How to Deal With Vgm Requirements in International Shipping?

Verified Gross Mass (VGM) is a new regulation for international shipping and is crucial to ensuring the safety and efficiency of cargo transportation. As a professional international fulfillment service provider, Chinadivision is well aware of the importance of VGM and its far-reaching impact on business. This article will deeply analyze the hot topics and advantages of VGM and provide a set of feasible solutions for b2b companies and e-commerce sellers.

What is VGM (Verified Gross Mass)?

VGM, the full name of which is Verified Gross Mass, is "verified gross container weight". It refers to the total weight of a container full of goods, including the total weight of goods, packaging materials, reinforcement materials, pallets, padding and other filling and fastening materials, plus the tare weight of the container loaded with goods.

This regulation has been in effect since July 1, 2016, aiming to improve maritime safety and reduce accidents caused by inaccurate container weight declaration. Its core requirement is that the shipper must declare the accurate gross weight of the container (cargo + box) before loading to ensure balanced loading and safe navigation.

Why does international shipping need VGM?

Improve maritime safety

Accurate verification of container weight helps stabilize the loading of ships and prevent safety hazards caused by weight errors, thereby improving the overall safety of maritime transportation.

Reduce accident risks

Avoid false container weight information leading to unbalanced loading, which in turn leads to serious accidents such as capsizing, cargo damage and casualties.

Optimize loading efficiency

Accurate VGM information helps ports and shipping companies optimize loading plans and improve the space utilization of ships.

Comply with regulatory requirements

Since 2016, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has made VGM a mandatory requirement, and all container cargo must provide VGM information before loading.

What are the consequences of not complying with VGM regulations?

Refusal to load: If the shipper fails to provide accurate VGM information, the relevant container will not be shipped. Delays in cargo lead to customer claims and even order cancellations (losses double during the peak season of e-commerce).

Legal penalties: Violation of VGM regulations may result in legal action and fines, depending on the regulations of each country. Some countries (such as the United States) impose high fines for intentional underreporting (up to $10,000/time).

Safety risks: Inaccurate VGM information may increase the safety risk of ship transportation and pose a potential threat to personnel and the environment.

How to obtain and calculate Verified Gross Mass?

Method 1: Overall weighing method

After the cargo is packed and the container door is sealed, the shipper can weigh the container as a whole by himself or entrust a third party (such as a terminal or weighbridge measurement unit) using equipment approved by the measurement supervision department.

Formula: (Total weight of the trailer loaded with containers) – (weight of the trailer head, frame and gasoline/diesel in the tank) = VGM weight.

Method 2: Cumulative calculation method

Calculate the weight of the cargo, the weight of the packaging (pallets, padding and other filling and fastening materials), and add these weights to the tare weight of the container.

Formula: (weight of cargo) + (weight of packaging material) + (tare weight of container) = VGM weight.

For high-value or fragile cargo, the overall weighing method is preferred; Access to the global certified weighing network through a cooperative fulfillment service provider (such as Chinadivision) can reduce costs by 30%, and support online real-time access to VGM reports.

How to declare VGM and when is the deadline?

The VGM declaration process usually includes the following steps:

Prepare the declaration data: including detailed information on the gross weight of the cargo, the weight of the packaging and the tare weight of the container.

Submit to the shipping company or freight forwarder: VGM data must be submitted to the relevant parties through an electronic platform or paper documents.

Comply with the deadline: VGM declaration usually needs to be completed before the booking deadline, otherwise it may cause cargo delays or cancellation of transportation plans.

The shipper must provide the carrier and/or port terminal operator with the container verified weight (VGM) before the bill of lading deadline, otherwise the loaded container will not be loaded. The specific deadline may vary depending on the port and shipping company, but it is generally recommended to complete the declaration at least 24 hours before the container is loaded.

Is there a charge for VGM verification?

The charges for VGM verification vary by region and service provider. Some ports and shipping companies may charge a certain verification fee, while professional fulfillment agent service providers such as Chinadivision usually provide comprehensive logistics services including VGM verification to help customers reduce costs.

What is the difference between gross weight and VGM?

Gross Weight: Usually refers to the total weight of the goods, including the weight of the goods themselves and their packaging.

VGM: The verified gross weight of the container, including the weight of the goods, packaging, pallets, padding and other filling and securing materials, plus the tare weight of the container.

Therefore, VGM reflects the gross weight of the container more comprehensively and accurately than gross weight.

Chinadivision's Solution

As a professional international logistics and fulfillment service provider, Chinadivision provides comprehensive solutions to help you deal with VGM-related issues:

1. Global warehousing network: We have multiple warehouses around the world to ensure that goods can be delivered to customers quickly and safely.

2. Advanced WMS system: Our warehouse management system provides real-time inventory monitoring, automated operations and data analysis to help you optimize your logistics processes.

3. Customized service: Provide customized logistics solutions according to your business needs, including cost optimization and transportation arrangements.
4. Professional support: Our team provides professional logistics support to ensure the smooth operation of your business.

Common Problems and Solutions

What if the VGM declaration is inaccurate?

Communicate with the carrier or port operator immediately to re-verify the weight and submit the correct VGM information.

How to ensure the accuracy of VGM declaration?

Use certified weighing equipment and ensure that all relevant personnel understand the importance of VGM and the declaration process. At the same time, it is recommended to cooperate with a professional fulfillment agent service provider to use its rich experience and resources to ensure the accuracy and compliance of VGM information.

When is the deadline for VGM declaration?

Shippers must provide VGM information before the deadline of the bill of lading. It is recommended to confirm the specific time with the carrier or port operator in advance.

Verified Gross Mass (VGM), as a new regulation for international shipping, has brought new challenges to the logistics business of b2b companies and e-commerce sellers. However, by choosing a professional fulfillment agent such as Chinadivision, we can provide you with a full range of logistics solutions to help you easily cope with the challenges brought by VGM regulations. No matter what logistics problems you face, we will wholeheartedly provide you with professional and efficient services. Feel free to contact us at any time to open a new chapter in international logistics together!