This is a survey generally carried out jointly between owners and charterers of vessels to determine the quantities of liquids on board and the general condition of the unit. For barges, a full internal/external condition survey is carried out.

The following main concerns are assessed:

• Trim recorded and corrections applied where possible
  
• Every tank sounded at least twice
  
• Water and fuel finding paste utilised
  
• Careful extraction of quantities from calibration tables
  

• Damage of hull over and above a superficial nature
  
• Machinery test run
  
• Bulk tanks inspected and pressurised
  

• Equipment recorded and condition noted
  
• All minor/major damages recorded