Core Cargo Surveys & Investigations

When cargo incidents occur at Djibouti’s ports, a swift and expert response is crucial. Observater’s team specializes in forensic investigations to ascertain the root cause of damage, contamination, or loss, providing clarity in complex situations. We deliver clear, evidence-based reporting that empowers our clients to effectively manage claims, determine liability, and support their financial standing.

• Cargo Damage Surveys in Port of Djibouti

  When cargo arrives at Port of Djibouti damaged, our surveyors provide a rapid, independent assessment. We investigate all cargo types, including containerized, bulk, and breakbulk. Our investigation determines the full nature, extent, and cause of the damage, whether from handling, water ingress, or other factors.

  Our impartial, evidence-based reports are essential for cargo owners, shippers, insurers, and P&I Clubs to fairly settle claims. We provide loss adjusting services and claims recovery support, acting swiftly to protect your interests.

• Cargo Contamination Surveys

  Observater specializes in cargo contamination surveys in Djibouti, a crucial service for both liquid and dry bulk commodities. Our forensic analysis identifies the source, nature, and scope of contamination, whether from previous cargo, water ingress, or improper handling. Our surveyors’ rapid response at Doraleh helps mitigate further losses.

  This expertise provides the necessary evidence for liability disputes. Observater’s detailed reporting ensures all parties have a clear understanding of the incident, protecting your interests in complex contamination cases and upholding the quality of your high-value commodities handled at Djiboutian ports.

• Pre-shipment Inspections in Djibouti

  Protect your interests before your cargo is loaded at a Djiboutian port. Observater’s pre-shipment inspections verify that your cargo’s quantity, quality, and packing conform to all contractual specifications. This is especially critical for transshipment goods or livestock exports, as well as high-value imports like steel products, ensuring they meet buyer requirements.

  This service is vital for preventing costly disputes upon arrival and ensuring compliance with international trade standards. Our local expertise in Djibouti means we can efficiently coordinate these inspections, giving you peace of mind before the voyage begins. Observater is your trusted partner for quality assurance.

• Outturn & Landing Surveys

  Observater conducts comprehensive outturn and landing surveys to document the condition of cargo as it is discharged at the Djibouti terminals. This service is vital for identifying any damage or loss that may have occurred during transit. Our surveyors provide immediate, on-site reporting, creating a clear record of all discharge operations.

  This documentation, prepared with deep local port knowledge, is essential for claims handling and holding the correct parties accountable. Our expertise ensures that any discrepancies are noted at this critical point of transfer, safeguarding your assets as they arrive in Djibouti.

• Loss & Shortage Investigations

  In cases of non-delivery or short-landing at Djiboutian ports, Observater’s surveyors conduct precise investigations to trace the cargo and determine the cause of the loss. We reconcile shipping documents, tally records, and terminal reports to provide a comprehensive and factual account of the situation.

  Our expertise in local port logistics helps our clients substantiate claims and identify breaches in the supply chain. Observater delivers the clear evidence needed to resolve these costly incidents and protect your financial interests at all Djibouti port facilities.

• Reefer & Perishable Cargo Surveys

  Specializing in high-value perishable goods transiting Port of Djibouti, Observater provides expert reefer cargo surveys. Our surveyors verify pre-trip inspection (PTI) records, monitor temperature settings throughout handling at the port, and assess the condition of cargo upon arrival.

  Our expertise is crucial in determining the cause of spoilage, whether from equipment malfunction, improper stowing, or temperature deviation. Observater’s prompt reporting gives you the facts needed to manage claims for these sensitive shipments.

• Liquid Cargo & Petroleum Surveys (Horizon Terminal)

  Our experienced surveyors in Djibouti are trained in the complexities of liquid cargo, chemical, and petroleum handling. We conduct precise quantity calculations, cleanliness inspections of tanks, and sampling in accordance with international standards (ASTM, ISO) at terminals like the Horizon Djibouti Terminal (HDTL).

  Observater’s expertise extends to bunker fuel, petroleum products, and edible oils. We ensure quantity and quality are confirmed, providing impartial data for all stakeholders involved in the custody transfer process.

