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VGM Declaration What’s Difference Between SM1 and SM2 Methods?

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VGM Declaration in International Shipping: What’s the Difference Between SM1 and SM2 Methods?

By Marshal Jiang | BETTERluck Shipping (Guangzhou) Limited

Introduction: Why VGM Declaration Matters for Your Cargo

If you’re shipping goods globally, you know delays, fines, or even cargo rejection can derail your supply chain. One critical step that avoids these headaches is VGM (Verified Gross Mass) declaration—a mandatory requirement under the International Maritime Organization (IMO) SOLAS Convention.
But here’s the catch: Not all VGM methods work for every shipment. Choosing between SM1 (Method 1) and SM2 (Method 2) can mean the difference between smooth sailing and costly mistakes.
At BETTERluck Shipping, we specialize in simplifying VGM compliance for businesses importing/exporting “made in China” goods. With our “best services, best prices” commitment, we help you pick the right VGM method, file accurately, and keep your cargo on track. Let’s break down SM1 vs. SM2—so you can make informed decisions.

1. First: What Is VGM (Verified Gross Mass)?

Before diving into SM1 and SM2, let’s confirm the basics:
VGM is the total weight of a loaded container (cargo weight + container tare weight). It must be verified and declared to carriers before your container is loaded onto a ship.
Why it’s mandatory: Under SOLAS, carriers cannot load containers without a valid VGM—this prevents overloaded containers from causing ship instability, accidents, or port delays.
Now, the two approved methods to calculate and declare VGM are SM1 and SM2.

2. Core Differences: VGM SM1 vs. SM2 (At a Glance)

To quickly compare the two methods, we’ve summarized their key features in the table below. This helps you match the method to your shipment type, resources, and timeline.
Comparison Factor
SM1 (Method 1)
SM2 (Method 2)
Definition
Weigh the fully loaded container as a single unit.
Calculate VGM by adding cargo weight (verified) + container tare weight.
Data Source
Direct weighing of the loaded container (e.g., via truck scale, container scale).
Two separate data points: verified cargo weight + official container tare weight.
Accuracy Requirement
±5% or ±100kg (whichever is greater) vs. the actual total weight.
±5% or ±100kg (whichever is greater) for the cargo weight; tare weight is fixed.
Best For
Small-to-medium shippers, LCL (Less than Container Load), or mixed-cargo shipments.
Large shippers, FCL (Full Container Load), or shipments with pre-verified cargo.
Key Advantage
Simple, minimal paperwork—no need to verify individual cargo weights.
Faster for high-volume shipments; no need to transport loaded containers to scales.
Key Disadvantage
Requires access to a certified scale for loaded containers.
Risk of errors if cargo weight is miscalculated or misrecorded.
BETTERluck Support
Arrange certified scale access near your warehouse/factory.
Double-check cargo weight calculations + validate tare weight documents.

3. Detailed Explanation: VGM SM1 (Method 1)

SM1 is the most straightforward VGM method for many shippers—it relies on direct weighing of the fully loaded container. Here’s how it works, who should use it, and how we can help.

How SM1 Works (Step-by-Step)

  1. Pack your container: Load all cargo, seal the container, and record the container number (for tracking).

  1. Transport to a certified scale: Move the fully loaded container to a scale approved by local authorities (e.g., port scales, third-party logistics (3PL) scales).

  1. Weigh the container: The scale will provide the total weight of the loaded container—this is your VGM.

  1. Declare VGM: Submit the verified weight to the carrier (or your freight forwarder) along with container details (number, seal number, destination).

Who Should Use SM1?

  • LCL shippers: If you’re sharing a container with other goods, SM1 avoids the hassle of weighing individual cargo batches.

  • Shippers with small volumes: If you don’t have regular access to cargo-weighing equipment, SM1 lets you outsource verification to a certified scale provider.

  • Mixed-cargo shipments: If your container has diverse goods (e.g., electronics + textiles), SM1 eliminates errors from adding multiple cargo weights.

BETTERluck’s SM1 Support

We partner with certified scale providers across Guangzhou and major Chinese ports (Shenzhen, Shanghai). We:

  • Arrange scale access at a location convenient for your warehouse/factory.

  • Coordinate transport of your loaded container to the scale (if needed).

  • Verify the scale reading and submit the VGM to your carrier—ensuring compliance.

4. Detailed Explanation: VGM SM2 (Method 2)

SM2 is a “calculation-based” method—it combines verified cargo weight and container tare weight to get your VGM. It’s ideal for high-volume shippers who can pre-verify cargo weights.

