Key Specifications
Smaller commercial vessels, auxiliary engines, emergency generators, vessels operating outside ECA but preferring distillate
Technical Detail
Category vs grade
'MGO' as a term covers the distillate range; the specific compliance grade (LSMGO at 0.10%, or higher-sulphur variants) should be specified when nominating. Vessels often specify LSMGO to ensure ECA compliance without further consideration.
Handling advantages
Distillate fuel is lighter, cleaner, and easier to handle than residual. No heating required, less sludge, more reliable in cold conditions. For smaller vessels, the simplicity often outweighs the higher per-tonne cost.
Availability
MGO is widely available globally at virtually every commercial bunker port. Unlike VLSFO (which requires blending) or HSFO (scrubber-niche), MGO has a deep commercial infrastructure.
Cost consideration
MGO is more expensive than VLSFO per tonne but has lower total consumption overhead (no heating, less separator maintenance, cleaner injectors). For small to mid-size vessels, the gap narrows significantly.
Where to Bunker MGO
Ports in our directory where MGO is available as a standard commercial grade:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MGO the same as diesel?
Closely related. MGO is distillate marine fuel; automotive diesel is a road-spec distillate with tighter sulphur and sometimes cetane requirements. Marine engines can often run on automotive diesel but marine fuel standards are appropriate.
Do I specify MGO or LSMGO?
Best practice: specify LSMGO (0.10% sulphur) if you need ECA compliance. If outside ECA and not regulated, either works — MGO is sometimes marginally cheaper.
Can I blend MGO with VLSFO?
Technically possible but not recommended. Compatibility risk exists. Most operators segregate distillate and residual tanks.