FMC tariffs are generally made up of two parts: rules that affect ocean freight rates, including surcharges and bill of lading terms, and ocean freight rates. Remember FMC regulations only apply to shipments moving between a U.S. ocean port and a foreign country. You may choose to publish tariffs for other trade lanes, but FMC […]
If you are a Vessel-Operating Common Carrier (VOCC), the alternatives to publishing an ocean freight rate in your FMC tariff are: Service Contract (SCs). SCs are customer-specific rate agreements. SCs must meet specific formatting, timing, and record-keeping requirements. SCs must be filed with the U.S. Federal Maritime Commission via their SERVCON system. Learn more about […]
If you are a Non-Vessel-Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC), the alternatives to publishing an ocean freight rate in your FMC tariff are: Negotiated Rate Arrangements (NRAs) and NVOCC Service Arrangements (NSAs). NRAs and NSAs are customer-specific rate agreements. NRAs and NSAs must meet specific formatting, timing, and record-keeping requirements. NRAs and NSAs must also be made […]
A tariff rule is a description of charges, classifications, rules, or practices applicable to ocean freight services moving under the tariff owner’s bill of lading or via the tariff owner’s marine terminal. Click here to see an example of a tariff rule: U.S. Federal Maritime Commission regulations require that Vessel Operating Common Carriers (VOCCs) and […]
A tariff rate is a description of charges for ocean freight services for a specified commodity between specified origins and destinations. The tariff rate may be subject to surcharges contained in the tariff’s rules or include charges for additional services, so long as those charges are fully described in the tariff rate. U.S. Federal Maritime […]
Every organization is different however many of DPI’s clients find that filing tariff rates is the most efficient compliance method. We recommend that you review the alternatives to tariff rate filing and consider how each alternative would fit into your organization’s protocols. As an alternative to tariff rate filing, NVOCCs may enter into Negotiated Rate […]
FMC regulations prohibit Vessel-Operating Common Carriers (VOCCs), also commonly referred to as Ocean Carriers, from entering into Service Contracts with NVOCCs that are out of compliance with FMC regulations. VOCCs request a copy of your tariff title page and NVOCC bond to ensure that you are in compliance with FMC regulations. If you are a […]
If your company will control a vessel that will call at a US ocean port via a charter contract or other agreement and you intend to offer ocean freight transportation services to the shipping public, you must register with the FMC. To learn more about DPI’s services for VOCCs, click here.
After FMC registration, Vessel-Operating Common Carriers must publish an FMC tariff and file their ocean freight rates in an FMC tariff or issue Service Contracts before beginning operations. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has additional requirements for vessel operators. Please review these with your vessel operator prior to commencing operations. To learn more about […]
Vessel-Operating Common Carriers must provide basic business contact information, along with proof of vessel ownership or control. They must also advise the FMC of all U.S. ports of call. To learn more about DPI’s FMC services for VOCCs, click here.
