When transporting cargo over long distances, it is essential to ensure its complete safety. For this purpose, a procedure called a survey is carried out—an independent inspection of the cargo and/or the vehicle to assess its compliance with regulations and identify any possible violations.
Survey – Purpose and Objectives
The term survey originates from the English language and initially referred to inspections of maritime cargo shipments. Today, it applies to all types of transportation. A survey is an inspection of cargo aimed at identifying possible product damage or packaging defects. Survey inspections are conducted by surveyors—employees of independent expert organizations. They act in the interest of the client and prepare a report based on the results of the inspection.
A survey inspection is necessary to:
- Document the condition of the cargo and vehicle before transportation, at specific stages during transport, and upon delivery.
- Prevent potential disputes between stakeholders in the logistics chain—including the shipper, consignee, carrier, freight forwarder, and insurance company.
- Reduce financial risks.
- Determine the causes of cargo loss, damage, packaging breaches, or non-compliance with legal documentation requirements.
Properly recorded and documented survey results often play a decisive role in customs clearance and legal disputes. They may also serve as evidence for insurance claims and help justify compensation amounts. Survey inspections are particularly important when transporting perishable goods, fragile items, or valuable products—but they can be conducted for any type of cargo.
Several types of surveys are used in logistics:
- Cargo survey – Involves inspecting the condition and completeness of cargo during shipping. Packaging and the correctness of documentation are also evaluated.
- Vessel survey – Involves inspecting the condition of the vessel, checking for damage, fuel levels, technical systems, and required documents.
- Loading survey – A surveyor oversees cargo loading or unloading. They assess correct placement, securing methods, and the work of handling equipment.
- Damage survey – If cargo is damaged or lost, the inspector determines the cause and assesses the amount of damage.
- Container survey – Containers are inspected before loading and after delivery. Inspectors assess their sealing integrity and overall technical condition.
Surveying is also required during warehouse storage. Inspectors check temperature and humidity levels, and look for signs of insects, rodents, or mold. Part of their responsibility is verifying that customs clearance documents comply with international standards.
Stages of a Survey Inspection
Any party involved in international cargo transportation—the supplier, cargo owner, or carrier—may order a survey. Each has its own reasons: the supplier may want to confirm the correct quantity, packaging, and labeling of goods; the carrier uses the survey to monitor the transportation process and avoid losses or damage; the cargo owner may rely on the inspection to prove that the delivery was incomplete or damaged.
While the procedure may vary case by case, a typical survey includes these main stages:
- Preparation: The surveyor analyzes the request, reviews accompanying documents, defines control objectives with the client, and prepares a contract.
- On-site inspection: The cargo is visually and technically examined. Photo and video documentation is mandatory. The condition of the packaging, seals, labels, and securing methods must be recorded.
- Weighing, measuring, counting: The mass and quantity of goods are verified against the documented data.
- Reporting: The surveyor prepares a detailed report outlining actions taken, any violations detected, and suggested corrective measures. Photos and a summary document are attached.
Surveys should be planned in advance to ensure control over all stages of the logistics process. They are especially critical for transporting highly valuable or fragile goods—in the latter case, proper packaging must be a top priority. Independent companies can also inspect vehicles for compliance with international transport requirements.
