Industry coalition provides guidance for new container rules

An industry association coalition has released a document designed to support the smooth implementation of the container weighing regulations.

The amendments to International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) require packed shipping containers to have a verified gross mass (VGM) before they can be loaded on a ship for export.

The World Shipping Council (WSC), the TT Club, the International Cargo Handling Coordination Association (ICHCA), and the Global Shippers’ Forum (GSF) jointly explained that said the new FAQs are based on questions from affected stakeholders regarding proper implementation of the new regulations.

The group answers questions regarding the degree of accuracy required for the weight recording, which party responsibility lies with, and how to ensure shippers meet the new requirements.

The full FAQ document can be accessed here:

www.worldshipping.org