FMC Licensing, Registration, & Onboarding for VOCC’s and OTI-NVOCC’s
DMS Trade Services is your ideal guide for assistance with securing your authorization for VOCC and OTI-NVOCC operations. Regardless of your level of comfort, experience, or familiarity with the process, our team is prepared to offer support at every step, including:
- Specialized support for both U.S. AND foreign based NVOCC applications
- Compliance auditing of all required documents
- FMC registration for unlicensed NVOCC’s
- Qualifying individual (QI) replacement
- FMC bond provider referrals
with an NVOCC registration & OTI license
FMC Licensing Application Process
Any U.S. based business engaging in ocean transportation intermediary (OTI) operations must first obtain a license from the Federal Maritime Commission. This process generally includes:
- Completion & electronic submission of the FMC-18 form (OTI license application)
- Establishment of a qualifying individual (QI) to list on application materials
- Proof of financial responsibility for payment of claims, usually via bond or surety, in the amount of $75,000 minimum
- Application fee to the FMC in the amount of $1,304 (if applying for new license)
FMC Registration for Unlicensed NVOCC
Non-U.S. based businesses may also perform non-vessel operating common carrier (NVOCC) operations at U.S. ports without a license by obtaining a registration with the Federal Maritime Commission. This process generally includes:
- Completion & electronic submission of the FMC-65 form (Foreign-based Unlicensed NVOCC Registration/Renewal)
- Proof of financial responsibility for payment of claims, usually via bond or surety, in the amount of $150,000 minimum
- Establishment of an effective tariff, via submission of form FMC-1
Why work with Dart Maritime for Licensing or Registration
While no part of the FMC’s regulations require applicants to seek third party assistance, there are several obstacles that applicants can encounter throughout the process which Dart Maritime can help you overcome or avoid altogether:
It can be unnecessarily costly
The FMC’s fee is non-refundable, meaning a rejected application could result in over $1,300 wasted. Furthermore, the FMC reserves the right to reject any application on the basis of appearing incomplete or misleading. For a fraction of the FMC license cost of a second application fee, the DMS team will forward you all required forms and review them once complete for compliance, ensuring you submit the best possible application the first time and avoid any unnecessary delays in the receipt of your license.
It can be unnecessarily time consuming
The FMC will often notify applicants of missing or incomplete materials and offer an opportunity to provide them, however failure to do so by the deadline provided could also result in a rejected application. Furthermore, since many QI’s are senior or otherwise high ranking officials at their respective organizations, responding to FMC inquiries can prove distracting from important day to day tasks. Having the DMS team as your guide through the entirety of the application process ensures you have someone working daily alongside you to not only assist with responding to FMC inquiries, but to identify and eliminate potential issues before they even arise. Our FMC Regulatory Consulting & Training services also ensure your QIs and staff stay up-to-date with the latest compliance requirements.
It can be a great benchmark for tariff publishing services
If registering as an NVOCC, you will need to publish a tariff (a public listing of all your shipping rates, charges, classifications, rules, regulations, and practices) via an automated system BEFORE beginning any operations. Our Tariff Publication & Maintenance services make this process seamless. DMS Trade Services offers a full onboarding experience which includes the launch (via submission of form FMC-1) and upkeep of your tariff after obtaining your license/registration, allowing your business to commence or resume full shipping operations as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the FMC bond requirements?
The Federal Maritime Commission requires both licensed and registered OTI-NVOCC’s to maintain a bond or surety as proof of financial responsibility. The minimum bond amount is $75,000 for licensed entities and $150,000 for foreign-based NVOCCs. Dart Maritime helps clients secure the right bond and ensure all FMC bond requirements are met before submission.
What is the FMC license price?
The current FMC license price is $1,304. This fee is paid directly to the FMC and is non-refundable if it gets rejected. Working with Dart Maritime ensures your application is accurate and complete the first time, saving you from costly re-submissions.
How much does NVOCC registration cost?
Foreign NVOCC registrations costs include the DMS setup fee, a required $150,000 bond, and the establishment of a compliant tariff. Dart Maritime simplifies the process and reduces hidden costs by managing each step efficiently.
Do I need help with my OTI license application?
While applicants can file independently, the process is complex and time-sensitive. Errors may cause delays or rejection. Dart Maritime provides expert, ensuring compliance and faster approval.