• Warehouse & Stockpile Inspections (Djibouti Free Trade Zone)

  Observater extends its expertise beyond the quayside at Port of Djibouti to include comprehensive warehouse and stockpile inspections. We assess storage conditions, cargo segregation, and inventory management practices within the Djibouti Free Trade Zone (DFTZ) and related facilities.

  Our services include volumetric surveys for stockpiles (like potash or fertilizer) and condition assessments for stored goods, such as vital food aid for the WFP hub. These reports provide critical data for insurers, lenders, and owners who rely on Djibouti’s storage facilities.

• Robbery, Pilferage & Theft Investigations

  When cargo security is breached within the Djibouti port and logistics corridor, Observater provides discreet and thorough investigations into robbery, pilferage, and theft. Our team works to identify vulnerabilities in the supply chain, document losses, and gather evidence.

  Our objective reports assist in insurance claims, recovery efforts, and implementing stronger future security measures. Observater’s local expertise in Djibouti is invaluable in navigating these sensitive situations and finding the root cause of the loss.

• Investigation of Cause of Damage (Loss Adjusting)

  Our primary role in damage surveys in Djibouti is the forensic investigation into the root cause. Observater’s surveyors are trained to look beyond the visible damage, analyzing stowage, lashing, weather reports, and handling procedures at the Djiboutian ports to determine *why* the damage occurred.

  This distinction is fundamental for all liability, subrogation, and claims resolution processes. Our expertise provides the definitive, impartial evidence required to settle disputes fairly and accurately, protecting your interests.

• Hatch & Hold Sealing/Unsealing Surveys

  To protect cargo integrity and establish a clear chain of custody for bulk shipments arriving in Djibouti, Observater provides hatch and hold sealing surveys. We verify the cargo is secure and apply high-security seals, documenting their numbers before departure from the origin port.

  Upon arrival at the Port of Djibouti, our unsealing survey confirms the seals’ integrity before discharge commences. This service provides key evidence in case of shortage or contamination claims, with Observater’s surveyors acting as your impartial witness.

• Hatch Cover Watertightness Tests (Hose & Ultrasonic)

  To prevent water damage to sensitive cargo, Observater performs rigorous watertightness tests on vessel hatch covers at Port of Djibouti. This includes traditional Hose Tests as per industry standards to check for leaks in the seals and compression bars.

  For a more advanced and non-invasive assessment, we also offer Ultrasonic Hatch Cover Testing (UTI). This method provides a precise, recordable reading of seal integrity without using water, making it ideal for vessels already carrying cargo or in busy port rotations.

• Hold & Tank Cleanliness Inspections (Fitness to Load)

  A critical loss prevention measure before loading at Port of Djibouti, our cleanliness inspections ensure vessel holds and tanks are free from previous cargo residues, rust, or moisture. Observater surveyors verify that the cargo space is in a “ready to load” condition.

  This expertise protects high-value transshipment goods like grains, coffee, and pulses from contamination. Our inspection helps clients meet all charter-party obligations and ensures the vessel is fit to carry its intended cargo.

Loss Prevention, Supervision & Tally

Effective claim management benefits from proactive prevention. Observater acts as your partner on the ground in Djibouti, offering diligent supervision and precise tallying for all cargo operations. By overseeing key steps at the Djibouti terminals, from handling to stowage and securing, we help mitigate risks before they escalate, safeguarding your assets, reducing potential liabilities, and promoting a smooth supply chain.

• Loading Supervision (Bulk & Breakbulk)

  Observater’s loading supervision services at Port of Djibouti are your first line of defense against cargo damage. Our surveyors actively monitor the entire loading process, ensuring correct handling techniques for exports (e.g., bagged pulses, livestock) and proper equipment use, and safe stowage. We intervene to stop improper practices, documenting the entire operation.

  This proactive supervision protects you from liability for pre-existing damage and ensures your cargo is stowed securely for its onward journey. Our expertise in Djibouti’s terminal operations means we can effectively coordinate with stevedores to maintain high standards.

• Discharge Supervision (Grains, Food Aid, Project Cargo)

  During discharge at any Djiboutian port, Observater’s surveyors act as your eyes and ears on the vessel and quayside. We diligently monitor handling operations to prevent damage caused by stevedores or improper equipment, which is especially critical for vital imports like grains and food aid (WFP hub).

