While the world is going gaga over the rise of AI, we seafarers know better than anyone that sea-going ships demand seafarers, and we require proper tools and equipment. But have you figured out how these specific items are ordered so that we don’t end up searching for the right one?
Table of Contents
IMPA – International Marine Purchasing Association
It is a non-profit organization at the heart of the marine procurement and supply chain management industry since 1978. It helps to overcome the language and communication barrier between the shipping company (crew) with the supplier or sometimes the manufacturer complying with all industry-approved standards.
How IMPA makes it possible?
It provides a universal coding system to facilitate communication between crew, owner, and supplier, making the specification and supply of goods simple, quick, and effective. This helps bridge the language barrier and offers worldwide shipping companies an easy way to order goods. The book binds 50,000+ unique items under different categories with a unique 6-digit code. It is the leading reference guide for maritime purchasing and supply. From tools, PPE, and safety equipment to galley utensils IMPA coding covers all that is and will be used on ships.
How it all started?
We know shipping dates back ages when the first of the great civilizations started to expand their boundaries. So what took so late for the IMPA to come into existence?
It was the foundation of IMO standardization on which the modern shipping industry is built. When the standards came in, those were accepted and recognized in any part of the globe. Formed in 1978 by a group of senior purchasing executives who wanted to create an industry ‘voice’ to represent the interests of the purchasing profession within shipping and promote close cooperation and understanding between buyer and supplier.
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MSG – Marine Stores Guide (The ACTUAL Book).
Often times we must have heard from Chief Officers and Second Engineers to bring the IMPA book for making requisitions.
Well, it’s the Marine Stores Guide they are actually referring to. This book compiles the codes of all the items with clear instructions on how to select the part specific to its dimensions and how to place an order with the code. It comes in Russian, English, Spanish, Chinese, and Japanese.
Started publishing in the same year IMPA was formed, it has more than 110,000 copies in circulation on board ships and in offices. The book has several editions which are updated every 5 years, the Marine Stores Guide Seventh edition is the latest copy in circulation.
IMPA Marine Stores Guide is also available on the e-commerce platform, and now provides updates to the catalog on a six-monthly cycle only available in electronic form. The latest version of the MSG Data includes more than 50,000 codes.
Some milestones of IMPA
So, next time when you are holding a copy, cherish the fact that it is not just a directory of codes but a global reference guide for marine purchase from a non-profit organization having 40 years of history in its paperback.
…definitely IMPA MSG
Conclusion
In conclusion, IMPA is an invaluable resource for seafarers looking to efficiently order items while onboard. Its comprehensive catalogue and standardized coding system streamline the procurement process, saving time and ensuring accuracy. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-time crew member, having access to IMPA can greatly enhance your ability to manage and maintain supplies at sea. Don’t forget to leave a comment on this blog post to share your own experiences or ask any questions about using IMPA. Happy sailing and smooth ordering!
