Cargo Surveys & Cargo Protection


Deadweight & Draft Survey Services

Accurate Cargo Measurement for Safe, Efficient Maritime Operations

At Beck Marine, LLC, we provide professional Deadweight and Draft Survey Services that deliver precise cargo quantity determinations for vessel owners, charterers, terminals, cargo interests, and marine insurers. Our surveys establish the exact weight of cargo loaded onto or discharged from a vessel by measuring changes in the vessel's displacement before and after cargo operations.

What Is a Deadweight / Draft Survey?

A draft survey is a scientifically recognized method used to calculate the weight of bulk cargo aboard a vessel. By measuring the vessel's draft, water density, trim, and stability characteristics, our marine surveyors determine the vessel's displacement and accurately calculate cargo quantities.

This method is commonly used for commodities such as:

Aggregates and stone products
Coal and petroleum coke
Grain and agricultural products
Fertilizers
Minerals and ores
Steel products
Bulk chemicals and industrial materials

Why Is It Important?

Accurate cargo quantity determination is critical to the maritime industry. Even small discrepancies can result in significant financial losses, contractual disputes, and insurance claims. A professional draft survey provides:

Independent verification of cargo quantities
Reduced risk of commercial disputes
Reliable documentation for charter parties and contracts
Protection for vessel owners, charterers, and cargo interests
Compliance with industry standards and best practices
Confidence in cargo transfer operations

As global trade continues to depend on bulk shipping, accurate cargo measurement remains an essential component of efficient and transparent maritime commerce.


The Beck Marine Process

At Beck Marine, LLC, we follow a systematic and proven survey methodology designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and defensible results.

1. Pre-Operation Inspection

Our surveyor boards the vessel and reviews:
• Vessel hydrostatic data
• Stability information
• Loading condition
• Ballast and tank configurations
• Previous cargo records

2. Initial Draft Survey

Before cargo operations begin, we:
• Measure forward, midship, and aft drafts on both port and starboard sides
• Record vessel trim and list
• Determine water density through sampling and testing
• Calculate the vessel's initial displacement

3. Cargo Operation Monitoring

During loading or discharge operations, we maintain communication with vessel personnel and terminal representatives to verify operational conditions and identify any factors that may affect survey accuracy.

4. Final Draft Survey

Upon completion of cargo operations, we repeat all draft measurements and calculations, accounting for:
• Changes in ballast
• Consumables used during operations
• Water density variations
• Vessel trim and stability conditions

5. Cargo Quantity Determination

Using industry-accepted hydrostatic calculations, we determine the net cargo loaded or discharged and verify the results through detailed quality checks.

6. Comprehensive Reporting

Clients receive a clear, professional survey report containing:
• Draft readings
• Density measurements
• Hydrostatic calculations
• Cargo quantity determination
• Supporting observations and documentation


Trusted Marine Surveying Expertise

Beck Marine, LLC is committed to delivering accurate, independent, and timely survey services that support safe and efficient maritime commerce. Our attention to detail, technical expertise, and commitment to professional standards provide clients with reliable cargo quantity verification they can trust.

When accuracy matters, Beck Marine delivers confidence.


Precision Cargo Measurement for Inland Marine Transportation

Beck Marine, LLC provides independent Inland River Barge Draft Survey Services using a proven 10-Freeboard methodology designed specifically for hopper barges, deck barges, and other inland cargo vessels operating throughout America's inland waterway system.

Our surveys determine the exact quantity of cargo loaded or discharged by measuring a barge's displacement before and after cargo operations. The result is a reliable, independent cargo quantity determination that supports commercial transactions, terminal operations, insurance requirements, and dispute resolution.

Inland River Barge Draft Survey Services

What Is an Inland Barge Draft Survey?

A barge draft survey is a scientific method of calculating cargo weight by measuring the vessel's freeboard and draft at multiple locations. Unlike truck scales or conveyor systems, draft surveys determine cargo quantity directly from the vessel's displacement in the water.

At Beck Marine, we utilize a comprehensive 10-Freeboard Survey Method, collecting measurements at multiple locations along both the port and starboard sides of the barge to ensure the highest level of accuracy.

