What procurement checks before inviting a marine contractor

The invitation is decided at prequalification, weeks before the rig move. If papers are missing, the contractor doesn’t get in, even if it has the vessel.

IOGP’s guidance on contractor management (Report 423) recommends assessing a contractor’s capability before the tender: the client gets to know the contractor better, which “reduces uncertainty before inviting them to bid”.

Source: IOGP, Report 423

The four checks

1. Who signs

The legal name, tax ID (RIF) and corporate documents of the company you are about to hire.

It is the first question: who the contract is signed with, and whether that company is in good standing.

2. With which vessels

Each one marked as owned or partner, with its flag and its latest inspection.

A contractor may offer a vessel it doesn’t own. What matters is that it says so in writing.

3. With which papers

Every certificate with its number, issuer and expiry date, and the safety system in writing.

A certificate says the inspection exists; the date says whether it is still valid.

4. What they have done before

Jobs with date and scope. The client’s name only if they authorized it in writing.

One job with its date and scope says more than a list of clients.

How we cover it

Our file covers all four, in that order:

1. Corporate documentsLegal name, tax ID (RIF) and corporate documents of Aegean Maritime, C.A.
2. Fleet sheetEach vessel marked as owned or partner, with its flag and its latest inspection.
3. CertificatesEach one with its number, issuer and expiry date.
4. Safety systemIn writing: how we prepare each operation and what we require from anyone coming aboard.
5. Jobs with date and scopeThe client’s name only if they authorized it in writing.