After the initial contact, arrangements will be made to conduct the survey on a specific date and time. If the vessel is being hauled, this will also be arranged, either by the buyer, owner or broker, at the request of the owner.

If a sea trial is to be conducted, an owner authorized operator must be present. During a purchase survey, the buyer is urged to be present. This allows for good dialogue with the surveyor and a good time to ask questions.

The length of time needed to conduct the survey will depend upon the type of survey, the size and the condition of the vessel being surveyed. It is not unusual to spend an entire day for a purchase survey, especially if sea trials are conducted.