting and representation at the terminal – helping you mitigate risk, maintain transparency, and protect your position under the contract of carriage.
What is a Pre-Loading Survey?
Our Pre-Loading Surveys are conducted before cargo operations begin to:
- Inspect the vessel’s holds for cleanliness and suitability
- Confirm readiness for cargo loading (including hold condition, hatch covers, etc.)
- Record weather conditions and any delays or issues
- Verify cargo type, quantity, and apparent condition at the terminal
- Assisting the vessel with endorsing the governing mates receipt and Bill of Lading.
What is an Outturn Survey?
JM Marine Surveys also provides comprehensive outturn surveys upon discharge of steel products and project cargo. These surveys are carried out to determine the condition of the cargo as it arrives at the port of destination and to assess any damages that may have occurred during transit.
We carefully inspect for issues such as corrosion, dents, bends, coating damage, or deformation, and compare the cargo’s condition against the pre-loading survey reports and the mate’s receipts. This independent verification is crucial in determining whether any damages are transit-related or pre-existing.
Our findings are clearly documented in a detailed outturn report, which can serve as vital evidence in the event of cargo claims or disputes. By appointing JM Marine Surveys, shipowners, charterers, and cargo interests can rely on transparent and unbiased reporting that protects their interests.
Timely and accurate outturn surveys help limit liability, support claims handling, and maintain commercial trust between all parties involved.
- Supervision of unloading operations
- Verification of cargo quantity received
- Recording of losses, damage, or contamination
- Conducting silver nitrite tests for possible salt water contaminiation
- Comparative analysis with load port data These surveys are critical in detecting short delivery, damage claims, or handling issues—especially for bulk, bagged, or sensitive cargoes