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Guidelines on verified gross mass of containers - extension of time for practical and pragmatic implementation and clarificatios thereon - reg.
Applicable to:
All stakeholders involved in container shipping
Effective Date:
Immediate
Superseded Circulars:
MS Notice No. 4 of 2016, 7 of 2016, 9 of 2016
Key Changes and Requirements
1. Extension of Practical and Pragmatic Implementation — IMO Circular MSC.1/Circ.1548
The implementation period for VGM guidelines is extended by four months until 31.03.17. Physical documents will continue to be accepted during this period.
- Key Action: Continue with practical and pragmatic approach until 31.03.17
2. Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) Update
Shippers can use the name in capitals of the authorized person instead of Class III digital signature for VGM documents until further notice.
- Key Action: Use authorized person's name in capitals for VGM documents
- Compliance Obligation: Obtain Class III digital signatures at the earliest
3. Quality Management System (QMS) for Method 2
Clarification: ISO 9001:2008/2015 certificate should include 'stuffing of containers' for VGM compliance.
4. Weighbridge/Weighing Appliances Deadline Extension
Deadline for obtaining QMS certificate extended to 30.06.17.
- Key Action: Comply with QMS requirements at the earliest
Important Note — No additional charges for weighing containers and weight variation by intermediaries are mandated. Free trade practices should not be undermined.
Important Note
This MS Notice comes into force with immediate effect.
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