The London P&I Club has warned its members about an increase in the number of claims for cargo damage.
The club raised concerns over so-called "shortage allegations" in cases where surveys are performed by surveyors on behalf of local receivers.
The club called on members to minimise the danger of shortage claims by arranging for independent surveyors to conduct draft surveys jointly with the shippers' and receivers' surveyors.
The club concluded in a statement that maintaining in- vessel files and logbooks, comprehensive records of draft surveys and instances of suspension of cargo operations due to rain and the like "should help to support a vessel's position in relation to cargo outturn figures and condition".
