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Reviewed and updated by ICD - Week 24/2026
VGM (Verified Gross Mass) is the verified total weight of a packed container, including cargo, dunnage and the empty container’s tare. Under the SOLAS safety convention (effective 1 July 2016), the shipper must declare the VGM to the carrier before the container is loaded - no VGM, no loading.
Why the VGM rule exists
Misdeclared container weights have caused accidents: collapsed stacks, listing vessels, crane failures and unsafe handling. SOLAS requires VGM so carriers stow containers in the right position by true weight, ensuring vessel stability and port safety. VGM is the legal responsibility of the shipper named on the bill of lading.
Two methods to determine VGM
| Method | How it works | Best when |
|---|---|---|
| Method 1 | Weigh the whole packed container on a certified scale | A weighbridge is available, container already packed |
| Method 2 | Sum each package + dunnage + container tare | Each package weight and the container tare are known |
VGM formula
VGM is essentially the verified gross weight of the whole container: VGM = cargo weight + dunnage + container tare. The container tare is printed on the door (e.g. a 20-foot ~2,300 kg). So you must know the net cargo weight, packaging, dunnage and container tare to declare VGM accurately.
Process and deadline
The shipper determines VGM (Method 1 or 2) and sends it to the carrier before the VGM cut-off (usually earlier than the cargo cut-off). The carrier uses VGM to build the stowage plan. Late or wrong declaration can cause the container to roll to a later vessel or require costly re-weighing.
VGM, gross and tare
Accurate VGM relies on weighing and recording each pallet/package precisely. ICD supplies pallets, bins and packaging to control package weight when stuffing a container - the basis for a fast, accurate Method-2 VGM.
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Frequently asked questions
What is VGM?
The verified total weight of a packed container (cargo + dunnage + container), which must be declared to the carrier before loading under SOLAS.
Why is VGM required?
So carriers stow containers correctly by true weight for vessel stability and port safety; misdeclared weights have caused stack collapses and listing.
How many ways to determine VGM?
Two: weigh the whole packed container on a certified scale (Method 1), or sum each package + dunnage + container tare (Method 2).
What is the VGM formula?
VGM = cargo weight + dunnage + container tare. The container tare is printed on the door (e.g. a 20-foot ~2,300 kg).
Who is responsible for VGM?
The shipper named on the bill of lading is legally responsible for providing accurate VGM to the carrier before the cut-off.
What if VGM is declared late?
The container may roll to a later vessel (not loaded) or require re-weighing at the port, adding cost and delay.
Contact ICD Vietnam
ICD Vietnam Industrial Manufacturing Co., Ltd - pallets, plastic crates, stretch film, forklifts and packaging solutions.
Hotline: 0983 797 186 / 090 345 9186
Email: sales@icdvietnam.com.vn | Zalo: Chat on Zalo
