To avoid unnecessary fines, make sure you are ready for the new rules on shipping container weighing.
As of July 1, 2016, all loaded containers are required to have a Verified Gross Mass (VGM) declared by Shippers, if VGM is not provided in advance it will be denied loading. Containers will be check weighed upon arrival at port to confirm the accuracy of a VGM declaration issued by a Shipper; ocean carriers will allow a 5% weight variance. If the VGM declaration is outside the 5% threshold, the ocean carrier will impose charges.
To assist Shippers with VGM declarations CRM Logistics will charge £5 per B/L for the declaration of accurate weights (container weighed by Shipper). For those unable to issue a verified weight declaration we will weigh containers at port for £25. In both cases we will handle the necessary paperwork, and this will avoid potential delays with weight variance and cargo loading.
The VGM consists of the total gross cargo weight; dunnage and container tare weight and applies to packed containers tendered to the ocean carrier
SOLAS amendment provides two methods for the Shipper to calculate the VGM
Method 1: Obtain VGM by weighing the packed container and subtracting the road vehicle where applicable (chassis/trailer/cab)
Method 2: Obtain VGM by weighing the individual shipments and adding dunnage and the container tare weight.
At CRM Logistics we are in contact with all our shipping lines and will advise and assist our customers to ensure all containers are compliant with these new rules. Contact us today for further information, we will discuss your requirements with you during the booking process to ensure your shipment progresses as smoothly as possible.
