A method is provided for encoding multiple video frames in parallel. The method includes the steps of generating an estimated starting fullness level of a VBV buffer before encoding begins, beginning parallel frame encoding, monitoring the number of bits produced for each parallel frame during encoding, tracking the number of unencoded CTUs within each parallel frame during encoding, continuously updating an actual fullness level of the VBV buffer relative to each parallel frame during encoding, and encoding in skip mode any remaining unencoded CTUs in a particular frame and any preceding frames when the difference between the actual fullness level for a frame and a minimum fullness level for the VBV Buffer equals the number of remaining unencoded CTUs in that particular frame.