What is VGM?
Verified Gross Mass or VGM refers to the exact, verified weight of a packed container. For safety reasons, vessel operators can only load a container if its weight has been verified.
 
In line with Safety of Lives at Sea (SOLAS) regulations, we request all our export customers to provide VGM certificate before cargo is loaded. Customers use third party VGM service providers to weigh their containers.

What to include in VGM instructions
You must include the following on all VGM instructions: 

• Booking or Bill of Lading (BL) number 
• Container number 
• VGM and weight measurement unit (lbs or kgs) 
• Name of responsible party 

How to submit VGM instructions
VGM instructions should be submitted on myMSC (free of charge).

As per general MSC rules and subject to the destination of the shipment, the following are prohibited:

•  Fireworks, ammunition, small arms
• Second-hand empty gas cylinders
• Frozen turkey tails
• Ammonium nitrate
• Second-hand mattresses
• Second-hand tyres (subject to the approval of MSC Ghana)
• Used refrigerators, used fridge-freezers, used freezers and used refrigeration compressors (motors)  

In line with Ghana's obligations under the Montreal Protocol and The Energy Efficiency Regulations, 2008 (L.I.1932), the government of Ghana has completely banned the import of used refrigerators, used fridge-freezers, used freezers and used refrigeration compressors (motors). Booking agents should immediately stop accepting such cargo to Ghana (Tema and Takoradi) as MSC may be held responsible when discharging containers infringing the law.

Ports and terminals
MSC operates services to and from the following ports and terminals in Ghana, with local teams in each location to support our customers.