VGM poll: Shippers worried on Day 1

An American Shipper poll of shippers and forwarders revealed that nearly 90 percent believe at least some cargo will be delayed by the verified gross mass rule that went into effect globally today.    An American Shipper poll Thursday of shippers and forwarders has revealed that nearly 90 percent believe some cargo will be delayed by the verified gross mass (VGM) rule that went into effect globally today.
   The rule requires shippers and forwarders acting as master shipper on the bill of lading to provide a verification of the weights of their containers and submit that data to carrier or risk their container being denied loading.
   Sixty-six percent of the 47 respondents to the poll as of Friday morning said they expect some of their cargo to be delayed, while 21 percent said they expect a significant amount of their cargo to be delayed. Only 13 percent said VGM would have no impact on them.
    Nearly three-quarters of respondents said they were somewhat to very concerned about their ability to comply with the VGM rule only a day before implementation. Almost half of those who were concerned about their ability to comply said they were “very concerned.”
   Respondents were also asked to name their biggest concern as the rule neared implementation. The largest bucket of concerns centered around a lack of uniformity in VGM enforcement, compliance processes and fees.
   Some respondents also indicated they were unsure that their suppliers at origin would be able to comply with the rule, though others indicated they have already successfully completed tests of their suppliers’ ability to submit VGM.
   More than two-thirds of respondents said they import and export, while 17 percent export only and 13 import only.
   The American Shipper poll remains open today!