  Our team documents the condition of cargo as it’s landed, segregating any damaged items and immediately notifying relevant parties to mitigate losses. This real-time expertise is crucial for protecting your interests the moment your cargo arrives in Djibouti.

• Tally Surveys (Cargo Clerking) in Port of Djibouti

  An accurate count is the foundation of cargo accountability. Observater provides independent and precise tally surveys across all Djibouti terminals, verifying cargo quantity (units, bags, bundles) during loading and discharge. Our cargo clerking services are essential for preventing shortage claims.

  Our surveyors’ work to conform to Bill of Lading quantities and resolve discrepancies immediately. This expertise provides an impartial record, which is critical for all parties involved in the shipment, especially for high-volume breakbulk cargo and bagged goods.

• Stowage, Lashing & Securing Surveys

  Improper securing is a leading cause of cargo damage at sea. Observater’s surveyors in Djibouti are experts in CSS Code compliance, verifying that cargo is correctly stowed, lashed, and secured for the intended voyage. We assess the suitability of lashing materials and patterns on vessels departing from Port of Djibouti.

  Our expertise ensures the stability and safety of your cargo. We provide recommendations and a final report to confirm that all cargo, especially project and breakbulk items, is secured according to international maritime standards.

• Project Cargo & Heavy Lift Supervision

  For high-value, out-of-gauge, and project cargo moving through Djibouti for infrastructure or industrial projects (often in Ethiopia), Observater provides specialized supervision. Our experts review lift plans, assess lifting gear, and monitor the entire loading or discharge operation. Our presence is a key risk mitigation factor.

  We focus on risk mitigation for these critical lifts, ensuring every movement is executed safely, in line with engineering specifications, and without incident. Observater’s expertise is your assurance for these complex operations in Djibouti.

• Stuffing & De-stuffing Supervision (Containers)

  We extend our supervision to container freight stations (CFS) in the Djibouti-Ambouli area. Observater oversees the stuffing (loading) and de-stuffing (unloading) of containers, verifying quantity, checking for damage, and ensuring proper weight distribution and securing. This is vital for Ethiopian transshipments like coffee.

  This service is vital for LCL (Less than Container Load) shipments and for confirming the condition of goods at the point of consolidation or de-consolidation. Our surveyors provide an independent report on the entire operation.

• Weighbridge Supervision & Tally

  To ensure accurate weight certification for bulk or project cargo at Port of Djibouti, Observater provides impartial weighbridge supervision. Our surveyors verify the calibration of the weighbridge, record all empty (tare) and full (gross) weights, and provide an independent, certified weight record.

  This service is critical for preventing commercial disputes based on quantity. Our expertise ensures that all parties can trust the final weight certificate, which is foundational for commercial invoices and payments for goods moving through Djibouti.

• Sampling Supervision (GAFTA / FOSFA)

  Observater ensures that cargo sampling at Djiboutian ports is conducted according to internationally recognized standards (e.g., GAFTA, FOSFA, API, ISO). Our surveyors oversee the entire process to ensure representative samples of grains, oilseeds, crude oil, petroleum products, LPG, and other commodities are drawn, properly mixed, divided, and sealed.

  Our independent supervision provides all parties with a verified, contractual sample for quality analysis. This expertise is crucial for preventing disputes over cargo specifications for Djibouti’s vital transshipment commodities.

• Labeling & Marking Verification

  Correct labeling and marking are essential for regulatory compliance and proper cargo handling in Djibouti. Observater surveyors verify that all cargo units are marked in accordance with shipping documents, contracts, and destination requirements (e.g., IMDG labels for dangerous goods).

  This straightforward check by our team prevents costly delays, customs fines, and misidentification of goods. Our expertise helps ensure your cargo moves smoothly through the Djibouti port system and the onward Ethiopian corridor.

• Packing Condition Surveys

  Inadequate packing is a primary contributor to cargo damage. Observater’s packing condition surveys in Djibouti assess whether the packing materials and methods are suitable for the cargo and the intended transit, especially for goods moving on the Ethiopian corridor.

