SOLAS VGM
This regulation prohibits the loading of a packed container on board a vessel unless the Verified Gross Mass (VGM) information has been provided in advance to the ocean carrier. The purpose of the VGM requirement is to obtain an accurate gross weight of packed containers so that vessel and terminal operators can prepare vessel stowage plans prior to loading cargo on ships. The requirement will also protect vessel and terminal operators’ people and assets, as well as shippers’ cargo.
The shipper, whose name is mentioned in the Bill of Lading, is responsible to provide the VGM of the packed container to the ship personnel and the port terminals well in advance. The VGM is the combined weight of the container tare weight and weight of all cargo, including all packaging and dunnage.
There are only two permissible methods in defining the VGM:
METHOD 1:
Weigh the packed container
The method is by weighing the stuffed container using calibrated and certified equipment approved by the designated authority of the country in which packing of the container was completed.
METHOD 2:
Weigh the cargo and other contents and add tare mass of the container
The method is by weighing all packages, pallets, dunnage, securing material, etc. that have been packed into the container and by adding the tare weight of the container to the sum of the single weights, using a certified method approved by the assigned authority of the country in which packing of the container was completed.
In order to avoid delays, it is important to ensure that the VGM information is processed in an accurate and timely manner, and is submitted to all the relevant parties involved in the handling of the containers (e.g., Carriers, Port Terminals and Vessel Operators).
Forward Freight will support you to manage and comply with this new convention.
For more information, please contact your local Forward Freight Sales or Customer Service representative.