How to order parts by IMPA numbers without waiting weeks

An IMPA number is the fastest common language between a vessel and a supplier - but only when the enquiry is complete. Here is exactly what a quoting desk needs to answer in hours instead of days.

What IMPA and ISSA codes are

The IMPA Marine Stores Guide and the ISSA catalogue are two parallel six-digit code systems for marine stores: ropes, paints, tools, cleaning supplies. Most items exist in both catalogues, but the numbers do not match - IMPA 590011 and ISSA 47.102.01 can mean the same thing. Always state which catalogue your number comes from.

One important limit: IMPA codes describe consumables and deck stores well, but not machinery parts. You cannot order piston rings for a specific engine by IMPA alone - there the maker, type and the part number from the manual always decide.

What a good enquiry contains

• The IMPA or ISSA number plus a short text description - the description catches a typo in the code.
• Unit of measure and quantity: roll or metre, piece or set. This is the most common source of wrong quotes.
• For machinery parts: maker, type and serial number from the nameplate, plus the part number or the item position from the sectional drawing.
• Port, ETA and ETD of the vessel - the supplier plans logistics straight away instead of asking back.
• A photo whenever anything is unclear. One nameplate photo saves three emails.

Three mistakes that cost weeks

• An outdated catalogue. IMPA numbers get revised and items get withdrawn - an enquiry with a dead code comes back with questions instead of a price.
• One number for several items. "IMPA 232101 and similar sizes" forces the supplier to guess. Every size is its own line.
• No context on replacements. If you accept an equivalent brand, say so explicitly - otherwise you get a quote for the original only, often pricier and slower.

How this works with us

A complete IMPA enquiry is usually quoted the same day, on average under four hours. We quote incomplete ones too - our technical desk identifies parts from photos and manual fragments - but every missing detail is another email round. The fuller the list, the sooner the part is on deck.