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 Ocean Carriers and must provide underlying ocean freight bills to shippers along with a detailed breakout of all charges upon request. OFFs typically charge their shipper customers forwarder fees or documentation fees for preparing shipping documentation. OFF may also earn forwarder commissions from ocean carriers.

To learn more about DPI’s services for OFFs, click here. DPI Members may learn more about OFFs on the DPI Knowledge Center.