A recent study conducted by FuelTrust, has uncovered that over 600 vessels experienced fuel-related issues despite the fuel meeting quality standards. These problems resulted in estimated global supply chain losses surpassing $5 billion.
The research revealed that more than 39 percent of bunkers worldwide exhibited a fuel content delta of two percent or higher compared to the documented amounts. The primary issue identified was water contamination during the fuel’s journey from onshore storage tanks to the ship’s bunker tank. This introduced water content, even below the regulated threshold, caused average losses of $14,910 per affected delivery.
With bunker fuels accounting for over 50 percent of a vessel’s operational expenses, fraudulent practices and inadequate supply chain management can severely impact the profitability of vessel owners, charterers, and fuel suppliers.
