Switzerland

Connecting Switzerland to the world

At MSC Basel we provide reliable and efficient shipping services in and out of Switzerland and around the globe.

Our customers can rely on our in-depth understanding of key trades and transport markets and trust our extensive experience on moving cargo via water, rail and land. We have a specialized commodity desk for worldwide shipping at your disposal, taking care of all commercial and operational aspects of transporting your goods.

Contact our  team to request a quote, book or find out more about our local services

LOCAL OFFICES INFORMATION

SOLAS VGM information

What is VGM?

Verified Gross Mass or VGM refers to the exact, verified weight of a packed container. For safety reasons, vessel operators can only load a container if its weight has been verified. 

What do I need to include in my VGM instructions?

You must include the following on all VGM instructions:

  • Booking or Bill of Lading (BL) number
  • Container number
  • VGM + weight measurement unit (lbs. or kgs.)
  • Responsible Party Name
  • Digital signature of the authorised signatory in all CAPITAL LETTERS.

Guidelines for submitting your VGM instructions

  •  The guidelines of the respective POL country apply, as Switzerland is a landlocked country. 
 

Prohibited cargo

Prohibited cargo

It is prohibited to import, export, and transit certain goods and products to/from Switzerland. These include, for example, protected animals and plants as well as counterfeits, weapons, and narcotics, etc.
 
Additional information is available under following link: Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS)

 
 
 

List of Depots

Depots:

  • Basel / Birsfelden
  • Chavornay Terco 
  • Niederglatt
  • Frenkendorf
  • Geneve
 

Container Weighing (VGM)

All MSC local offices provide certified scales to record and verify container weight (verified gross mass or VGM) in line with Safety of Lives at Sea (SOLAS) regulations. VGM instructions are mandatory for all shipments for safety reasons and vessel operators can only load a container if its weight has been appropriately verified. Contact your local MSC team for more information and support. 
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Last update: 2024-11-08T02:38:00