The Mini Survey Handbook is typically available in three formats:
Traditional classification surveys require a surveyor to travel to the vessel, often causing delays, port call adjustments, and significant travel expenses. Bureau Veritas pioneered the Mini Survey concept to address three major industry pains:
Bureau Veritas (BV), a global leader in testing, inspection, and certification (TIC), produces a document informally known as the "Mini Survey Handbook" (or formally referred to as the "Ship Survey and Service Handbook – Mini Survey"). This is a specialized, condensed guide designed for ship owners, operators, and managers to understand the scope, preparation, and outcomes of a Mini Survey. The Mini Survey is an intermediate-level hull inspection, primarily for aging vessels (typically 15+ years old), that sits between an annual survey and a full dry-docking special survey. This report consolidates the purpose, process, contents, and practical implications of this handbook.
The workflow for a mini survey is condensed compared to a major event.
Here is how to handle frequent mini-survey requests: