Overview
The Bunker Delivery Note is a central delivery record, but it should be treated as part of a wider evidence set rather than the only proof of what occurred. Quantity records, transfer chronology, fuel information and any protests should all remain consistent.
For maritime professionals, the useful question is not only “what does the term mean?” but “what evidence would show that the work was performed properly?” This guide therefore focuses on the practical link between the governing framework, onboard or cargo-side activity, and the records a competent professional would expect to see.
Key Points to Understand
IMT conceptual illustration for learning purposes; not an official regulatory flowchart.
Practical Process
The exact method must always be adapted to the vessel, cargo, company procedures, local rules and the scope of the assignment. A disciplined sequence helps keep evidence complete and prevents the work from drifting away from its objective.
- Compare BDN identifiers with the receiving vessel and delivery craft.
- Check fuel grade and nominated delivery details.
- Cross-check the stated quantity against the applicable measurement record.
- Confirm times/dates and signatures required by the relevant procedure.
- Record any disagreement or correction before finalising the survey file.
Common Mistakes
Most weak inspections, surveys and audits do not fail because the professional forgot a complicated formula. They fail because scope, evidence or follow-up became unclear. Watch especially for:
- Treating the BDN as proof of every aspect of fuel compliance.
- Ignoring handwritten changes or mismatched quantities.
- Failing to retain the surveyor's copy or reference.
Practical Checklist
This is an IMT working checklist, not a substitute for the applicable convention, code, flag requirement, port rule, company procedure or contractual instruction.
- Vessel details
- Supplier/delivery craft
- Fuel grade
- Quantity
- Date/time
- Measurement reference
- Corrections/protests
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View the Training Programme →Frequently Asked Questions
Is a BDN the same as a bunker survey report?
No. The BDN is a delivery document; the survey report records the surveyor's attendance, evidence and findings.
Should the BDN quantity match the survey result?
It should be reconciled with the applicable measurement evidence. Any difference should be investigated and documented.
Can the BDN prove fuel quality by itself?
No. Fuel quality questions may require compliant sampling, laboratory analysis and the relevant regulatory or contractual framework.
Authoritative Sources
Regulatory statements in this guide are grounded in the following primary or official sources. Operational recommendations are presented as IMT practical guidance.
International Maritime Training (IMT) is an independent training provider. This educational guide is not issued by, affiliated with, or endorsed by IMO, ILO, MPA Singapore, or any other authority referenced above.