Procurement of Ship supplies and stores

A considerable number of ships dock at the ports all over the world every day to transfer cargo and passengers between ships and the shore. In order to have an uninterrupted journey these ships that set out to sea stock up on vessel stores and supplies to help them survive while they are at sea depending on the number of days, the vessel is going to be offshore.  

What entails ship supplies and stores?

Ships store a sufficient amount of resources such as food, water, cleaning supplies, medical supplies, safety supplies, spare parts, and many more before they set out to sea. The seaworthiness of a ship depends upon having adequate quantities of these. These ship supplies represent a massive portion of the vessel's operating expenses. Therefore the procurement and expenditure is a major responsibility of the crew.

Who is responsible for managing ship supplies on the ship?

The purchasing manager from the purchasing department is responsible for this task. He holds the same status as the heads of the engine, deck, and commissary departments. His job role entails active participation in the establishment of quality and quantity of stores to be stored in the ship and to procure all materials called in for requisition in accordance with the company policy at the best available prices. 

The chief engineer serves as the maintenance and repair officer of the ship. Requisition of spare parts and material used for repairing the ship is channeled through him to the offices ashore. 

Why should ships stock up on supplies?

Stocking up on supplies plays an important part in preparing a ship for a voyage. While the ship is at sea the crew might encounter emergency repairs, or malfunctioning machinery onboard, all of which require spare parts. Supplies such as gaskets, valves, bearings, fasteners, seals, lubricants, wood, pipes, strainer screen materials, and cables will be necessary to manage any planned maintenance. Ships that sail in local waters will store quite a few items while ships that sail in international waters may need a variety of supplies to be seaworthy. 

What is the role of a ship chandler in procuring ship supplies?

Ship chandlers play a vital role in the vessel supply chain globally. They are a one-stop-shop solution to all maritime needs. Ship chandlers not only supply all necessary commodities but also cater to all the requirements of the ship and its crew. They also help new buyers in buying ships by providing exclusive details about the ship. They offer their services when the ship is at the port and also while the ship is at sea. If the ship runs out of supplies such as food to survive the rest of the journey, gasoline or fuel for the ship, required spare parts or repair materials, are handled by the ship chandlers. 

Here are a few of the services offered by ship chandlers 

• Provide food
• Ship repairs
• Cleaning services
• Fumigation services
• Rental services
• Deck services
• Engine maintenance services
• Radio department
• Safety equipment inspection
• Medical emergencies

Why is it important to hire a ship chandler for the procurement of supplies?

Taking their service makes the work easy, convenient, and efficient for the crew because it speeds up the vessel supply chain process as a ship needs to be turned over within 24 hours to 36 hours on average from the time of docking. They provide high-quality and timely services at affordable rates as their services are offered exclusively for vessels.  

How to choose the right ship chandler to procure ship supplies and stores?

The service of a ship chandler is key for a ship owner. Therefore, it is important to choose the right supplier to help the crew. Here are a few factors to consider before hiring one:

• Check for their quality standards certification
• Do they have a spacious warehouse?
• A good transportation system that delivers goods safely
• Timely delivery
• Do they speak multiple languages?
• Are they versatile?

On the whole, working with a ship chandler makes work easy for a ship owner both at the port and at sea. The shipping industry is growing day by day and the roles and responsibilities are increasing. To meet the challenges that come along with the increasing demands it is recommended to collaborate with an agency that will help in overcoming them.