What document must be completed by the vessel and shore-side facility prior to cargo operations?

The Declaration of Inspection is a critical document that must be completed by both the vessel and the shore-side facility before any cargo operations begin. This document serves as a confirmation that all safety and environmental protection measures have been observed and that both parties agree on the condition of the vessel and the shore facility prior to transferring cargo.

The Declaration of Inspection typically includes details about the cargo, the state of the vessel's equipment, and any safety precautions that need to be in place. Additionally, it ensures that both the vessel and facility are compliant with regulations and operational standards, which helps to prevent accidents and spills during loading or unloading.

Other documents mentioned, such as the Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin, and Port Entry Permit, serve different purposes in the shipping process. The Bill of Lading acts as a receipt for the cargo, the Certificate of Origin verifies the origin of the goods for customs purposes, and the Port Entry Permit is required for a vessel to enter a port. However, none of these documents specifically address the safety and operational readiness that the Declaration of Inspection does prior to cargo operations.