From 1 September to 30 November 2026, the Paris MoU and Tokyo MoU are conducting a joint Concentrated Inspection Campaign focusing on the securing of cargo units and cargo transport units.
The campaign is being conducted alongside routine Port State Control inspections and is intended to assess compliance with existing SOLAS requirements covering cargo loading, stowage and securing.
What will PSC officers be looking for?
Having documents onboard is only part of the picture. Shipboard practice needs to correspond with approved procedures and securing arrangements.
Masters, Chief Officers and ship managers should pay particular attention to the vessel's approved Cargo Securing Manual, securing arrangements actually being used onboard, the condition and availability of securing devices, crew familiarity with securing requirements, relevant cargo information and preparations for heavy-weather conditions.
Why this campaign matters
The official CIC questionnaire contains ten questions and is used in addition to the normal PSC inspection during the campaign period.
Where deficiencies are identified, PSC action can range from recording the deficiency to detention of the vessel in serious cases.
Before the next port call
Owners, managers and Masters should consider reviewing cargo securing arrangements before arrival rather than waiting until a PSC officer is onboard. Particular attention should be given where vessels carry deck cargo, vehicles, project cargo, cargo transport units or other arrangements where securing practices require careful operational control.
WAN Insight
Good PSC preparation is not simply about completing another checklist. Documentation, equipment condition and actual onboard practice need to tell the same story.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for general maritime information only and does not replace applicable SOLAS requirements, Flag State/Class guidance, the official CIC questionnaire or professional advice.
