Draft Survey & Scale Calibration Control
Accurate weight determination is the backbone of trust in bulk trade. Reliable weight figures are essential for fair commercial transactions, proper invoicing, and dispute prevention. Whether dealing with bulk vessels, trucks, or storage operations, precise quantity measurement protects all parties involved.
Our surveyors calculate cargo quantities using internationally recognized Draft Survey methods and supervised scale systems to provide objective and defensible weight figures for all types of cargo operations and transport modes.
Weight Supervision Coverage
- Bulk vessels and barges
- Truck and rail cargoes
- Storage inflow/outflow operations
Our Scope Includes
- Draft Survey before and after loading/discharge
- Ullage & sounding surveys for liquid and bulk parcels
- Calibration verification and supervision of weighbridge operations
- Cross-checking loading totals vs vessel outturns
- Issuance of independent weight certificates
Your Advantages
Our weight supervision services provide documented, independent verification that protects your commercial interests and provides strong evidence for any disputes or claims that may arise.
Protection Against
Discrepancies
Safeguard against shortages, overstatements and weight discrepancies with independent third-party verification of all cargo quantities.
Reliable Settlement
Values
Obtain accurate weight figures for invoicing and payment settlements, ensuring fair commercial transactions for all parties.
Strong Documentation
Comprehensive documentation for claims, arbitration and insurance purposes, providing defensible evidence when disputes arise.
Frequently asked questions
A Draft Survey is an internationally recognized method for determining the weight of bulk cargo loaded or discharged from a vessel. It works by measuring the vessel's displacement before and after cargo operations using draft readings, and applying corrections for ballast, fresh water, bunkers, and other variables. The difference in displacement equals the cargo weight.
Weight supervision should be requested whenever cargo is transferred between parties, loaded or discharged from vessels, or moved in/out of storage. It's particularly important for high-value bulk commodities, cross-border trade, and whenever weight determines the commercial value of a transaction. Early engagement ensures surveyors are present from the start of operations.
When performed by experienced surveyors under good conditions, Draft Surveys typically achieve accuracy within 0.5% of the actual cargo weight. Accuracy depends on factors including sea conditions, vessel trim, accurate tank soundings, and the quality of the vessel's hydrostatic tables. Our surveyors follow strict protocols to maximize accuracy.
Weighbridge supervision involves our surveyors monitoring and verifying weighing operations at truck scales. We check that scales are properly calibrated, witness tare and gross weights, verify vehicle identification, and ensure proper weighing procedures are followed. This prevents errors and fraud while providing independent weight documentation.
Yes, we perform ullage and sounding surveys for liquid and semi-liquid bulk cargoes including vegetable oils, molasses, and liquid fertilizers. We measure tank levels before and after transfer, apply temperature corrections, and calculate volumes using calibration tables. This provides accurate quantity determination for liquid cargo transactions.
We issue comprehensive weight certificates and survey reports that include all measurements, calculations, and supporting data. Our documentation is accepted by GAFTA, FOSFA, and other trade associations for arbitration purposes. Reports include draft readings, tank soundings, correction factors applied, and final weight calculations with full audit trail.
