Imagine a massive cargo ship preparing to depart, but with unreliable information about the weight of its containers—a scenario equivalent to planting a "ticking time bomb" for maritime safety. The International Maritime Organization's (IMO) Verified Gross Mass (VGM) regulation was designed to eliminate this risk. However, this safety measure has presented significant challenges for global ports and supply chains during implementation. This article examines how port operators in the UK and US are responding to these new requirements.
UK Ports: Proactive Adaptation Turns Challenge into Opportunity
The VGM regulation requires all containers to have their verified total weight confirmed before loading, with this data promptly shared with carriers and destination ports. This ensures accurate stowage plans for vessel safety.
In the UK, major port operators DP World and Hutchison Ports have taken proactive steps to assist shippers with compliance. DP World's London Gateway and Southampton facilities now offer immediate weighing services upon container arrival, generating VGM data for stowage planning.
"We recognized the industry-wide challenge in providing verified container weights," said Gennady Reshetnikov, DP World's regional CEO for Europe and Russia. "Without alternative solutions, this could have created serious logistical obstacles for UK exports."
Similarly, Hutchison Ports' Felixstowe facility implemented weighing services to prevent potential supply chain disruptions. "There was widespread uncertainty about the new requirements," noted Chief Operations Officer Stephen Abraham. "Our service ensures export containers can be weighed before loading."
This proactive approach demonstrates how UK ports transformed regulatory compliance into value-added services, enhancing both safety and competitive advantage.
US Ports: Cautious Implementation Prioritizes Efficiency
In contrast to their UK counterparts, US ports adopted a more measured response to the VGM mandate. Fitch Ratings observed significant uncertainty across many American ports, which lacked dedicated weighing infrastructure and verification systems.
"This could exacerbate existing port congestion issues," Fitch analysts noted. "The initial implementation period may see worsened bottlenecks as supply chain participants adapt to the new requirements."
Some terminals, like Maher Terminals at the Port of New York/New Jersey, now require electronic documentation before container entry. However, many operators, including global giant APM Terminals, have resisted becoming weighing service providers.
"Our primary concern is maintaining terminal efficiency," explained Jack Craig, APM Terminals' Vice President of Operations. "We need VGM data at gate entry to properly position containers in the yard. While gate weighing is possible, we must avoid creating bottlenecks."
APM Terminals focused instead on system upgrades to handle VGM data exchanges, reflecting the US industry's preference for technological solutions over additional physical processes.
Lessons Learned: Balancing Safety and Productivity
The divergent approaches between UK and US ports offer valuable insights for global maritime operators. While safety remains paramount—the fundamental purpose of the VGM regulation—port efficiency cannot be sacrificed.
Ports with weighing capabilities can create competitive advantages through value-added services. Others must prioritize seamless data integration and process optimization to maintain throughput. Industry collaboration—through shared data platforms and shipper education—will be crucial for smooth implementation worldwide.
The VGM mandate represents both challenge and opportunity. Ports that successfully adapt to these new requirements while enhancing operational efficiency will strengthen their positions in the global shipping industry and better serve international trade.