The amendment to SOLAS adopted by IMO Resolution no. 380(94) requires for all containers to be loaded on a ship the indication of the verified gross mass (VGM).

The IMO Guidelines:

• provide definitions of the terms which are relevant for the application of the rules,
• define the scope of application of the rules,
• name the shipper as the responsible entity,
• specify the different methods of weighing and the documents to be issued
• refer to national rules regarding the indication of the acceptable weighing equipment.

The Decree 5 May 2016 specifies which are in Italy the equipments which can be used (providing in this regard a temporary rule valid until 30 June 2017) and allow a 3% tolerance.