IMO Ends ‘Light Touch’ on Container Weight Verification

File photo: REUTERS/Aly Song

By Mike Wackett

(The Loadstar) – Tomorrow the IMO’s three-month so-called “light touch” enforcement of the SOLAS revision that all packed containers must have a certified VGM (verified gross mass) before loading on board a ship comes to an end.

Industry fears of supply chain chaos on 1 July, when the new VGM regulations came into force, were largely overcome; by education and a pragmatic approach by all stakeholders.

Indeed, according to data from the World Shipping Council, the VGM compliance reported by its member container lines is as high as 95%.

Nevertheless, with the ending of the grace period, the TT Club, which did a sterling job on the education front line pre-VGM, is adding a note of caution.

It said “much still needs to be done to achieve accurate VGM certification and universal enforcement of the rules”.

The Loadstar is fast becoming known at the highest levels of logistics and supply chain management as one of the best sources of influential analysis and commentary.

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