6 Actions to Take Amid Major IMO DCS & SEEMP II Changes

The IMO is rolling out new updates to the Data Collection System (DCS) and SEEMP Part II, charted during MEPC 83. While the official deadline is set for 1 January 2026 for ships ≥ 5,000 GT, several flag states are already opening the door to early compliance since 1 January 2025. 

This isn’t just another regulation to tick off, but an opportunity towards greater efficiency, stronger sustainability signals, and future-ready maritime operations. 

Here’s a quick dive into what’s changing and what you need to do now.

What’s Changing? (And Why It Matters)

Who’s Affected—and When?

Why It’s a Strategic Opportunity

• Spot inefficiencies via system-level fuel tracking.
• Boost your green credentials with shore power and innovative tech.
• Benchmark your fleet on metrics like AER and EEOI.
• Stay audit-ready with an updated SEEMP II and digital logs.

6 Must-Do Actions to Align with IMO’s New DCS & SEEMP II Framework

1. Update SEEMP Part II – Align with MEPC.388(81) and get your CoC from a verifier.
2. Start logging by system – Set up tools to track fuel by ME, AE, Boilers, others.
3. Get crew ready – Train teams on BOSP/EOSP reporting and port call codes.
4. Track shore power – Make sure you can log onshore electricity consumption (in kWh).
5. Review your fleet’s tech – Log any energy-saving devices per MEPC.1/Circ.896.
6. Specify port-call purpose – Record each port stay along with its corresponding purpose.

GeoServe’s Emission Regulatory Services are tailored to help clients navigate these IMO DCS and SEEMP II updates. From SEEMP documentation to digital reporting solutions, we ensure your fleet stays fully compliant and future-ready.

Preparing for these changes requires not just an adoption of good practices but a systemic change where your team needs the time to adjust, build habits and turn this regulatory shift into a commercial advantage that impacts at an organizational level.

Most fleets that are ready in 2025 won’t just avoid penalties but also lead the industry in transparency and sustainability.

If you are not sure where to begin, start with your SEEMP Part II revision and talk to your verifier about early implementation.

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References (for technical readers)

• MEPC.385(81), MEPC.388(81), MEPC.395(82) – IMO Resolutions
• MEPC.1/Circ.896 – Energy-saving tech categories
• MEPC.1/Circ.913 – SEEMP II interim guidance
• IMO/0372 – Port call purpose codes1 January 2025