Offshore containers inspections

Offshore container inspections prevent containers from becoming ‘out of date’ and no longer being permitted for offshore lifts. Annual inspections in line with construction standards assess the primary structure, doors, lifting points, markings, and corrosion. This ensures safe use and prevents delays in offshore operations. Control Union performs these inspections on-site, both planned and ad hoc, if required, even on the same day, for owners, lessees, and offshore platforms worldwide.

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    Compliance through offshore container inspections

    Control Union inspects offshore containers in line with leading international standards and guidelines, including IMO MSC/Circ. 860, the EN‑ISO 10855 series, and DNV 2.7‑1 (DNV‑ST‑E271) and DNV 2.7‑3 (DNV‑ST‑E273). Inspections are carried out in accordance with these standards, assessing both the primary structure and lifting components for suitability in offshore operations.

    Where required, the scope can be extended with client-specific requirements or additional acceptance criteria. Minor maintenance work can also be carried out on-site, ensuring containers remain safe, compliant, and ready for use without unnecessary delays.

    Offshore tank containers (1)

    Compliant, efficient and offshore-ready operations

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    1.

    Multi-skilled inspectors reduce helicopter costs

    Helicopter flights offshore are increasingly scarce. Multi-skilled inspectors handle containers, lifting equipment and NDT in one trip, removing the need for additional specialists.

    2.

    Non-destructive testing without paint removal

    Every 48 months, Control Union examines lifting-eye welds using Eddy Current technique. Paint stays intact, which avoids costly rework and keeps containers operational faster.

    3.

    Prompt availability at major Dutch ports

    Our inspectors are based near Eemshaven, Den Helder, IJmuiden, Rotterdam, and Vlissingen. If a container is found to be out of date before departure, Control Union can provide fast inspection, reporting, and clearance.

    4.

    Maintenance advice that extends asset life

    Larger fleet owners rely on Control Union for guidance on container upkeep. Timely advice on blasting, coating and structural care keeps assets in service longer.

    5.

    Fleet familiarity speeds up every inspection

    Control Union is familiar with most of the Dutch offshore container fleet. Familiar units mean no time lost chasing original paperwork or verifying build data.

    The proof to your promise

    Toward control, insight, and certainty

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

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    Step 1

    Register inventory, manage certificates and schedule downtime-free inspections through the Control Union portal.

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    Step 2

    Inspectors check primary structure, floor, doors, weight markings and corrosion levels on site against the applicable build standard.

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    Step 3

    Tablet‑based inspection software ensures swift, streamlined service delivery.

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    Safety and legislative compliance

    Independent, standards-based offshore container inspections protect safety and ensure every unit meets legislative requirements before it goes to sea.

    • Control Union operates independently from insurers and maintenance parties, delivering 100% objective inspection results without conflicts of interest.

    • Offshore tank containers receive two-and-a-half and five-year inspections under IMDG, ADR and RID regulations, covering all pressure-retaining parts including lifting frames.

    • Certificate management and scheduled inspections through a single portal give fleet operators continuous compliance visibility across all assets.

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    An out-of-date container can still be used on a yard or a truck, but it is not allowed to go to sea, so every missed inspection blocks the offshore lift.
    Bram Takes – Control Union
    Proof to your promise

    Frequently asked questions

    Offshore containers come in all shapes, sizes and build standards. Control Union inspects the full range, including standard cargo units, open-top frames and offshore tank containers.

    The inspection interval is every 12 months. Planned monthly visits prevent units from going out of date, but same-day ad hoc inspections are also available when schedules shift.

    Digital inspection software delivers precise, on‑site reports and removes the need for follow‑up paperwork, ensuring a fast reporting process.

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