SOLAS Container Weighing Regulations - Authorities Signal End To "Light Touch" Approach

Good afternoon All

If you recall we posted a few articles here on our blog and on LinkedIn ahead of the new SOLAS (Safety Of Life At Sea) container weighing regulations which came into effect on 1-Jul-16.

Our article on SOLAS from July

During the first 3 months the shipping lines and port operators signalled that they would adopt a light touch approach to the new laws so that exporters (and all in the supply chain) had a chance to adjust their procedures so that international trade was not disrupted.

A reasonable stance by the IMO (International Maritime Organisation) who brought about the new SOLAS regulations however we're now a few days away from a firm approach on compliance, so that means no VGM (Verified Gross Mass) declaration, and the container will be rejected. Of course some ports around the world (eg DP World at Southampton, UK) are providing weighing facilities at the port which helps immensely, but for those that don't this change to 100% compliance may see some disruption for those exporters/forwarders who haven't taken SOLAS seriously.

Lloyds Loading List Article

Time for you to check whether you, if you're an exporter are compliant, and the same applies if you're an importer - is your supplier compliant? If not, you may see delays if containers are rejected.

Kind Regards



Andy Cliff

Andy Cliff is an industry professional who launched Straightforward Consultancy Ltd (SCL) after a 30 year career in international logistics, having worked for leading logistics providers including DB Schenker, Kuehne & Nagel and DHL Global Forwarding in operational, sales and management roles. He has a unique understanding of this area and uses his knowledge and networks to dramatically improve landed cost, service and Customs compliance.

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Andy felt that, in an increasingly complex and confusing world of logistics, UK importers and exporters needed a company alongside them which could help them to reduce costs, lessen their workload and provide expert advice and support each day.