  Our surveyors identify weaknesses in crates, cases, or bundling that could lead to damage. This expertise allows for corrective action to be taken before shipment, saving you from significant losses and claims later on.

Cargo Quantification & Measurement Methods

Accuracy in cargo quantity is fundamental at Port of Djibouti. Our surveyors employ a comprehensive range of internationally recognized measurement techniques, from traditional draft surveys to advanced gauging. We deliver impartial and definitive quantity reports that form a trusted basis for financial settlements, help avoid commercial disputes, and provide an indisputable record for stakeholders in Djibouti.

• Draft Surveys (Initial, Intermediate, Final)

  Observater is a leader in draft surveys at Doraleh Multipurpose Port, the most widely accepted method for determining the weight of bulk cargo. Our surveyors read the vessel’s draft marks, measure ballast and consumables, and apply hydrostatic corrections to calculate the cargo loaded or discharged.

  Our independent reports are the trusted basis for Bills of Lading and commercial invoices for bulk shipments. This expertise is critical for the high volumes of grain, fertilizer, and minerals transiting through Djibouti.

• Ullage & Sounding Surveys (Petroleum & Liquid)

  For liquid bulk cargo at Djibouti’s port terminals, Observater performs precise ullage and sounding surveys. Using calibrated equipment, our surveyors measure the free space (ullage) or liquid level (sounding) in vessel or shore tanks. We apply all necessary corrections for trim, list, and temperature.

  Our expertise allows us to calculate the exact volume and weight of the cargo. This ensures accurate quantity determination for petroleum products, bunker fuels, and other liquid bulk, which is vital for custody transfer and preventing disputes.

• Barge & Shore Tank Gauging

  Our gauging services for barges and shore tanks in Djibouti are essential for custody transfers. Observater provides independent, third-party measurements before and after transfer operations. We verify volumes against calibration tables, providing an impartial report.

  This service is vital for inventory control and resolving disputes between suppliers, terminals, and receivers. Our surveyors’ presence ensures that all measurements are accurate and transparently recorded.

• Volumetric Surveys (Stockpiles & Cargo)

  Observater utilizes modern survey techniques, including 3D laser scanning and traditional methods, to conduct volumetric surveys of stockpiles at Port of Djibouti. This is common for commodities like coal, minerals, and grains stored in the open or in warehouses.

  By creating a precise topographic model, our surveyors calculate the volume, which is then multiplied by an established density factor to determine the total tonnage. This expertise provides accurate inventory data for financing or sales.

• On-Hire / Off-Hire Condition & Bunker Surveys in Djibouti

  A crucial service for charterers and shipowners operating in Djibouti. Observater’s On-Hire/Off-Hire surveys document the vessel’s condition and precisely measure the quantity of bunkers (fuel) on board at the time of delivery or re-delivery at any of the Djiboutian ports.

  This impartial report from our surveyors protects our clients from disputes regarding vessel damage or bunker consumption during the charter period. Our expertise ensures a clear and fair record for both parties, establishing a clear line of liability.

• Deadweight Surveys

  Observater performs deadweight surveys at Port of Djibouti to determine the total weight of cargo a vessel has loaded. This is done by calculating the difference between its lightship displacement and its displacement after loading. It is a reliable method of cargo quantification.

  This survey is often used when draft surveys are complex or in conjunction with them for verification. Our surveyors’ expertise provides an alternative and reliable calculation of the total cargo loaded or discharged.

• Flow Meter Verification

  During liquid cargo transfers at Djibouti’s oil terminals (HDTL), Observater provides independent verification of flow meter readings. Our surveyors witness the opening and closing readings, check meter seals, and reconcile the meter-totaled quantity against shore tank or vessel measurements.

  This expert oversight ensures that the recorded transfer quantity is accurate and has not been tampered with. It is a vital loss-control service for high-value liquid bulk cargoes like bunker fuels and refined products.

• Weight Determination by Silo Gauging

  For bulk commodities like grains and cement stored in silos at Port of Djibouti, Observater provides weight determination via silo gauging. By taking precise measurements of the product level within the silo and applying the known bulk density, we can calculate the total tonnage.

