VGM: YOUR GUIDE TO COMPLIANCE

30 Aug 2023
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KLN Container

At Kerry Logistics Oceania, we understand the complexities of global shipping and the importance of adhering to international regulations. One such regulation is the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and its Verified Gross Mass (VGM) requirement. Our team of experts is always ready to guide you through these regulations, ensuring your cargo reaches its destination safely and efficiently.

 

Understanding SOLAS and VGM

SOLAS is an international maritime safety treaty designed to ensure that ships comply with minimum safety standards in their construction, equipment, and operation. The VGM requirement under SOLAS mandates that shippers provide an accurate and reliable total weight of the container to the carrier before it reaches the port terminal.

This requirement was introduced in response to major accidents linked to inaccurate weight declarations of shipping containers. The International Maritime Organisation (IMO), in collaboration with industry representatives, adopted these rules to ensure reliable weights of containers are provided.

 

The Importance of VGM in Your Shipping Process

The VGM of a container includes the cargo weight, weight of all loading equipment and materials, dunnage, and the tare (weight of the container). Providing an accurate VGM is crucial for the safety of the ship, its crew, and the cargo it carries. It also helps in planning the ship's stowage and ensures optimum vessel stability.

As a leading freight forwarder, Kerry Logistics Oceania is committed to helping our clients navigate these requirements. Our global teams of experts are on hand to guide you through the regulations and ensure that all necessary information is provided before any containers reach the carrier’s port terminal.

 

How We Can Help

At Kerry Logistics Oceania, we provide a seamless process for you to submit your VGM details. Our dedicated VGM section allows you to access your shipment details and submit the VGM easily and efficiently.

We understand that different countries have varying implementation guidelines and regulations. Our team stays updated with these changes and provides guidance tailored to the specific requirements of the countries you are shipping to or from.

 

FAQ

What is SOLAS? ⏵

SOLAS, or the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, is a maritime safety treaty that was introduced in response to the sinking of the Titanic in 1912. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has developed and maintained SOLAS since 1948.

What is the Container VGM? ⏵

Verified Gross Mass (VGM) is the total weight of the cargo, including cargo weight, loading material/pallets/skids, dunnage, securing material, and tare weight of the container.

What are the Basic Requirements of SOLAS? ⏵

The shipper has to provide the ocean carrier with the VGM of the container, along with a signature (can be electronic) identifying the person responsible for the declared weight. This information has to be provided to the carrier, most likely before the container reaches the carrier’s port terminal.

In which countries is SOLAS/VGM implemented? ⏵

All countries which are members of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) or a United Nations Agency, MUST implement VGM. Some countries automatically adopt this new rule as a national rule or law, while others, will have additional requirements.

Why VGM? ⏵

This requirement was deemed necessary to ensure shippers are providing the accurate and reliable total weight of the container to the carrier for safety reasons. Many accidents in which people and assets were injured, occurred as a result of inaccurate weight declarations.

Who is responsible for declaring and providing the VGM? ⏵

Under the SOLAS requirements, the shipper named on the bill of lading is the party responsible for providing the maritime (ocean) carrier (‘master’) and the terminal operator (‘terminal representative’) with the verified gross mass of a packed container.

What if I (shipper) forget to submit the container VGM? ⏵

At Kerry Logistics Oceania, we are constantly monitoring the VGM status through alerts to ensure the timely submission of the VGM to avoid the possibility of “do not load”. One of our sea freight experts will contact you in case of missing VGM.

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