Low-Sulphur Fuel What Every Vessel Needs to Know About IMO Regulations

Low-Sulphur Fuel: What Every Vessel Needs to Know About IMO Regulations Since 1 January 2020, the global shipping industry changed the way it sources and burns fuel. The International Maritime Organization ’ s (IMO) sulphur cap — commonly called IMO 2020 — requires ships operating outside designated Emission Control Areas (ECAs) to use fuel with a maximum sulphur content of 0.50% m/m, a dramatic reduction from the former 3.50% limit. Inside ECAs, the limit remains far stricter (0.10% S). These rules affect every link in the maritime fuel chain: owners, operators, engineers, port authorities, and marine fuel suppliers in India and worldwide. For vessel managers and crews, understanding the technical requirements, practical compliance options, and commercial implications of low-sulphur fuel is essential. This guide explains what low-sulphur fuel means in practice, how ship fuel regulations are enforced, the available compliance options (and tradeoffs), and what to expect from a reliable ship supplier or best ship supply company in India when bunkering low-sulphur fuel. What is “ Low-Sulphur Fuel ” (and the Common Fuel Types)? “ Low-sulphur fuel ” describes marine fuels that meet IMO ’ s sulphur ceilings. The most commonly used low-sulphur options are:  VLSFO (Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil) — blended residual fuels meeting ≤ 0.50% S. VLSFO became the market ’ s primary compliance fuel after IMO 2020.  MGO (Marine Gas Oil) / DMA — distillate fuels with much lower sulphur (typically ≤ 0.10% S) used inside ECAs or where stricter emissions rules apply.  Ultra-Low Sulphur Fuel (ULSFO) — fuels with sulphur levels ≤ 0.10%, used within ECAs or where local rules demand them.  HSFO + Scrubber — some vessels fitted with exhaust gas cleaning systems (scrubbers) continue to burn high-sulphur fuel oil (HSFO) while meeting emission limits by cleaning exhaust gases. Fuel must also meet the ISO 8217 specification and local port sampling/testing rules. The fuel type chosen affects engine performance, storage considerations, and costs — so bunkering decisions must be made carefully. Why Compliance Matters: Safety, Costs, and Port Inspections Compliance with IMO 2020 Regulations is not optional. Non-compliance can trigger Port State Control (PSC) inspections, fines, detention, or even criminal penalties in some jurisdictions. PSC officers routinely check fuel oil records, bunker delivery notes (BDNs), and may require fuel samples for testing. The revised PSC procedures and intensified enforcement in recent years mean that incorrect documentation, non-compliant fuel, or improper fuel changeover practices can quickly become operational headaches. Beyond enforcement, poor fuel compatibility, contamination, or improper blending can cause engine damage, increased maintenance, or even operational downtime. That ’ s why a trustworthy ship supplier and experienced marine fuel suppliers in India are essential partners — they help ensure correct fuel specification, clean supply chains, and robust documentation. Compliance Options: Pros and Cons Vessel operators generally have three compliance routes: 1. Burn Low-Sulphur Fuel (VLSFO / MGO / ULSFO) Pros:  Complies directly with IMO sulphur limits without onboard modifications.  Straightforward for most vessels. Cons:  VLSFO quality can vary.  Some blends have compatibility issues when mixed with existing fuel in tanks.  VLSFO is often more expensive than HSFO. 2. Install and Use Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems (Scrubbers) Pros:  Allows continued use of cheaper HSFO while meeting emission limits in the stack.  Can be cost-effective on long voyages where HSFO price spreads justify capex. Cons:  High initial investment and additional maintenance.  Some ports restrict or ban open-loop scrubbers due to environmental concerns.  Requires ongoing monitoring and waste-handling compliance. 3. Alternative Fuels and Future Options (LNG, Biofuels, Methanol, Hydrogen) Pros: Potential for lower emissions and future regulatory alignment. Cons:  Infrastructure and bunkering availability are still developing.  Engine retrofits and training requirements can be costly. Choosing the right path depends on vessel trading patterns, engine type, fuel tank segregation, cost modelling, and regulatory exposure. Practical Steps Every Vessel Must Follow When Bunkering Low-Sulphur Fuel To reduce operational risk, follow these best practices: 1. Verify Supplier Credentials and Fuel Specs: Obtain full BDNs, supplier quality certificates, and sample test results. Trustworthy bunker suppliers and marine fuel suppliers in India provide transparent documentation and ISO-8217 compliance. 