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Vetting Policy Design

At ShipVet, we understand that every business in the maritime industry has unique needs when it comes to safety, compliance, and operational standards. That’s why we offer bespoke Vetting Policy Design services designed to reflect the specific requirements of your organisation.

A well-crafted vetting policy provides a clear framework for decision-making, giving you confidence you’ve done the utmost to mitigate risks in every charter and operational agreement.

23,000+

Numbers of rows of data relating to vessels

28

Number of years vetting assessments

Helping You Navigate
Your Options

A terribly maintained and inexperienced crew on a 5 year old ship can pose more risk to your business than a 18 year old vessel that has high standards and a robust operational track record - we can help you tell the difference. 

Additionally, we understand certain commodities or trades have higher proportions of vessels >15 years old. This is only going to increase as the average age of tankers rises to 13.2 years in 2024. Designing a policy to functionally work around your trade and ensure that you keep product moving, in a safe, compliant, regulatory robust and cost effective manner.

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Why a Vetting Policy Matters

In the maritime industry, vetting policies are the foundation of safe and efficient operations. They define the criteria ShipVet will use to evaluate vessels, ensuring that every ship you work with meets the standards required for safety, environmental responsibility, and operational reliability.

A strong vetting policy helps protect your reputation, reduces operational risks, and ensures compliance with international standards and client expectations.We have extensive experience and can help define the specific components based on your company's operation model and geographic presence.

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Benefits of a Tailored
Vetting Policy

By partnering with ShipVet, you gain more than just a document – you gain a strategic framework for safer, more efficient operations. Key benefits include:

Since

1997

Without a tailored vetting policy, your business may face unnecessary risks, from working with non-compliant vessels to encountering legal challenges and operational inefficiencies as cargo or vessels break down or are arrested.

ShipVet helps you avoid these pitfalls by creating a policy that’s not only comprehensive but also practical and aligned with your goals. With clear escalation and exemption processes for critical situations.

Our Approach to Vetting Policy Documentation

Understanding Your Business Needs

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We begin by working closely with your team to understand your specific operational goals, risk tolerance, and industry requirements.Whether you focus on a single touchpoint with vessel offtakes, spot charters, long-term time charter or contract of affreightment agreements, we take the time to align the vetting policy with your unique circumstances.

Tailoring Criteria to Fit Your Operations

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Every maritime operation has different priorities. We help you define and document vetting criteria based on your business category, geographical region, and operational demands.

These may include:
Vessel/Barge technical specifications, Classification Societies (IACS), Evaluation of Technical Manager/Document of Compliance party, Port State Control (PSC) reports and blacklist review of named flag and class, Class Status Reports - assessment of any suspension or overdue periodic surveys, conditions of class and conditions related to statutory certificates, Abandonment of Seafarers Officer/Crew Matrix, Trading history OFAC Sanctions List, Protection & Indemnity cover, Charter Party should reflects Vetting Policy, GHG exposure.

Incorporating Industry Best Practices

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With a team of experts that includes experienced former Mariners and with Vessel Vetting and Vessel Inspecting experience, we bring hands-on knowledge of the shipping industry to every policy we create.

Your vetting policy will incorporate the latest international regulations and industry best practices, ensuring it remains relevant and effective in a fast-changing environment.

Ensuring Clarity and Usability

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A vetting policy is only effective if it’s clear and appropriate. We structure your documentation so it’s easy for both the ShipVet and your team/management to follow, with defined processes for evaluating vessels, maintaining compliance, and making decisions.

Ongoing Support and Updates

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Regulations and industry standards evolve, and so should your vetting policy. At ShipVet, we offer ongoing support to keep your documentation up to date.

Whether it’s adapting to new environmental requirements or changes in safety regulations, we’re here to ensure your policy remains a valuable tool for your business.

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Why us?

At ShipVet, we combine 150 years of maritime expertise with a practical customer-focused approach.

We are contactable and our team knows what it takes to create a practical, effective Vetting Policy that protects your business and supports your operational goals.

When you work with us, you gain access to unparalleled industry insights, personalized support, and a commitment to helping you succeed.
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Get Started Today

Contact ShipVet to learn more about our Vetting Policy Documentation services. Whether you’re starting from scratch or updating an existing policy, we’ll work with you to create a tailored solution that meets your needs and ensures compliance in an ever-changing industry.

Together, we’ll build a safer, more efficient future for your business.

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Tullow Logo

We have used ShipVet for many years and we are extremely happy with their service.  We have found them to be efficient, diligent, responsive and we are extremely confident in their responses. – Highly recommend.

Oil Offtake Operator

Tullow
We have worked with Shipvet for a number of years – we have always been impressed with the service received. We always get quick responses to both vet requests & other enquiries. Always professional & courteous – highly recommended.
Head of Trade Operations
Synthomer

Let's sail together
towards a safer, more compliant future.