VERIFIED GROSS MASS: What Is It And What Do I Need To Do As A Shipper?

VERIFIED GROSS MASS: What Is It And What Do I Need To Do As A Shipper?

SOLAS – Verified Gross Mass. 

It’s the hot topic in the ocean transport world. Many companies are talking about it but has your company created a plan on how you will be compliant with the rules?? If not, we are here to help.

As a shipper on any export (LCL or Full Containers), you are required to send the ocean carrier a verified gross mass of your cargo weight, pallet/dunnage/packing weight, and the tare weight of the ocean container itself when you are shipping in a full container.

There are two accepted ways to weigh your cargo listed below.

Method 1:
After the container is loaded. The container can be weighed at a scale or weighbridge to confirm the total VGM.

Method 2:
All packages and cargo items may be weighed individually (including the mass of pallets, dunnage and other packing and securing material) and must be added to the tare of the container visible on the exterior of the container.

Once the shipper has confirmed the VGM, LR International will have the shipper complete a short one page mandatory document declaring the VGM. Click here for VGM form.

LR International will handle all communication with the ocean carrier directly so the shipper does not need to speak with anyone but LRI!! We have been in communication with all steamship lines and are prepared to handle any type of ocean export for you. Although we expect some service disruption and cargo delays in the industry we are here to help your company be VGM compliant.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your LRI representative.