VGM
Transportation & Travel abbreviation · Maritime
| Stands for | Verified gross mass |
|---|---|
| Categories | Transportation & Travel |
VGM stands for Verified gross mass, a maritime abbreviation also used in business.
Confirmed total weight of a packed shipping container, which the shipper must provide to the carrier before the container can be loaded onto a ship. The requirement took effect under SOLAS on July 1, 2016.
Example: The terminal won't load the box until the shipper submits the VGM.
Usage notes
The rule followed accidents caused by misdeclared container weights, including the 2007 loss of MSC Napoli. Shippers can weigh the packed container or weigh the contents and add the container's tare weight. Incorrect weights affect ship stability and stowage plans.
Related abbreviations
More maritime abbreviations
- AB – Able Seaman
- AIS – Automatic Identification System
- ARPA – Automatic radar plotting aid
- B/L – Bill of lading
- COG – Course over ground
- COLREGS – International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea
- CPA – Closest point of approach
- DR – Dead reckoning
- DSC – Digital selective calling
- DWT – Deadweight tonnage
- ECDIS – Electronic Chart Display and Information System
- EPIRB – Emergency position-indicating radio beacon