BDN Signing Checklist

9 critical checks before you sign

Your signature = legal acceptance. Once signed, disputing quantity or quality becomes 10x harder.

Critical Checks

1
Fuel grade matches purchase order
Proceed
Do not sign - request clarification
2
ISO 8217:2024 edition specified (not 2017)
Proceed
Note: 'Subject to ISO 8217:2024 compliance'
3
Quantity matches your calculation within 0.3%
Proceed
Write actual quantity on BDN before signing
4
Temperature recorded (for density correction)
Proceed
Measure and record before signing
5
Density matches CoQ (±3 kg/m³)
Proceed
Note discrepancy, request explanation
6
Sulphur content stated and within limits
Proceed
Verify before ECA entry
7
Certificate of Quality attached
Proceed
Do not sign without CoQ
8
Sample seal numbers documented
Proceed
Add seal numbers before signing
9
All pages included (not just final page)
Proceed
Request complete BDN

Never Sign If

  • Quantity pre-filled before delivery complete
  • Discrepancies you noted are crossed out
  • Language limits your right to dispute ('accepted as correct')
  • Sample seal numbers are blank or different from your log
  • CoQ is missing or references old ISO 8217:2017

Protective Notations

  • "Quantity subject to verification by tank sounding"
  • "Quality subject to laboratory analysis"
  • "Received [X] MT per vessel calculation. BDN shows [Y] MT. Difference under investigation."
  • "Sulphur content to be confirmed by analysis"
  • "Fuel grade verification pending"

The Golden Rule

If something is wrong or uncertain, note it on the BDN before signing.Once you sign without notation, you've accepted the fuel as-delivered—regardless of reality.

Date
Port
BDN Quantity (MT)
Chief Engineer
Master
Bunkering101.com — Your signature is your defense. Use it wisely.