# IMO Number Screening

*Last updated: 2026-06-18*

> An IMO number is a seven-digit, permanent identifier assigned to every seagoing vessel by the International Maritime Organization, remaining unchanged across re-flaggings and ownership transfers.

An IMO number is a seven-digit, permanent identifier assigned to every seagoing vessel by the International Maritime Organization, remaining unchanged across re-flaggings and ownership transfers. Screening this number means cross-checking it against official registries – such as IHS Sea-web or Lloyd's Register – to confirm that the recorded vessel name, flag state, and registered owner match the presented documents, and to detect discrepancies that may indicate identity manipulation or sanctions evasion. The process is a core element of maritime due diligence: it applies when onboarding new counterparties, accepting cargo bookings, and during Port State Control inspections. Because the IMO number cannot be altered, it is the most reliable single identifier for a vessel and the logical starting point for any rigorous vessel verification.

**Source:** [https://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/MSAS/Pages/IMO-Identification-Number-Scheme.aspx](https://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/MSAS/Pages/IMO-Identification-Number-Scheme.aspx)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | IMO Number Screening |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 123 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-18 |
| Source | https://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/MSAS/Pages/IMO-Identification-Number-Scheme.aspx |

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