Guides / Reference
Which survey do I actually need?
A lightweight decision guide for mapping common maritime and cargo situations to possible Fathom Pulse services.
Updated 2026-08-20 / 6 min read
There is not always one correct service name at the start. Begin with the situation, then define the instruction, scope, location and available information.
What are you dealing with?
Cargo damaged
Damage Investigations may help document nature, extent and circumstances. Cargo Surveys may also be relevant where condition or handling needs broader review.
Cargo missing or stolen
Cargo Theft Investigations may help document missing cargo, custody records and discrepancy points.
Fuel / bunker quantity concern
Bunker Surveys focus on bunker quantity information and related records within the instructed scope.
Cargo quantity concern
If quantity is being established through vessel displacement, Draft Surveys may apply. If the issue is broader cargo quantity, condition or handling, Cargo Surveys may fit better.
Vessel condition concern
Vessel Condition Surveys help record observable vessel condition at a defined point in time.
Container condition concern
Container Inspections may help document exterior, interior where accessible, seals, doors and cargo relationship.
Cargo securing concern
Cargo Securing attendance may support observation of visible securing, stowage and restraint arrangements.
Claim support
Claims Assistance may support evidence organization, field findings and claim-relevant reporting.
Risk / loss-prevention concern
Risk Assessments and Loss Prevention services may help identify observable exposures and support preventive decisions.
Not sure
Start with the situation, urgency, location and contact details. Fathom Pulse can review and discuss the appropriate scope.
How to use this guide
Use the closest situation as a starting point. If more than one service could apply, the distinction should be clarified during scope review.
Why scope matters
The same incident may require different services depending on whether the question concerns condition, quantity, cause, custody, risk or claim support.
What to do next
Open the relevant service page for more detail, or request attendance with the situation context preserved.
Important boundary
This guide supports triage. It does not replace professional judgment, contractual advice or a formal instruction review.
Ocean Intelligence provides general informational guidance. Specific circumstances may require professional, contractual, legal or insurance advice.
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When to appoint an independent marine surveyor
Situations where independent attendance may help establish a clearer factual record.
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What is a draft survey?
A high-level explanation of how draft surveys may support cargo quantity assessment.
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What does a cargo survey help establish?
How a cargo survey may document condition, quantity, handling, storage and related records.
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