This methodology is commonly used for:

Aggregates and stone products
Sand and dredged materials
Coal and petroleum coke
Grain and agricultural commodities
Fertilizers
Salt and minerals
Scrap metal
Bulk industrial materials

Why Is It Important?

Cargo quantity discrepancies can quickly become costly. A difference of only a few inches in draft can represent several tons of cargo value.

Professional draft surveys provide:

Independent cargo quantity verification
Reduced commercial disputes
Accurate billing and invoicing support
Documentation for insurance and claims
Confidence in terminal loading and discharge operations
Verification of cargo transfers and ownership transactions

For shippers, terminals, cargo interests, insurers, and barge operators, accurate quantity determination protects both operational and financial interests.


The Beck Marine 10-Freeboard Survey Process

1. Vessel Information Collection

Before measurements begin, our surveyor gathers critical information including:
Barge identification
Barge dimensions
Capacity tables
Cargo information
Survey location
Waterway conditions

2. Loaded Condition Survey

Ten freeboard measurements are obtained from designated locations on both the port and starboard sides of the barge.

Measurements are collected at:
Forward locations
Midship locations
Aft locations
Port side reference points
Starboard side reference points

These measurements establish the barge's loaded displacement condition.

3. Water Density Determination

Water density is measured and applied to survey calculations to compensate for variations between fresh, brackish, and river water conditions.

4. Draft and Deadweight Calculations

Using the measured freeboards and barge depth, Beck Marine calculates:
Average freeboard
Barge draft
Corrected draft
Capacity below draft
Capacity above draft
Tons per inch immersion (TPI)
Loaded deadweight

5. Light Condition Survey

Upon completion of cargo discharge, a second 10-freeboard survey is conducted to determine the vessel's light condition.

The same measurements and calculations are repeated to establish:
Light deadweight
Water corrections
Final displacement condition

6. List and Hog/Sag Analysis

To improve survey accuracy, Beck Marine evaluates:
Port-to-starboard list
Longitudinal trim
Hog and sag conditions
Structural distortion effects

These factors are documented and incorporated into the final survey determination when required.

7. Final Cargo Quantity Determination

Cargo discharged or loaded is calculated by comparing the loaded and light conditions while applying all necessary corrections.

Clients receive a professional survey report containing:
Freeboard measurements
Draft calculations
Water density corrections
Deadweight calculations
Hog/sag observations
Final cargo quantity determination


Why Choose Beck Marine?

Beck Marine, LLC combines practical inland marine experience with disciplined survey procedures to deliver accurate, repeatable, and defensible results.

Whether surveying a single barge or an entire fleet movement, our clients rely on us for independent cargo verification that supports confident business decisions.

Beck Marine, LLC — Accuracy You Can Measure. Confidence You Can Trust.


Protecting Cargo Quality Before Loading Begins

At Beck Marine, LLC, we provide professional Cargo Hold Cleanliness Surveys to verify that a vessel's cargo holds are suitable for loading the intended cargo. Our inspections help vessel owners, charterers, terminals, shippers, and cargo interests reduce the risk of contamination, cargo rejection, delays, and costly claims.

A clean cargo hold is the first step in protecting cargo quality throughout the transportation process.

Cargo Hold Cleanliness Surveys

What Is a Cargo Hold Cleanliness Survey?

A cargo hold cleanliness survey is a detailed inspection performed before cargo loading operations begin. The purpose of the survey is to determine whether the cargo spaces are clean, dry, odor-free, and suitable for the intended commodity.

Our surveyors inspect cargo holds for:

Residues from previous cargoes
Loose scale and rust
Paint flakes
Standing water and moisture
Debris and foreign materials
Odors and contamination risks
Structural conditions affecting cargo integrity
Evidence of pests, infestation, or bird activity

Upon completion of the inspection, Beck Marine issues a professional report documenting the condition of the cargo spaces and their suitability for loading.

Why Is It Important?

Cargo contamination can result in significant financial losses, rejected cargoes, delays, and contractual disputes. A professional hold cleanliness survey helps ensure that cargo is loaded into a suitable environment and provides independent documentation of hold condition prior to loading.

Benefits include:

• Protection against contamination claims
• Verification of charter party requirements
• Reduced risk of cargo rejection
• Documentation for cargo interests and insurers
• Increased confidence in loading operations
• Independent third-party verification

For sensitive cargoes such as grain, fertilizers, minerals, steel products, and food-grade commodities, hold cleanliness inspections are often a critical requirement before loading approval is granted.


