Cargo damage surveys
Cargo damage matters often require early inspection and documentation. Visible condition on arrival, condition of packing, handling traces, cargo positioning, transport circumstances and mitigation possibilities may all become relevant.
We provide independent survey attendance to record the factual condition of the cargo and the surrounding circumstances at the time of inspection.
What we do
Depending on the assignment, cargo damage survey work may include:
- inspection of damaged cargo
- photo documentation
- recording visible extent and nature of damage
- observations on packing and external condition
- observations on cargo securing and positioning, where relevant
- notation of available supporting documents
- review of visible mitigation or segregation possibilities
- survey reporting for the appointing party
Our role is to document the factual position as found and to assist the appointing party with clear reporting.
Types of matters we commonly attend
We may be instructed in relation to:
- mechanical damage
- wet damage
- crushing and impact damage
- handling damage
- temperature-related damage
- contamination
- leakage
- shortage discovered at delivery
- packaging failure or collapse
- damage discovered on unloading or in storage
Clear and usable reporting
We understand that cargo damage surveys are often part of a wider claims or liability handling process. Reporting therefore needs to be practical and clear.
Our reports aim to distinguish between:
- what was observed
- what was reported by involved parties
- what documents were made available
- what issues may require further clarification
