Cargo Plan Approval and Pre-Loading Verification Checklist
This cargo plan approval and pre-loading verification checklist ensures compliance with SOLAS Chapter VI (Carriage of Cargoes and Oil Fuels) cargo information requirements, CSS Code (Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing), CTU Code, and container terminal pre-loading planning procedures. Improper cargo planning has caused container vessels to lose containers overboard, develop excessive list, and suffer structural failure.
- Industry: Maritime
- Frequency: Per Voyage
- Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
- Role: Chief Officer / Loading Master
- Total Items: 30
- Compliance: SOLAS Chapter VI Carriage of Cargoes, CSS Code Cargo Stowage and Securing Code, CTU Code IMO ILO UNECE Cargo Transport Units, IICL Container Gross Weight VGM Requirements, INTERCARGO Solid Bulk Cargo Loading Guidance
Cargo Information
Pre-loading cargo data.
- Written cargo information received for all cargo before loading?
- Verified Gross Mass (VGM) received for all containers?
- Dangerous goods declarations received for all DG cargo?
- Moisture content certificate received for solid bulk cargo?
- Weight certificates for all heavy lifts and project cargo?
Stowage Plan Review
Plan technical review.
- Stability calculated for proposed stowage plan and criteria met?
- Longitudinal strength (SF/BM) within limits for full loaded condition?
- Maximum stack weights not exceeded on any hatch/tank top?
- DG segregation requirements met in proposed stowage plan?
- Reefer containers allocated to powered positions with correct voltage?
Cargo Securing Plan
Lashing and securing.
- Cargo securing plan prepared per CSS Code requirements?
- Sufficient lashing equipment on board for entire cargo?
- Cargo Securing Manual (CSM) on board and crew familiar with it?
- Heavy/breakbulk cargo securing arrangement calculated and documented?
- Loading sequence planned to maintain stability throughout loading?
Port and Terminal Coordination
Terminal interface.
- Pre-loading plan submitted to terminal within required lead time?
- Terminal confirmed acceptance of cargo plan?
- Tallying arrangements confirmed with terminal for cargo count?
- Hatch opening sequence coordinated with crane and gang deployment?
- Intermediate draft surveys planned during long loading operations?
Special Cargo Considerations
Cargo-specific requirements.
- Out of gauge (OOG) cargo stowage positions approved by classification?
- Any container exceeding cell guide limits has special approval?
- Open-top containers stowed clear of cranes and cargo overhangs safe?
- Livestock stowage meets SOLAS requirements for ventilation and care?
- IMSBC Group A bulk cargo not loaded above TML?
Cargo Plan Records
Planning documentation.
- Chief Officer and Master approved and signed cargo plan?
- Final as-loaded stowage plan retained on board for voyage?
- Mate's receipts issued for all cargo with condition noted?
- Any cargo damage on receipt surveyed and reported before loading?
- Cargo Plan Notes
Related Maritime Checklists
- Cargo Loading and Vessel Stability Checklist
- Container Ship Operations and IMO CTU Inspection Checklist
- Ro-Ro Vessel Operations and Vehicle Deck Safety Checklist
- Cargo Lashing and Securing Inspection Checklist
- Port Container Terminal Daily Safety Inspection Checklist
- Marina and Boat Yard Safety Inspection Checklist
- Vessel Safety Management System (SMS) Internal Audit Checklist
- Vessel Pre-Departure Safety Inspection Checklist
Related Cargo Operations Checklists
- Cargo Loading and Vessel Stability Checklist - FREE Download
- Container Ship Operations and IMO CTU Inspection Checklist - FREE Download
- Ro-Ro Vessel Operations and Vehicle Deck Safety Checklist - FREE Download
- Cargo Lashing and Securing Inspection Checklist - FREE Download
- Dangerous Goods IMDG Code Stowage and Segregation Checklist - FREE Download
- Reefer Cargo and Temperature-Controlled Container Checklist - FREE Download
- Loading Computer and Stability Calculation Checklist - FREE Download
- LNG Gas Tanker Cargo Operations Safety Checklist - FREE Download
- Ship-Shore Interface and Tanker Terminal Safety Checklist - FREE Download
Why Use This Cargo Plan Approval and Pre-Loading Verification Checklist?
This cargo plan approval and pre-loading verification checklist helps maritime teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for chief officer / loading master professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per voyage.
Ensures compliance with SOLAS Chapter VI Carriage of Cargoes, CSS Code Cargo Stowage and Securing Code, CTU Code IMO ILO UNECE Cargo Transport Units, IICL Container Gross Weight VGM Requirements, INTERCARGO Solid Bulk Cargo Loading Guidance. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Cargo Plan Approval and Pre-Loading Verification Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: Cargo Information, Stowage Plan Review, Cargo Securing Plan, Port and Terminal Coordination, Special Cargo Considerations, Cargo Plan Records. It is designed for maritime operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed per voyage. Each completion takes approximately 1-2 hours.
Who should use this Cargo Plan Approval and Pre-Loading Verification Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Chief Officer / Loading Master professionals in the maritime industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.