Every company exporting in containers must complete one mandatory step before the box can be loaded on board: the VGM declaration. VGM, or verified gross mass, is the confirmed total weight of a packed container, meaning the cargo, packaging, pallets, securing materials and the tare weight of the container itself. Since 2016, under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), no packed container may be loaded onto a vessel without a declared VGM. The rule was introduced because misdeclared weights had repeatedly compromised vessel stability and caused stack collapses. In this article, Özd Global explains how VGM verified gross mass is calculated, who is responsible, how the submission process works and which mistakes to avoid.
What Is VGM and Why Is It Mandatory?
VGM became compulsory under SOLAS Chapter VI, Regulation 2. The purpose is to let the master and terminal planners build a safe stowage and stability plan based on the true weight of every container. Large discrepancies between declared and actual weights can cause container stacks to collapse, vessels to list, crane capacities to be exceeded and overloaded trucks to crash on the road.
VGM is not a paperwork formality; it is a cornerstone of cargo safety. Containers without a declared VGM are held at the terminal and excluded from loading, which leads to extra port charges, demurrage and missed sailings.
How Is VGM Calculated? Two Methods
SOLAS defines two approved methods for determining verified gross mass:
Method 1: Weighing the Packed Container
The loaded and sealed container is weighed on a calibrated, certified weighbridge. The truck and chassis can be weighed and their tare deducted. This method gives the most accurate result and most terminals offer a weighing service.
Method 2: Calculation by Summation
Every item placed in the container (product, packaging, pallets, dunnage, lashing material) is weighed separately, the weights are totalled, and the tare weight shown on the container door is added. This method suits shippers with a quality management system and calibrated weighing equipment; in some countries it requires approval from the competent authority.
| Criterion | Method 1 (Weighing) | Method 2 (Calculation) |
|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | Very high | High (with correct tare and scales) |
| Ease of use | Requires weighbridge access | Can be done at your own premises |
| Suitable cargo | All types | Palletised, standard-packed cargo |
| Bulk and liquid cargo | Suitable | Generally not suitable |
Tip: The container's tare weight is printed on the CSC plate on the door. Always use the plate value in Method 2; estimated tare weights are one of the most common sources of error.
Who Is Responsible for the VGM Declaration?
Under SOLAS, the party obliged to declare VGM is the shipper named on the bill of lading. The shipper may delegate the task to a forwarder or customs broker, but legal responsibility remains with the shipper. The declaration includes the shipper's name, the signature of an authorised person (a typed name is sufficient electronically), the VGM value and the method used.
The VGM Submission Process Step by Step
- Booking: The carrier states the VGM cut-off in the booking confirmation. It usually falls a few hours to a day before the terminal cut-off.
- Loading and weighing: Once the container is packed, the weight is determined by Method 1 or 2.
- Electronic submission: VGM is transmitted through the carrier's portal, EDI, the port community system or via the forwarder. Most Turkish port operators accept declarations through their own digital platforms.
- Confirmation: The carrier or terminal records the VGM and the container is placed on the load list.
- Check weighing: The terminal may carry out random or systematic check weighing at the gate; if the tolerance is exceeded, the container is held.
Common VGM Mistakes
- Estimating the tare weight instead of reading it from the CSC plate.
- Leaving pallets, dunnage and lashing materials out of the calculation.
- Missing the VGM cut-off and having the container rolled.
- Using uncalibrated scales under Method 2.
- Assigning weights to the wrong container in multi-container shipments.
- Exceeding the container's maximum gross weight (Max Gross).
Most of these errors can be prevented with a simple pre-loading checklist. The Özd Global operations team applies a VGM check to every export container as a standard procedure.
VGM and Road Weight Limits
The VGM value matters not only for the vessel but also for the truck carrying the container to the port. Türkiye enforces maximum gross vehicle weight limits on the road; if the container's VGM pushes the truck over the limit, it cannot depart or faces penalties. Our road freight team takes both the carrier's and the road authority's weight limits into account when planning containers. If cargo is stuffed at our warehousing and distribution centre, weighing and VGM calculation can be completed at the same facility.
Integrating VGM with Customs Clearance
The VGM value should be consistent with the gross weight on the export declaration. Large discrepancies can raise questions during customs checks. Because Özd Global offers customs clearance and sea freight under one roof, the declaration, VGM and bill of lading data are prepared in alignment with one another.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if VGM is not declared?
The container is not loaded and is held at the terminal. This results in a missed sailing, additional port storage, demurrage and late delivery to your customer. Some ports may also impose administrative fines.
Is there a tolerance on VGM?
It varies by country, but many administrations allow a tolerance of around 5 percent or a fixed kilogram value. In Türkiye the applicable practice is set by the port and the current regulations of the relevant authority; rely on accurate weighing rather than on tolerance.
Does the VGM declaration cost anything?
Terminal weighbridge services and some carriers' VGM processing fees may apply; amounts vary by port and line. Calculating under Method 2 at your own premises eliminates the weighbridge fee.
Understanding VGM verified gross mass is fundamental to maritime safety and trouble-free exports. From its operations centre in Gebze, Özd Global manages container stuffing, weighing, VGM declaration and customs clearance as one integrated process. For VGM and loading planning on your export containers, reach us through our contact page or call +90 551 462 41 34.
