Mandatory verification of the gross mass of packed containers from 1st July 2016 1.      Introduction   From 1st July 2016, verification of the gross mass of packed containers ("VGM") is mandatory following amendment of regulation VI/2 of SOLAS:   http://www.worldshipping.org/industry-issues/safety/SOLAS_CHAPTER_VI_Regulation_2_Paragraphs_4-6.pdf     2.      Applicability of the SOLAS amendment   The SOLAS amendment does not apply to ro-ro ships on short international voyages (defined under SOLAS regulation III/2) upon which containers are carried on a chassis or trailer and are loaded and unloaded by being driven on and off the ship.     3.      Requirements of the SOLAS amendment   The VGM must be obtained at the initial port of loading. The shipper must provide the VGM in a shipping document signed by an authorised person to (a) the master and (b) the terminal representative. The precise form of communication should be agreed between the parties. The VGM must be submitted in time for preparation of the ship stowage plan.  It may be transmitted (and therefore signed) electronically. The provision of the VGM is a pre-condition for loading a packed container on to a ship.     4.      Carrier's obligations   The carrier must notify the deadline for providing the VGM. The carrier must ensure that the terminal has received the VGM. The carrier must ensure that local offices/agents, masters, officers and crew are aware that: (a)    the VGM must be used when preparing the ship stowage plan; and (b)    if the VGM has not been provided, then the container must not be loaded. If a container is received without a VGM, the master should ask for instructions from owners/ship managers without delay.     5.      Commercial issues   If a container is pre