What is VGM (Verified Gross Mass) in Export?

VGM (Verified Gross Mass) is the total weight of a packed shipping container, including the cargo, dunnage (packing materials), and the tare weight of the container itself. It is required under the SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) Convention to ensure safe vessel loading and prevent accidents due to misdeclared container weights.

Use of VGM in Export

Ensures Safety: Prevents vessel instability, container stack collapses, and crane accidents due to overweight containers.
Regulatory Compliance: Mandatory as per the IMO SOLAS regulations; without VGM, a container cannot be loaded onto a vessel.
Accurate Stowage Planning: Helps in proper ship balance and efficient loading/unloading.
Prevents Delays & Fines: Incorrect or missing VGM can lead to rejected containers, shipment delays, and penalties.

Methods to Determine VGM

There are two approved methods:

Weighing the Packed Container (Method 1)
- The shipper weighs the fully packed container using a certified weighbridge or scale.
Weighing Cargo & Adding Tare Weight (Method 2)
- The shipper weighs each item inside the container (including packaging) and adds the tare weight of the container (found on its door).

How to Submit VGM?

The shipper submits the VGM to the shipping line before the cutoff time via:
- Online portals (carrier website, port systems)
- Email to the shipping line
- EDI (Electronic Data Interchange)
- Manual submission (paper form, fax)

VGM Non-Compliance Consequences

Container not loaded onto the vessel.
Fines and penalties imposed by authorities or carriers.
Supply chain disruptions due to re-weighing and administrative delays.

Online VGM (Verified Gross Mass) Submission Process for Export

Many shipping lines and ports provide online platforms for submitting Verified Gross Mass (VGM) to ensure compliance with SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) regulations. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to submit a VGM online.

Step-by-Step Online VGM Submission Process

Step 1: Log in to the Shipping Line or Port VGM Portal

Visit the official website of the shipping line (e.g., Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd) or the local port authority’s VGM submission portal.
Log in using your registered account credentials. If you don’t have an account, register with your shipper/exporter details.

Step 2: Locate the VGM Submission Section

Navigate to "VGM Submission", "Weighing & VGM", or "Cargo Weight Declaration".
Select the relevant shipment/container(s) by entering your Booking Number or Bill of Lading (BL) Number.

Step 3: Enter VGM Details

Provide the following information:
✅ Booking/BL Number
✅ Container Number(s)
✅ VGM Weight (in kilograms or metric tons)
✅ Weighing Method Used:

Method 1: Weighing the full container.
Method 2: Weighing cargo + packaging + tare weight of the container.
✅ Authorized Person’s Name & Contact Details

Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents (If Required)

Some shipping lines may request a VGM Weighing Certificate from an approved weighbridge.
Upload the scanned certificate if required.

Step 5: Confirm Payment of Charges (If Applicable)

Some carriers charge a VGM submission or late fee if not provided before the deadline.
Ensure that any applicable fees are settled.

Step 6: Submit VGM Declaration

Review all entered details and click "Submit" or "Confirm".
You should receive a VGM submission confirmation email with a reference number.

Step 7: Notify the Shipping Line & Retain Proof

Forward the VGM confirmation to the shipping line if not automatically shared.
Keep a copy of the VGM receipt as proof for future reference.

Important Notes:

✅ VGM Cutoff Time: Each shipping line has a deadline before which VGM must be submitted (usually 24–48 hours before vessel departure). Late submission may result in additional charges or cargo not being loaded.
✅ Mandatory Compliance: Without a valid VGM, the container will not be loaded onto the vessel.
✅ Use Certified Weighing Methods: Ensure that the weight is recorded using a certified weighbridge or weighing system.
✅ Port-Specific Portals: Some major ports (e.g., DP World, PSA, or APM Terminals) have their own online VGM portals separate from the shipping lines.