General
NVOCC
Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier — a freight forwarder that issues its own bills of lading and consolidates cargo like a carrier without owning ships. Common in ocean freight.
In depth
NVOCCs issue their own bills of lading and take responsibility as carriers to shippers while purchasing underlying capacity from vessel operators. They must file tariffs and comply with FMC rules on US trades. Many large forwarders operate NVOCC divisions.
Key points
- Non-vessel operating common carrier: carrier liability to shipper
- Consolidation is core to LCL NVOCC models
- Regulated in US (FMC) and other jurisdictions
- Distinct from pure freight broker (no B/L issuance)