Don’t Let Draft Survey Disputes Sink Your Voyage: How to Get It Right from the Start

 Don’t Let Draft Survey Disputes Sink Your Voyage: How to Get It Right from the Start

🤔 Are You Sure Your Draft Survey Won’t Delay Cargo Operations?
⚖️ Could Inaccurate Draft Readings Lead to Overdrafting or Cargo Shortage Claims?
👥 Are You Coordinating Joint Surveys Properly with Third Parties?

Understanding the Clause: Draft Surveys Without Delay

Clause:
Preloading / interim / final draft surveys are to be conducted by Chief Officer but without causing delay to the cargo operation. Your kind attention for maximum accuracy of these draft survey results is requested in order to avoid any shortage on cargo delivery and / or further complications like vessel being overdrafted / overloaded. In case of third parties attending the draft surveys, please ensure surveys will be performed jointly and are agreed accordingly.

📘 Clause Breakdown & Practical Interpretation

This clause mandates that draft surveys (preloading, interim, and final) must be done by the Chief Officer, without delaying cargo operations.

⚓ Why this Matters:

• Cargo Accuracy: Accurate survey readings are crucial to ensure the quantity loaded/discharged matches the manifest.
• Legal Risks: Discrepancies can lead to shortage claims, financial penalties, or port/state authority issues.
• Overdrafting/Overloading Risks: Miscalculations could result in vessel draft exceeding safe or legal limits, especially in ports with draft restrictions or sensitive loadline zones.

🔍 Common Pitfalls:

• Chief Officer delays loading while taking readings → leading to demurrage claims.
• Poor coordination with third-party surveyors → results in disputed figures.
• Rushing through final survey → leads to overdraft or shortage.

💡 Example Scenario:

A bulk carrier at Richards Bay starts final loading before the Chief Officer completes the final draft survey. Due to miscommunication, the vessel is 0.4m overdrafted, delaying sailing and attracting port penalties. A joint survey with the cargo receiver was not arranged, leading to cargo shortage disputes in India.

✅ Actionable Steps for Shipping Professionals

🧭 For Chief Officers:

• Pre-plan the survey timing with loading master and terminal.
• Keep draft marks cleaned and visible.
• Conduct three-phase surveys: before, during (if applicable), and after loading.

🤝 For Ship Operators & Managers:

• Ensure clear SOPs on draft survey methodology are onboard.
• Arrange for timely coordination with charterers/receivers if third-party surveyors are expected.

📞 For Charterers:

• Inform vessel and agents in advance if joint surveys are required.
• Avoid pressure that could lead to skipping or rushing the survey process.

🧾 For Owners:

• Instruct your Master/CO to document all readings and keep photos for records.
• Seek P&I club support in case of disputes.

🔚 Conclusion: Survey Smart, Sail Smooth

Draft surveys are more than just a routine—they're a frontline defense against costly disputes, delays, and safety risks. Be proactive, be accurate, and ensure coordination with all parties involved.

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📌 Disclaimer:

Any draft information from Oldendorff is given to the best of our knowledge and without guarantee. Please always obtain confirmation from agents at load port / discharge port prior loading and/or bunkering and pay close attention to applicable loadlines in different regions/season. Alternatively, you may refer to the official 'Guide to Port Entry'.