How freight forwarder licensing works in the US

In the United States, companies that arrange ocean transportation as an intermediary — whether as a freight forwarder or an NVOCC — generally fall under the regulatory category of Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI), overseen by the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC).

To operate as a licensed OTI, a U.S.-based company typically needs to: hold a valid FMC license, maintain a surety bond (or equivalent financial responsibility instrument), and designate a qualifying individual who meets the FMC's experience requirements. Foreign-based NVOCCs can, in some cases, operate on a registered basis rather than a full license, provided they meet separate regulatory requirements.

Licenses are tied to a specific license number and are subject to renewal; the FMC publishes a public list of active, licensed OTIs, which is one of the sources this directory draws on for unclaimed listings.

This guide is a general overview, not legal advice — if you're seeking or renewing an OTI license, the FMC's own licensing guidance is the authoritative source.

Browse licensed providers currently listed in the directory.