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.

What do I need to include in my VGM instructions?

You must include the following on all VGM instructions:

• Booking or Bill of Lading (BL) number
• Container number
• VGM + weight measurement unit ( kgs)
• Responsible Party Name
• Digital signature of the authorised signatory in all CAPITAL LETTERS.

How can I submit my VGM instructions?

• myMSC (Free of Charge) 

To make things as easy as possible, we have provided this information by port. If you have any additive queries relating to this information, please contact your local agency who will be happy to help 

Weight limits (import and export)

• Tamatave: 30T (tara included)
• Majunga and Diégo-Suarez: 27T (tara included) 

Import

• Imports of right-hand drive vehicles are prohibited.
• Second-hand cars, utility vehicles and/or more than 3T500 must be less than 15 years old.
• Imports of plastic bags are prohibited.
• Import of chemical and dangerous goods must follow processes, to contact MSC local office for details if need be

Export

As per Madagascar customs’ regulation and law: 

• Rose wood
• Unworked wood
• Antiques

For MSC Madagascar security, the below commodities are not accepted anymore on our vessels:

• Vanilla (BEANS - ESSENTIAL OIL - NATURAL AROMA, ETC...)
•  Scrap Metal
• Charcoal

Ports and terminals

Liner terms : Free in / Free out
(Origin and destination handling charges to be paid directly to terminal operator.)