  This is a common and accepted method for inventory control and quantity verification before vessel loading. Our surveyors provide an impartial report of the quantity available for shipment.

• Bagged Cargo “Cutting and Weighing”

  To determine the average weight of bagged cargo, such as food aid, sugar, or fertilizer, transiting Port of Djibouti, Observater employs the “cutting and weighing” method. Our surveyors take a representative sample of bags from the shipment, weigh them individually, and then weigh the empty bags to establish an accurate net weight.

  This calculated average is then used to determine the total weight of the shipment based on the tally count. This expertise provides an accurate basis for the Bill of Lading weight.

• Piece Counts & Tallying

  As a fundamental quantification method, Observater provides independent piece counts and tallying at all Djiboutian ports. Our surveyors physically count every unit (e.g., steel coils, vehicles, crates, bagged goods) as it is loaded or discharged, reconciling the final count against the shipping manifest.

  This service is the most direct way to prevent and identify quantity discrepancies. Our expertise ensures an accurate count, which is vital for preventing claims and confirming delivery of the correct number of items.

• Scrap Metal Weight Surveys

  Observater conducts scrap metal weight surveys in Djibouti, typically via draft survey or weighbridge supervision. Given the nature of this cargo, establishing an accurate weight is critical for all commercial parties involved in the trade.

  Our independent survey report provides a verifiable weight certificate that is trusted by both sellers and buyers for final payment settlement. Our surveyors ensure the weight is determined fairly and accurately.

Specialized Commodity & Cargo Type Expertise

No two cargoes are the same, and our versatility reflects this reality. Our team in Djibouti possesses deep expertise across a vast array of commodity types, understanding the unique vulnerabilities of each. Whether you are shipping sensitive refrigerated goods, heavy industrial components, or bulk raw materials through Port of Djibouti, we apply specialized knowledge to address specific risks, verifying proper handling, stowage, and transport.

• Container Inspections (CSC, Damage, Reefer)

  Observater provides comprehensive container inspections at the Doraleh Container Terminal (SGTD). We verify structural integrity (IICL standards), check CSC plates for validity, and assess cleanliness. For refrigerated containers, we confirm Pre-Trip Inspection (PTI) and temperature settings.

  This expertise ensures the container is fit for purpose and cargo-worthy, preventing losses during transit to or from Djibouti. Our surveyors help safeguard your goods by ensuring the container is in proper condition.

• Flexitank Inspections (Fitting, Loading, Discharge)

  We are specialists in flexitank operations for non-hazardous liquid bulk transiting Djibouti. Observater surveyors supervise the correct fitting of the flexitank within the container, monitor the entire loading or discharge process, and verify all seals and valves.

  Our supervision is critical for preventing leaks, spills, and contamination, protecting both the cargo and the environment. This expertise is essential for the safe handling of liquid bulk in containers through Djiboutian ports.

• ISO Tank Inspections

  Observater’s surveyors in Djibouti conduct detailed inspections of ISO tanks for liquid bulk, chemicals, and gases. We verify the tank’s cleanliness, structural integrity, and the operational status of all valves and pressure-relief devices. We also check for valid test certificates.

  This expertise ensures the tank is safe and suitable for transporting the specified product. Our inspection provides assurance that the unit complies with all international safety standards for transport via Djibouti.

• Steel Cargo Surveys (Coils, Plates, Pipes)

  Steel products arriving at Doraleh Multipurpose Port are highly susceptible to rust and physical damage. Observater provides expert pre-shipment condition surveys, supervision of loading to ensure proper handling, and stowage surveys to verify correct lashing and separation.

  Our outturn surveys at Djibouti’s terminals document any rust, bending, or damage that occurred during the voyage. Our surveyors provide the clear evidence needed to file claims and establish liability for any damages found.

• Vehicle & Ro-Ro Cargo Surveys

  For Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) cargo arriving at Doraleh Multipurpose Port, Observater provides condition surveys of vehicles, trucks, and heavy machinery at the time of loading and discharge. Our surveyors document any pre-existing scratches, dents, or damage.

