If you operate a small fleet—say, 5 to 15 vessels—the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) probably feels like another acronym designed for big shipping companies to worry about. You're not entirely wrong. But ignoring it comes with consequences.
What CII Actually Is
The CII is an IMO measure that rates vessels from A to E based on carbon intensity—essentially, how much CO2 you emit per ton-mile of cargo. The rating depends on:
- Fuel consumption of your vessel
- Distance travelled and cargo carried
- Vessel size and type
Starting in 2024, vessels over 5,000 GT must have a CII certificate. Getting a D or E rating for three consecutive years triggers a corrective action plan.
Why Small Fleets Should Care
Here's the uncomfortable part: the regulations don't care about fleet size. A 10-vessel operator faces the same CII requirements as a 500-vessel shipping line. The difference is resources.
The practical impacts:
- Charterer requirements: Major charterers increasingly ask for CII ratings. A D or E rating could cost you contracts.
- Port access: Some ports are considering CII-based incentives or restrictions.
- Vessel value: CII ratings affect vessel valuations and resale potential.
- Regulatory creep: This is just the beginning. Expect CII to tighten over time.
The CII Rating Scale
| Rating | Interpretation | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| A | Superior | None |
| B | Superior | None |
| C | Average | None |
| D | Inferior | Corrective Action Plan required |
| E | Poor | Immediate corrective action |
What Affects Your CII
The biggest factors you can control:
- Fuel consumption — The biggest driver. Less fuel = better CII.
- Speed — Slower speeds dramatically improve CII.
- Voyage planning — Optimal routes, proper ballasting, avoiding congestion.
- Maintenance — Well-maintained engines run more efficiently.
The Small Fleet Challenge
Here's the problem: most CII optimization advice assumes you have:
- Real-time fuel monitoring systems
- Professional voyage planning teams
- Capital for vessel modifications
- Time to wait for newbuilds
If you operate older vessels with manual reporting and a small operations team, you're at a disadvantage. But you're not helpless.
Quick Wins for Small Fleets
You don't need expensive systems to improve your CII:
- Log fuel consumption accurately — You can't improve what you don't measure
- Review speed recommendations — Even small speed reductions help
- Optimize voyage planning — Better routing pays off
- Maintain engines — Regular maintenance improves efficiency
What's Coming
CII is evolving. MEPC 84 in April 2026 will likely discuss amendments. Expect:
- Stricter boundaries for CII ratings
- More scrutiny on calculation methodologies
- Potential expansion to more vessel types
The Bottom Line
CII isn't optional. Even if your fleet is small, the rating affects your business. The good news: small improvements add up, and starting now beats waiting until you get a D rating.
In the next post, we'll cover specific quick wins you can implement immediately—no expensive equipment required.
Next: Part 2 — Quick Wins for CII Optimization (fuel monitoring, speed, voyage planning)