Hold & Hatch Inspections
Cleanliness and seaworthiness verification of cargo holds and hatch covers prior to loading.
Overview
Comprehensive Hold & Hatch Inspections You Can Trust
Cargo damage claims frequently trace back to hold contamination or hatch cover leakage. SIMS surveyors inspect cargo holds for cleanliness suitable to the intended cargo grade, and hatch covers for weathertight integrity, before loading commences — giving shippers and receivers confidence the vessel is fit for the voyage ahead.
Where required, we carry out ultrasonic hatch cover testing alongside visual inspection, and issue holds-clean certificates recognized by grain and commodity trade bodies.
Service Benefits
- Reduces risk of cargo contamination claims
- Holds-clean certification recognized by commodity trade bodies
- Ultrasonic hatch cover weathertightness testing available
- Protects both shipper and carrier from disputed liability
- Fast pre-loading turnaround to avoid vessel delay
- Experience across grain, fertilizer, and general dry cargo
Our Inspection Procedure
- 1
Pre-Inspection Briefing
Intended cargo grade and cleanliness standard confirmed with the shipper.
- 2
Hold Cleanliness Check
Visual inspection of all holds for residue, odor, pest, and structural condition.
- 3
Hatch Cover Inspection
Hatch covers checked for weathertight integrity, seals, and drainage.
- 4
Ultrasonic Testing
Where required, ultrasonic testing performed to verify hatch seal integrity.
- 5
Certification
Holds-clean and hatch cover condition certificates issued ahead of loading.