The Beck Marine 10-Freeboard Survey Process

1. Pre-Loading Vessel Inspection

Our surveyor boards the vessel and reviews:
Cargo information
Previous cargo history
Cleaning records
Charter party requirements
Cargo hold preparation procedures

2. Physical Hold Inspection

Each cargo hold is thoroughly inspected to evaluate:
Overall cleanliness
Dryness of cargo spaces
Residual cargo presence
Rust scale and loose coatings
Structural condition
Bilges and drainage arrangements
Access areas and hatch covers

3. Contamination Risk Assessment

We assess potential contamination sources that could impact cargo quality, including:
Previous cargo residues
Chemical contamination
Odors
Moisture intrusion
Foreign materials

4. Documentation and Photography

Detailed photographs and observations are recorded throughout the inspection process to provide clear evidence of hold condition at the time of survey.

5. Suitability Determination

Based on the inspection findings, Beck Marine determines whether the cargo hold is:
Suitable for loading
Suitable subject to corrective action
Not suitable for loading until deficiencies are addressed

6. Reporting

Clients receive a comprehensive report containing:
Inspection findings
Photographic documentation
Areas of concern
Recommendations when required
Final suitability determination


Independent Verification You Can Trust

Cargo quality begins with proper cargo hold preparation. Beck Marine, LLC provides thorough, objective inspections that help clients minimize risk, protect cargo value, and maintain confidence throughout the loading process.

Whether inspecting a bulk carrier, inland barge, or cargo vessel, our surveyors deliver professional assessments backed by industry experience and attention to detail.

Beck Marine, LLC — Protecting Cargo from the Hold Up.


Independent Documentation of Cargo Condition Throughout Transportation

At Beck Marine, LLC, we provide professional Cargo Condition Surveys to document the condition of cargo before, during, and after transportation. Our surveys provide independent verification of cargo condition and help vessel owners, charterers, cargo interests, insurers, terminals, and shippers minimize risk and resolve potential disputes.

Whether cargo is being loaded, discharged, stored, or transferred, accurate condition reporting is critical to protecting commercial interests and establishing accountability throughout the supply chain.

Cargo Condition Surveys

What Is a Cargo Condition Survey?

A cargo condition survey is a detailed inspection conducted to assess and document the physical condition of cargo at a specific point during transportation or storage.

The survey establishes an independent record of the cargo's condition and identifies any visible damage, contamination, shortages, packaging deficiencies, or handling concerns.

Cargo condition surveys are commonly performed on:

Steel products
Project cargo
Heavy lift cargo
Bagged commodities
Forest products
Bulk cargoes
Machinery and equipment
Containers
Breakbulk cargo
Agricultural products

Why Is It Important?

Cargo may change hands multiple times between origin and destination. When damage occurs, determining when and where it happened can be difficult without proper documentation.

A professional cargo condition survey helps:

Establish cargo condition at a specific point in time
Document existing damage or deficiencies
Protect cargo interests
Reduce commercial disputes
Support insurance claims
Verify proper cargo handling
Create a defensible record for all parties involved

Independent condition reporting provides confidence throughout the transportation process.


The Beck Marine Process

1. Cargo Identification

Our surveyor identifies and records:
Cargo description
Quantity
Packaging type
Markings and identification numbers
Stowage location when applicable

2. Physical Inspection

The cargo is visually examined for evidence of:
Physical damage
Dents and deformation
Rust and corrosion
Moisture exposure
Contamination
Torn packaging
Broken securing arrangements
Handling damage

3. Documentation of Findings

Any exceptions or damage are carefully documented, including:
Type of damage
Extent of damage
Location of damage
Probable cause when observable

4. Photographic Evidence

Comprehensive photographs are taken to provide clear visual documentation of cargo condition and any deficiencies observed during the inspection.

5. Quantity Verification

Where required, surveyors may verify:
Piece counts
Bundle counts
Package counts
Unit identification
Observable shortages

6. Reporting

Clients receive a detailed survey report containing:
Cargo description
Inspection findings
Condition observations
Photographic documentation
Exceptions noted
Surveyor comments and recommendations


Protecting Cargo Interests Through Independent Documentation

Cargo condition can directly impact commercial value, contractual obligations, and insurance exposure. Beck Marine, LLC provides accurate, objective, and timely cargo condition surveys that help clients understand the condition of their cargo and protect their interests throughout transportation.

