Weight Discrepancy Fee for Uganda Shipments

This is a follow up date to our publication posted on 15th September 2024 regarding introduction of weight discrepancy fees that can be accessed here https://www.maersk.com/news/articles/2024/09/16/update-wdf-weight-discrepancy-fee.

This was done in efforts to enhance safety of our operations and drive higher reliability of our network.

The WDF is applicable to each container where:

1. The difference (positive or negative) between the VGM weight and the weight declared in the shipping instructions is greater than 3000Kg.
2. The VGM weight is greater than the maximum gross weight of the container, (as per CSC plate (Max Payload + Tare weight).
3. The VGM weight is less than tare weight of the container.

While we note that VGM is submitted at the Shipping instructions stage, we have noted discrepancies arising from the Mombasa Terminal VGM which is derived from the Kenya Ports Authority nomination and handover done by you or your appointed agents in line with the customs documents at hand.

To avoid this penalty and ensure no discrepancies: -

1. We recommend that you review and ensure VGM is submitted within above shared parameters.
2. We also recommend that the SI submitted VGM tally with the VGM declared at Gate in Mombasa / Nomination and handover stage.

These changes are part of our ongoing efforts to ensure compliance with international shipping standards and to enhance safety. The accuracy of weight during our operations is crucial to avoid incidents and enhance our efficiency as it allows us to plan in advance on how to better load, accommodate, and discharge each container in our vessels.

More information on VGM submission can be accessed here

https://www.maersk.com/news/articles/2021/06/23/refresher-of-no-vgm-no-load-policy

https://www.maersk.com/transportation-services/verified-gross-mass

Should you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact your local Maersk representative or reach out via Maersk.com.

Our teams are always standing by to assist whenever possible.