What is a Survey and Why is it Needed?
What is a Survey and Why is it Needed?
When it comes to transporting expensive, fragile, or perishable goods, a survey comes to the rescue. But what is it, who orders it, and how does the inspection process work? Let’s break it down.
What is a Survey?
A survey is an independent inspection of goods aimed at identifying defects, damages, or discrepancies. Typically, such an examination applies to expensive, fragile, or perishable goods. The clients for surveys are most often insurance companies, but the initiator can also be the sender, the carrier, or even the recipient.
Why is a Survey Needed?
The main goals of a survey are:
- Monitoring transportation conditions: Were all necessary standards followed?
- Checking the integrity of packaging and goods: If the packaging is damaged, what caused it?
- Determining liability: Who is responsible for the damage to the cargo—the carrier, the sender, or the recipient?
The inspection can be conducted at any stage of transportation. For example, the sender may order a survey to prove that the goods were shipped in perfect condition. Or the carrier may initiate an inspection if the goods were delivered intact but damage was discovered during unloading.
Marine Survey: How Does It Work?
The concept of a survey originally emerged in maritime transportation and later spread to other modes of transport. A marine survey is usually conducted in or near a port.
Surveyors check not only the cargo itself but also:
- The suitability of the vessel for the transported goods.
- The condition of all transport systems.
- The quality of fuel.
- Transportation documents.
- Crew records.
This process helps ensure that everything is in order and prevents potential problems.
Transport Route Survey
When it comes to transporting oversized goods by road, surveyors can also be useful. They assess the route, check its safety, and provide recommendations for transportation.
Why is This Important?
A survey is not just a formality. It is a way to protect the interests of all parties involved: the sender, the carrier, and the recipient. It helps avoid disputes, establish the truth, and ultimately save time and money.
So, if you’re transporting something truly valuable, a survey is something worth considering. After all, it’s better to ensure everything is in order beforehand than to deal with the consequences later.