From loading ports to discharge terminals, our surveyors deliver the documentation needed to support informed decisions and successful cargo movements.

Beck Marine, LLC — Independent Inspections. Accurate Documentation. Trusted Results.


Protecting Cargo Interests Before Loading Begins

At Beck Marine, LLC, we provide professional Pre-Loading and Cargo Condition Surveys to document the condition of cargo immediately prior to loading aboard vessels, barges, trucks, railcars, or other transportation assets.

Our surveys provide independent verification of cargo condition before shipment begins, helping cargo interests, shippers, charterers, insurers, and receivers establish a clear record of cargo condition and minimize future disputes.

By documenting cargo condition before loading, all parties gain confidence that cargo enters transit in an acceptable condition and that any pre-existing deficiencies are properly identified and recorded.

Pre-Loading & Cargo Condition Surveys

What Is a Pre-Loading & Cargo Condition Survey?

A pre-loading cargo condition survey is a detailed inspection performed before cargo is loaded for transportation.

The survey establishes the physical condition of cargo at origin and documents any visible exceptions that may affect cargo quality, value, or transportability.

Cargo commonly inspected includes:

Steel coils and steel products
Pipe and structural steel
Project cargo
Heavy lift cargo
Machinery and equipment
Bagged commodities
Forest products
Breakbulk cargo
Containers
Packaged industrial materials

The resulting report creates an independent record of cargo condition before custody is transferred for shipment.

Why Is It Important?

Once cargo enters the transportation chain, determining when damage occurred can become difficult.

A professional pre-loading survey helps:

Document cargo condition before shipment
Identify pre-existing damage
Protect buyers and sellers
Reduce commercial disputes
Support insurance claims
Verify packaging suitability
Confirm cargo readiness for transport
Establish a chain of documentation from origin

Independent condition reporting provides valuable protection for all parties involved in the transaction.


The Beck Marine Process

1. Cargo Identification

Our surveyor verifies and records:
Cargo description
Quantity
Marks and numbers
Dimensions when applicable
Packaging type
Unit identification

2. Physical Cargo Inspection

Each cargo unit is examined for evidence of:
Mechanical damage
Dents and deformation
Scratches and abrasion
Rust and corrosion
Moisture exposure
Contamination
Packaging deficiencies
Improper storage conditions

3. Packaging and Securing Assessment

Where applicable, we evaluate:
Packaging integrity
Protective coverings
Banding and strapping
Dunnage arrangements
Lifting points
Handling readiness

4. Documentation of Exceptions

Any deficiencies or damage are documented, including:
Location of damage
Extent of damage
Observable cause
Impact on cargo condition

5. Photographic Documentation

Comprehensive photographs are taken to provide a permanent visual record of cargo condition prior to loading.

6. Loading Observation (When Requested)

Beck Marine can also monitor loading operations to document:
Cargo handling procedures
Loading sequence
Stowage practices
Securing arrangements
Additional damage occurring during loading

7. Reporting

Upon completion, clients receive a detailed report containing:
Cargo description
Quantity inspected
Condition observations
Exceptions noted
Photographic evidence
Surveyor recommendations


Confidence Before Cargo Moves

A successful shipment begins with proper documentation at origin. Beck Marine, LLC provides independent pre-loading and cargo condition surveys that help clients identify risks, document cargo condition, and establish a clear record before transportation begins.

Whether inspecting steel products, project cargo, machinery, or breakbulk shipments, our surveyors deliver accurate reporting and professional documentation that protects commercial interests throughout the supply chain.

Beck Marine, LLC — Documenting Cargo Condition Before the Journey Begins.


Cargo Securing & Suitability for Voyage Surveys

Ensuring Cargo Is Properly Secured for Safe Transportation

At Beck Marine, LLC, we provide professional Cargo Securing and Suitability for Voyage Surveys to verify that cargo has been properly stowed, secured, and prepared for transportation.

