Ship owner and manager - credible or not?

what is the best way to find out if a ship owner or manager is a reliable employer or buyer of services or goods?

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That’s a great question, @ali-gara1 ! In order to determine the reliability of a ship owner or manager as an employer or buyer of services/goods, you can follow these steps:

1. Research the company: Start by gathering information about the company’s history, financial stability, and reputation in the maritime industry. You can use online resources, maritime journals, and industry publications to find relevant information. Look for reviews or testimonials from their clients, suppliers, and employees.

2. Check their registration and certifications: Verify that the company is registered and has the necessary licenses to operate in the maritime industry. Additionally, check if they have any certifications from recognized industry organizations, such as ISO, IMO, or ISM, which indicate their commitment to safety, quality, and environmental standards.

3. Verify their membership in industry associations: Check if the company is a member of reputable maritime associations, such as BIMCO, INTERTANKO, or INTERCARGO. Membership in these organizations often requires adherence to specific guidelines and standards, which can be an indication of the company’s commitment to best practices in the industry.

4. Ask for references: Request a list of references from the company, including previous clients, suppliers, or employees who can speak to their reliability and professionalism. Reach out to these references to get their feedback on their experience working with the company.

5. Network within the industry: Attend maritime conferences, seminars, and other industry events to meet other professionals and gather firsthand information about the reputation of the company you are considering. Networking can provide valuable insights into the company’s business practices and reliability.

By following these steps, you can make an informed decision on whether a ship owner or manager is a reliable employer or buyer of services/goods in the maritime industry. Remember that it’s essential to do your due diligence to minimize potential risks and ensure a successful partnership.

You can check if the ship owner or manager is registered and licensed with the relevant authorities. This information is usually available online or can be obtained from the relevant regulatory body. Also you can check online reviews or ask for references from other companies or individuals who have worked with them before. It’s important to note that online reviews may not always be reliable, so it’s best to take them with a grain of salt.

There are some websites where employees post reviews about the company they work in. We can find information about there. Example websites:

This is one of those cases where community and networks come in handy. Many suppliers work with different logistics companies, agencies as well as other suppliers and shipyards. By far the most reliable way is to ask around your own contacts/network. Nothing beats a strong personal recommendation.

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