By JM Marine Surveys
In the bulk shipping industry, knowing the exact amount of cargo loaded or discharged is not just a matter of efficiency—it’s critical for commercial, operational, and legal reasons. One of the most reliable methods for determining cargo quantity on board is the Draught Survey.
At JM Marine Surveys, we specialize in conducting precise and compliant Draught Surveys on vessels worldwide, strictly in accordance with the United Nations Code of Draught Survey to ensure international standardization, reliability, and fairness.
What Is a Draught Survey?
A Draught Survey is a method of calculating the weight of cargo loaded or discharged by measuring a vessel’s displacement before and after the cargo operation. Displacement is determined by reading the ship’s draughts (forward, aft, and midships) and using hydrostatic data from the vessel’s stability book.
This technique is widely used in the transportation of bulk commodities such as:
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Coal
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Iron ore
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Grains
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Fertilizers
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Scrap metals
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Cement and more
It is especially important when shore-based weighing systems (like weighbridges) are not available or reliable.
Why Draught Surveys Are Important
✅ Commercial Accuracy
Draught surveys ensure that buyers, sellers, and charterers are charged for the actual amount of cargo moved, helping to avoid disputes or losses due to inaccurate reporting.
✅ Legal and Charter Party Compliance
Many charter parties require draught surveys as part of the cargo documentation process. Our surveys are accepted and trusted globally due to our adherence to UN standards.
✅ Independence and Neutrality
As a fully independent survey company, JM Marine Surveys provides unbiased reporting to protect your interests—whether you’re the shipowner, charterer, cargo owner, or receiver.
✅ Efficiency and Cost-Effectiveness
Unlike weighbridge-based solutions, a Draught Survey can be done on-site at anchorage or berth without needing third-party weighing infrastructure.
Our Draught Survey Methodology
At JM Marine Surveys, we conduct Draught Surveys following the UN Code of Draught Surveying, which ensures international consistency and professionalism. Our process includes:
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Initial Survey (Light Condition or Arrival Displacement)
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Reading draughts at six points (port and starboard, forward/mid/aft)
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Recording ballast, fuel, freshwater, lube oil, and other consumables
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Calculating vessel’s initial displacement using hydrostatic tables
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Final Survey (Heavy Condition or Departure Displacement)
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Repeating draught readings and tank soundings after cargo operation
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Recalculating displacement and net weight difference
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Correction Factors
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Applying necessary corrections for density, trim, hog/sag, and other variables to ensure maximum accuracy
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Survey Report
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Issuing a detailed and transparent report, fully traceable and aligned with UN draught survey principles
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Why JM Marine Surveys?
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🛳 Certified, experienced surveyors trained in line with UN Code of Draught Survey
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📍 Available 24/7 at major ports and anchorages in Europe and beyond
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📖 Clear, standardized reporting suitable for charter party, customs, and legal use
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🧭 Independent, impartial service to protect your commercial interests
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📚 Practical know-how, not just theoretical compliance—we understand vessel dynamics inside out
Final Thoughts
A properly conducted Draught Survey can be the difference between a fair transaction and a costly error. At JM Marine Surveys, we combine technical precision with real-world experience, offering clients peace of mind in every bulk cargo operation.
Whether loading grains in Rotterdam, discharging scrap metal in Antwerp, or conducting double-check surveys at anchorage, you can count on us for accurate, impartial, and UN-compliant results.
Need an expert Draught Surveyor for your next port call?
📧 Email us at info@jmmarinesurveys.com or visit 🌐 www.jmmarinesurveys.com to request a quote or schedule a survey.