Our surveys help vessel owners, charterers, cargo interests, insurers, project cargo operators, and marine underwriters minimize transportation risks by confirming that cargo securing arrangements meet industry standards and are appropriate for anticipated voyage conditions.

Proper cargo securing is essential to protecting cargo, vessel safety, personnel, and the environment throughout the transportation process.

What Is a Cargo Securing & Suitability for Voyage Survey?

A cargo securing survey is performed after cargo has been loaded and secured but before departure.

The purpose of the survey is to determine whether cargo securing arrangements are adequate to withstand the forces expected during the voyage, including vessel motion, heavy weather, vibration, acceleration, and operational stresses.

The survey typically evaluates:
Cargo stowage arrangements
Lashing systems
Chains and wire lashings
Turnbuckles and tensioning devices
Dunnage arrangements
Blocking and bracing
Welding and securing points
Cargo distribution
Weather protection measures

Why Is It Important?

Improperly secured cargo can result in:

Cargo damage
Cargo shifts during transit
Vessel damage
Stability concerns
Project delays
Insurance claims
Safety hazards
Regulatory and contractual disputes

Independent verification helps ensure cargo is prepared for safe transportation and provides documentation supporting due diligence by all parties involved.


The Beck Marine Process

1. Cargo Review

Our surveyor reviews:
Cargo description
Cargo dimensions and weights
Transportation requirements
Voyage route
Anticipated weather and sea conditions
Client instructions

2. Physical Cargo Inspection

The cargo is inspected to verify:
Condition prior to departure
Proper stowage location
Weight distribution
Accessibility of securing arrangements
Cargo stability

3. Securing Arrangement Evaluation

We assess all securing systems including:
Chains
Wire rope lashings
Synthetic lashings
Turnbuckles
Welded restraints
Brackets and stoppers
Dunnage and cribbing
Blocking and bracing

4. Voyage Suitability Assessment

Our surveyor evaluates whether the securing arrangement is appropriate for:
Vessel type
Cargo characteristics
Expected vessel motion
Voyage duration
Environmental conditions

5. Deficiency Identification

Any concerns are documented and recommendations may be provided regarding:
Additional securing
Lashing adjustments
Cargo repositioning
Reinforcement of securing arrangements
Weather protection measures

6. Documentation and Reporting

Clients receive a comprehensive report containing:
Cargo description
Securing arrangement observations
Photographic documentation
Deficiencies identified
Recommendations
Overall suitability assessment


Confidence Before Departure

Every voyage presents unique challenges. Beck Marine, LLC provides independent cargo securing and voyage suitability surveys that help ensure cargo is properly prepared for safe transportation before departure.

From steel products and project cargo to heavy machinery and breakbulk shipments, our inspections provide the documentation and confidence needed to move cargo safely and efficiently.

Beck Marine, LLC — Secured for Transit. Prepared for the Voyage.


Mate's Receipt Issuance & Cargo Documentation Services

What Is a Mate's Receipt?

A Mate's Receipt is a document issued by the vessel's Chief Mate or authorized representative acknowledging receipt of cargo loaded aboard the vessel.

The document typically records:

Cargo description
Quantity loaded
Marks and numbers
Packaging details
Date and location of loading
Apparent condition of cargo
Exceptions or remarks noted during loading

The Mate's Receipt serves as the foundation for the subsequent Bill of Lading and is often relied upon in commercial transactions, financing arrangements, and cargo claims investigations.

Accurate Cargo Documentation at the Point of Loading

At Beck Marine, LLC, we provide professional Mate's Receipt Issuance Services to support vessel operators, charterers, cargo interests, terminals, and ship agents during cargo loading operations.

The Mate's Receipt is one of the most important documents in the maritime transportation process. It serves as the vessel's official acknowledgment of cargo received on board and forms the basis for the issuance of Bills of Lading and other shipping documents.

Our surveyors ensure cargo quantities, apparent condition, and loading observations are accurately documented, helping protect all parties involved in the transaction.

Why Is It Important?

Accurate cargo documentation is critical to the successful movement of goods through the maritime supply chain.

Professional issuance and verification of Mate's Receipts helps:

Verify cargo quantities loaded aboard
Document apparent cargo condition
Support Bill of Lading preparation
Reduce documentation disputes
Protect vessel and cargo interests
Establish a record of loading operations
Support insurance and claims investigations

Errors or omissions in cargo documentation can result in costly commercial disputes and delays.


