The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has made important amendments to the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) convention (SOLAS Chapter VI). Effective from July 1st 2016, SOLAS requires mandatory verification of the gross weight of container/containers prior to stowage aboard the vessel. This new regulation prohibits the loading of a packed container/containers on board a vessel unless the verified gross mass (VGM) information has been declared in advance to the ocean carrier. These new requirements have been implemented by the IMO, and the consequences of misdeclaration of the weight could have an adverse impact on the safety of the ship, crew and shore-side equipment and workforce.

Pursuant to the regulation, the VGM information has to be provided by the Shipper named on the Bill of Lading. As of 1st July 2016, it is vital to ensure that the VGM information is processed in an accurate and timely manner, and is submitted to the relevant parties involved in the handling of the containers (e.g. Carriers, Marine Terminals, Vessel Operators). Claridon will assist you in this process by submitting the information to the carriers in a timely manner and monitoring the processing of the VGM in order to avoid any delays.

At the time of Booking Confirmation, your local Claridon Office will advise you when VGM information has to be submitted to Claridon. In order to facilitate the submission of the VGM information, Claridon has created 2 templates – one for FCL (Full Container Load) and one for LCL (Less than Container Load) cargo. The templates will capture all relevant information. Once completed, the templates can be sent to your local Claridon Office via email or fax.