Steel Cargo
Steel moves the world, and at OceanEx, our senior consultants make sure it arrives exactly as it should.
We offer comprehensive survey and advisory services for the handling and transportation of steel cargoes in all forms. Steel is a high-value, damage-sensitive cargo that demands expert supervision, careful planning, and rigorous documentation at every stage of the logistics chain. Our seasoned consultants bring extensive experience in inspecting and safeguarding steel products during pre-loading, transit, and unloading operations globally.
Our extensive experience includes the following types of steel cargo:
- Hot Rolled Coils (HRC)
- Cold Rolled Coils (CRC)
- Steel Slabs and Plates
- Steel Pipes and Tubes
- Structural Steel (Beams, Angles, Channels)
- Bundles, Billets, Rebars, and Wire Rods
Each type of steel cargo type presents unique handling and stowage challenges, and we ensure every operation is technically sound, compliant, and commercially secure.
At OceanEx, we routinely provide the following steel-related surveys:
1. Pre-Loading Survey
- Assessment of the condition of steel cargo at the storage yard or terminal
- Identification of pre-existing damage, corrosion, or packaging deficiencies
- Photographic documentation and detailed condition reports
- Verification of tally, marks, and specifications to match BL and charter party requirements
2. Loading Supervision
- Monitoring of stevedoring operations, lifting methods, and stowage practices
- Ensuring compliance with cargo securing and dunnaging standards (IMO Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing)
- Prevention of mechanical stress, impact, and wetting risks
- Real-time reporting and intervention due to improper handling
3. Hatch Opening and Discharge Supervision
- Supervision of hatch cover opening to assess the condition of the steel cargo upon arrival
- Verification by Silver Nitrate solution for rust, rust streak detection, and lashing condition assessment
- Expert presence throughout unloading operations to identify damage during unloading
- Coordination with consignees, receivers, and terminals to ensure smooth operations
4. Damage & Claim Surveys
- Immediate response to claims involving dents, deformation, rust, water ingress, or misdeclaration
- Issuance of comprehensive damage reports, with cause analysis and liability assessment
- Support in claim documentation for insurers, P&I Clubs, or legal proceedings
- Coordination with charterers, owners, and cargo interests to mitigate financial exposure
Whether acting on behalf of P&I Clubs, shipowners, charterers, cargo interests, or underwriters, OceanEx safeguards your exposure through:
- Independent, unbiased reporting
- Expert testimony and dispute support
- Strategic advice on cargo acceptance and risk mitigation
- Full confidentiality and legal defensibility of findings