Damage Surveys - Observater Surveys and Services Group

Regional Damage Survey & Cargo Inspection Services

We provide expert cargo damage assessments and marine surveys tailored to the unique logistical challenges of the DRC and its primary trade corridors. Our goal is to deliver precise reports and analysis to protect your financial interests.

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Minerals & Metals Cargo Surveys (Katanga)

Copper & Cobalt Damage Inspection (Bags, Drums, Bulk)
Pre-shipment Surveys in Lubumbashi, Kolwezi, Likasi
Contamination Analysis & Cause Investigation
Weight Discrepancy & Theft Investigations
Stockpile Surveys & Warehouse Condition Audits
Surveys at Sakania & Kasumbalesa Border Posts

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Port & Corridor Marine Damage Surveys

Surveys at Matadi, Boma, Mombasa, Dar es Salaam & Nacala
Barge & River Vessel Damage Assessment (Congo River)
Cargo Handling Damage (Port & Transit Operations)
Container Damage Inspections in all major ICDs
Hull & Machinery (H&M) Surveys for Vessels & Fleets
P&I Correspondent Services across the region

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Timber, Agri & General Cargo Inspections

Timber & Log Quality/Damage Surveys
Coffee & Cocoa Pre-shipment Condition Reports
Road & Transit Damage Assessment (All Major Corridors)
Supervision of Loading/Discharge in Kinshasa, Goma, Bukavu
Reefer & Perishable Cargo Surveys
Loss Prevention & Supply Chain Risk Analysis

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Claims, Liability & Recovery Expertise

Independent Loss Adjusting for Insurers
Third-Party Liability Investigation (Transporters, Ports)
Evidence Gathering for Claims against Carriers
Subrogation & Recovery Support in the DRC & Regionally
Salvage Assessment and Disposal Management
Detailed Survey Reports for International Litigation

Your On-the-Ground Survey Partner in the Region

Rapid Deployment Across the Region

When you require a cargo damage survey, time is critical. Our reach extends from the Atlantic to the Indian Ocean, with key surveyors stationed in Mombasa (Kenya), Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), Nacala (Mozambique), and Matadi (DRC). This network allows for immediate deployment to any incident within the DRC, or for cargo in transit at these major ports. We ensure rapid response to preserve evidence and mitigate loss across the entire supply chain.

Expertise in Regional Cargo & Logistics

Successfully conducting a freight damage assessment in this region requires deep local knowledge. Our surveyors understand the intricacies of the major trade corridors, from the Katanga mining belt to the ports of Mombasa and Dar es Salaam. We are experts in identifying causes of damage specific to the region, whether it’s due to poor road conditions, handling issues at ports, or challenges with river barge transport. This specialized expertise ensures a precise and context-aware investigation every time.

Actionable & Independent Reporting

Our final product is a comprehensive, independent survey report that serves as a crucial tool for your business. Each marine survey report or cargo condition analysis is meticulously prepared with photographic evidence, witness statements, and a clear determination of the cause, nature, and extent of the loss. These reports are trusted by international insurers, P&I Clubs, and corporations to facilitate claims processing, establish liability, and support recovery actions for incidents occurring anywhere in the region.

Our Approach: Precision, Speed, and Adaptability

When cargo is compromised, every moment counts. Our methodology is built on three pillars to ensure your interests are protected with maximum efficiency and expertise.

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Immediate Mobilization

Our regional presence in Mombasa, Dar es Salaam, Nacala, and Matadi means we are ready for immediate deployment. We understand the urgency and act decisively to be on-site, preserving critical evidence before it’s lost.

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Systematic Investigation

We go beyond surface-level assessments. Our experts conduct a rigorous, methodical investigation to uncover the root cause of the damage, documenting every detail with impartiality and technical precision for an objective evaluation.

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Flexible & Practical Solutions

No two incidents are the same. We provide adaptable survey scopes and practical loss mitigation advice, from recommending reconditioning and repackaging to overseeing salvage sales, ensuring the best possible outcome in any scenario.

Navigating Every Type of Incident

Our multi-disciplinary team has decades of experience handling a vast spectrum of cargo and marine incidents. We have the specialist knowledge required for even the most complex cases.

Container & Structural Damage

Bulk Cargo Contamination

Reefer & Temperature Deviations

Project & Heavy-Lift Cargo Damage

Liquid Cargo & Tanker Incidents

Vessel Collision & FFO

Fire, Flood & Natural Events

Theft, Pilferage & Shortage

Port Handling & Stevedore Damage

Machinery & Equipment Failure

Pollution & Environmental Spills

Warehouse & Stockpile Losses

Expert Cargo & Marine Surveys in DRC and Key Regional Ports

Appointed for Cargo Loss Control Across Central, Eastern & Southern Africa