As of July 1, 2016 the International Maritime Organization (IMO) amendments to the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention requires the shipper of a packed container to provide the container's verified gross mass (VGM) prior to stowage aboard ship. In accordance with the ruling if a VGM is not provided, cargo cannot be loaded. In order to be compliant, ACL must adhere to a strict NO VGM = NO LOAD POLICY!

ACL is fully prepared to assist our customers in meeting the new SOLAS Container Weight Verification. We have been working closely with our terminals to ensure our operational readiness, and will be implementing internal procedures and system enhancements to handle your verified gross mass (VGM) data submission timely and accurately.

-WEB ACCESS: Via our website, ACLCARGO.COM for Customer VGM submission, ACL will add capabilities to our existing customer portal, "MY ACL", http://www.aclcargo.com/myacl.php (registration required). There is no charge for this service.

-EDI: will be able to send and receive VGM data with the VERMAS message as well as other messages already in place. This would include Terminal operators as well as customers.

-PORTAL ACCESS: The various portals such as INTTRA, DAKOSY, GT NEXUS are taking different approaches. ACL will receive VGM information via formatted e-mail when transmitted by customers through their portal providers.

- VGM DATA VIA EMAIL: ACL will manually enter the VGM data into the shipment record. ACL requires that the shipper's submission include the ACL shipment number, the container number, the VGM, a verification statement (disclaimer follows) and the authorized person's name in capital letters or an e-signature. Precise details can vary depending on location and additional details may be required, please see local office bulletins for more information. Direct E-mail to specific ACL VGM e-mail addresses created per ACL Booking Office (see addresses below).

ACL E-mail addresses for submission of VGM data:

Please refer to the below WSC links which provides more detailed background and information.

We will keep you informed of further updates including VGM documentation requirements and communication.Please contact your local ACL office for further information