VGM (Verified Gross Mass)

 


VGM (Verified Gross Mass) – Easy Guide for Beginners

VGM means Verified Gross Mass.
It is the total weight of the container after loading the goods inside.
This rule comes from SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) to avoid accidents in ships and ports.

If VGM is not submitted, the shipping line will NOT load the container on the vessel.

⭐ What is VGM? 

VGM = Total weight of Goods + Packaging + Pallets/Dunnage + Container Tare Weight

Example:

  • Goods weight: 18,000 KG

  • Container tare: 3,850 KG

  • VGM = 21,850 KG

It is simply the final weight of the container.

⭐ Why is VGM important?

VGM is required because it helps:

✔ Prevent accidents in ships
✔ Avoid container falling or breaking
✔ Safe lifting by cranes
✔ Correct ship planning
✔ Follow international rules
✔ Avoid penalties and delays

⭐ Who has to submit VGM?

VGM must be submitted by the Shipper (Exporter).

Usually, this is done by:

  • Exporter

  • CHA (Custom House Agent)

  • Freight Forwarder

  • CFS/Port weighing service

But final responsibility is always on Exporter.

⭐ Two Ways to Calculate VGM

Method 1 – Weigh the loaded container

Take the container to a certified weighbridge.

This method is best for factory-stuffed containers.

Method 2 – Add weight of each item + container

Weigh all:

  • Products

  • Cartons

  • Pallets

  • Dunnage

Then add container tare weight.

Best for CFS stuffing or LCL shipments.

⭐ How to submit VGM?

VGM can be submitted through:

✔ Shipping Line Portal

Example: Maersk, MSC, Hapag, CMA, OOCL, etc.

✔ Through CHA or Forwarder

They enter details on your behalf.

✔ CFS (Container Freight Station)

They weigh the container and send VGM online.

Submit VGM before VGM cut-off time.

⭐ Information needed for VGM submission

  • Booking number

  • Container number

  • Seal number

  • Cargo weight

  • Container tare weight

  • Total VGM

  • Method used (1 or 2)

  • Shipper name

  • Person responsible (signature/name)

⭐ What is VGM Cut-Off?

Shipping line gives a deadline to submit VGM.
If you miss this deadline → container will not go on vessel.

Always confirm:
✔ SI Cut-off
✔ VGM Cut-off
✔ CY Cut-off

⭐ Common Mistakes in VGM


❌ Guessing or estimating weight
❌ Using wrong tare weight
❌ VGM not matching Shipping Instructions
❌ Missing or wrong container number
❌ Late submission


⭐ Simple Example of VGM Format

Shipper: ABC Exports Pvt Ltd
Booking No: ABC12345
Container No: MSKU9876543
Seal No: ABC45678

Cargo Weight: 18,500 KG
Tare Weight: 3,850 KG
Total VGM: 22,350 KG
Method Used: Method 1

Submitted By: Himmat Singh
Date: 21-11-2025



⭐ Conclusion

VGM is a small but very important export requirement.
If you give the correct weight on time, your container will load smoothly without any delay or penalty.
Always double-check the tare weight, cargo weight, and container number.




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