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.
No, the FMC is not responsible for Automated Manifest Filings (also commonly referred to as AMS filings) and SCAC codes for Vessel-Operating Common Carriers. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is in charge of Automated Manifest Filings. You must file Automated Manifest filings with CBP. A list of vendors that can assist with AMS filings […]
OFFs must be prepared to provide shippers with a detailed breakout of all charges and underlying ocean freight bills upon request. The below notice is required on all OFF invoices.: “Upon request, we shall provide a detailed breakout of the components of all charges assessed and a true copy of each pertinent document relating to […]
No. FMC’s Ocean Freight Forwarder regulations only apply to companies based in the US that dispatch shipments from the US. To learn more about DPI’s services for OFFs, click here. DPI Members may learn more about OFFs on the DPI Knowledge Center.
Ocean Freight Forwarders (OFFs) in the US are different from Non-Vessel-Operating Common Carriers (NVOCCs). OFFs only arrange for ocean freight on behalf of their shipper customers. They do not hold themselves out as an ocean carrier and do not issue their own bills of lading. OFFs are prohibited from entering into Service Contracts with Vessel-Operating […]
