The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) is dedicated to overseeing the U. S. international ocean transportation supply chain to ensure competitiveness, reliability, and protection from unfair and deceptive practices.

The FMC regulates various aspects of ocean shipping, including licensing, certification, and financial responsibility for ocean freight forwarders and non-vessel-operating common carriers (NVOCCs). These companies are required to submit proof of financial responsibility in the form of surety bonds, with different bond amounts for different types of operators. Bonds must be underwritten by specific surety companies approved by the U.

S. Department of Treasury and listed on their directory. The FMC also provides guidelines for submitting and canceling bonds, as well as additional riders for NVOCCs wishing to serve in the U.

S. -China trade. Their comprehensive website offers resources, databases, and services for industry professionals, legal counsel, and consumers involved in the ocean supply chain.

For more information and inquiries, the FMC is headquartered in Washington, D. C and is committed to open government and accessibility