  We also verify that all units are properly lashed and secured for the sea voyage. This expertise protects carriers from unfounded claims and provides a clear record of condition for cargo destined for the Djiboutian and Ethiopian markets.

• Grains, Coffee, Sesame & Agricultural Products Surveys

  We are experts in agricultural commodities, which form a large part of the cargo moving through Djibouti (especially to/from Ethiopia). We have specialized expertise in key transshipments like **Ethiopian Coffee**, **sesame seeds**, **pulses**, and **grains**. We provide services compliant with GAFTA and FOSFA standards, including hold cleanliness inspections, draft surveys, and supervision of sampling.

  Our surveyors monitor for signs of heat, infestation, or moisture during loading and discharge. This expertise is vital for protecting these essential food-aid imports and high-value commercial exports.

• Fertilizer & Mineral Surveys (Potash)

  Observater offers specialized surveys for bulk fertilizers and minerals at Port of Djibouti, including potash from the Tadjoura terminal. We focus on draft surveys for accurate quantity, as well as representative sampling to test for moisture content and product specifications. This is critical for cargo bound for the Ethiopian agricultural sector.

  Our surveyors also monitor for caking or contamination, ensuring the product arrives in a commercially viable condition. Observater’s independent reports are trusted by buyers and sellers alike.

• Coal & Pet-Coke Surveys

  Our surveyors in Djibouti are experienced in handling coal and pet-coke shipments. We provide draft surveys for quantity and supervise the collection of representative samples for laboratory analysis of calorific value, moisture, and ash content.

  We also monitor for any signs of self-heating during loading, a critical safety check for this commodity. Observater’s expertise ensures these bulk shipments are handled safely and quantified accurately at the Djibouti terminals.

• Timber, Logs & Forest Product Surveys

  Observater provides quantification and quality surveys for timber, logs, and other forest products that may be shipped via Djiboutian ports. We are proficient in various measurement standards to determine cargo volume accurately.

  Our surveyors also assess for physical damage, rot, or insect infestation, and supervise the proper lashing and securing of deck cargo. This expertise ensures the cargo is correctly documented and safely transported.

• Breakbulk & General Cargo Surveys

  Our expertise at Port of Djibouti covers all forms of breakbulk and general cargo. This includes pre-loading surveys to check condition and packing, tally services to verify quantity, and supervision of loading to ensure correct handling, stowage, and dunnaging.

  Observater’s reports are essential for documenting the condition of goods at every point of transfer. Our surveyors’ presence at the Djibouti terminals ensures your cargo is managed correctly.

• Crude Oil & Liquid Bulk Surveys (API/ASTM)

  Observater’s highly trained inspectors provide precise quantity determination and quality control for high-value liquid bulk cargoes at Djibouti’s terminals, such as HDTL. Following API and ASTM standards, we perform tank gauging, temperature reading, and sampling.

  Our independent calculations of cargo quantity are trusted by traders, terminals, and owners for custody transfer and loss control. This expertise is fundamental to the energy trade passing through Djibouti.

Warehouse & Facility Inspections

Cargo integrity is not just a maritime concern. Observater extends its expertise to land-based storage facilities in the Djibouti port and free zone (DFTZ) areas, providing critical assessments for insurers, cargo owners, and operators. Our inspections help identify risks, verify conditions, and confirm the suitability of warehouses for high-value goods, especially those in transit to Ethiopia.

• Pre-lease / Pre-use Condition Surveys

  Before committing to a lease in the Djibouti Free Trade Zone (DFTZ), our surveyors conduct a detailed pre-use condition survey of the warehouse. We document the structural integrity, state of repair, and cleanliness of the facility. This independent report establishes a baseline condition.

  This expertise protects our clients from liability for pre-existing damages when they exit the lease. Observater provides a clear, factual record of the warehouse’s condition from day one.

• Facility Suitability & Risk Assessments

  Observater assesses whether a storage facility in Djibouti is suitable for a specific commodity. We analyze factors like ventilation, moisture control, floor strength, and contamination risks, which is vital for goods sensitive to the arid climate, especially agricultural products.

  Our risk assessment report provides insurers and cargo owners with the critical information needed to determine if the facility meets the required standards of care. This expertise helps prevent storage-related losses.

