Incorrectly declared containers – weight amendment fee

An innovative new system utilising a calibrated weighing device called a Pondus Stand was introduced in late 2021 to more accurately weigh shipping containers.  The Pondus Stand was first implemented by Patricks shipping terminals in Australia in January 2022 to greater align with SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) requirements. 

Shippers of import or export containers need to accurately declare the weight of a container prior to it being discharged and subsequently collected from Patrick’s Terminal by their nominated carrier.  With this system, the terminal selectively samples containers for weighing at the terminal yard utilising the Pondus Stand to ensure that safety is driven across the container handling supply chain.  Incorrectly declared containers create potential safety risks that can affect transport companies, terminal operators and shipping lines. 

If it is found that the declared weight of a container varies by +/- 1 tonne, a Weight Amendment Fee of around $250-$280 + GST is charged by the terminal to be passed on to the importer or exporter by the transport carrier for imports, or the shipping line for exports.  Note, that this applies to under-weight as well as over-weight containers.  Assunta Bux of Clarke Global Logistics says “We have seen two instances of this happening just this week and believe it may not be long before other terminals follow suit.”

Our advice, to importers in particular when communicating with overseas suppliers, is to instruct them to ensure that the weight on the bill of lading is correct and is always the gross mass of the packed goods, in accordance with SOLAS VGM (Verified Gross Mass) regulations. 

If you have any questions or queries in relation to container weight declaration, please do not hesitate to contact the team at Clarke Global Logistics on +61 3 9854 3000 or email enquiry@clarkeglobal.com.au

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