Here is a quick rundown of SOLAS VGM, with four key things that you must know about the rule.
- What is the Shipping Container VGM (verified gross mass)?
There has always been a requirement under Safety Of Life At Sea (SOLAS) to declare the gross mass of a packed container. SOLAS changed this rule in July 2016 to require that a shipper must actively verify the gross container weight. This is done by getting the verified gross mass or the "VGM", which is an accurate measurement of the gross mass of the packed container.
- Why do I need to get the VGM as a Cargo Container Shipper?
The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) put this rule in place because misdeclared and overweight containers are extremely dangerous and cause a number of accidents every year. The overall aim of the rule is to increase safety and protect people, equipment and cargo, so it's very important for us all to abide by it.
Under the requirement, cargo containers must have a VGM before being loaded onto a ship for export. This is so the vessel and terminal operators can put together an appropriate loading and stowage plan before loading containers onto ships. By getting the container's VGM, you are playing an essential role in the safe stowage of containers.
- How do I get the Container VGM in my Production/Distribution Facilities?
There are two methods permitted by SOLAS for you to get the VGM.
Method 1: Weigh the shipping container. After the container is packed and sealed, you can weigh the container using certified and calibrated equipment e.g. a weighbridge (also known as a track scale), scales on container handlers or portable container scales.
or
Method 2: Calculate the weight. You can weigh all of the cargo and packing materials using approved equipment before or during loading, with the combined weight of the contents and the tare weight of the container to produce a VGM.
If you are opting in for the 1st Method, Bison offers a very easy-to-use and cost effective C-Jacks Portable Shipping Container Scales. They are used globally and trusted in over 60 countries. Check some of Bison customer stories & testimonials by NASA, Hexion, IKEA, Kheune & Nagel, US Army or Cook Islands Port Authority.
