Dear Valued Customers,

International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted amendments to the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention, Chapter VI Regulation 2 – Cargo information regarding a mandatory container gross weight verification, together with associated guidelines published as MSC.1/Circ. 1475.

Effective 1st July 2016, all packed containers are required to have a verified gross weight declared by shippers. Starting 1st July 2016, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) will enforce globally the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention requirements regarding the verification of the gross weight of packed containers.

What does it mean to provide a Verified Gross Weight (VGW)?
The VGW is the certified Gross Cargo weight (including weight of all packing material) plus Container Tare weight.

Who is responsible to provide the VGW?
The Shipper is responsible to provide the VGW.

What is the date of implementation?
1st of July 2016.

When is VGW required?
VGW is required prior to shipment. Cargo will not be loaded onto a vessel unless a certified VGW is provided.

Why is VGW needed?
This is a Global IMO SOLAS mandatory regulatory requirement. VGW is used for vessel planning and safe stowage.

What happens if VGW cannot be provided?
Cargo will not be loaded.

It is of importance to note that all carriers represented by MarSea Services NV will be complying with the SOLAS requirements.

You may also wish to refer to the below links which provides more detailed background and information.

WSC IMO Requirement for Container Weight Verification

WSC Guidelines for Implementing SOLAS Container Weight Verification Requirement

We will keep you informed of further updates including VGW documentation requirements and communication.
Thank you for your continued support.

Nayivi, Wilfred and Tom,

MarSea Services NV