In the international fuel and commodities trade, one of the most important stages before a transaction progresses is the tank inspection and dip test, carried out by SGS or another internationally recognised independent inspection company. It is the step that turns a paper offer into a verified, physical cargo.
What typically happens
An independent dip test follows a strict, repeatable procedure:
- The inspection team verifies the storage tank and confirms its location.
- A physical dip measurement is taken to determine the actual product quantity in the tank.
- Samples are drawn directly from the tank following strict industry procedures.
- The samples are sealed, documented and sent for laboratory analysis.
- The product is tested against the agreed contractual specification — such as EN 590, Jet A-1 or D6.
- Once complete, the inspection company issues an independent report confirming quantity and quality.
Why it matters
This process gives both buyer and seller confidence, because it establishes two things that no email or document alone can: that the product physically exists, and that it meets specification, before the transaction moves forward. In a market where offers circulate faster than real cargoes, independent verification is what separates a genuine parcel from paper.
The mark of a genuine seller
A genuine seller should have no difficulty facilitating an independent inspection at the appropriate stage of a transaction. Transparency and verification are fundamental to trust in the global commodities market — a counterparty that resists reasonable, correctly-timed due diligence is telling you something.
How we approach it
At Fuel Incorporation, we encourage due diligence at every stage, because successful transactions are built on verification, compliance and professionalism — not assumptions. Whether you are lifting EN 590 10ppm diesel or another physical commodity through the Singapore hub, we support independent inspection at the right point in the deal and provide certification against the contracted specification.
Fuel Incorporation Pte Ltd — diesel supply and physical commodity trading from Singapore. For enquiries, talk to the desk.
