🚢🎉 Big News from the Federal Maritime Commission! 🎉🚢
Hey, US-trade Maritime Community! Get ready for some important updates that are sailing your way! 🌊 The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has just dropped a game-changing Final Rule in FMC Docket No. 21-03. This isn’t just any regulation update – it’s a major shift in the Carrier Automated Tariffs world, effective February 1, 2024. Here’s the scoop in a fun, easy-to-digest format!
🌟 Key Highlights of the Carrier Automated Tariffs Changes:
– Goodbye Fees! 🎈 VOCCs & NVOCCs can no longer charge us to view their tariffs. More transparency, less cost! (46 CFR 520.9(e)(3))
– Email Essentials 📧: These carriers need to give their email to the FMC before offering common carrier services. Stay connected! (46 CFR 520.3)
– Play by the Rules 🛑: If a NVOCC doesn’t maintain a tariff, they could lose their license or registration. Stay compliant, folks! (46 CFR 520.3)
🔍 Dive into NVOCC Pass-Through Charges Changes:
– Passing the Buck 💸: NVOCCs can pass through VOCC GRIs to shippers. Fair play in pricing! (46 CFR 520.7(a)(3)(iv))
– General Reference Rule 📜: NVOCC tariffs need to refer to broad categories of charges from their VOCC’s tariffs. No more specific name-dropping needed! (46 CFR 520.7(a)(3)(iv))
– Keep it Separate, Keep it Fair 🔄: NVOCCs must keep their own rates separate from pass-through charges. Transparency for the win! (46 CFR 520.7(a)(3)(iv))
– Special Deals Allowed 🌟: NVOCCs can offer special co-loading rates, accessible to all shippers. Hello, competitive pricing! (46 CFR 520.11)
🚚 Unpacking the Co-Loading Arrangements:
– Co-Loading Clarifications ⚓: NVOCCs aren’t required to mention co-loading arrangements in their tariffs. Streamlining the process! (46 CFR 520.11)
– LCL & FCL Shipments 📦: These can be included in shipper-carrier co-loading arrangements. The receiving NVOCC takes on the liability once the bill of lading is issued. (46 CFR 520.11(c)(2))
– LCL-Only for Carrier-Carrier 🚚: In these co-loading scenarios, each NVOCC issues its own bill of lading for its cargo part. Accountability at its best! (46 CFR 520.11(c)(2))
🔮 Practical Takeaway:
This Final Rule spells more visibility and fewer surprises in service-related charges and fees. It’s a big win for market participants, ensuring better planning without unexpected costs. But keep in mind, the FMC still holds the reins for rate changes under the Shipping Act. (46 CFR 520.14)
Let’s navigate these waters together with more clarity and fairness!
Connect with Freightgate at sales@freightgate.com