Effective today, July 1st 2016, the amendment of the Safety of Life at Sea conventions (SOLAS) adopted by the International Maritime Union in 2014, regarding mandatory container weight verification comes in force.
From July 1st 2016 Shippers will be required to provide the Verified Gross Mass of each shipment. The timely and accurate provision of the VGM is solely Shipper’s responsibility and must always be in accordance with local government guidelines.
VGM is determined by using the following methods:
Method 1
Weighing the packed container once all cargo has been loaded & sealed into the container.
Method 2
By weighing the cargo, including packaging and dunnage, and adding the container tare as mentioned on the container door.
Accurate procedure in Greek ports is yet to be finalized and we are closely monitoring all developments in order to be able to assist our clients.