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June 28, 2016
Dear Safmarine Partner,
As a follow up to our previous communications, we’d like to provide you more information specific to the preparation and procedures when submitting a VGM to Safamrine in the United States. As already announced, effective July 1st, 2016, every packed export container is required to have a VGM as a condition of loading aboard a vessel. All containers loading on/after the July 1st implementation date are subject to this change.
VGM for Cargo Accepted via Terminal Gate:
Shippers currently exporting from marine terminals in the United States can provide a VGM to Safmarine. However, based on the U.S. Coast Guard’s declared equivalency, confirming that the existing terminal weighing practice for on-dock scales in the United States is compliant with SOLAS regulation, all U.S. marine terminals can now arrive at a VGM using terminal scales. We will accept the current terminal weighing practice to arrive at a VGM as a condition for loading, where the terminal will provide the VGM to the carrier if the shipper has not already submitted a VGM to Safmarine. Terminal fees may apply if using this method.
VGM for Cargo Accepted at the Terminal via On-Dock Rail:
At this time, we are working within the OCEMA regulatory counsel and stakeholders across the industry regarding the Intermodal Safe Container Transportation Act (ISCTA) as it relates to VGM. Once talks have concluded, we will communicate further details on VGM guidelines for export on-dock rail in the United States.
Calculating a VGM:
Should shippers still wish to submit the VGM to Safmarine prior to terminal gate-in, you may use one of following methods to reach the VGM:
Method 1 - Weighing the fully loaded container after it has been packed.
Method 2 - Weighing the contents of the container, including cargo and any packing materials, and then adding that to the tare weight of the container printed on its outside. If using Method 2, we recommend checking the tare weight printed on the outside of your container. If unsure, you may reference our standard containers weights available on our website by clicking here.
Submitting a VGM to Safmarine:
As mentioned previously, should shippers still wish to submit the VGM to Safmarine prior to gate-in, the preferred methods for submission would be as follows:
- Via EDI message for customers sending booking or shipping instructions via EDI solutions with Safmarine.
- Via login through our My.Safmarine portal. There are two ways to submit your VGM via our website:
1. Via the Shipping Instructions submission
2. Via Shipment Binder
NOTE: Click here for a step-by-step guide on how to submit your VGM on our website.
- Via a service portals such as INTTRA*, GT Nexus, and CargoSmart.
- Manual methods of submission** are also acceptable but not encouraged - the preferred methods are the established digital channels to avoid documentation errors and delays in handover of information.
As always, we thank you for your support and will continue to keep you informed about this topic in the coming days as we get closer to the July 1st date.
Thank you,
Safmarine Communications
* Customers who prefer using INTTRA for submission of a VGM can do so before July 1st, 2016, without requesting authorization from Safmarine. Fees associated with this service are a decision from the digital service provider and not by Safmarine.
** Safmarine does not accept VGM submissions via Fax.
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