On-Hire Off-Hire Survey

BES Africa provides professional, independent On-Hire Off-Hire Survey condition and bunker surveys that protect the interests of both shipowners and charterers throughout the charter period. When a vessel changes hands under a time charter, the condition at delivery (on-hire) and redelivery (off-hire) must be documented with precision by an impartial party — any ambiguity in the record creates disputes, claims, and arbitration costs that far exceed the cost of a thorough, independent survey. BES Africa surveyors are experienced with all major charter party formats and operate 24/7 across Moroccan and African ports

➜ Go check certificate: View our ISO 9001:2015, 14001:2015, and 45001:2018 certificates here

What On-Hire Off-Hire Survey Services Includes

• Bunker Quantity Survey (ROB) — We conduct a comprehensive bunker survey at the time of delivery or redelivery, measuring the quantity of all fuel grades on board (HFO, VLSFO, MDO, MGO) and issuing an independent ROB certificate. The difference between on-hire and off-hire ROB figures determines the bunker adjustment payment between shipowner and charterer — making this one of the most financially significant parts of the survey.
• Vessel General Condition Inspection — We inspect and document the overall condition of the vessel including hull and external condition (to the extent visible from on board), deck machinery, mooring equipment, navigation and safety equipment, accommodation, and engine room (external observation). All findings are photographically documented.
• Cargo Hold Inspection — Cargo holds are inspected for cleanliness, structural condition, hatch cover integrity, and any damage. Hold condition is particularly important for bulk carrier surveys — any pre-existing damage must be documented at on-hire to protect the charterer from claims at redelivery.
• Hatch Cover Condition Assessment — We inspect hatch covers for condition, sealing integrity, and evidence of damage or deterioration. For high-value cargo charters, we recommend combining the on-hire survey with an ultrasonic hatch cover watertightness test to document weathertightness status.
• Tank Condition Inspection — Ballast tanks and other accessible spaces are inspected where feasible, documenting any visible corrosion, damage, or coating deterioration.
• Lubricating Oil and FW Inventory — We measure and document lubricating oil quantities and fresh water on board at delivery/redelivery, providing the baseline for any deductions or additions under the charter party terms.
• Photographic Evidence — Every BES Africa On-Hire Off-Hire Survey includes systematic photographic documentation of all areas inspected, all damage observed, and all measurement activities — providing an unambiguous visual record for all parties.

Why an Independent On-Hire Off-Hire Survey Protects Both Parties

Charter party disputes over vessel condition and bunkers at delivery or redelivery are a major source of maritime arbitration claims. A jointly attended, independently conducted On-Hire Off-Hire Survey by BES Africa — with comprehensive photographic documentation — provides the objective record that either party can rely on. Any pre-existing damage identified at on-hire is excluded from charterer liability at off-hire. Any damage arising during the charter period is clearly attributable to the charter based on the comparison between the two surveys. This clarity prevents disputes and, where disputes do arise, provides the evidence base for rapid, fair resolution.

Industries We Serve

• Shipowners and ship management companies
• Time charterers and voyage charterers
• Maritime insurance underwriters and P&I Clubs
• Ship brokers and chartering agents
• Maritime legal firms handling charter party disputes

Our On-Hire Off-Hire Survey Process

1. Pre-survey review — Charter party terms, vessel particulars, and previous survey reports are reviewed before mobilization.
2. Bunker survey — Full measurement of all fuel grades on board, with ROB certificate issued.
3. Vessel condition inspection — Systematic inspection of all relevant areas of the vessel, with comprehensive photographic documentation.
4. Joint attendance — BES Africa facilitates joint attendance by representatives of both shipowner and charterer where required.
5. Report issuance — Comprehensive condition and bunker survey report issued to all parties promptly after survey completion.

Coverage Across Morocco and Africa

BES Africa On-Hire Off-Hire Survey services are available across all Moroccan ports and at key vessel delivery/redelivery locations across the African coast. We operate 24/7 and can mobilize at short notice to meet vessel arrival schedules.