What is the MMSI number in shipping?

The MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity) number in shipping is used by coast stations, vessels, and other maritime objects to communicate seamlessly using radio frequencies. It is also used by ships, port personnel, and coast authorities to enhance ship security and maritime communication. Let us learn more about the MMSI number in shipping. 

What is the maritime mobile service identity code?

 

MMSI number is an acronym for Maritime Mobile Service Identity number in shipping. It is a nine-digit identification number assigned to maritime objects such as a vessel, coast station, mobile unit, etc., by the maritime object's current flag state. MMSI code is a temporary UID (user identification), an international maritime telephone number. Whenever the flag state (country in which the commercial ship is registered) is changed, a new MMSI number is issued. It is used by digital selective calling (DSC) or automatic identification systems (AIS) in maritime to identify the ship or coast station quickly. The MMSI number is programmed into the ship's communication equipment, such as VHF radios or satellite communication devices, from which it can be tracked for satellite radio communication. 

Components of an MMSI number in shipping 

The numeric code of nine is issued to the vessel or coast station for radio communication. The components of the MMSI code are- 

• The first three digits indicate the maritime identification digit or MID that represents the nationality of the ship. This is in the case of ships. For coast stations, the MMSI code begins with 00, followed by the MID number. The MID combines digits from 2-7, allotted regionally. 

• The rest of the six digits of the maritime mobile service identity number are used individually for every vessel. Meanwhile, coast stations begin with zero, followed by the MID number and the individual station number. 

Why is the MMSI number important? 

Vessels and coast stations across the maritime industry have MMSI codes to enable seamless radio communication and must ensure they get a revised MMSI number if the previous one expires. The importance of maritime mobile service identity numbers in shipping is as follows- 

1. Identifying maritime objects- The ship or coast station can be easily identified without confusion using the MMSI number. It is a unique identifier for maritime mobile stations, including ships and boats. This code in shipping enables authorities to identify vessels and coast stations precisely and unambiguously to assist in accessible communication.  

2. Distress signalling—All commercial vessels must be programmed with MMSI numbers, which helps in emergencies. In case of distress, such as piracy, Mayday, or any other maritime emergency, MMSI allows the authorities to get a description of the vessel along with the broadcast of the location. The emergency signal or SSAS button in ships must be pressed for this. 

3. Reduces online traffic- The radio system may catch multiple signals nearby, leading to disoriented communication between coastal authorities and nearby ships. By entering the MMSI number of the required ship or coast station, you can automatically filter out all unnecessary traffic and customise a communication radio channel. 

4. Integration of AIS—The maritime industry is switching to more electronic devices to make maritime operations easier. These devices need an automatic integration system, which requires an MMSI number for tracking, positioning, and maintaining the course and speed of the vessel. AIS transponders installed on vessels broadcast MMSI numbers, which allows nearby vessels and shore stations to identify and track their movements in real time. 

Difference between IMO number and MMSI number in shipping 

1. Definition- The IMO (International Maritime Organisation) number is a seven-digit code issued by the Information Handling Services (IHS) to identify a vessel. The MMSI number is a nine-digit code issued to vessels, coast stations and other maritime objects for their international identification. 

2. Purpose- IMO number is an identification code specially formed for vessels to enhance ships' safety, security, and efficiency in maritime shipping. MMSI number is a unique identifier used for maritime communication using radio signals. It allows vessels, coast stations, and other maritime objects to communicate during distress or for other needs. 

3. Renewal- The IMO code is a permanent identification number assigned to a ship only once in its lifetime. At the same time, an MMSI code is a temporary code which changes if the vessel owner or its flag state changes. 

This is the use of MMSI number in shipping and pointers that make it different from IMO numbers. Using MMSI code in shipping, maritime objects can seamlessly communicate using VHF and other radio devices. 

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