In ocean freight transportation, the accuracy of the Verified Gross Mass (VGM) is critical. VGM refers to the confirmed total weight of a container and its cargo, a requirement under international regulations to ensure safe vessel loading and stability. But what level of discrepancy is considered acceptable?
Industry standards generally tolerate a margin of error within one metric ton. While minor deviations may not immediately raise concerns, significant inaccuracies can prevent cargo from being loaded onto the vessel. Once the shipment is aboard, however, the immediate risks diminish.
Discrepancies between the bill of lading (B/L) weight and the actual weight may cause complications during customs inspections at the destination port. The severity of these issues often depends on the consignee's clearance capabilities. Parties with strong customs relationships and expertise can typically navigate such discrepancies more effectively.
Modifications to the bill of lading are generally permissible, with shippers able to request amendments through the shipping line. Changes made before the vessel's arrival will incur standard amendment fees. However, adjustments requested within two days of arrival or later may trigger additional penalties. This is because shipping lines typically submit manifest data to destination customs 48 hours prior to arrival, and altering declared information at this stage requires special handling.
To minimize operational disruptions and avoid unnecessary costs, maritime shipping professionals should prioritize VGM accuracy from the outset. Understanding the amendment process and associated fees enables better contingency planning when discrepancies occur.