This article explores what Verified Gross Mass is, the regulations surrounding it, how to calculate it, methods of verification, and how logistics partners like Daguer Logistics can help businesses effectively manage Gross Mass.
Shipping regulations have evolved to ensure safety and efficiency in global logistics. One of the most critical compliance requirements is Verified Gross Mass (VGM), a mandatory weight declaration introduced by the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) amendment effective July 1, 2016. This regulation requires shippers to declare the VGM of packed containers before they can be loaded onto vessels.
For e-commerce businesses relying on efficient logistics solutions like Daguer Logistics, understanding VGM requirements, calculation methods, and the consequences of non-compliance is essential. This article explores what Verified Gross Mass is, the regulations surrounding it, how to calculate it, methods of verification, and how logistics partners like Daguer Logistics can help businesses effectively manage Gross Mass.
VGM refers to the total weight of a packed shipping container, including:
· The cargo itself
· Dunnage and bracing materials
· The tare weight of the container
Under SOLAS regulations, shippers must provide the VGM to ocean carriers and port terminals before loading. Without this verification, containers will not be allowed onboard, ensuring cargo safety and preventing vessel imbalance, cargo loss, or damage.
· As of July 1, 2016, shippers must provide the VGM for all vessel-bound consignments before shipment.
· Failing to submit VGM can result in regulatory fines, penalties, and shipment rejection.
· The shipper named on the Bill of Lading is responsible for ensuring the VGM is provided accurately.
· VGM must be documented separately and is not included in the Bill of Lading.
Each country enforces the VGM regulation under SOLAS. In the United States, the U.S. Coast Guard is responsible for ensuring compliance.
· Full Container Load (FCL): Shippers must declare the total weight of the packed container.
· Less than Container Load (LCL): Shippers must declare the weight of their cargo, including pallets, dunnage, and securing materials.
VGM is calculated using the following components:
· Cargo weight: The total weight of the goods inside the container.
· Dunnage and securing materials: Any additional items used to stabilize cargo.
· Tare weight of the container: The container’s empty weight, typically listed on the door of the container.
VGM must be included in a shipping document submitted before vessel loading.
There are two approved methods for obtaining VGM:
· The entire packed container is placed on a calibrated weighbridge to determine the total weight.
· This method ensures the most accurate weight calculation.
· Each cargo item, dunnage, and securing material is weighed separately.
· These weights are then added to the tare weight of the empty container (as listed on the container’s door).
· This method is unsuitable for bulk commodities like grain, scrap metal, or other materials that are difficult to weigh individually.
· Local authorities determine whether this method is permitted.
Failure to comply with VGM regulations can lead to serious consequences:
Containers without a declared VGM may be denied loading onto a vessel.
Regulatory fines may be imposed for inaccurate or missing VGM information.
Failure to provide VGM could lead to vessel departure delays or even shipment cancellations.
Many ports follow a “No VGM – No Gate In” policy, which means additional charges for storing containers that fail to comply with VGM regulations.
Incorrect weight declarations can result in improper stacking, leading to potential cargo collapse or overboard losses.
Every VGM declaration must contain the following information:
· Booking or Bill of Lading Number
· Container Number
· VGM + Unit (kg or lbs)
· Responsible Party’s Full Name
· Legible Signature
· Place and Date of Signature
Despite best efforts, some variables may cause minor discrepancies in VGM calculations:
· Container Tare Weight Variations: Due to wear and tear, a container’s actual weight may deviate slightly from the weight listed on its door.
· Environmental Conditions: Evaporation, humidity, and minor material shifts can cause small weight fluctuations.
· Allowable Tolerance: Some countries permit a 2-5% margin of error in VGM reporting.
However, these variations do not exempt shippers from using accurate weighing equipment that meets jurisdictional standards.
A VGM Declaration Form must be signed and submitted before vessel loading. This document must confirm that the weight has been accurately determined according to SOLAS regulations (Article VI 2.4.2). Key components of a VGM declaration form include:
1. Declared VGM
2. VGM Weighing Method Used
3. VGM Reference Number
4. Authorized Signatory Name and Signature
Managing VGM compliance can be complex, but logistics partners like Daguer Logistics simplify the process by:
Daguer Logistics stays updated with global shipping regulations to prevent fines and shipment delays.
Access to certified weighbridges and container weighing services.
Digital submission of VGM reports, reducing manual errors and ensuring timely submission.
Advising on FCL vs. LCL shipment strategies to improve cost efficiency.
Monitoring container movement to ensure compliance with SOLAS regulations.
Verified Gross Mass is a critical requirement in global shipping, ensuring cargo safety and regulatory compliance. By understanding VGM regulations, proper weighing methods, and the consequences of non-compliance, businesses can prevent costly delays and penalties.
Daguer Logistics simplifies VGM management through expert compliance support, weighing solutions, and seamless documentation processes, making it the ideal logistics partner for e-commerce businesses looking to optimize their supply chain.
Yes, any container loaded onto an ocean vessel must have a declared VGM under SOLAS regulations.
Your shipment may be rejected at the port, incurring additional fees or shipment delays.
You can weigh the packed container (Method 1) or weigh individual items and add the container’s tare weight (Method 2).
The shipper named on the Bill of Lading is responsible for declaring VGM.
Yes, Daguer Logistics provides end-to-end shipping solutions, including VGM compliance and certified weighing services.
