The Port of Rotterdam, as Europe’s largest energy and commodities hub, plays a vital role in global oil logistics. However, its strategic importance has also made it a hotspot for highly organized and deceptive fraud schemes. These so-called “tank storage scams” have been targeting international fuel buyers, using sophisticated techniques to create the illusion of legitimate petroleum transactions. This article explores how these scams work, the tactics used, and how unsuspecting buyers are misled.

How the Fraud Schemes Operate

Fake Tank Storage Agreements (TSA)

Fraudsters often impersonate tank terminal operators or logistics companies, providing forged Tank Storage Agreements allegedly linked to well-known terminals in Rotterdam (e.g., Vopak, Koole, Botlek).

The documents are often digitally edited and appear authentic.
The primary goal is to extract “reservation fees,” “storage approvals,” or other upfront payments from the buyer.

Clone Websites and Fake Email Domains

They build fake websites mimicking reputable tank farms and use similar email domains (e.g., @vopak-storage.nl), fooling buyers into believing they’re dealing with a real company.

Technical documents, storage capacity charts, and location maps are shared to build credibility.
Websites list fictitious tank availability to increase pressure on buyers.

Fake SGS & KYC Documents

Scammers issue counterfeit SGS inspection reports, ISCC certifications, and KYC forms that appear legitimate.

Sometimes, real company names are used with fake contacts or unauthorized representatives.
These documents are used to push the buyer toward signing a SPA (Sales Purchase Agreement) and initiating payment.

Fabricated Tank Numbers and GPS Locations

Buyers are given fake tank numbers and even satellite coordinates to suggest the product is stored at a specific location in Rotterdam.

Real terminal names are used to add credibility.
Some even use Google Maps screenshots to simulate storage locations.

How Buyers Are Deceived

Urgency & Pressure: Phrases like “Limited storage left” or “First-come-first-served” are used to rush the buyer.
Chain of Documents: A steady flow of professional-looking documents builds trust.
Video Calls & Fake Staff: Fraudsters may appear on Zoom or Teams pretending to be operations managers or tank officials.
False KYC & SPA Phase: As soon as KYC and SPA are submitted, the buyer is pressured for payments or bank confirmations—then the fraudsters disappear.

Common Scam Scenarios

TBN Tanks (To Be Named): Tank numbers are claimed to be “under process,” and revealed only after payment.
Floating Storage Fraud: Scammers claim storage is done offshore in vessels anchored near Rotterdam.
Broker Chain Confusion: The actual seller is never revealed. The buyer is passed from one “broker” to another.

Red Flags for Buyers

✅ Warning Signs Include:
Use of free email domains (Gmail, Yahoo)
Unverifiable SGS or ISCC documents
Websites registered within the last 6–12 months
Inability to confirm tank storage directly with the terminal
Claims of “exclusive” TBN tank deals with tight deadlines

How to Protect Yourself

🔒 Due Diligence Checklist:

Always contact the tank terminal directly to verify any TSA or tank number.
Validate SGS, ISCC, and other certificates through official channels.
Avoid payments until on-site or third-party verifications are completed.
Research WHOIS data of domains and company registration details.
Confirm SPA terms include clear physical loading and inspection procedures.

Tank storage fraud in Rotterdam is not just a financial risk—it’s a threat to the integrity of global energy trade. With well-forged documents, impersonated identities, and highly convincing tactics, these scammers have caused significant losses for buyers around the world. The key to prevention lies in strict verification, skeptical analysis, and working only with vetted partners.