Outturn Survey: cargo condition upon arrival and discharge

During discharge, the position of packages and signs of damage change as the operation progresses. TWS documents this moment so that the client has a verifiable reference regarding the condition found.

When to appoint

The Outturn Survey serves shipowners, charterers, receivers and cargo interests that need to record the arrival of a shipment, compare its presentation with shipment records or monitor a discharge where damage is suspected. Early appointment makes it possible to assess the possibility of attendance before hatch opening.

Its focus is the condition at destination and the sequence observed during cargo removal. Where the question requires determining causes, the internal extent of damage or commercial consequences, the service may require a complementary damage survey.

Scope of service

Subject to the appointment and access conditions, the work may include:

• Observing the initial presentation of the cargo in accessible spaces and recording the stage at which the inspection began.
• Identifying lots or packages examined and describing ruptured packaging, deformation, wetting and other apparent signs.
• Distinguishing conditions found upon arrival from handling occurrences actually witnessed during discharge.
• Comparing observations with prior photographs and shipping documents made available by the client.
• Communicating relevant findings to the designated contacts and documenting protection or segregation measures attended.

What the client receives

A report identifying the shipment, period attended, findings and photographic record related to the items inspected. Its organization makes it possible to locate the evidence and understand the context in which each condition was observed.

Gaps in attendance, inaccessible areas and third-party information are identified. This care gives the client a clearer basis for discussing discrepancies and deciding what further checks are still required.

Limits and complementary checks

The inspection records the apparent condition during the contracted period. By itself, it does not confirm the origin of damage, the total quantity delivered or the integrity of inaccessible contents. Counting, weighing, sampling and analyses require their own method and appointment. The report does not determine legal liability, coverage or indemnity.

Request this service

Send the vessel, port or terminal, estimated time of arrival, cargo type, lot identification and reason for inspection. Include shipment records and advise whether discharge has already begun.

Frequently asked questions

Can the inspection begin after discharge has started?

It can, subject to availability and access. The report will indicate what had already been discharged and the limitations in reconstructing the initial condition.

Does an Outturn Survey include quantity verification?

Only where provided for in the scope, with the method and verification points defined. Condition recording is not equivalent to a full quantitative determination.