The following items are either prohibited or subject to strict approval:

• Military and Para-Military Cargo – Accepted only with explicit written approval.
• Sanctioned Goods – Cargo that violates international sanctions (e.g., US, EU, UN) or originates from sanctioned ports is strictly prohibited.
• Charcoal – Accepted only with the use of approved MSC thermal liners.
• Livestock
• Illegal Drugs / Narcotics
• Shark Fins
• Animal Trophies
• Cargo without a valid HS Code
• Poisonous or Toxic Substances

For clarification or special requests, please contact our local MSC offices.

In line with the SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) regulations introduced by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), all packed containers must have a Verified Gross Mass (VGM) declared before loading.

Key VGM Guidelines:

• No container will be loaded unless its VGM is declared by the shipper.

• VGM must be submitted via NAVIS during the pre-advice process.

• MSC will extract VGM data directly from NAVIS for vessel planning and terminal coordination.

• Failure to submit VGM will result in the terminal refusing to handle the container.

Accepted VGM Methods

Method 1: Weighing the Packed Container

• The entire sealed container is weighed using calibrated and certified equipment.

• Weighbridges must comply with regulatory standards (contact SANAS or NRCS for guidance).

Method 2: Calculated Weight of Contents

• All cargo items, packaging, pallets, and securing materials are weighed individually.

• The container’s tare weight (visible on its exterior) is added to the total.

• This method requires certification and approval by SAMSA.

Note: Estimations are no longer permitted under SOLAS. Only verified weights are accepted.

VGM Submission Deadline

VGM must be submitted before the container enters the port terminal. Timely submission is critical for:

• Stow planning

• Safe vessel loading

• Regulatory compliance

• Final Multimodal DG Forms must be submitted by the second day of the firm vessel stack.
• No additional hazardous cargo applications and amendments will be accepted once the vessel stack is confirmed.
• All port and vessel personnel involved in DG handling must be fully trained and certified in accordance with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code.

Strictly not accepted:

UN 0065 & 0241 – Class 1.1

For assistance with DG bookings or clarification on compliance, please contact our local offices.