What is the VGM?
The experience of a leader Security and traceability in all shipments
RESOURCES
What is VGM?
As of 1 July 2016, with the SOLAS amendment for freight forwarders (Safety of Life at Sea), adopted by the International Maritime Organization, a change in container weighing regulations has been implemented. Under these amendments, a full container will not be authorized to be loaded onto ships unless the shipper has provided its verified gross mass (VGM) to ocean carriers and/or port representatives before the deadline for the loading list.Verified gross mass (VGM) comprises the total weight of the cargo, including stowage and reinforcement, plus the tare weight of the container holding the cargo. Under SOLAS, it is the shipper's obligation to provide the VGM on a "shipping document", either as part of the shipping instructions or by separate communication, before the ship is loaded.
How is VGM calculated?
Calculating the VGM (Verified Gross Mass) is essential to ensure the safety of maritime container transport. There are two main ways to determine this verified gross mass:
- Method 1: The container is weighed fully loaded, including all items inside it, such as cargo, stowage and reinforcement. This method is straightforward and reliable, as it considers the container as a complete unit.
- Method 2: This involves individually weighing the cargo and materials inside the container, and then adding these values to the tare weight indicated on the container doors. However, this method may be less practical for bulk cargoes, such as grain or scrap, due to logistical difficulties and the need for approval from local authorities.
Role of terminal operators
Terminal operators play a key role in the implementation of this regulation and in the management of VGM information:
- Compliance assurance: Terminals are responsible for ensuring that no container is loaded without a valid VGM. In addition, carriers such as Maersk verify that final loading lists only include containers with a VGM provided.
- Discrepancy management: Terminals may occasionally decide to weigh a full container for which a VGM has already been reported. If there are differences between the values, the VGM obtained by the terminal will be used.
- Information Processing: Operators must have electronic data interchange (EDI) systems or other processes in place to receive, verify and process VGM information, whether provided by the shipper or the ocean carrier. In cases where weighing is performed at the terminal facilities, the terminal must send the obtained VGM to the appropriate carrier.
Impact on terminal operators:
Other actors in the logistics chain, such as barges, railways, warehouses and trucks, which are not directly covered by the SOLAS amendment, can also assist in the collection and transmission of VGM information when necessary. This ensures more efficient coordination and contributes to compliance with international regulations.
Consequences of non-compliance
Local and national legislation will set out the penalties and consequences for cases where a container is loaded without a valid VGM. It is therefore crucial that all actors involved, from shippers to terminal operators, comply with the provisions to avoid disruptions and risks to maritime operations.
Request A Quote
Our dedicated team of professionals will contact you to provide customized and efficient solutions.