Verified Gross Mass (VGM) Compliance
Verified Gross Mass (VGM) Compliance is an important rule in international shipping that requires shippers to precisely declare the total weight of a packed container before loading goods aboard a vessel. This rule, developed by the International marine Organization (IMO) under the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) agreement, seeks to promote marine safety by minimizing accidents caused by incorrectly stated or overweight containers. Accurate weight verification provides proper vessel stability, safe cargo handling, and adherence to legal requirements during maritime freight operations.
To comply with VGM rules, shippers must weigh the container using certified procedures and report the verified weight to the carrier and terminal operators before loading. Failure to comply may result in shipping delays, fines, or refusal to load the container. CargoWise and other logistics management systems use VGM compliance workflows to expedite paperwork, communication, and verification processes, assisting freight forwarders and shippers in avoiding penalties. Ensuring VGM compliance improves supply chain reliability and encourages safer maritime transportation.
