Frequently asked questions
Everything you really need to know about our services
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- VGM weighing terms
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Our weighing equipment complies with regulation BEK nr 544 af 28/05/2018.
- VGM for standard ISO containers
- Please note that weighing and VGM certificates are for standard ISO containers only.
- How are containers weighed at CMP terminal (the process)?
- Containers arrive at CMP as normal. After gate-in the container gets off loaded and stored. During this procedure we weigh it and verify its VGM against data in the system. All weighing data is sent to our CMP-VGM service website where VGM weight certificates can be bought for clients who need their VGM or need to update their VGM data in the system.
- Does VGM need to be signed and stamped by a weighing point to be acceptable?
- There is no requirement under SOLAS that a weight ticket or similar must be provided. What SOLAS requires is that the shipper communicates the verified gross mass in a shipping document that can be part of the shipping instructions or be a separate communication. In either case, the document should clearly highlight that the gross mass provided is the verified gross mass, and the document must be signed by a person duly authorized by the shipper (the signature may be an electronic signature or may be replaced by the name in capitals of the person authorized to sign it).
- The requirement is for accurate gross mass; is there a margin of error defined for this 'accuracy'?
- The SOLAS regulations provide that verified gross mass shall be obtained under both Method 1 and 2 by using weighing equipment that meets the applicable accuracy standards and requirements in the country in which the equipment is being used. Those national standards and requirements will determine the acceptable level of accuracy of the weighing equipment used. There is no provision in SOLAS for any margin of error; this is a physical weighing requirement, not a system of estimation. Gross mass derived using compliant equipment and procedures will meet the legal requirements.
- Do I have to confirm my selected weighing method based on my specific type of cargo?
- No, it is not necessary. You are free to decide the weighing method on your own. However, there is a guideline from SOLAS that types of cargo items that do not easily lend themselves to individual weighing of the items prior to packing in a container should be reported following Method 1. The key is to select a weighing method that can provide an accurate gross weight of the container.
- Does cargo have to be re-weighed if there is a change of vessel?
- No, VGM is only required at the time of original load. If the shipment is being transferred to another vessel, initial VGM will be used at the transshipment port (this process will be managed between carriers).