The Beck Marine Process

1. Attendance During Loading Operations

Our surveyor attends loading operations and monitors cargo movement from shore to vessel.

2. Cargo Quantity Verification

We verify:
Loaded quantities
Piece counts
Bundle counts
Unit counts
Weight documentation when applicable

3. Cargo Condition Observation

Cargo is observed for:
Physical damage
Packaging deficiencies
Rust or corrosion
Moisture exposure
Contamination
Other visible exceptions

Any observations affecting apparent cargo condition are documented.

4. Cargo Documentation Review

Beck Marine reviews cargo information including:
Cargo descriptions
Marks and numbers
Shipping documentation
Loading records
Terminal records

5. Mate's Receipt Preparation Support

We assist in ensuring cargo information is accurately reflected on Mate's Receipts and that any required remarks or exceptions are properly documented.

6. Reporting

Clients receive professional documentation that may include:
Cargo quantity verification
Loading observations
Cargo condition findings
Photographic documentation
Exceptions noted during loading
Supporting survey reports


Independent Documentation You Can Trust

Accurate cargo documentation begins at the ship's rail. Beck Marine, LLC provides independent oversight and professional reporting that helps ensure cargo receipts accurately reflect the cargo loaded aboard the vessel.

From bulk commodities and steel products to project cargo and breakbulk shipments, our surveyors provide reliable documentation that supports smooth commercial transactions and protects client interests.

Beck Marine, LLC — Accurate Documentation. Verified Loading. Protected Interests.


Hatch Sealing Surveys

Independent Verification of Cargo Hold Security Following Loading Operations

At Beck Marine, LLC, we provide professional Hatch Sealing Surveys following the completion of cargo loading operations. Our surveyors verify that cargo hatch covers and cargo hold access hatches have been properly secured and sealed in accordance with charter party requirements.

The survey provides independent documentation of cargo hold security prior to the vessel's departure and establishes a verifiable record of seal numbers and seal locations for the voyage.

What Is a Hatch Sealing Survey?

A hatch sealing survey is performed after loading has been completed and all cargo operations have ceased. The purpose of the survey is to verify that the vessel's cargo spaces have been secured and sealed to prevent unauthorized access to the cargo during transit.

During the survey, Beck Marine verifies and documents seals installed on:

Cargo hatch covers
Cargo hold access hatches
Other cargo-space access points specifically designated by the charter party

Each seal is identified, recorded, and photographed to create a complete record of cargo hold security prior to sailing.

Why Is It Important?

Many charter parties require cargo spaces to be sealed immediately after loading to maintain cargo integrity and provide assurance that no cargo has been removed, altered, or accessed during the voyage.

A professional hatch sealing survey helps:

Verify charter party compliance
Establish a documented chain of custody
Protect cargo interests
Reduce shortage and tampering disputes
Provide independent third-party verification
Create a record for insurers and commercial stakeholders


The Beck Marine Process

1. Attendance Upon Completion of Loading

Our surveyor attends the vessel following completion of cargo operations and confirms that loading has concluded.

2. Verification of Hatch Closure

We inspect cargo hatch covers and cargo hold access hatches to verify they have been properly closed and secured.

3. Witnessing of Seal Application

Where required, our surveyor witnesses the installation of seals by vessel personnel or terminal representatives.

4. Seal Documentation

Each seal is documented, including:
Seal identification number
Hatch number
Seal location
Date and time of application

5. Photographic Evidence

Photographs are taken of:
Cargo hatch covers
Access hatches
Installed seals
Seal identification numbers

6. Survey Report

Upon completion, Beck Marine issues a detailed report containing:
Vessel particulars
Cargo information
Hatch numbers inspected
Seal numbers recorded
Seal locations
Photographic documentation
Survey observations


Protecting Cargo Integrity from Loading Port to Discharge Port

Beck Marine, LLC provides independent hatch sealing surveys that help charterers, cargo interests, vessel operators, and insurers maintain confidence in the security of cargo throughout the voyage.

Our thorough documentation provides a clear and reliable record that cargo spaces were properly secured and sealed prior to departure.

Beck Marine, LLC — Independent Verification. Documented Security. Protected Cargo.