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 Commission regulations require that Vessel Operating Common Carriers (VOCCs) and Non-Vessel-Operating Common Carriers either publish tariff rates for ocean freight services or issue alternative rate documentation in compliance with FMC regulations. 

As an alternative to tariff rate filing, NVOCCs may enter into Negotiated Rate Arrangements (NRAs) or NVOCC Service Arrangements (NSAs). 

As an alternative to tariff rate filing, VOCCs may enter into Service Contracts (SCs). 

Read more about FMC Tariffs and FMC Tariff Rates on the DPI Knowledge Center. For more information about DPI’s FMC Tariff services, click here.