VGM explained: Verified Gross Mass under SOLAS
Since 1 July 2016, a packed container can't be loaded onto a ship unless the carrier and terminal have its Verified Gross Mass (VGM). Overweight and misdeclared boxes cause stack collapses, lost containers and dangerous road loads. The rule is SOLAS chapter VI, regulation 2.
What is VGM?
VGM is the total gross mass of a packed container: the cargo + packaging + pallets + dunnage and securing materials + the container's tare. It must be obtained by one of the two approved methods. An estimate is never enough.
Who is responsible?
The shipper is responsible. That's the party named as shipper on the bill of lading or sea waybill (or the party that contracted with the carrier). You can let a packer, forwarder or terminal do the weighing, but the responsibility stays with you. The VGM must be signed by a person authorised by the shipper. An electronic signature or name is fine.
Method 1 vs Method 2
Method 1: weigh the packed container
Weigh the packed and sealed container on calibrated, certified equipment, such as a weighbridge or load-cell crane or reach stacker. In the UK, Method 1 users don't need MCA approval, but the equipment must meet UK accuracy and calibration standards.
Method 2: add it all up
Weigh all the packages and cargo items, add the packing, pallets, dunnage and lashing, then add the container tare marked on the door (from the CSC plate). In the UK, Method 2 needs MCA approval. Routes include an ISO 9001 or ISO 28000 quality system or AEO (S or F) with documented weighing procedures, an auditable ERP system such as SAP, or another MCA-approved audit scheme.
UK rules and tolerance
- The MCA enforces VGM in the UK through MGN 534 (M+F).
- The enforcement tolerance is ±5% or ±500 kg, whichever is greater. It's there for inspectors so the supply chain isn't disrupted. It's not an allowance for shippers, who must still be accurate.
- The MCA publishes a list of companies approved for Method 2. Method 2 users must keep records and show them to the MCA if asked.
- Never exceed the maximum gross mass on the container's CSC plate, or the road weight limits on the way to the port.
Deadlines and cut-offs
SOLAS just says "in time to be used in the stowage plan". In practice, each carrier sets a VGM cut-off, usually 24 to 48 hours before the vessel arrives and often at or before the terminal's container cut-off. Check the booking confirmation. Missing the VGM cut-off is treated the same as missing the cargo cut-off.
How to submit it
- Through the carrier's online portal or booking platform.
- Through INTTRA (e2open), CargoSmart or another portal, or by EDI (the VERMAS message) if you're set up for it.
- Through your forwarder, who submits it with the shipping instructions.
- At the terminal: some UK terminals offer a weighing service at the gate and send the VGM for you, for a fee.
What if it's missing or wrong?
- No VGM, no load. The container is held back and "rolled" to a later vessel.
- That brings extra costs, such as storage, re-handling, terminal weighing fees, demurrage or detention, and possibly missed delivery dates and letter of credit deadlines.
- A wrong VGM found at the terminal or by an inspector can mean re-weighing, unpacking, fines and liability for any damage it causes.
Flat racks and out-of-gauge cargo
- VGM applies to flat racks and platforms carrying cargo as well as dry boxes.
- Tare is high: a 40ft flat rack weighs about 5.8 to 6.25 tonnes and a 20ft about 2.7 to 3.1 tonnes (see the container guide). Always use the tare marked on the actual unit.
- Include all the securing: chains, wire, webbing, timber bearers, chocks and steel cradles can add hundreds of kilograms.
- Method 1 can be awkward for overwidth cargo, because not every weighbridge can take it. Many project shippers use Method 2, built on the cargo's weighing certificate or lifting-test weights.
- Check the flat rack's load spread chart. A heavy concentrated load can be acceptable on VGM but still over the deck's point load limit.
VGM Method 2 calculator
Enter your weights above.
Typical tare and max gross figures come from our container guide and are only a starting point. Use the figures on your container's CSC plate. In the UK, Method 2 needs MCA approval, and this calculator doesn't replace your approved procedure or a weighbridge ticket.
Sources
- IMO, Verification of the gross mass of packed containers: SOLAS VI/2 and MSC.1/Circ.1475 guidelines, in force since 1 July 2016 (accessed October 2026).
- Maritime and Coastguard Agency, MGN 534 (M+F): UK implementation, routes to Method 2 approval, and the ±5% enforcement threshold.
- GOV.UK (MCA), Verification of the gross mass of packed containers by sea: the ±5% or ±500 kg tolerance, and Method 2 approval.
- GOV.UK (MCA), Method 2 MCA-approved organisations: list of approved organisations, and confirmation that Method 1 users don't need approval numbers.
Guidance only. This is not legal advice. Check your carrier's VGM cut-off and submission rules for every booking.