What is VGM (Verified Gross Mass)?

Verified gross mass (VGM) is the total gross mass of a packed container which includes the cargo weight, block & bracing materials and container tare. The VGM must be provided by the shipper for the vessel and terminal operators to arrange for safe vessel/terminal stowage plans.

Key takeaways:

The shipper is obliged to verify the gross mass of the containers carrying their cargo by either of two permissible weighing methods before these containers can be loaded on a vessel.

As of July 2016, shippers of vessel-bound consignments must provide a VGM prior to shipment.

Container weight verification has now become a global requirement.

SOLAS（Convention on the Safety of Life at Sea） requires the shipper to provide VGM in a “shipping document,” either as part of the shipping instruction or in a separate communication, before vessel loading.

Two acceptable methods to calculate VGM:

Using a calibrated scale, you can either 1) weigh your shipment’s enter sealed container after it has been packed, or you can 2) weigh all the cargo and contents of the container and then add those figures to your container’s tare weight. You can usually fine the tare weight on the door of the container. If not, visit the steamship line website or contact them by phone.

Please note that the second method is typically not practical for bulk commodity shipments.

The difference between gross weight and Verified gross mass (VGM):

Verified gross mass is the combined weight of an ocean shipment's cargo, dunnage and bracing (material used to keep cargo in position in a ship's hold), plus the tare weight of the container.

The gross weight is the total weight of the goods carried, including all packaging but excluding the tare weight of the transport unit.

Tare weight , sometimes called unladen weight, is the weight of an empty vehicle or container.