In the U.S. ocean trade lanes, a Non-Vessel-Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC):

•  holds itself out to the public as a company that
•  provides transportation for cargo between the US and a foreign country by water 
•  for compensation 
•  without operating the vessel by which the transportation is provided.  

An NVOCC is a shipper in relationship with the underlying ocean carrier transporting the cargo and assumes responsibility for paying ocean freight and related charges. NVOCCs operating in the U.S. ocean trade lanes must obtain a license or registration from the U.S. Federal Maritime Commission. 

To learn about DPI’s FMC Licensing and Registration services, click here. DPI Members may read more about NVOCCs over on the DPI Knowledge Center.