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Shipping a Floating Oil Storage Barge (FOSB) from the UK
Pre-shipment Planning
Survey & Documentation
A thorough survey of the FOSB is crucial to determine its dimensions, weight, and structural soundness. Accurate weight calculations and load distribution plans are essential. Necessary documentation includes class certificates, stability certificates, maritime transport permits, environmental permits, and comprehensive insurance details (hull and machinery, cargo, and liability).
Port Selection
Choosing the right ports of origin and destination is vital. Consider facilities for handling out-of-gauge (OOG) cargo (deep water berths, heavy-lift cranes, and FLO-FLO capabilities), tidal restrictions and draft limitations, proximity to origin and destination, availability of specialised tugboats, and the presence of suitable repair facilities.
Vessel Selection
Securing a suitable heavy-lift vessel with adequate lifting capacity and deck space is paramount. Options include FLO-FLO vessels for larger barges, semi-submersible vessels, and heavy-lift ships. Vessel stability, seaworthiness, and comprehensive insurance coverage for the cargo must be confirmed.
Route Planning
Optimal route planning involves considering weather conditions, potential canal transits and their restrictions, geographical limitations, pilot services, potential port congestion delays, and implementing weather routing strategies.
Customs & Regulatory Compliance
Strict adherence to all relevant international and national regulations is mandatory, especially those concerning hazardous material (oil) transport. All necessary permits and licenses must be obtained.
Transportation
Barge Preparation
Preparing the FOSB for transport involves ballasting, securing mooring points, applying protective coatings, cleaning, draining, and inerting (if necessary for safety).
Loading
Loading the FOSB should utilise FLO-FLO (if feasible) or heavy-lift cranes, strictly adhering to rigorous safety procedures.
Seafastening
Secure the FOSB to the vessel's deck using appropriate seafastening techniques (chains, wire ropes, lashings) to withstand ocean transport stresses.
Voyage Monitoring
Continuous voyage monitoring using satellite tracking and regular communication with the vessel is essential. Prompt action must be taken in emergencies.
Discharge & Delivery
Port Arrival
Coordinate with the receiving party and port authorities for discharge upon arrival at the destination port.
Discharge Operations
Discharge the FOSB using the same method as loading (FLO-FLO or cranes).
Post-Delivery Inspection
A post-delivery inspection assesses the FOSB's condition after transport.
Documentation
Complete all necessary customs and regulatory documentation upon arrival.
Key Considerations
Insurance
Comprehensive cargo insurance covering all potential risks, including war risk and general average, is crucial.
Risk Management
A detailed risk assessment and mitigation plan, using appropriate methodologies, is necessary. Consider potential hazards such as collision, grounding, and fire.
Experienced Partner
Engage a specialised heavy-lift shipping company with extensive experience in handling OOG and project cargo. Shipping International is one such company.
Budget
Develop a comprehensive budget encompassing all costs: vessel charter, loading/discharge, insurance, permits, and other fees.
Environmental Considerations
Comply with all environmental regulations, including oil spill prevention and response plans.
Contact Information
Information on Shipping International can be found at shippinginternational.co.uk. Their email address is