2. Perform Pre-Bunker Checks: Confirm tank cleanliness, compatibility studies if mixing fuels, and ensure fuel temperatures and viscosities are suitable for the vessel ’ s systems. 3. Plan Fuel Changeover Carefully: A controlled changeover procedure reduces the risk of compatibility problems, foaming, or filter clogging. Document the process in the logbook. 4. Retain and Label Samples: Keep representative samples taken during bunkering for the required retention period; record time, date, vessel details, and sample ID for PSC inspections. 5. Communicate with Your Ship Supplier: A proactive ship supplier in India should advise on local bunker quality issues, storage constraints, and port practices. What Ship Owners Should Expect from a Professional Ship Supplier Selecting the best ship supply company in India matters because bunkering is a high-risk activity. The right supplier brings: Verified supply chains and transparent paperwork (BDNs, test certificates, lab reports). Local knowledge and logistics to source compliant VLSFO or MGO at major bunkering hubs. Contingency planning for alternate fuels if a nominated type is unavailable. Technical support for compatibility assessments and changeover guidance. Integrated marine services in India — such as technical stores, repairs, and provisions — that streamline port calls and reduce operational friction. For operators trading to and from India, choosing reputable marine fuel suppliers in India with strong port coverage and transparent practices reduces compliance risk and improves reliability. Market & Supply Considerations (What to Expect in Ports and Pricing) The global switch to low-sulphur fuel transformed bunker markets. VLSFO became the predominant traded fuel, while regional refinery yields, new ECAs, and local demand patterns affect pricing and availability. Market dynamics and seasonal factors can cause price fluctuations, so it ’ s essential to work with a marine fuel supplier in India that provides real-time updates, local availability intelligence, and flexible sourcing options. Always factor local supply conditions into voyage fuel planning. Common Problems Operators Face with VLSFO — and How to Prevent Them Compatibility & Sludge Formation: Mixing different VLSFO batches can form sediments. Prevention: compatibility checks and tank segregation when possible. Filter Clogging & Stability Issues: Rapid changeovers or emulsions can clog separators and filters. Prevention: gradual changeover procedures and monitoring. Contamination (Water or Sediments): Poor bunker handling or storage can introduce contaminants. Prevention: proper sampling and use of clean delivery lines. Documentation Gaps: Missing or incorrect BDNs cause PSC problems. Prevention: insist on complete documentation and retain samples for inspection. How Gujmar Supports Compliance and Reduces Risk Partnering with a trusted supplier like Gujmar Group reduces operational burden and ensures full compliance.  Accurate Documentation: Every bunker delivery includes verified BDNs and quality certificates.  Local Market Intelligence: Gujmar advises on regional fuel quality, likely blends, and best port options.  Technical Guidance: Support for compatibility checks, changeover procedures, and contingency planning.  Integrated Services: As part of its marine services in India , Gujmar also provides ship repairs, provisions, and technical stores to streamline operations For ships trading in and out of India, partnering with reliable marine fuel suppliers in India and a consolidated ship supplier ensures smooth bunkering, fewer surprises, and faster turnarounds. Checklist: Immediate Actions Before Your Next Bunkering  Confirm the fuel specification on the BDN matches ISO 8217 and sulphur content ≤ 0.50% (or ≤ 0.10% in ECAs).  Request and review supplier sample reports and retention policies.  Perform a compatibility check against existing fuel onboard.  Plan a controlled changeover procedure and document it.  Keep representative samples properly labeled and stored.  Verify the supplier ’ s reputation and certifications. Conclusion & Next Steps The IMO 2020 sulphur cap permanently reshaped the global bunkering landscape. For vessel operators, the priorities are clear — comply with ship fuel regulations , manage operational risks, and work with transparent, experienced suppliers. Choosing a dependable ship supplier and reputable marine fuel suppliers in India — ones that combine local knowledge, technical support, and robust documentation — reduces PSC risks, protects machinery, and helps keep your fleet on schedule. For sourcing compliant VLSFO , MGO , or arranging pre-bunker documentation, partner with Gujmar Group , a trusted name in marine services in India and among the best ship supply companies in India