VLFSO Bunker Survey at Oran Port, Algeria – 5.307 MT VLSFO & 12.063 MT LSMGO Discrepancy Identified

Vals Marine Survey Company successfully completed a VLFSO Bunker Survey at OrPort, Algeria, on behalf of the Charterers. Through detailed tank preparation, verification of the centre tank and the successful activation of two previously non-operational gauges, our survey team identified bunker quantities exceeding the vessel’s logbook figures by 5.307 MT of VLSFO and 12.063 MT of LSMGO.

Technical Bunker Verification at Oran Port, Algeria
Vals Marine Survey Company recently attended a VLFSO (Very Large Fuel Storage/Storage-type vessel) at Oran Port, Algeria, on bunkerbehalf of the Charterers, in connection with a comprehensive bunker quantity verification.
The assignment required a particularly careful approach due to the condition of the vessel’s tank gauging arrangements. Two gauges that were initially reported as non-operational required attention before reliable measurements could be established.
Rather than relying solely on the available readings or accepting the existing condition of the gauging system, our survey team carried out the necessary technical checks and successfully brought the two gauges into operation. This enabled additional measurement points to be incorporated into the bunker quantity verification process.
A key part of the survey was the centre tank. Prior preparation and a clear measurement strategy were essential to obtaining reliable results. The survey team approached the centre tank verification with particular attention to tank condition, gauge readings, sounding arrangements and the available vessel documentation.
Following the physical measurements and reconciliation against the vessel’s records, the survey established quantities exceeding the figures recorded in the vessel’s logbook by:
VLSFO: +5.307 MT
LSMGO: +12.063 MT
These findings demonstrate why an effective bunker survey requires more than simply taking tank readings. Accurate bunker verification depends on proper preparation, understanding of the vessel’s tank arrangement, verification of measuring equipment, independent cross-checking and careful reconciliation with the vessel’s records.
In this case, the successful activation and utilisation of the previously non-operational gauges, combined with the preparation undertaken for the centre tank, contributed significantly to establishing a more complete and reliable bunker quantity assessment.
For Charterers, bunker quantities at delivery, redelivery and off-hire can have direct commercial consequences. Even relatively small discrepancies can become significant when bunker prices and vessel consumption are taken into account. A properly conducted bunker survey therefore provides an important layer of independent protection for the Charterer’s interests.
At Vals Marine Survey Company, our surveyors focus not only on recording figures but on understanding how those figures are obtained. When measurement arrangements present challenges, our role is to investigate, verify and obtain the most reliable evidence reasonably available under the circumstances.
This Oran Port attendance is another example of the value of experienced bunker surveyors, proper pre-survey preparation and technically robust measurement procedures.
Vals Marine provides professional marine surveying services for Charterers, Owners, P&I interests and other maritime stakeholders, including Bunker Surveys, Off-Hire Surveys, Hold Condition Surveys, Cargo Surveys and Vessel Condition Inspections.
For challenging bunker verification assignments where accuracy, preparation and independent assessment matter, Vals Marine Survey Company is ready to assist.