What is an NVOCC Service Arrangement (NSA)?

An NVOCC Service Arrangement or NSA is a: written contract between an NVOCC and their shipper customer for ocean freight transportation.  Since 2005, Non-Vessel Operating Common Carriers (NVOCCs) may use NSAs to comply with the U.S. Federal Maritime Commission’s tariff regulations. NVOCCs that use NSAs are exempt from filing NSA rates in their FMC tariffs, however […]

Why would I use an NVOCC Service Arrangement (NSA)?

NVOCC Service Arrangements (NSAs) are a great option to consider using for:   negotiated customer-specific rates,  long-term rates, e.g., annual rates, and  rates with customized surcharges, assessorials, or terms.  NSAs are generally considered best for long-term rates because surcharges can float with your tariff rules. This means that surcharges in effect in your tariff rules at […]

How is an NVOCC Service Arrangement (NSA) different from Negotiated Rate Arrangements (NRAs) and tariff rates?

An NVOCC Service Arrangement (NSA) is a written contract between an NVOCC and their shipper customer for ocean freight transportation.  An NSA is a customer-specific rate agreement which requires signatures of both the shipper customer and NVOCC before they may go into effect. NSAs may contain customized surcharges, assessorials, or terms. NSAs are generally considered […]

Do shippers have to accept NSAs?

Yes, NSAs must be signed by both the shipper customer and NVOCC before they may go into effect. NSA Amendments may be agreed to via email, so long as this is stated in the initial NSA. Amendments must also be agreed to before they may go into effect. For more on DPI’s NSA Services, click […]

How can DPI help with NSAs?

Our expert staff is ready to assist NVOCCs seeking to utilize NVOCC Service Arrangements (NSAs). We offer members the following NSA-specific services:  NSA templates, FMC compliance review for NSAs, and record keeping using DPI’s proprietary online system.  For a review of our NSA services, click here. DPI Members may learn more about NSAs on the […]