What is detention?

Detention is interchangeable with Container Hire but also applies when unit is with Customer due to our Combined Tariff for freetime, not restricted to Terminal/Depot.

What is demurrage?

Demurrage as Terminal/Depot Storage is not something many Countries offer, New Zealand do not although we are asked often.

Questions about detention, demurrage, Per Diem or storage charges?

For further information please contact your local MSC team.

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.
In line with SOLAS (Safety of Lives at Sea) regulations, all marine terminals are now allowed to use their certified scales to record Verified Gross Mass (VGM) of shipments.

Government approval status

• National body in New Zealand is MNZ (Maritime New Zealand)
• All verified weighing equipment within New Zealand must be certified by the Trading Standards Division of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.
• All container terminals have announced across the board that no container will be gated in without certified VGM.

What do I need to include in my VGM instructions?

New Zealand terminals will require the following items to be declared in Pre Receival Advices (PRA) prior to containers being accepted into the terminal.
The following items are mandatory and must be on all VGM instructions

• Booking number
• Container number
• Verified Gross Mass
• Declaration that the VGM has been calculated using one of the approved methods and being submitted by an authorized party on behalf of the shipper.
• Weight Calculation Method
• Verification Date
• Name of Declarant
• Company
• Either Phone or Email Address

How can I submit my VGM instructions? 

Refer to individual terminal notices on how to submit PRA/VGM.

Recommendations for submitting your VGM instructions

• Determine the weight calculation method that is most suitable for your cargo.
• Ensure that appropriately trained and authorized personnel are responsible for the calculation and submission of the VGM.
• Ensure that appropriate record keeping is in place.
• Register for myMSC.com for access to container tare weights if necessary. 

View the full list of import prohibited and restricted goods.

View the full list of export prohibited and restricted goods. 

Ports and terminals
Below are some of the main New Zealand ports and terminals, with local teams available to support our customers.

MSC has goes ‘the extra mile’ by expanding our services beyond ports. Thanks to our integrated road, rail, and barge network across the world, we offer door-to-door transport solutions that keep our customers’ cargo fresh and cool for the whole journey.

PRE-TRIP INSPECTION 
At the depot, our reefer experts carry out a thorough inspection of the container in preparation for loading. This helps you meet the relevant regulatory requirements and retain the sale value of your cargo at its destination.

PICK-UP AND LOADING 
We come to you to load your cargo into our reefer units:
• 20ft or 40ft high cube containers
• Controlled through an integrated microprocessor
• Fresh air adjustment and dehumidification
• CFC-free insulation ensures minimum temperature loss.

INLAND TRANSPORTATION 
While the reefer containers are in transit over land, MSC can provide a genset portable diesel generator to keep the container operating at the required temperature. We bring the containers directly to the port, where they undergo strict security checks.

SHIPPING 
While reefer containers are on board our vessels or in a port, they are always plugged into a constant power source. Our reefer containers are fitted with a software programmed to display specific alarm codes should a malfunction be detected. This immediately notifies our fully trained engineers, who can attend to the unit directly.

TRANSPORTATION TO FINAL DESTINATION 
We deliver your goods in optimal condition to any address in the world. If necessary, your cargo can also be stored at cold storage warehouses on the way.

Streamline your liquid supply chain with MSC's complete fit & supply flexi-bag solution for door-to-door deliveries. Flexi-bags allow you to fill dry containers with up to 24,000 litres of liquid or non-hazardous chemicals, offering a safe, cost-effective, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional liquid transportation methods, such as ISO tank containers.

Our team of in-house experts enable us to provide dedicated cargo fumigation services when required.

What is detention?

Detention is interchangeable with Container Hire but also applies when unit is with Customer due to our Combined Tariff for freetime, not restricted to Terminal/Depot.

What is demurrage?

Demurrage as Terminal/Depot Storage is not something many Countries offer, New Zealand do not although we are asked often.

Questions about detention, demurrage, Per Diem or storage charges?

For further information please contact your local MSC team.

As a leader in shipping and logistics, MSC has developed an integrated network of road and rail solutions worldwide, including New Zealand, to connect remote areas and expand inland infrastructures. We provide door-to-door delivery and cargo-related solutions for the North and South islands, including depot, warehousing and container maintenance and repair services, as well as logistics solutions to and from the main ports. All our transportation and logistics solutions are complemented by industry-specific expertise and can be tailored to meet your exact business needs. 

View the full list of import prohibited and restricted goods.

View the full list of export prohibited and restricted goods. 

Ports and terminals
Below are some of the main New Zealand ports and terminals, with local teams available to support our customers.

Standard trading conditions for inland only transport and warehousing services within Australia and New Zealand

Carrier Terms and Conditions

For further information please contact your local MSC team.