Belgium randomly checks the VGM of containers
In order to increase safety on board ships, since 2016 only containers whose VGM (verified gross mass) has been determined using one of two approved methods and notified to the shipping company may be loaded. As announced in mid-March 2021, Belgian authorities are now randomly checking the weight of containers at four terminals in the port of Antwerp. Import, export and transhipment containers are affected. The selected containers are weighed with a calibrated scale at the terminal in the presence of an inspector and compared with the B/L data. The shipper is charged €175 for each check; if there are discrepancies of more than 5% between declared and actual weight, penalties of up to €5,000 may be imposed.
Important Information Regarding the New EU Regulation on Packaging and Packaging Waste (PPWR)
Since 12 August 2026, Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on packaging and packaging waste (the “Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation” – PPWR) has been directly […]
Suez Canal, Red Sea and cargo insurance
Since the end of 2023, the major container shipping lines have predominantly routed their services around the Cape of Good Hope; however, individual […]
Low Water Levels on German Inland Waterways – Impact on Container Transport
Persistently low water levels on several German inland waterways are currently affecting inland barge operations. On key transport routes, barges are unable to […]
