Ningbo E-Port offers centralized platform for VGM submission

The Port of Ningbo has partnered with CargoSmart to simplify transmission of container weight data to carriers.    The Port of Ningbo has integrated CargoSmart’s software for shippers and forwarders to meet new container weight requirements with its electronic platform for exchanging data between logistics providers, as well as between logistics providers and government agencies, the port said today.
   The Chinese port is the fourth largest port in the world in terms of container throughput.
   According to ocean carrier schedule and capacity database BlueWater Reporting, the port is frequented by 110 fully cellular liner services that also operate outside of Asia, in addition to dozens of intra-Asia fully cellular liner services.
   More than 30,000 companies manage their multiple carrier shipments through the Ningbo E-port’s online portal to make booking requests, submit shipping instructions and tracking cargo. CargoSmart also serves as the underlying backbone for these services.
   Under the new Safety of Life at Sea rules, which were implemented July 1, shippers named on the bill of lading are required to submit the verified gross mass (VGM) of their cargo before vessel loading. Each carrier has established deadlines for when that information must be received in order for the container to get on the ship before departure. Shippers around the world are likely to incur storage charges if their shipment misses the scheduled sailing, in addition to having late cargo delivery at destination.
   The Ningbo International Logistics Development Co., which operates the Ningbo E-port, said shippers and forwarders can now submit the VGM to multiple carriers through its centralized platform at no additional charge. A dashboard provides submission deadlines and customs clearance status for 30 ocean carriers to help ensure timely exports, it said. After Ningbo E-port captures the VGM information from shippers, forwarders or Ningbo Terminal’s weighing service, CargoSmart transmits the data to carriers.