VERMAS EDIFACT Message

VERMAS transaction (Electronic Data Interchange for Administration, Commerce, and Transport)

The VERMAS EDIFACT message is primarily used in the shipping and logistics industry to provide information about verified gross mass (VGM) of a container. This message format is part of the standards developed by UN/EDIFACT, a United Nations body that creates and maintains international standards for electronic data interchange. Here are some key aspects and uses of the VERMAS EDIFACT message.

The main purpose of the VERMAS message is to communicate the verified gross mass of a container. This is a crucial requirement to comply with the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) regulations, which mandate that the shipper must provide the VGM of a packed container before it is loaded onto a ship. The VGM includes the weight of the cargo, dunnage (packing materials), and the container itself.

Usage Scenarios

1. Shippers to Carriers: Shippers send VERMAS messages to shipping lines or carriers to declare the VGM of the container. This ensures that carriers have accurate weight information for stowage planning and compliance with SOLAS regulations.
2. Freight Forwarders to Carriers: Freight forwarders, acting on behalf of shippers, can send VERMAS messages to carriers.
3. Terminal Operators to Carriers: Terminal operators may send VGM information to carriers after weighing containers on-site.

Structure of the VERMAS Message

A typical VERMAS message might include segments such as:

• UNH (Message Header): Identifies the message type and version.
• BGM (Beginning of Message): Indicates the purpose of the message.
• DTM (Date/Time/Period): Specifies relevant dates and times.
• MEA (Measurements): Provides details about the weight.
• NAD (Name and Address): Includes shipper or consignee details.
• EQD (Equipment Details): Identifies the container.
• RFF (Reference): Provides references such as booking or bill of lading numbers.

VERMAS Message Example

UNH+1+VERMAS:D:16B:UN:EAN008′
BGM+270+123456+9′
DTM+137:202307031200:203′
MEA+WT++KGM:24000′
NAD+CZ+123456789::16′
EQD+CN+ABCD1234567+22G1′

In this example:

• UNH is the message header.
• BGM specifies the beginning of the message.
• DTM gives the date and time.
• MEA provides the measurement (weight) in kilograms.
• NAD details the shipper’s information.
• EQD identifies the container.

The VERMAS EDIFACT message is a standardized and efficient way to communicate essential weight information in the global shipping industry, ensuring compliance and enhancing safety.

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