What is VGM (Verified Gross Mass) and why is it important for maritime transport
In the modern world of maritime logistics, the accuracy of data about transported goods is absolutely crucial for safety, efficiency and legal compliance throughout the supply chain. One of the most important concepts that has become an integral part of every shipment is VGM – Verified Gross Mass, i.e. the verified gross weight of the container. In the following comprehensive glossary article you will find everything you need to know about VGM: from the definition through technical weighing details and legislation to common mistakes, fines and practical tips.
Basic definition – What is VGM?
Verified Gross Mass (VGM) is the exact total weight of a shipping container prepared for loading onto a ship. This data includes:
| VGM Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Cargo weight | All items of goods transported inside the container |
| Packaging materials | Boxes, film, padding, bags, wooden reinforcements, pallets, straps and other securing material |
| Tare (empty weight) | The weight of the empty container itself, stated on the doors on the so-called CSC label |
VGM is not an estimate! It is a precisely determined value that must be verified, recorded and reported to the carrier and the port terminal. If VGM is missing, the container will not be loaded (“No VGM, No Load”).
History and legislation: Why VGM was created and what does the law require?
Background and reason for creation
VGM was introduced as part of the global SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) convention, which is administered by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The obligation to report VGM came into force worldwide on 1 July 2016.
Historical reasons:
- Before 2016, containers were often weighed by estimate only.
- Incorrect weights led to ship capsizing, collapse of container stacks and loss of goods at sea.
- Thousands of containers fall into the sea every year – often due to incorrect weight and improper stowage.
Legal framework
- SOLAS, Chapter VI, Rule 2: The shipper is obliged to ensure and declare in writing the verified gross weight of each container.
- Without valid VGM, the container must not be loaded onto a ship intended for international voyage.
- Legislative requirements apply to all ships and containers, regardless of the type of goods transported.
- Penalties for violation may include fines, delays, or even loss of trust from carriers.
Why is VGM so crucial for safety and efficiency?
Safety
- Vessel stability: Proper placement of containers is based on accurate weight data. Incorrectly stated weight can cause ship capsizing or collapse of container stacks.
- Protection of crew and port workers: Overloaded or improperly loaded containers pose an injury risk.
- Loss prevention: Loss of containers at sea reduces ecological and economic risks.
Efficiency and smooth operations
- Faster clearance: With accurate VGM, it is possible to quickly plan loading and utilize ship capacity without delay.
- Reduction of administrative errors and oversights: Clear and verified data ensures that the container will not be unnecessarily detained or transshipped.
Methodology and technology for determining VGM
Overview of methods
| Method | Description | Use in practice |
|---|---|---|
| Method 1: Weighing fully loaded container | After loading and sealing, the container is weighed on a calibrated scale (bridge scale, terminal scale). | Most common, most accurate |
| Method 2: Calculation by sum of weights | The weights of all individual items, packages, pallets, padding and the container tare are added together. | For palletized goods, less for bulk cargo |
Detailed description of methods
Method 1 – Weighing packed container
- Calibrated equipment is used – often a bridge scale, which is regularly verified.
- The weight of the tractor and trailer must be deducted.
- The advantage is simplicity, the disadvantage is the need for access to a certified scale.
Method 2 – Calculation method
- Suitable for warehouse operations with accurate weight records.
- Each item, packaging, pallet or securing system must be weighed on a certified scale.
- The shipper is obliged to provide the methodology and records during inspection.
Specifics for certain types of shipments
- For bulk cargo (e.g. grain, sand, scrap) only Method 1 is permitted.
- For LCL shipments (multiple shippers in one container), the consolidator is responsible for VGM.
Modern technology and trends
- Automated weighing gates in some terminals (e.g. Hamburg, Rotterdam).
- Online systems for VGM entry and management (EDI, web portals of Maersk, MSC, Hapag-Lloyd).
- Sensor weighing during crane handling – only in some ports.
Declaration process and responsibility
Who is responsible for VGM?
- Primary responsibility: The shipper, i.e. the entity listed on the bill of lading.
- The shipper may authorize a third party (carrier, warehouse), but legal responsibility always rests with the shipper.
- The shipping company and port terminal must not load the container without valid VGM.
- Each terminal sets a so-called “VGM cut-off” – the latest possible deadline for reporting.
How is VGM declared?
- Most often electronically (EDI, email, carrier web portals).
- VGM must always be stated in the transport document or special declaration.
- Required information:
- Booking number or B/L
- Container number
- VGM value and unit (e.g. 24,500 kg)
- Identification of responsible person
- Date, place and signature (for electronic version, name in capital letters)
Practical aspects and common mistakes
Most common mistakes in determining and declaring VGM
- Forgetting to include packaging, pallets, padding, dunnage.
- Confusion of tare (empty weight) of the container – using the wrong value from another container.
- Estimation instead of precise weighing – NOT PERMITTED!
- Failure to record the exact date/method of weighing.
- Errors in unit conversion (kg/lb).
- Late reporting – missing the cut-off deadline.
Weighing tolerance
- In some countries and ports, a tolerance is permitted (usually 2–5% or 500 kg).
- Tolerance serves to cover minor deviations caused by moisture, container wear, etc.
- However, it does not relieve the obligation to use certified scales!
Penalties and consequences of non-compliance with VGM
| Type of violation | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Missing/late VGM | Container will not be admitted to terminal or loaded (“No VGM, No Load”) |
| Incorrect weight | Container may be rejected, reweighed (for a fee), or rebooked on another ship |
| Repeated errors | Fines from government authorities (in the Czech Republic and abroad), loss of carrier trust, increased inspection |
| Serious violation | In case of accident, legal liability and high penalties, in extreme cases ban on transport |
- Charges for storage, reweighing and rebooking are always borne by the shipper.
- Some terminals allow reweighing of the container on site for a fee.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about VGM
Must I provide evidence of how VGM was determined?
Yes, during inspection you must provide the methodology, type of scale, weighing slip and weighing record (at least for the duration of transport).
Who is responsible for VGM in an LCL shipment?
The consolidator (the company that collects shipments and fills the container), not the individual shippers.
Can I use estimated weight?
No, only precise weighing on calibrated equipment.
What does tare weight mean and where do I find it?
Tare is the empty weight of the container, it is always stated on the container doors on the CSC label.
What are the fines in the Czech Republic/EU?
Fines range from tens to hundreds of thousands of CZK/EUR depending on the severity and repetition of the violation.
Practical tips and recommendations
- Always verify that the scale is calibrated and approved.
- Keep weighing slips and records for at least the duration of transport.
- Monitor cut-off deadlines – late VGM means delay of the entire shipment.
- Use modern online systems – you minimize communication errors.
- For complex shipments (e.g. oversized, hazardous goods), consult with the carrier on the exact methodology.
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