Short answer: shipowners request bunker quotations by sending the vessel name and IMO number, ETA, delivery window, port and location, fuel grade, ISO 8217 specification edition and quantity in metric tons to a trader, broker or physical supplier. The more complete the enquiry, the faster and more accurate the offers.
A bunker quotation is the start of a commercial negotiation, not a price list. In Singapore, offers are priced for a specific stem on a specific day, and they are only as good as the information in the enquiry. This article explains what to send, how offers are structured and how to compare them.
What to include in a bunker enquiry
- Vessel name and IMO number: identify the ship for the supplier, agent and documents.
- Vessel type and size: affect mooring and barge suitability.
- ETA in local time and the delivery window: decide which barges can be scheduled.
- Location: anchorage, terminal or berth.
- Grade and specification: for example “VLSFO RMG 380, sulphur max 0.50%, ISO 8217:2017”.
- Quantity: in metric tons, with any tolerance, for example 1,200 MT ±5%.
- Additional grades: such as LSMGO for ECA compliance.
- Buyer and invoicing entity: needed for credit checks and the confirmation.
- Special requirements: owner specification limits, surveyor attendance, testing.
You can send all of this through our bunker quotation form, which accepts multiple grades.
How a bunker offer is structured
A typical offer states the supplier, grade and specification, quantity and tolerance, price per metric ton, delivery location and window, applicable charges, payment terms, offer validity and the terms and conditions that govern the supply. Some offers are “subject to” conditions, such as credit approval or barge confirmation.
Price basis
Prices in Singapore are usually quoted delivered, in US dollars per metric ton, either as a fixed price valid for a short period or linked to a published index. Barging and delivery charges may be included or shown separately.
Validity
Because prices move with the oil market, offers are valid for a limited time. If the buyer confirms after validity, the supplier may re-price.
How to compare offers
- Check that every offer meets the same specification and edition.
- Normalise the price: add barging, small-quantity, overtime or delivery-location charges.
- Compare payment terms and credit days. Longer credit has a value.
- Check the delivery window offered against the vessel’s schedule.
- Read the supplier’s terms, especially claims time bars and quantity tolerance clauses.
Confirming the stem
Confirm in writing, quoting the offer. The confirmation should repeat the key terms: vessel, grade, specification, quantity, window, price and payment. The stem is then nominated to the supplier. From that point, changes to quantity or timing should be agreed in writing.
Why buyers use a broker or trader
A broker or trader brings several licensed suppliers into the comparison, presents offers on a common basis and follows the delivery through. That saves time for buyers who would otherwise approach each supplier individually. Read bunker procurement for shipowners and charterers.
Frequently asked questions
What information is needed for a Singapore bunker quotation?
The vessel name and IMO number, vessel type, ETA in Singapore time, delivery window, location, fuel grade, specification edition and quantity in metric tons. The buyer and invoicing entity are also needed before confirmation.
Are bunker quotations binding?
A quotation is an offer. It becomes binding when the buyer accepts it in writing within its validity period and any conditions in the offer are met.