Why “unconditional” access claims require caution

Oil storage terminals operate under strict security and access regimes defined by international safety regulations. These facilities are considered critical infrastructure, and access is controlled exclusively by the terminal operator under formal storage agreements and scheduled procedures.

In standard practice, any inspection or dip test is requested by the tank holder under a valid storage agreement. The terminal determines timing, access conditions and inspector approval, including compliance and security checks. Inspection access is therefore always conditional.

Why unconditional dip test claims are unrealistic

A dip test involves accredited inspectors, laboratory analysis, equipment and formal reporting. Such inspections are scheduled, costly and conducted only when commercially justified. Terminals do not grant repeated or unrestricted access to third parties without contractual grounds.

Unconditional access letters presented outside a terminal-approved process do not reflect actual terminal operations and should not be treated as evidence of product availability.

Key consideration

Sellers do not control terminal access. Only the terminal operator can approve inspections and grant entry. Any document suggesting unconditional authorization without terminal confirmation should be approached with caution, as it does not align with standard industry practice.

Understanding how terminal access and inspections are regulated is essential for assessing transaction credibility.

Why a signed Commercial Invoice requires attention

Requests to sign a Commercial Invoice at an early stage of a transaction are often presented as a “formal step” or a procedural requirement. In practice, such requests may create unintended legal exposure for the counterparty.

In many jurisdictions, a signed Commercial Invoice can be interpreted as confirmation of an obligation to pay, even if the underlying transaction has not been completed.

What a Commercial Invoice represents in international trade

A Commercial Invoice is not a draft document or a preliminary offer.
It is a financial document that typically confirms:

• the existence of a commercial transaction,
• the price and quantity of goods,
• delivery terms and contractual references,
• and an obligation connected to payment or delivery.

In legal terms, a signed Commercial Invoice may be treated as evidence of a recognized liability.

Why a signed Commercial Invoice may be treated as acknowledgment of debt

In several jurisdictions, an accepted or signed Commercial Invoice may be used as documentary evidence of an acknowledged payment obligation. When combined with correspondence, draft agreements or preliminary documents, it may support claims in court or arbitration.

In such cases, the dispute often shifts from the performance of the transaction to the question of why a document confirming payment obligations was signed.

Proper timing of a Commercial Invoice

In standard international trade practice, a Commercial Invoice is issued:

• after delivery of goods, or
• together with shipping documents (B/L, CMR, AWB), or
• at the moment when title or risk transfers under the applicable agreement.

Issuing or signing a Commercial Invoice before these stages is not considered standard practice.

Commercial Invoice versus Proforma Invoice

A Proforma Invoice, quotation or offer reflects proposed commercial terms and does not create a payment obligation by itself.
A Commercial Invoice, by contrast, records a transaction or obligation that may already be considered enforceable.

This distinction is critical in early-stage negotiations.

Key takeaway

Requests to sign a Commercial Invoice before contract finalization, delivery, quality confirmation or title transfer should be treated with caution. Such requests do not accelerate a transaction and may expose the counterparty to legal and financial risk.

Understanding the function and timing of commercial documentation is an essential part of responsible transaction management.

Operations are focused on Central, Eastern and Southeastern Europe, with active market participation across several jurisdictions. Activities are structured to support regional trading, cross-border interaction and consistent commercial engagement within established market environments.

YAR STREAM ENERGY operates as an energy trading company focused on wholesale and industrial market participation. Activities are structured around regulated market frameworks, professional counterparties and disciplined commercial execution.

Activities are conducted in accordance with applicable licensing and regulatory requirements in the relevant jurisdictions of operation. Compliance with local regulatory frameworks forms an integral part of commercial and operational processes.

No. Activities are oriented exclusively toward wholesale and industrial counterparties. The company does not engage in retail supply or consumer-facing energy services.

Depending on transaction structure, trading activities may be linked to physical delivery through established market frameworks. Delivery arrangements are defined on a transaction-specific basis in line with applicable regulations.

Commercial matters may be addressed through direct communication via the contact form or by email. Inquiries are reviewed within the context of professional and wholesale market engagement.