Guides
Plain-language explainers on ocean freight forwarding and logistics licensing, for shippers and providers navigating the industry.
- Guide
What is an NVOCC?
An NVOCC is a company that arranges ocean freight shipments and issues its own bill of lading, without owning or operating the ships that carry the cargo.
Jul 31, 2026
- Guide
Ocean freight forwarder vs. NVOCC: what's the difference?
Both roles fall under "ocean transportation intermediary," but a forwarder acts as the shipper's agent while an NVOCC acts as the carrier and issues its own bill of lading.
Jul 31, 2026
- Guide
How freight forwarder licensing works in the US
US ocean transportation intermediaries are overseen by the Federal Maritime Commission and generally need an FMC license, a surety bond, and a qualifying individual.
Jul 31, 2026