The 2026 PSC CIC on cargo securing – be prepared

This year’s Port State Control Concentrated Inspection Campaign (PSC CIC), running from 1 September to 30 November 2026, will focus on cargo securing. This news summarizes the upcoming CIC.

Information for: Shipowners and managers.

NEED TO KNOW

  
  • The PSC CIC on cargo securing will run from 1 September to 30 November 2026.
  • Key focus areas include cargo securing documentation and planning, correct implementation of the Cargo Securing Manual (CSM), and the condition, availability and proper use of cargo securing equipment.
  • From the end of August to December 2026, DNV’s PSC Planner will include the CIC questionnaire.
  • A complimentary DNV webinar will be held on 25 August 2026.

The 2026 CIC on cargo securing

Every year, PSC regimes determine a specific focus area during regular inspections. For the current year, the Paris and Tokyo MoUs have agreed to run a CIC on the topic of cargo securing. The majority of PSC MoUs will participate in this year’s CIC.

The CIC will be carried out between 1 September and 30 November and involve an additional questionnaire during routine PSC inspections.

This additional questionnaire highlighting the cargo securing focus area will most likely be published in early August. Once the final questionnaire is published, DNV will issue an additional Technical and Regulatory News.

Key inspection areas for the CIC

The CIC is expected to include the following key areas for further inspection:

Documentation and planning

  • Check whether the ship has the required approved Cargo Securing Manual (CSM), proper cargo plans, verified container weights, and heavy-weather procedures.

Correct cargo securing practice

  • Check whether the crew understands and follows the CSM, including proper stowage, lashing arrangements, stack limits, and bridge visibility requirements.

Condition and availability of securing equipment

  • Check whether sufficient approved lashing gear is on board, is used correctly , maintained properly and in good condition, including both portable and fixed securing devices.

As always, the CIC is part of regular PSC inspections. Inspections will therefore not be limited to cargo securing – several non-detainable deficiencies can also trigger an ISM deficiency (PSC Code 15150), even leading to grounds for detention, if the PSC Officer suspects a systematic failure of the ISM system.

Updated DNV PSC Planner

Furthermore, consider utilizing DNV’s assistance during periodical audits and making active use of the tools available on the PSC webpage as part of your daily business, including the PSC Planner. From the end of August to December 2026, the checklist generated by the PSC Planner will include the CIC questionnaire, facilitating PSC preparation by both your on-board crews and vessel management.

DNV will offer a complimentary webinar on 25 August 2026 for customers focusing on this PSC CIC. You can register for the webinar today here.  

Recommendations

  • Update the Cargo Securing Manual to reflect current cargo types, lashing arrangements and equipment.
  • Inspect and maintain all lashing and securing equipment (replacing damaged items).
  • Train the crew on proper cargo securing procedures and ensure familiarity with the CSM.
  • Inform masters and crew about the planned CIC and its topic.  

References