Hapag-Lloyd has informed as from July 1, 2016, the new SOLAS regulation will become effective; therefore the packed containers’ VGM will be mandatory for all the units to be loaded onboard their vessels. The new regulation entails a change in existing procedures for all stakeholders involved across the shipping industry. Safety concerns have always taken a high priority at Hapag-Lloyd – accordingly it is our responsibility to reduce risks to human life and damages to the cargo and environment due to inaccurately declared weights. Therefore, a packed container for which a verified weight has not been obtained in time, will not be loaded on board our vessels.