Imagine your cargo is ready for its overseas journey, only to face delays or even rejection at loading due to a critical oversight. This scenario could result in significant business losses, all stemming from one crucial requirement: the Verified Gross Mass (VGM) declaration. This article provides a comprehensive guide to submitting VGM accurately through the Maersk platform, ensuring smooth shipment of your goods.
Understanding Verified Gross Mass (VGM)
Verified Gross Mass (VGM) represents the total weight of a container, including both its cargo and the container's tare weight. Under amendments to the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention, all export containers must provide VGM information before loading. This regulation aims to ensure proper vessel stowage and prevent maritime accidents caused by overweight containers or improper weight distribution.
Why VGM Compliance Matters
Failure to properly declare VGM may lead to:
- Shipping delays: Ports may refuse to load containers without VGM declarations
- Additional costs: Ports or shipping lines may weigh non-compliant containers and charge associated fees
- Legal consequences: Misdeclared weights may result in legal liability
Submitting VGM Through the Maersk Platform
Maersk offers a streamlined online system for VGM submission. Follow these steps:
- Log in to your Maersk account: Visit the official Maersk website and select "Account" in the top-right corner, then choose "Login"
- Access the VGM submission page: After logging in, navigate to the "Manage" tab in the top menu and select "VGM Submission"
- Locate your shipment: Find the relevant cargo using the bill of lading number, booking reference, or container number
- Update VGM details: Click "Submit VGM" next to the appropriate shipment, then select "Update VGM" for each container
- Enter VGM information: Input the accurate container weight and select the weighing method used
- Complete submission: Verify all information and click "Submit" to receive confirmation
Authorized VGM Submitters
The following parties may submit VGM information:
- Booking party representatives involved in the reservation process
- Price management personnel
- Registered shippers or consignors (with priority typically given to customs declarants)
- Bill of lading consignees
- Export freight forwarders
Approved VGM Weighing Methods
SOLAS recognizes two methods for determining VGM:
- Method 1: Weighing the fully loaded and sealed container using calibrated, certified equipment
- Method 2: Calculating the sum of all cargo and packing materials plus the container's tare weight
Key Considerations
- Adhere to the carrier's VGM submission deadline to prevent loading delays
- Ensure absolute accuracy in VGM declarations to avoid legal repercussions
- When using Method 1, verify that weighing equipment is properly calibrated and certified
- Maintain VGM documentation for potential verification
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I miss the VGM deadline?
Immediate contact with Maersk customer service is recommended to explore alternative loading arrangements.
How to correct an erroneous VGM submission?
Promptly notify Maersk to amend the information. For containers already loaded, offloading and restowage may be necessary.
Are there VGM submission fees?
While Maersk typically doesn't charge for VGM submissions, additional weighing or correction services may incur fees.