Changes to SOLAS

The International Maritime Organisation’s safety committee has recently made changes to the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) treaty.

These changes could have a huge effect on the way sea-ports load containers and could cause backlogs for shippers and shipping lines.

Shipper to Verify Container Weight

In the month of May 2014, the IMO approved a SOLAS amendment which now requires the shipper to verify the gross weight of a container before loading at all member ports.

This amendment was requested by the Maritime Safety Committee after a spate of incidents where merchant vessels were abandoned at sea due to issues caused by inconsistencies in a ship's weight load and port equipment was damaged by overweight containers.

The changes themselves are due to come into effect on July 1^st 2016, however many international ports have opted to delaying the mandatory rules by up to one year whilst they prepare for the changes for example by building and certifying weigh bridges.

If the shipper is unable to provide the port authority or shipping line with the verified gross weight of the container including all dunnage and loading equipment, the cargo will not be loaded and storage charges will begin to accrue.

If you have ant questions relates to the changes to SOLAS, please contact us.

Share with

Industry Specific Guidance and Logistics Advice

Manufacturing

Tudor International Freight manage the supply chain movements of many large international manufacturing companies. Our team appreciate the complex issues and unique logistical challenges facing this sector.

Oil and Gas

We have been providing logistics services to the oil and gas industry for many years. Our specialist team have worked on many projects across the world and understand the demands of this sector more than most.

Chemicals

The chemical goods industry has experienced significant changes over recent years with a much larger emphasis being placed on logistics compliance and regulation. Tudor provide businesses with specialist chemical logistics advice and guidance.

Exhibitions and Events

When fast reactions and quick solutions are required, you can count on Tudor International Freight to provide a dedicated team and exceptional service to help make your event a resounding success.

Aerospace

Tudor International Freight provide a wide range of supply chain solutions to the aerospace sector. Our staff are familiar with industry terms and jargon – we understand and speak your language.