Damco, one of the world’s leading third party logistics providers, launched two Verified Gross Mass (VGM) services to support the implementation of the new SOLAS regulations. As of 1 July 2016, this new law requires every shipper of a full export container to notify the carrier about the VGM before it can be loaded on board.
The two services cover both the physical weighing process and a filing service, which includes the management of submitting the VGM to the carrier. Both services are available globally in the territories that Damco serves.
“Since the new rules were first published we have been working closely with our customers to develop solutions that will not only comply with the regulations but also integrate readily into existing supply chains”, Simone Kraal, Damco’s Global Ocean Operations Manager, explains.
She continues: “Though simple in concept, full SOLAS compliance is potentially complex with different allowable methods of weighing and varying requirements as to when VGM has to be submitted to the carriers. In addition, in some countries local regulations go beyond the bare bones of the new law. We’re therefore happy that the solutions launched today can be tuned to each customer’s specific requirements and diverse logistics landscapes.”
Damco specialises in delivering customised freight forwarding and supply chain solutions. The company provides services in 300+ locations across 100+ countries and employs 11,000+ people. In 2015, Damco had a net turnover of USD 2.74 billion, managed 2.9 million TEU of ocean freight and supply chain management volumes, and air-freighted 180,000 tonnes. Damco is part of the Maersk Group.
