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.
Middle East Supply Chain Update
Sea Freight
Following the withdrawal of war risk coverage as of 5 March, most carriers have suspended new bookings to and from the Middle […]
Information about effects of Middle East escalation
Due to the current geopolitical development in the Middle East, we would like to inform you about the potential impacts on ongoing and […]
The war in Iran is having a massive impact on shipping and air freight
The situation in the Middle East is escalating, causing massive disruptions to maritime shipping. Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd have suspended all ship passages through […]
