Dry bulk carriers entered with INTERCARGO continue to demonstrate stronger performance than the global fleet average on safety and compliance, according to the Association’s 17th edition Benchmarking Report. The report highlights meaningful differences across the sector, with significant variations in inspection outcomes, operational risk and regulatory performance.

INTERCARGO-member ships recorded a Detention Rate of 1.5% in 2025, against 2.5% for the global bulk carrier fleet, and a Deficiencies per Inspection ratio of 1.62, against 2.07 globally. Both measures rose only marginally for INTERCARGO-entered ships this year, at a notably slower rate than the wider fleet, while the global fleet recorded a more pronounced deterioration, further widening the performance gap.

Alan Nugent, Nautical Affairs Manager at INTERCARGO said: “Benchmarking is a fundamental component of effective safety management enabling organisations to assess their performance against industry peers and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.

“The 17th Edition of Benchmarking Bulk Carriers serves as a valuable tool for the dry bulk sector, providing insight into performance across key metrics, including Port State Control performance, and crew injury and lost-time incidents.

“INTERCARGO continues to champion quality, safety and sustainability across the global fleet, while providing strong support and leadership for its membership.”

The Benchmarking Report draws on a range of public and commercial data sources to evaluate performance across key indicators, including Port State Control, casualty reporting and crew injury rates. Together with INTERCARGO’s wider safety initiatives, such as its annual Casualty Report and the recently launched Ship-To-Ship (STS) Transfer Guidelines, the Association seeks to strengthen safety, compliance and performance across the global dry bulk sector.