According to reports we are receiving from our industry associations, shipping lines and stevedores, the ongoing transition to the new SOLAS regulations on declaring correct weight for shipping containers is proceeding smoothly.
There are a couple of areas found to be in need of clarification:
Accuracy Standards of Approved Weighing Devices.
Some questions have arisen as to whether the weighing devices being used to obtain the VGM are approved and certified. The approved weighing device for obtaining the VGM must be calibrated and certified to the manufacturers’ standard – AMSA has issued the guidelines on their website: http://www.amsa.gov.au/vessels/ship-safety/cargoes-and-dangerous-goods/
Using Flowmeters to obtain the VGM
For our clients shipping liquids, please note that flowmeters are not an approved method for obtaining the VGM of liquid containers and may not be used for this purpose.
Containers loaded on a RO/RO vessel
Containers loaded on a vehicle (trailer) with wheels, which is loaded on a Roll-On/Roll-Off (RO/RO) vessel do not require a VGM. However containers loaded (loose) on a RO/RO vessel, NOT on a vehicle with wheels, must have the VGM submitted.
As always, we are here to answer any questions you may have about the VGM rules.
