Is the ship cargo correct? Measuring at unloading
A ship discharges bulk on the quay, and the question is always the same: is this really the quantity on the papers? By measuring just before and just after unloading, you independently record what actually arrives.
Why this matters
With a ship cargo it quickly involves large volumes and therefore large amounts. The transport papers state what was supposedly loaded at the port of departure — not what lands on your quay. Discrepancies through loss, moisture or simply a miscount are expensive, and without your own measurement you are empty-handed in a discussion.
How the measurement works
The principle is simple: two measurements, one difference.
- Baseline before unloading: the drone records the existing stock on the quay or in the bunker.
- Second measurement after unloading: the same zone, flown again.
- The difference between the two volumes is the quantity actually discharged — with date and coordinates as evidence.
Both flights are short and entirely from above. Why those volumes are reliable, read How accurate is a volume measurement?
Independent evidence
The strength lies in the independence. You measure, not the supplier and not the carrier. The data is dated, controlled and reviewable. If a dispute arises over the discharged quantity, you put a measurement on the table instead of a suspicion.
Common mistakes
- Only measuring afterwards. Without a baseline you do not know what was already there.
- Relying on the ship's papers as the only source for a large amount.
- Moving the measurement zones between the two flights. Measure exactly the same zone.
Why with a drone (and why Droneview)?
A drone measures a whole quay or bunker in one go, safely and without really interrupting the unloading. Droneview operates EASA-certified and RTK-controlled, and delivers a verifiable report. How we track stock and volumes structurally, you can read on stockpile volume measurement & inventory.
Frequently asked questions
How do you check a discharged ship cargo?
By measuring the stock on the quay or in the bunker just before and just after unloading. The difference is the quantity actually discharged, recorded independently with date and coordinates.
Why a drone instead of the ship's papers?
The papers state what was supposedly loaded; a measurement on the quay states what actually arrives. In case of a discrepancy you have independent proof rather than only one party's word.
Does the measurement disrupt unloading?
No. The flight is from above and short; unloading does not have to stop, apart from the two brief measurement moments.
Have a cargo checked independently?
Tell us when the ship unloads — we plan the measurement before and after discharge.
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