IMO DCS, application.

Answer

The IMO Data Collection System (IMO DCS) is a global mandatory reporting framework established under MARPOL Annex VI, Regulation 27. It requires applicable vessels to collect, aggregate, and report fuel oil consumption and operational data annually to establish evidence-based carbon intensity benchmarks, such as the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII).

1. Scope & Applicability Criteria

Vessel Tonnage Threshold: Applies to all ships of 5,000 Gross Tonnage (GT) and above.
Type of Voyage: Applies to vessels engaged in international voyages across all commercial categories (e.g., bulkers, tankers, container ships, passenger vessels, gas carriers).
Exemptions:
- Ships under 5,000 GT.
- Vessels operating strictly on domestic voyages (coastal trade within a single sovereign state).
- Warships, naval auxiliaries, and other non-commercial government-operated vessels.

2. Statutory Implementation & Operational Framework

SEEMP Part II (Data Methodology) ➔ Daily Log Monitoring ➔ Annual Data Aggregation
 (Jan 1–Dec 31)➔ Verifier/Class Verification (by Mar 31) ➔ SoC Issuance (by May 31)

SEEMP Part II (Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan):
- Before collecting data, the ship must have an approved SEEMP Part II onboard, which details the methodology used to measure, record, and report fuel consumption and transport work.
Monitoring Period:
- Data is compiled per calendar year (January 1 to December 31).
Data Verification & Submission:
- By March 31, the shipowner/operator submits the compiled data for the previous year to the Flag State or Recognized Organization (Class/RO) for verification.
Statement of Compliance (SoC):
- Upon successful verification, the Flag State or RO issues an annual Statement of Compliance (SoC) - Fuel Oil Consumption, which must be kept onboard no later than May 31 and remains valid for 15 months.