VGM Standard
A unified digital approach to Verified Gross Mass declarations
Standardising VGM declarations
The DCSA VGM Standard defines a unified, API-based approach for exchanging Verified Gross Mass declarations across the container shipping ecosystem. It provides a faster alternative to email and EDI workflows, ensuring compliance with SOLAS regulations while improving efficiency and transparency.
Jump to documentation
For the standard definition and implementation resources visit the VGM documentation page. This includes the API specification, business process model, use cases and downloadable artefacts.
Why VGM declarations need to change
VGM information is exchanged through a variety of channels, emails, carrier portals, spreadsheets, and EDI messages, each using different formats and data rules. This fragmentation makes it difficult to automate submissions, validate data, or maintain compliance with SOLAS requirements.
Inconsistent and delayed VGM declaration updates can result in operational inefficiencies, container roll-overs, and added re-weighing costs. At scale, these issues reduce visibility and increase workload for all parties involved in the shipment process.
The DCSA VGM Standard introduces a SOLAS-compliant API-based approach that brings consistency and efficiency, to the way verified container weights are shared across the supply chain.
Interested in adopting the VGM Standard?
Contact our team to learn more about how to align your implementation or explore the full VGM standard documentation directly.