The document discusses new SOLAS regulations requiring a verified gross mass (VGM) of containers before shipment, effective July 1, 2016. It outlines various roles in the shipping and logistics operations, including freight forwarders and carriers, and describes methods for determining the VGM. Additionally, it highlights the roles of organizations like the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the UN in overseeing maritime safety.

1. New SOLAS Regulations
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www.mt.com/veh-solas}
Role: Freight forwarder, consolidator,
book space on VOCC
Role: Rent or operate terminals
Role: Container transfer
Role: Manage shipping, logistics operations
Role: Ship and/or carrier
NVOCC = Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier
VGM Required or else container can be refused!
Port = Physical dock facility
Terminal = Loading / unloading operation
3PL = 3rd
Party Planning Logistics
VOCC = Vessel Operating Common carrier
Logistics Chain
Certified VGM required before containers can be shipped beginning July 1, 2016.
Method1
Method2
Manufacturer
Bench Scale
Cargo Scale
Floor Scale
Forklift Scale
Truck Scale
Method 2: Weigh
cargo & pack, add
container tare weight,
and sum the total
shipment
Method 1: Weigh
entire container
and the contents
Container Weighing Process
– Owned by Shipper
Enforcement
– Maritime Organization
Certication & Calibration
– Local Weights & Measures
Organization (e.g. NTEP, OIML)
NVOCC or 3PL
Container (stuffer)
Port
Terminal
VOCC
Final Destination
170 Countries
Shipping Line VOCC
(Trans-Ship)
UN: United Nations
Role: Member organizations
observe the proceedings of the IMO
IMO: International
Maritime Organization
Role: UN’s agency for
maritime safety
SOLAS: Safety of Life at Sea
Convention
Role: International maritime
safety treaty
SOLAS
VGM = Verified Gross Mass (weight)
Equipment
for Certified VGM
Governing Bodies