How to check a vessel IMO number
By the Vanguard Verify desk · Published 2026-10-26 · Updated 2026-11-01
Short answer: every seagoing merchant ship over a certain size has a permanent 7-digit IMO number. To check a nominated vessel, first confirm the number passes the IMO check-digit test. Then look it up in free official databases such as Equasis or IMO GISIS, and confirm that the ship's name, flag, type, size and class match the Q88, bill of lading and charter documents.
Steps
- Get the IMO number in writing. A vessel name alone is not enough, because names change and are often reused.
- Run the check digit. Multiply the first six digits by 7, 6, 5, 4, 3 and 2, add the results, and take the last digit of the total. It must equal the seventh digit. Example: for IMO 9074729, 9×7 + 0×6 + 7×5 + 4×4 + 7×3 + 2×2 = 139, so the check digit is 9, which matches.
- Look it up in Equasis. Equasis is free after registration. It shows the ship's particulars, flag, classification society, P&I club, management companies and port state control inspections.
- Cross-check in IMO GISIS. The IMO's own database lists the registered owner and the company identification numbers.
- Confirm the class. Check that the classification society named is real and that the ship is listed as in class. IACS member societies publish vessels-in-class information.
- Match the documents. The IMO number, name, flag and deadweight should be the same on the Q88, the charter party and the bill of lading. See how to verify a bill of lading.
What to compare
| Field | Where to check | Mismatch means |
|---|---|---|
| IMO number | Check digit, Equasis | Typo, or an invented ship |
| Ship name and flag | Equasis, GISIS | Outdated data, or the wrong vessel |
| Ship type and DWT | Equasis | Ship cannot carry the cargo or quantity offered |
| Class status | Classification society, IACS | Insurance and port entry may be refused |
| Recent inspections | Equasis PSC records | Possible detentions or deficiencies |
Red flags
- The IMO number fails the check digit or cannot be found anywhere.
- The ship's type does not fit the cargo, for example a container ship nominated for a clean petroleum product.
- The deadweight is far below the quantity in the offer.
- The documents show a different ship name or flag than the official databases.
- The seller cannot give a vessel nomination, and only offers "tank storage receipts" or "dip test" documents instead.
Limits
A real IMO number shows that the ship exists. It does not show that the ship is carrying your cargo, or that the seller has any right to it. Combine the vessel check with checks on the seller and its documents. See is an EN590 offer real?
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FAQ
How many digits is an IMO ship number?
Seven, written as "IMO" followed by the digits. The last digit is a check digit.
Is Equasis free?
Yes. Equasis is free to use after registration.
Does the IMO number change when a ship is renamed?
No. The IMO number stays with the hull for the ship's whole life, even when its name or flag changes.
Does a valid IMO number prove the cargo is real?
No. It only proves the ship exists. The cargo, the seller's title to it and the documents need separate checks.
Vanguard Verify is run by Vanguard Trade Capital Goods Wholesalers DWC-LLC, Dubai South, Licence 14282. This answer is general information, not legal or financial advice.