FMC Probes Ocean Common Carriers Over Chassis Usage Practice and Restrictions
The Federal Maritime Commission has opened a formal investigation into whether ocean common carriers are unlawfully limiting truckers’ and shippers’ ability to choose their own chassis providers, potentially violating the Shipping Act.
Here are key takeaways:
- What’s being investigated: Whether ocean common carriers are using rules, service contracts, or other means to unjustly restrict motor carriers and shippers from freely negotiating with chassis providers.
- Potential violation: Such practices may violate Section 41102(c) of the Shipping Act, which prohibits unfair or unjustly discriminatory methods by ocean common carriers.
- Public input sought: The FMC is calling on shippers, truckers, and other transportation providers to submit information on any restrictions or tactics imposed by ocean carriers on chassis selection.
- Comment deadline: Public comments must be submitted by March 27, 2026, via the Federal Register notice.
- Confidentiality requests: Commenters seeking confidentiality should contact FMC Secretary David Eng at Secretary@fmc.gov.
- Who’s leading it: The Commission’s General Counsel is heading the investigation under the FMC’s oversight authority per 46 U.S.C. §§ 41102(c) and 41104(a).
Disclaimer:
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