Maritime Rule on Containers May Benefit Agricultural Products

WASHINGTON, DC – Federal Maritime Commission recently released a Final Interpretive Rule to allow for the continued free movement of shipping containers to international markets of critical food and agricultural products. The rule, which applies to import and export shipments, provides that carriers/terminals should not charge detention, demurrage, or per diem under the law when it is not possible for the shipper or trucker to pick up or return a container due to numerous issues. Previously, ocean carriers imposed detention and demurrage fees even when containers were not physically available to be picked up. The rule’s provision encouraging notice of cargo availability will also serve to improve efficiencies at ports and throughout the entire U.S. freight delivery system, benefiting both importers and exporters.
(Source: National Pork Producers Council)