Bunker Survey
A Bunker Survey is the measurement of the quantity of fuel oil (bunkers) on board a ship at a given moment. A surveyor sounds or ullages the fuel tanks, applies temperature and density corrections, and calculates the tonnes of each grade held — establishing an accurate figure that both parties accept.
Bunker surveys are carried out at key handover points: on delivery and redelivery of a chartered vessel (where the charterer pays for the fuel on board), at bunker delivery to verify the quantity supplied against the bunker delivery note, and during disputes. Because fuel is one of the largest costs in shipping and bunker quantity disputes and short-deliveries are common, an accurate, independent bunker survey protects owner and charterer alike and feeds directly into fuel accounting and cost control.
Fuel is the single biggest variable cost in ship operation, and bunker quantities are a frequent source of disputes and short-deliveries. A bunker survey pins down exactly how much fuel is on board at handover or delivery, so nobody pays for fuel they didn't get. It is the checkpoint that keeps fuel accounting honest.
When is a bunker survey done?
On delivery and redelivery of a chartered ship, at bunker delivery to verify quantity supplied, and to resolve fuel disputes.
Why do bunker surveys matter commercially?
Fuel is a major cost and short-deliveries are common; an accurate survey ensures the fuel paid for matches the fuel received.