The Federal Maritime Commission can give you a license to ship cargo.
The Federal Maritime Commission regulates Ocean Transportation Intermediaries.There are two types of OTI, Ocean Freight Forwarders and Non-Vessel-Operating Common Carriers.If the OTIs are based in the U.S., they need to be licensed by the FMC.OTIs that are not based in the U.S. can get a license.
Step 1: The rules and regulations can be read.
Before applying for a license, you should be aware of the rules and regulations that govern OTIs.You should read section 19 of the Shipping Act of 1984 and federal regulation 46 C.F.R.Part 512.The Federal Maritime Commission has a website where you can find this information.
Step 2: Someone should be appointed a qualified individual.
A qualified individual needs to be appointed by both OFFs and NVOCCs.The individual must have at least three years of OTI experience.You should be an officer of the corporation, a partner in a partnership or a sole proprietor.If you are based in the U.S., you must have gained experience there.The experience may have been gained in the U.S. if you are not based there.
Step 3: You can apply online.
You can complete your application online.The application is available at the FMC website.You will need to create a password.If you want to open a new account, you need to click on the link and provide the following information.Email company name and phone number are optional.
Step 4: You can get a paper application.
There is a paper application on the FMC website.You can fill it out if you download it.You can request a paper application by calling (202) 523-5843 or writing to the Federal Maritime Commission, Bureau of Certification and Licensing, 800 North Capitol Street N.W., Washington, DC 20573-0001.If you apply online, make sure you get the form that expires in 2019.There is an older form on the internet.The first page of the document has an expiration date on it.
Step 5: The application needs to be completed.
You need to type your information into the form.The written answers are not acceptable.If an item doesn't apply, type "N/A" if you need more room for an answer.The form will ask for your company name, trade names, and contact information, as well as your business form.Your Taxpayer Identification Number or Employer Identification number is proof that you are a legal person.
Step 6: There should be a presence in the United States.
Before you can get a license, you need to establish presence in the United States.An unincorporated branch office could be established in the U.S.
Step 7: You have to pay the license fee.
The fee is for an electronic application.There is a fee for a paper application.Pay by check is one of the ways to pay your fee.It will become an electronic funds transfer.You can make the check out to the Federal Maritime Commission.The money can be debited from your bank account with credit/debit or Automated Clearing House.Pay.gov is where you can pay.
Step 8: Send the application.
The completed application can be sent to the Federal Maritime Commission, Bureau of Certification and Licensing, 800 North Capitol Street N.W., Washington, D.C.
Step 9: Questions can be asked of the FMC.
You can contact the Federal Maritime Commission if you need help.During normal working hours someone is available.Send an email to bcl@fmc.gov.
Step 10: Wait to hear a reply.
The decision should be made within 60 days.The commission will contact the references for the qualified individual after reviewing your submission.Within a week, your application will be returned if it is incomplete.You have to submit proof of your financial responsibility after receiving approval.
Step 11: A surety bond can be obtained.
The performance of a contract is ensured by a surety bond.The bond company pays out the face value of the bond to the injured party if the OTI fails.Form FMC-48 needs to be filled out after you get a bond.If you have a U.S.-based license, you will need a bond in the following amounts.
Step 12: You must submit proof of financial responsibility.
You will need to provide other proof of financial responsibility if you are not based in the U.S.You have many options.You can get a surety bond for a lot of money.You can get insurance.The requirements of your insurance policy can be found in 46 CFR Part 515 Subpart C.Proof of insurance is required on Form FMC-67.The proof of a guaranty was submitted.
Step 13: If you are unlicensed, show financial responsibility.
You might not get a license if you are foreign.You can still contract with a licensed OTI to transport inside the United States waters.You have to prove financial responsibility in this situation.You have to show financial responsibility in the amount of $150,000.