Vessels are measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses. Cost comprises acquisition cost and costs directly related to the acquisition up until the time when the asset is ready for use, including interest expenses incurred during the period of construction based on the loans obtained for the vessels. All major components of vessels except for dry-docking costs are depreciated on a straight-line basis to the estimated residual value over their estimated useful lives, which TORM estimates to be 25 years. The Company considers that a 25-year depreciable life is consistent with what is used by other shipowners with comparable tonnage. Depreciation is based on cost less the estimated residual value. Residual value is estimated as the lightweight tonnage of each vessel multiplied by scrap value per ton. The useful life and the residual value of the vessels are reviewed at least at each financial year-end based on market conditions, regulatory requirements and the Company's business plans.
The Company also evaluates the carrying amounts to determine if events have occurred that indicate impairment and would require a modification of the carrying amounts. Prepayment on vessels is measured at costs incurred.
Approximately every 30 and 60 months, depending on the nature of work and external requirements, the vessels are required to undergo planned dry-dockings for replacement of certain components, major repairs and major maintenance of other components, which cannot be carried out while the vessels are operating. These dry-docking costs are capitalized and depreciated on a straight-line basis over the estimated period until the next dry-docking. The residual value of such components is estimated at nil. The useful life of the dry-docking costs is reviewed at least at each financial year-end based on market conditions, regulatory requirements and TORM's business plans.
A portion of the cost of acquiring a new vessel is allocated to the components expected to be replaced or refurbished at the next dry-docking. Depreciation hereof is carried over the period until the next dry-docking. For newbuildings, the initial dry-docking asset is estimated based on the expected costs related to the first-coming dry-docking, which again is based on experience and past history of similar vessels. For second-hand
vessels, a dry-docking asset is also segregated and capitalized separately, taking into account the normal docking intervals of the vessels.
At subsequent dry-dockings, the costs comprise the actual costs incurred at the dry-docking yard. Dry-docking costs may include the cost of hiring crews to carry out replacements and repairs, the cost of parts and materials used, cost of travel, lodging and supervision of Company personnel as well as the cost of hiring third-party personnel to oversee a dry-docking. Dry-docking activities include, but are not limited to, the inspection, service on turbocharger, replacement of shaft seals, service on boiler, replacement of hull anodes, applying of anti-fouling and hull paint, steel repairs as well as refurbishment and replacement of other parts of the vessel.
Other plant and operating equipment
Operating equipment is measured at cost less accumulated depreciation.
Computer equipment is depreciated on a straight-line basis over three years, and other operating equipment is depreciated on a straight-line basis over five years.
Leasehold improvements are measured at cost less accumulated amortization and impairment losses, and leasehold improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the term of the lease and the estimated useful life. Cost comprises acquisition cost and costs directly related to the acquisition up until the time when the asset is ready for use.