Maersk has provided more information specific to the preparation and procedures when submitting a VGM to Maersk Line 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. Thus, 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 Maersk Line. 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. As such, Maersk Line 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 through data transmission channels established. VGM for Cargo Accepted at the Terminal via On-Dock Rail At this time, Maersk Line is 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, Maersk Line 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 Maersk Line 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, they recommend checking the tare weight printed on the outside of your container. If unsure, you may reference their standard container weights available on their website by clicking here for dry containers and here for reefer containers. Submitting a VGM to Maersk Line: As mentioned previously, should shippers still wish to submit the VGM to Maersk Line 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 Maersk Line.
  • Via their website www.maerskline.com and login through their My Maersk Line portal. There are two ways to submit your VGM via their website:
    • Via the Shipping Instructions submission
    • Via Shipment Binder
  • They have also provided a step-by-step guide found 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.
* Customers who prefer using INTTRA for submission of a VGM can do so before July 1st, 2016, without requesting authorization from Maersk Line. Fees associated with this service are a decision from the digital service provider and not by Maersk Line. ** Maersk Line does not accept VGM submissions via Fax.