How SM2 Works (Step-by-Step)

  1. Weigh individual cargo items: Use a certified scale to weigh each piece of cargo (or batches) before loading. Record the total cargo weight (this must be verified—no estimates!).

  1. Get the container tare weight: Find the official tare weight (empty container weight) on the container’s CSC plate (a mandatory label on all shipping containers).

  1. Calculate VGM: Add the verified cargo weight to the container tare weight. The result is your VGM.

  1. Declare VGM: Submit the calculated VGM to the carrier, along with proof of cargo weight verification (e.g., scale tickets) and the CSC plate details.

Who Should Use SM2?

  • FCL shippers: If you’re using a full container for your goods, SM2 lets you weigh cargo in your warehouse before loading—no need to transport loaded containers to scales.

  • High-volume shippers: If you ship multiple containers weekly, SM2 saves time by avoiding repeated trips to external scales.

  • Shippers with in-house scales: If your factory/warehouse has certified scales, SM2 cuts costs by using your existing equipment.

BETTERluck’s SM2 Support

We help you avoid the biggest SM2 risk—cargo weight errors. Our team:

  • Reviews your cargo weight records to ensure they meet ±5%/±100kg accuracy standards.

  • Validates the container’s CSC plate to confirm tare weight (critical for old or repaired containers).

  • Cross-checks the final VGM calculation before submission to the carrier.

5. Common VGM Mistakes (And How BETTERluck Prevents Them)

Even with SM1 or SM2, small errors can lead to big problems. Here are the top mistakes we see—and how we keep your VGM compliant:
Common Mistake
How It Hurts You
BETTERluck’s Solution
Using uncertified scales
VGM is rejected; cargo is delayed at the port.
We only use ISO-certified scales for SM1 and SM2.
Miscalculating cargo weight (SM2)
VGM is inaccurate; carrier fines apply.
We double-check cargo weight records against scale tickets.
Ignoring tare weight updates
Old tare weight leads to wrong VGM.
We verify CSC plate data for every container.
Late VGM submission
Container is left off the ship; rebooking fees.
We submit VGM 24–48 hours before your carrier’s deadline.

6. Why Choose BETTERluck Shipping for VGM Declaration?

When it comes to VGM, “good enough” isn’t enough—you need a partner who understands both compliance and your business goals. Here’s why 500+ “made in China” exporters trust us:

  1. Compliance Expertise: We stay updated on IMO SOLAS rules and port-specific VGM requirements (e.g., EU, US, Southeast Asia ports). No more guessing—we ensure your VGM meets local standards.

  1. Tailored Solutions: We help you pick SM1 or SM2 based on your shipment type, volume, and resources. For example, we recommend SM1 for LCL electronics shipments and SM2 for FCL furniture exporters.

  1. End-to-End Support: We don’t just file VGM—we handle the entire process: arranging scales, verifying weights, submitting to carriers, and tracking confirmation.

  1. Best Prices: As a Guangzhou-based forwarder, we leverage local partnerships to offer competitive rates for VGM services—no hidden fees.

7. Success Stories: BETTERluck VGM Support in Action

Case 1: SM1 for a Small Electronics Shipper

A Guangzhou-based e-commerce seller (shipping LCL electronics to the US) struggled with VGM delays. They didn’t have access to a certified scale, so their previous forwarder missed carrier deadlines.

  • We arranged a certified scale 10 minutes from their warehouse.

  • We weighed their loaded container, filed VGM within 2 hours, and confirmed carrier acceptance.

  • Result: Their cargo shipped on time, and they avoided $500+ in rebooking fees.

Case 2: SM2 for a Large Furniture Exporter

A Foshan furniture manufacturer (shipping 10 FCL containers monthly to Europe) used SM2 but faced cargo weight errors. Their in-house scale was uncalibrated, leading to VGM rejects.

  • We calibrated their scale and trained their team to verify cargo weights.

  • We cross-checked their SM2 calculations before submission.

  • Result: Their VGM approval rate hit 100%, and their shipping timeline shortened by 3 days.

8. Contact Us: Get Your VGM Right—First Time, Every Time

Whether you need help choosing between SM1 and SM2, or want a trusted partner to handle your VGM declaration, BETTERluck Shipping is here for you.

  • WeChat/WhatsApp/Tel: +86-188 9840 3007

  • Office Address: Room 607-608, 6/Floor Talent Building, No. 1 Yichuang Street, Huangpu District, Guangzhou City, Guangdong P.R.China 510555

Send us a message today—we’ll respond within 1 hour to discuss your VGM needs and share a custom quote. With BETTERluck, your cargo stays compliant, on time, and on budget.
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