How to verify Ship Agent or Tank Broker #158
Many tank companies are not tank farm, or they may be agent or tank broker..
A Ship Agent or Tank Broker acts as an intermediary, just like a freight forwarder doesnt own the airplanes. However, in the high-stakes world of EN590 and Rotterdam storage, scammers frequently pose as agents to hide the fact that they have no physical access to tanks.
To verify if the tank (or any agent) is legitimate, use this Professional Stress Test of 4 specific questions. A real agent will answer these instantly; a scammer will give you excuses.
1. Ask for their Port Authority Terminal ID
Every terminal in Rotterdam (Vopak, LBC, etc.) has a specific Terminal Code or Berth Number.
The Question: Which specific terminal facility is the sub-lease located in, and what is the Terminal Operators name (e.g., Vopak Banyan or Chane Botlek)?
The Test: If they say Our own private tanks, they are lying (they are registered as a shipping agent, not a terminal). If they give a name, call that terminal directly to ask if Proxima has an active account.
2. Ask for the Port Map Location & Customs Code
Legitimate agents handling fuel must have a Bonded Warehouse License or work through a terminal that does.
The Question: Can you provide the Shed/Tank Number and the Customs Warehouse Code for the VAT-exempt storage of this EN590?
The Test: A real agent will provide a specific coordinate or tank ID (e.g., Tank 402). You can then cross-reference this on Port of Rotterdam Maps.
3. Ask for a TSR with a Verifiable Signature
A Tank Storage Receipt (TSR) is the gold standard.
The Question: Will the TSR be issued by the Terminal Operator (the tank owner) or by you as the agent?
The Test: If the agent says they issue the TSR, it is a scam. Only the physical terminal owner (the VOTOB member) can legally issue a TSR that proves the fuel is in the tank.
4. Check their Professional Liability Insurance
Agents in the Netherlands almost always belong to a professional body like VRC (Vereniging van Rotterdamse Cargadoors / Rotterdam Ship Brokers Association).
The Question: Are you a member of the VRC or do you carry FIATA insurance?
The Test: Check the VRC Member List. If they arent there, they are an unregulated entity, which is extremely dangerous for million-dollar fuel deals.
Final Smell Test for any tank companies.
Since they were registered in 2024, they are a New Player. In Rotterdam, New Players rarely get sub-lease rights from major terminals like Vopak because of strict KYC (Know Your Customer) laws.
Pro-Tip: If they ask for any money (for a Transfer of Ownership or Admin Fee) before you have a signed TSR from the actual Terminal Owner, it is a scam.