Container Weight Discrepancy, Australia

Dear Valued Customer,
 
This advisory serves as a timely reminder of the importance of shippers, consignors and all parties within the supply chain accurately declaring weights. 

We have recently seen an increase to the number of shipments that have incurred additional costs from Container Terminals due to weights being incorrectly reported. Mis-declared container weights present safety risks throughout the supply chain for shipping lines, container terminals and transport operators who all depend on accurate weight information being reported to handle and transport goods in a safe manner and meet all requirements of SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) and CoR (Chain of Responsibility). 

Containers are weighed upon arrival in Australian terminals and any container found having a weight discrepancy +/- 1000kg from the actual declared Verified Gross Mass (VGM) will incur additional costs per container. 

It is encouraged that you review practices within your supply chain to ensure all weights are correctly determined. This includes either accurately identifying the weight of the cargo, dunnage and bracing used for load restraint, and the TARE weight of the container to arrive at the declared VGM. Alternatively, the loaded container should be weighed using calibrated weighing equipment after it has been packed.

Thank you for being our Valued Customer. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact your C.H. Robinson commercial representative for further information.

Sincerely,
C.H. Robinson.