09/02/2026
Changing Class: More Than Just Changing a Certificate.
A vessel may need to change or transfer its classification for many reasons — a change of ownership, flag, trading area, operational requirements, financing arrangements, or simply the owner's decision to work with a different classification society.
But transferring class is not simply an administrative exercise.
Before accepting a vessel into class, the incoming classification society needs to understand its technical condition, survey history, outstanding recommendations and whether the vessel continues to comply with the applicable rules and statutory requirements.
For shipowners, a properly managed transfer can help avoid unnecessary delays while maintaining continuity of certification and vessel operations.
This becomes particularly important for older vessels, vessels changing their area of operation, and ships entering emerging or developing maritime markets, where local requirements may differ significantly.
At International Register of Shipping (INTLREG), our role goes beyond issuing certificates. We work with shipowners, managers, shipyards and maritime administrations to identify practical solutions while maintaining the technical standards required for safe and reliable operation.
Good classification should support safe shipping — not create unnecessary barriers to it.