Container weighing
VGM VERIFIED GROSS MASS – INFORMATION
Verified Gross Mass (VGM) – maritime safety of life requirements defined in the SOLAS Convention
Dear Sir or Madam,
in order to improve the security in the supply chain, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) amended the Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) reminding that all Exporters must comply with the requirements for verifying the weight of goods in the container (VGM) as of July 1, 2016.
Main principle
What is it?
VGM is the total gross mass of the container, which includes the weight of the load, fastening materials and the weight (tare) of the container itself. The SOLAS Convention offers two methods of obtaining VGM as certified and approved by an authorized national authority:
Method No. 1 – Weighing
Weighing a loaded container using properly calibrated and certified equipment/scale.
Method No. 2 – Calculation
Total mass = mass of individual contents of the container + packaging (pallets, protective materials) + container tare
Note: this method cannot be used for scrap metal and other bulk cargoes.
Who is responsible?
The exporter/shipper may authorize the Dalton company to weigh a filled container and submit the VGM on his behalf.
When?
VGM declarations must be delivered during Dalton’s business hours.
How?
In case of any doubt, please contact our Customer Service or Sales Department.