Draft survey
An incorrect or incomplete determination of cargo weight can quickly lead to financial disputes between trading parties. A draft survey helps prevent this by objectively establishing the actual cargo weight and reducing differences in interpretation as much as possible.
A draft survey calculates the cargo weight based on the vessel’s displacement before and after loading or discharging. The difference between the two measurements forms the established cargo weight and provides a verifiable basis for commercial settlement.
Control & compliance safeguarded
Control Union acts as an independent and accredited party within the supply chain. The survey is carried out in accordance with the UN/ECE Codefor draft surveys, the Code of Uniform Standards and Procedures for the Performance of Draught Surveys of Coal Cargoes of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe. This code sets out uniform standards and procedures for conducting draft surveys, ensuring that the method is consistent, reproducible and defensible in different ports and jurisdictions.
Each calculation includes corrections for factors such as trim, watertightness and non-cargo weights on board. This results in a fully substantiated and verifiable outcome.
By combining survey work, logistics coordination and laboratory analysis in one integrated service, a single end-to-end process is created. This reduces data deviations and makes the final weight determination more consistent and easier to defend for all parties involved.
Draft survey delivers insight and certainty
Standardized methodology in line with the UN/ECE Code
Every survey follows an internationally recognized protocol, ensuring calculations remain consistent and comparable in every port.
Precise corrections for relevant variables
Corrections for trim, watertightness, fuel, drinking water and other non-cargo weights on board are carefully included in the calculation of the final cargo weight.
In-depth knowledge of bulk commodities
Years of practical experience with a wide range of bulk cargoes enable our surveyors to identify product-specific risks that may affect weight accuracy.
One central point of contact
Inspections, sampling, analysis and logistics coordination are brought together within one organization. This simplifies communication and reduces planning friction across the chain.
24/7 operational capacity
A flexible and experienced team supports continuous operations, peak loading and discharging periods and complex logistical situations without compromising reliability.
The proof to your promise
Certainty for every cargo settlement
Control Union delivers independently verified cargo weights backed by global reach and long-standing partnership capability.
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With a presence in more than 80 countries, organisations can secure consistent draft survey quality at loading and discharge ports worldwide.
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A substantial office and field workforce allows Control Union to scale operations quickly during seasonal peaks or multi-vessel programmes.
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Long-term partnerships position Control Union as a chain partner that understands evolving operational needs rather than delivering isolated transactions.
The proof to your promise
Frequently asked questions
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Local knowledge
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Control Union drives global trade forward. As an international and independent partner, we support traders, producers, brands, and logistics service providers in managing risk and safeguarding quality at every step of the supply chain.
From raw material to final product, from processes and systems to installations, we provide insight, assurance, and trust in every link of the chain. We do this through inspections and audits, certification and verification, laboratory analyses, and pest management.
Our global network of experts are embedded in international supply chains across dozens of sectors, including agriculture, food & feed, energy & biofuels, forestry, construction & infrastructure, textiles, maritime, and on- and offshore.
Together, we build future-proof supply chains and confidence in global trade!