Load compartment inspections – LCI

Cargo integrity and supply chain quality control stay protected when load compartments are verified clean, dry and free of residue before loading. Load compartment inspections (LCI) give organisations a documented basis to meet contractual obligations and regulatory requirements. Experienced and qualified surveyors identify contamination risks early, so operations continue without costly rejection or delay.

    Compliance and control through load compartment inspections

    Control Union holds an independent position in the supply chain, secured through accreditations that give organisations measurable certainty and auditable risk control. Sampling and analysis follow internationally recognised standards including GMP+, ISO, EFMA, CEN and IFIA, which means every inspection result is traceable to a validated method. IFIA certified inspectors apply these norms consistently, so inspection outcomes hold up under contractual scrutiny and regulatory review. This accredited independence removes doubt from cargo acceptance decisions and strengthens confidence among trading partners.

    Control Union

    Strengthen maritime risk management

    Control Union
    1.

    Proactive risk identification at every stage

    Surveyors identify risks related to loading, discharge and trans-shipment before they escalate, keeping cargo movements on schedule and within specification.

    2.

    Decades of bulk commodity expertise

    Deep technical knowledge of many bulk raw materials, built over decades, allows surveyors to assess compartment suitability with precision for each specific cargo type.

    3.

    Integrated inspection, logistics and laboratory

    Control Union structurally combines inspections with logistical coordination and laboratory analyses, reducing handovers and giving organisations one aligned workflow instead of fragmented services.

    4.

    Market-leading capacity in key sectors

    A substantial market share across multiple sectors in the Netherlands confirms operational scale and reliability, ensuring consistent service even during peak demand.

    5.

    Long-term partnership and trust

    Control Union operates as a supply chain partner with long-standing client relationships, strong market knowledge and a high degree of mutual trust built through consistent delivery.

    How we work

    Towards control, insight, and certainty

    The strength lies in the combination of inspection expertise, advanced data systems, and global practical experience.

    Step 1

    Surveyors check and evaluate previously carried cargoes, giving organisations a documented cargo history assessment before physical inspection begins.

    Step 2

    Inspectors verify cleanliness, dryness and absence of debris in the load compartment, confirming suitability for the intended cargo.

    Step 3

    Control Union issues a formal acceptance or rejection of the holds based on inspection results, providing a clear contractual record.

    The proof to your promise

    Compliance and safety assured

    Control Union delivers verified compartment readiness and full operational relief, keeping cargo quality and contractual compliance under control.

    • One central point of contact in the supply chain reduces coordination effort and keeps inspections, planning and reporting aligned across operations.

    • Organisations are fully supported on operational, quality and contractual matters, removing administrative burden from internal teams.

    • With a global presence in more than 80 countries, Control Union delivers consistent inspection standards wherever cargo movements take place.

    Control Union
    Our surveyors check and judge previously carried cargoes on-site, then provide a definitive acceptance or rejection so loading decisions are never left to assumption.
    Koen Backer van Ommeren – Control Union
    The proof to your promise

    Frequently asked questions

    Load compartment inspections cover vessels, barges, coaster holds, bulk trucks, tank trucks and warehouses. Each compartment type is assessed for suitability before cargo loading begins.

    Control Union operates a large and flexible organisation that supports 24/7 operations, peak demand periods and complex logistical scenarios. Inspections are planned to match operational timelines.

    The inspection provides documented findings and a clear cargo status, supporting risk assessment and quality verification. This documented status supports transparent and accurate financial settlement between trading parties.

    Get in touch with our experts

    Looking to learn more about our inspection capabilities? Submit the form below and we’ll reach out promptly.

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    Local knowledge

    Global coverage

    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!

    105
    +
    Years of experience
    275
    +
    Offices and laboratories in 80 countries
    6000
    +
    Dedicated colleagues