IMO enforces mandatory reporting for lost containers from January 2026

Posted on June 7, 2024   |  

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) now requires reporting of lost containers overboard, effective January 1, 2026.

IMO's Maritime Safety Committee has approved amendments to Solas regulations, making reporting of all lost containers at sea mandatory.

The World Shipping Council (WSC) has endorsed these changes.

Solas Regulation 31 mandates ship masters to promptly report specific details of container loss incidents to nearby ships, coastal states, and the vessel's flag state.

Flag states will relay this information to the IMO through a new module in the Global Integrated Shipping Information System (GISIS). Ship captains witnessing drifting containers must also report to nearby ships and coastal states.

Regulation 32 outlines the reporting process for lost containers, emphasizing timely updates as more information becomes available.

A thorough inspection is required to confirm the final count of lost containers, including their position, quantity, and any dangerous goods.

Vessel captains are encouraged to voluntarily share information about cargo, sea conditions, and other relevant details.