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General Freight Inspection vs NCB inspection

NCB Inspection: What You Need to Know Before Requesting a Quote

 

When you need to inspect cargo, especially if you’re considering an NCB Inspection, there are a few key aspects to review before requesting a quote from any company. In this post, we’ll explain the differences between a General Freight Inspection and an NCB Inspection, and when each is most appropriate.

 

General Freight Inspection Overview

A general freight inspection involves a visual check of the cargo’s quantity, quality, packaging, reference numbers, and overall condition. This non-technical inspection ensures that your merchandise matches your shipping documentation. The inspector issues a report that includes photos and findings.

 

This report includes details such as:

 

  • Packaging and crating conditions.

  • Cargo characteristics: type, quantity, serial numbers, dimensions, weight, and visible issues.

  • Verification of cargo condition.

  • Confirmation that cargo is properly secured and balanced for transport.

 

 

General freight inspection report with cargo images

What Is an NCB Inspection and When Do You Need One?

 

An NCB Inspection is performed by the National Cargo Bureau, Inc., an official marine surveying entity working under the authority of the U.S. Coast Guard. These inspections help ensure compliance with the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and the Dangerous Cargo Act.

 

Types of NCB-certified inspections include:

 

  • Hazardous container/tank inspections

  • General cargo/container inspections

  • Container structural inspections

  • Flat rack securing inspections

  • Container packing/securing inspections

  • Cargo condition and measurement surveys

  • Damaged cargo surveys

  • Hazardous materials (hazmat) incident surveys

  • Radioactive/explosive cargo inspections

  • Ro-Ro cargo surveys

 

📌 Note: Only the National Cargo Bureau is authorized to perform NCB Inspections. For any of the above, please contact them directly.

 

When to Choose a General Freight Inspection

If your cargo does not fall under hazardous or special handling categories, a General Freight Inspection may be sufficient. At Cargo Care Services, we provide:

 

  • Pre-shipment cargo inspections

  • Post-claim inspections for damaged goods

  • Coverage throughout the United States

 

We help ensure your cargo is safe, documented, and compliant.
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