• Security & Access Control Audits

  We provide comprehensive security audits for warehouses and storage yards in the Djibouti port and logistics areas. Our surveyors evaluate perimeter fencing, lighting, access control points, CCTV coverage, and alarm systems.

  This assessment identifies vulnerabilities to theft, pilferage, or unauthorized access. Observater provides actionable recommendations to enhance the security of high-value goods stored in or transiting through Djibouti.

• Fire Safety & Suppression System Verifications

  A critical component of warehouse risk, our fire safety verification inspects the facility’s fire mitigation measures in Djibouti. We check for functional fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, smoke detectors, and clear emergency exits.

  Our surveyors also assess cargo segregation practices to ensure compliance with fire codes, especially for flammable or hazardous materials. This expertise is essential for protecting assets and ensuring safety.

• Inventory & Stock Audits

  Observater provides independent inventory and stock audits to verify quantities held in storage in Djibouti. Our team performs physical counts, reconciles findings with warehouse records, and documents the condition of the stock.

  This service is essential for financial auditing, collateral management, and asset verification for lenders and insurers who have an interest in goods stored in the Djibouti Free Trade Zone and other facilities.

• Stockpile Measurement & Verification

  Using 3D laser scanning or traditional methods, our surveyors in Djibouti accurately measure the volume of bulk commodity stockpiles in warehouses or open yards. By applying a verified density factor, we provide an independent calculation of the total tonnage.

  This expertise is vital for inventory financing, stock audits, and resolving quantity disputes for bulk cargo stored at or near the Djiboutian ports. Observater delivers precise and impartial results.

• Goods Condition & Storage Surveys

  We conduct periodic surveys of goods in storage in Djibouti to monitor their condition over time. Our surveyors check for signs of damage, deterioration, moisture, or pest infestation, which can be risks in the arid climate.

  We also assess the storage methods, such as stacking height and dunnage, to ensure they are appropriate and not contributing to cargo damage. This Observater service helps maintain the value of your stored goods.

• Damage & Contamination Assessments (Warehouse)

  In the event of a fire, flood, or contamination incident within a Djiboutian warehouse, Observater is deployed to assess the extent of the damage. We segregate affected from non-affected goods, quantify the losses, and investigate the root cause.

  Our expert reports are essential for initiating insurance claims and planning salvage operations. Our surveyors provide a clear and objective assessment to help you manage the incident effectively.

• Pest Control & Cleanliness Inspections

  Especially critical for foodstuffs and agricultural products stored in Djibouti, our inspections verify the cleanliness of the warehouse. We check for evidence of pests, birds, or rodents and review the facility’s pest control program.

  This expertise from Observater ensures the storage environment is hygienic and will not lead to cargo contamination or regulatory issues, protecting the quality of sensitive goods.

Container Inspection Services

With the vast majority of goods transiting Djiboutian ports in containers, verifying their integrity is paramount. Our dedicated container inspection services check that units are structurally sound, clean, and fit for purpose, helping to mitigate risks of cargo damage from water ingress, contamination, or equipment malfunction. Observater provides assurance at critical points of the container’s journey through Doraleh.

Djibouti Expertise, Global Capacity

Our greatest strength lies in our unique structure: deep-rooted local expertise in Djibouti combined with the reach and resources of a global network. This allows Observater Djibouti to offer clients the best of both worlds.

• Djibouti Intelligence: Our on-ground teams possess invaluable familiarity with the operational procedures, key personnel, and potential challenges at the Doraleh, SGTD, and Port of Djibouti terminals.
• Rapid Deployment in Djibouti: We can be on-site at any Port of Djibouti or Doraleh terminal within hours of your instruction, helping preserve critical evidence and minimize delays.
• Unwavering Independence: We provide strictly impartial, factual reports that are trusted by P&I Clubs, underwriters, shipowners, and cargo interests alike.
• International Standards: All surveys are conducted to high international standards (e.g., API, ASTM, GAFTA), ensuring our reports are recognized and respected globally.
• Seamless Coordination: We provide a single point of contact for complex assignments, simplifying communication and promoting consistent quality.