Home / Logistics Knowledge / Verified Gross Mass (VGM) and Container Weight Limits
Since 2016 every packed container needs a verified gross mass before it can be loaded. Here is what VGM is and how to declare it correctly.
Verified Gross Mass is the total weight of the packed container: cargo plus tare (the empty box). Under SOLAS, the carrier cannot load a container without a VGM, because unknown weights risk stack collapse and accidents at sea and in terminals.
The shipper named on the booking is responsible for the VGM and submits it to the carrier before the deadline, often through the forwarder. A wrong VGM makes the shipper liable.
The VGM must reach the carrier before the container cut-off. A container without a valid VGM is simply not loaded and rolls to the next sailing, delaying the shipment.
Even with a correct VGM, the cargo must respect the container payload plate, road axle limits on the truck, and stack-weight limits in the stack. A box within volume can still be overweight.
The carrier cannot load the container, so it is rolled to a later sailing and your shipment is delayed.
Method 1 is more accurate when you have a certified scale at the stuffing site. Method 2 works when you weigh components and add the tare.
No. VGM is cargo plus tare (total weight); payload is the maximum cargo the container may carry.
The shipper named on the booking is responsible and liable for an incorrect or missing VGM.
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