AIS Forensic Analysis & Dark Fleet Mitigation

Protecting Your Cargo from the Risks of "Shadow" Shipping.

In the high-friction trade of 2026, a vessel’s digital footprint is as important as its physical hull. At SanctionedShipping.com, our vetting desk specializes in AIS (Automatic Identification System) Forensic Analysis to ensure your cargo is never associated with illicit maritime activity.

Why AIS Integrity is Non-Negotiable

Regulators (OFAC/EU) now hold charterers accountable for the "behavior" of the vessels they hire. If a ship disables its AIS (going "dark") or engages in "spoofing" (transmitting a false location), the entire voyage can be flagged for seizure or banking blocks.

Our Tracking Protocol includes:

  • Gap Analysis: We review the last 24 months for any unexplained loss of signal in high-risk zones.

  • STS (Ship-to-Ship) Screening: We identify if the vessel has come alongside sanctioned tankers or "grey market" bulkers.

  • Draft Sensitivity Checks: We compare reported AIS drafts with satellite imagery to ensure the vessel isn't secretly loading or discharging at unauthorized terminals.

Mitigating the "Dark Fleet" Risk

We strictly exclude vessels that have participated in the "Shadow Fleet." By fixing only with owners who maintain AIS Transparency, we guarantee that your "Paper Trail" remains clean for insurers and financial institutions.

Page 2: Geared Vessel Technical Specifications

Reliable Discharge in Infrastructure-Challenged Ports.

Standard shipbrokers often forget that in high-friction ports like Hodeidah (Yemen) or Benghazi (Libya), the port’s shore cranes are often non-operational due to conflict or lack of maintenance.

The Criticality of On-Board Gear

We maintain a specialized database of Geared Tonnage—vessels equipped with their own high-capacity cranes and grabs. This ensures that discharge can commence immediately upon berthing, regardless of shore-side conditions.

Technical Vetting for Self-Dischargers:

  • Crane Outreach & SWL: We verify the Safe Working Load (SWL) of the vessel’s cranes to match your cargo weight.

  • Grab Availability: For bulk grain or coal, we ensure the vessel carries its own grabs in optimal working condition.

  • Cycle Time Analysis: We estimate discharge rates based on the vessel’s specific gear age and crew experience to provide accurate laytime calculations.

Ready for Port Failures

By fixing a geared vessel through SanctionedShipping.com, you are buying operational insurance. If the shore power fails or a terminal crane breaks, your cargo keeps moving.

Page 3: War Risk & Kidnap & Ransom (K&R) Liaison

Financial Protection for High-Friction Voyages.

Entering a high-friction zone requires specialized insurance structures. While we are shipbrokers, not insurers, our vetting process is designed to make your vessel "Insurable" in the eyes of the leading underwriters.

Navigating "Listed Areas"

When a vessel enters a JWC (Joint War Committee) Listed Area, standard hull and machinery (H&M) insurance often requires an "Additional Premium" (AP).

We assist our clients by:

  • Pre-Vetting for Underwriters: Providing the technical data insurers need to approve a voyage into Yemen or the Black Sea.

  • Security Liaison: Coordinating the embarkation of Armed Guard Details (PMSC) at designated points (e.g., Galle or Djibouti) for Red Sea transits.

  • K&R Compliance: Ensuring the vessel’s security plan meets the "Best Management Practices" (BMP5) required for Kidnap & Ransom coverage.

The SanctionedShipping.com Difference

Because our vetting process is so rigorous, owners fixed through our desk often find it easier to secure War Risk approval. We provide the "Safety Story" that underwriters need to say Yes.