VGM Declaration
A verified gross mass declaration required for all packed containers shipped by sea.
What It Is
A Verified Gross Mass (VGM) declaration certifies the total weight of a packed shipping container, including the cargo, packing materials, and the container tare weight. It was mandated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) under the SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) Convention, effective July 2016.
There are two methods for determining VGM:
- Method 1 — Weigh the packed container on a certified scale
- Method 2 — Weigh all contents individually and add the container tare weight
When It's Required
Mandatory for every packed container loaded onto a SOLAS-regulated vessel. Without a valid VGM, the container will be refused for loading.
- All sea freight — Every packed container must have a VGM
- Shipper responsibility — The shipper is legally responsible for providing the VGM
- Deadline — Must be submitted before the carrier's cut-off time
Required Fields
| Field | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Shipper | Party responsible for the VGM declaration |
| Container number | ISO container identification number |
| Container tare weight | Empty weight of the container (kg) |
| VGM (verified gross mass) | Total verified weight (kg) |
| Weighing method | Method 1 (whole container) or Method 2 (sum of parts) |
| Weighing date | Date the weighing was performed |
| Weighing location | Facility where weighing took place |
| Authorized signatory | Name and title of the person certifying the VGM |
| Seal number | Container seal identification |
| Booking / B/L reference | Link to the transport booking |
Klervex Validation
Klervex validates that:
- Container number follows ISO 6346 format
- VGM exceeds the container tare weight (cargo cannot be negative)
- Weighing method is declared (Method 1 or Method 2)
- Authorized signatory details are present
- Transport mode is sea (VGM only applies to ocean freight)