SOLAS and VGM regulations

SOLAS (International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea) and VGM (Verified Gross Mass) – Let our global teams of experts help you ensure that all information is provided before any containers reach the carrier’s port terminal.

As a result of a number of major accidents being linked to inaccurate weight declarations of the shipping container, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in collaboration with industry representatives have adopted specific rules as part of the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention to ensure reliable weights of containers are provided.

Under these rules, the shipper has to provide the ocean carrier with the Verified Gross Mass (VGM) of the container, including cargo weight, weight of all loading equipment and materials, dunnage and the tare (weight of the container). These requirements will impact the communication, infrastructure and processes of all participants in the supply chain. Our global teams of experts are on hand to guide you through the regulations and ensure that all information is provided before any containers reach the carrier’s port terminal.