The US Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has launched an investigation into port demurrage, detention and free time practices, requiring terminal operators and ocean common carriers to provide insightful information.
Commissioner Rebecca Dye has begun the first phase of the investigation, which involves gathering information from ocean common carriers and marine terminal operators serving a broad section of container ports in the US. Carriers have been directed to provide detailed information about their detention and demurrage practices, especially regarding circumstances where shippers are not able to retrieve cargo.
"The ultimate resolution of this investigation will have the potential to affect every ocean common carrier calling the United States. It is vital that the information we gather is representative of business and operational practices, as well as market conditions, nationally," said Ms Dye.
Ms Dye emphasised that it is critical that shippers, dray truck companies, and other affected parties who can document specific allegations and provide supporting materials of unreasonable port detention and demurrage practices and fees step forward and cooperate with the investigation.
"We expect concerned parties to participate robustly in this investigation. Their cooperation is essential," she said.
