Shipping Industrial Tailings Tanks: A Detailed Guide

Pre-Shipment Planning

Assess Tank Dimensions and Weight

Obtain certified weight and dimension certificates, detailed technical drawings, and tank material certifications. Conduct a site survey to evaluate accessibility and compliance with regulations. Accurate data is critical for selecting the appropriate vessel and determining handling requirements.

Determine Destination Port

Assess the destination port’s infrastructure capabilities, including crane capacity, quayside space, draft, freeboard, and port congestion. Research local regulations, particularly those concerning hazardous materials, to ensure smooth operations.

Select a Vessel

Choose a vessel with sufficient deck space and crane capacity. Options include Breakbulk vessels, heavy-lift ships, or semi-submersible carriers. Evaluate transit time and cost to select the most efficient option.

Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

Secure export and import licenses, hazardous material permits, and customs documentation. Working with a customs broker can streamline this process.

Develop a Detailed Shipping Plan

Create a comprehensive plan covering loading, securing, unloading, delivery, contingencies, risk assessment, emergency response, and communication strategies.

Secure Cargo Insurance

Obtain comprehensive cargo insurance covering damage, loss, and delays for financial protection.

Choose a Logistics Provider

Partner with an experienced provider such as Shipping International, which specialises in heavy-lift shipping, permits, insurance, and logistics management.

Preparation and Loading

Tank Preparation

Ensure the tank is clean, drained, and inspected for structural integrity. Apply protective coatings as needed and document all cleaning and inspection procedures.

Packaging and Crating

Use durable materials and appropriate techniques to safeguard the tank. Crating may be necessary for smaller or more delicate components.

Loading and Securing

Load the tank using specialised lifting equipment and experienced personnel. Secure it with high-tensile lashing, chains, and dunnage. Develop a detailed lashing plan that includes load calculations and stress analysis.

Documentation

Complete all required shipping documents, including packing lists, commercial invoices, and bills of lading, ensuring accuracy to avoid delays.

Transportation and Delivery

Voyage Monitoring

Track the vessel’s progress with GPS and real-time data. Maintain communication with the crew to monitor cargo status.

Unloading and Delivery

Arrange for heavy-lift equipment and experienced personnel at the destination port. Coordinate with receiving facilities to ensure site readiness.

Post-Delivery Inspection

Conduct a thorough inspection upon delivery. Document any damage to facilitate insurance claims if necessary.

Compliance and Regulations

Adherence to International Shipping Regulations

Comply with standards such as SOLAS, IMO, IMDG Code, and MARPOL, ensuring the safe handling of out-of-gauge (OOG) cargo.

Port and Customs Compliance

Prepare all necessary documentation and permits to meet port and customs regulations. Detailed record-keeping is essential for audits and insurance purposes.

Maintain Accurate Records

Keep comprehensive records throughout the shipping process, including permits, inspection reports, and communication logs.

Potential Risks and Mitigation Strategies

Weather Delays

Use advanced weather forecasting to plan routes and adjust schedules. Secure the cargo for expected weather conditions to prevent damage.

Port Congestion

Monitor port activity and prepare contingency plans, including alternative ports, to mitigate delays.

Damage During Transit

Ensure proper securing and packaging using high-quality materials and experienced personnel. Comprehensive cargo insurance is essential for financial protection.

Shipping International Information

Shipping International, headquartered in the UK, provides expert logistics support for complex shipments like industrial tailings tanks. Learn more at shippinginternational.co.uk.

Checklist

• Assess tank dimensions and weight; obtain certifications.
• Determine destination port and assess its capabilities.
• Select appropriate vessel; confirm availability.
• Obtain all necessary permits and licenses.
• Develop detailed shipping plan (including contingency plans).
• Secure comprehensive cargo insurance.
• Choose a reputable logistics provider.
• Prepare tank (clean, drain, inspect).
• Package and crate (if necessary).
• Load and secure tank according to plan.
• Complete all shipping documentation.
• Monitor voyage progress.
• Arrange unloading and delivery at destination.
• Conduct post-delivery inspection.
• Maintain accurate records throughout the process.