As we have reported in previous communications, Transglory reminds you that, the new regulation under the Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS) adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) takes legal effect next July 1, 2016. This new regulation requires shippers to provide the Verified Gross Mass (VGM) for every packed container as a condition for vessel loading.

As of today, Spain has not enacted a national law adopting this new international requirement. However, it is expected that soon the Administration will approve a resolution to enforce and interpret uniformly the new regulation in Spain.

It should be emphasized that the shipper is responsible for obtaining and for the verification of the packed container´s weight through any of the methods prescribed by the regulation and to notify this to the shipping company. In addition, the shipper is obliged to ensure that the verified gross mass is written in the shipping documents, and also to communicate this information to the shipping company and the terminal in advance.

The container can be weighed before or after entering the terminal but always with enough time to be included in the vessel stow planning. We inform you that Transglory makes available to its customers, shippers and/or suppliers the possibility of weighing the containers at the entrance of the terminal. This method will allow fulfilling SOLAS´ Convention with the guarantees that are required.

Notwithstanding the above, and taking into account that any regulatory change supposes an adaptation in the practice of all the parties involved, we kindly request you to have your cargoes and documentation prepared well in advance to join forces and avoid as much as possible, mishaps and problems that may occur while we all adapt to this new measure necessary for the maritime transport sector.

If you should seek for assistance, please contact us.

Kind regards,

Transglory S.A.