Weighbridge WDG

The Weighbridge (WDG) fee is a charge incurred for utilizing weighbridge facilities to accurately determine the weight of containers or cargo. This fee is primarily associated with the need to comply with the Verified Gross Mass (VGM) requirement under the International Maritime Organization's Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) regulations. The VGM compliance is crucial for ensuring the safe loading and stability of vessels, as it mandates shippers to provide an accurate weight for each packed container prior to loading onto a vessel.

Typically, this fee is collected by the operator of the weighbridge facility, which could be a port authority or an independent service provider. The party responsible for paying this fee is generally the shipper or the appointed freight forwarder managing the shipment. The charge is based on a per-use basis, meaning it applies each time a container or cargo is weighed.

The weighbridge fee is distinct from other related charges such as the Terminal Handling Charge (THC), which pertains to the broader handling services in a terminal, or documentation fees related to customs compliance. In practice, the weighbridge fee specifically covers the cost of using the weighing infrastructure and the associated administrative processes.

When dealing with weighbridge fees, shippers and logistics professionals should ensure that the weight information provided is accurate and conforms to the specific requirements of the destination port and the shipping line. This involves coordinating with weighbridge facilities that are certified and recognized for their accuracy. Additionally, it's essential to factor in potential waiting times at weighbridges and to schedule weighing operations in advance to avoid delays that could impact overall shipping timelines.