VGM for Ocean Freight: Verified Gross Mass and Shipper Responsibilities

Ocean freight · VGM preparation · Reviewed October 17, 2026 · 4 minute read

Export container on a weighbridge at a Chinese port for gross mass verification — Illustrative AI-generated image.

Verified Gross Mass (VGM) is the verified total gross mass of a packed export container. It is a vessel-planning and safety requirement under SOLAS. It is not the same as the estimated cargo weight on an early quote. The shipper should coordinate the measurement method, responsible party and filing deadline with the carrier or forwarder for each booking.

What the verified mass includes

VGM represents the container’s gross mass after packing, including cargo, packaging, pallets, dunnage and the container tare mass. A draft packing list or product net weight alone does not establish VGM. Confirm the tare information from the container and use the final packed data.

Confirm the approved method

SOLAS guidance describes two methods: weighing the packed container using calibrated and certified equipment, or calculating the mass by weighing all packages and cargo items plus pallets, dunnage and other securing material, then adding the container tare mass. Local and carrier procedures determine acceptable implementation. Ask the responsible shipper and forwarder which method and evidence apply at origin.

Submit VGM before the cutoff

The verified mass must be available to the terminal and vessel planner sufficiently in advance of stowage. The operational cutoff is booking- and terminal-specific; obtain it from the carrier’s shipping instructions. A late or missing VGM may prevent a container from being loaded on the planned vessel and can create rollover or extra handling risk.

Keep booking data consistent

Check the container number, booking reference, weight unit, method and submitting party. Reconcile any late packing changes, added pallets or cargo substitutions with the party filing the VGM. Do not estimate or alter a figure to meet a deadline; arrange a valid weighing or calculation process.

Plan the export data handoff

Share the final packed cargo profile and target vessel with the supplier and forwarder through the [ANELGO inquiry form](../index.html#quote). Confirm the party responsible for VGM submission, proof and cutoff in the booking instructions.

Related guides

Official references

Note: This guide provides general logistics planning information. It is not legal, customs, tax, safety or carrier acceptance advice. Requirements, services and schedules depend on the actual goods, route, contract, provider and current rules. Verify shipment-specific questions with the responsible carrier, customs broker or authority before dispatch.

For a route-specific logistics review, provide the product, origin, destination, packed dimensions, weight and ready date.

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