IIMS tonnage measurement training

IIMS has been authorised and approved for many years by the UK Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) to conduct the training and subsequent approval of tonnage measurers through online theory training (Part I) and remote practical self-produced video demonstration (Part II).

Part I

The Part I theory training is available to IIMS members and surveyors from other organisations, and provides an essential knowledge base for tonnage measurement. But to become formally authorised to process tonnages through IIMS where the Institute has registry agreements in place – see list below – both Part I and Part II must be completed, and you need to be a member of the Institute at Affiliate level or above.

Those who wish to study Part I only, UK tonnage measurement theory, may do so to extend their surveying knowledge.

IIMS makes good use of technology to deliver its tried and tested methodology of authorising tonnage surveyors. The tonnage theory training Part I is presented via our on-demand training portal here. You can purchase and complete this training in your own time, though we ideally recommend completing it before taking part in the practical element. The theory training is presented by Fraser Noble, an MCA code examiner, Chair of the IIMS Certifying Authority and an executive Director of IIMS. It provides a thorough explanation of UK tonnage measurement theory, including the background to tonnage and detailing the specific requirements and measurements, plus associated documentation necessary to successfully complete a tonnage measurement.

The cost for Part I only remotely is £150 (no VAT).

Part II

For those who wish to become an IIMS approved tonnage surveyor and thus be able to formally process tonnages through the Institute, it is necessary to complete Part II, the practical evidence-based assessment leading to formal authorisation.

IIMS is running a practical face-to-face tonnage training session to be held at Itchenor Sailing Club, UK, on 19th May 2026 from 09.00 to 14.00 (a working lunch is provided and included in the cost) – subject to sufficient demand. You will measure and calculate tonnage on several vessels under the guidance of experienced surveyors. Your paperwork will be scrutinized, and approval granted on successful completion.

If you can’t make it in person, Part II can be undertaken remotely and can be done at the surveyor’s convenience once Part I has been undertaken. Surveyors will be required to record short video clips (filmed by their own hand or by an attending associate) to demonstrate an understanding of the requirements and principles of conducting a tonnage measurement as taught by the theory training in Part I. IIMS will want to see video evidence of measurements being taken on a vessel in water, out of water and one with a step-deck for scrutineering before approval is granted. IIMS had made some sample videos to give an idea of what is expected, which can be viewed on a YouTube playlist as guidance. Video evidence, along with a completed electronic tonnage form, needs to be submitted for scrutineering before authorisation is granted.

Those who become formally authorised as an IIMS MCA approved tonnage surveyor on completion of Part I and Part II will receive a formal certificate of achievement.

The cost for Part II is £185.

Important note.

The MCA Tonnage Authority agreement authorises IIMS to certificate United Kingdom ships in accordance with certain applicable requirements of the legislation. Part III of the 1997 Regulations regulates the tonnage and certification of under 24 metre vessels by way of a simplified tonnage measurement system.

IIMS is currently able to process tonnage measurements through the following registries:

British Virgin Islands
Cayman Islands
Gibraltar
Guernsey
Isle of Man
Jersey
United Kingdom

If you become authorised through IIMS training and wish to carry out tonnage surveys through registries other than those named above, please note that the Institute does not have formal agreements in place at this time. Other registries may have similar but different tonnage requirements, and you should satisfy yourself before becoming formally IIMS authorized. IIMS will provide confirmation of your certification to other registries on request to help you gain their acceptance of your capabilities as a tonnage surveyor, but IIMS cannot give a guarantee of their acceptance.

To secure your place for Part II, either in-person or remotely, please pay below using our secure servers. Or if you prefer not to book online, please email Vicki Loizides or call her at +44 23 9238 5223, and we will invoice you.