What is a Bunker Survey?

A bunker survey is conducted to determine the quantity of fuel oil on board a vessel. This is crucial for accurate billing, inventory management, and ensuring there are no discrepancies in fuel quantities during bunkering operations (fuel transfer to the ship). The steps involved are:

1. Preparation: The vessel’s fuel tank layout, capacities, and recent fuel operations are reviewed.

2. Tank Sounding: Fuel levels in all the fuel tanks are measured using sounding tapes or electronic sounding devices.

3. Temperature and Density Measurement: The temperature and density of the fuel are measured to calculate the volume and weight accurately.

4. Calculation: The total quantity of fuel onboard is calculated using the measured data and the vessel’s tank calibration tables.

5. Reporting: A detailed report is created documenting the measured fuel quantities and any discrepancies found.